Sep/Oct Issue What's What Magazine

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SEP / OCT 2019

The magazine & website for your local area whatswhatmagazine.co.uk

Fall into Autumn! All your local events

Blackstone Farm’s Poppy fields

Witch one? Spooky events inside

Win The Place

Pant o Tickets! See page

66


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elcome

Contents Local news

Who knows what the weather will do next? Whatever it throws at us, we’ve got all the events you need, for theatre shows and art workshops to walks - and muddy runs! We bring you a round-up of everything going on in our area - and don’t forget, all our local news comes from you! So, send us 150 words about your club’s recent happenings, your award-winning scheme, or a project you’ve been working on with a like-minded team. Take a great photo and send us that too and next issue, you could be starring in What’s What! magazine! Our fabulous wildlife writer Ed Andrews tells us all about scarlet poppies and their meaning, and we also bring you all the spookiest Halloween happenings and loudest firework displays.

4 – 23

Local arts

24 – 41

School news

42 – 55

What’s on

56 – 67

Recipe 68 Local food & drink

70 – 73

Have a wonderful autumn,

Home & you

74 – 83

The WW! team

Local walks

84

Wildlife diary

86

Animal care

88

Local business news

90

Local sports

92

What’s What Magazine @WhatsWhatmagz

Cover image Common blue, Sunset at Stiperstones www.andrewfusekpeters.com November/December Deadlines Editorial – 27 September, Advertising – 4 October

We’ve got the local area covered! Hand delivered to 16,000 homes and businesses – more than any other magazine in our area.

Local experts

94 – 96

Local business index

97

What’s that number?

98

Bridgnorth, Eardington, Worfield, Claverley, Hilton, Ackleton, Broseley, Ironbridge, Jackfield, Buildwas, Much Wenlock, Homer, Harley, Cressage, Little Wenlock, Lightmoor, Horsehay and Shifnal. Also available at… the Spar, Broseley; Mrs P’s, Much Wenlock; Chrisalis News, Ironbridge and Sainsbury’s, Bridgnorth.

Meet the team Leanne Platek Managing director

Helen Richardson Editor

What’s What! Magazine Woodfield Cottage, St Mary’s Lane, Much Wenlock TF13 6HD Advertising – leanne@whatswhatmagazine.co.uk

Editorial – editorial@whatswhatmagazine.co.uk

General enquiries – info@whatswhatmagazine.co.uk 01952 728162 whatswhatmagazine.co.uk

Ed Andrews Writer

Rachel Hyman Designer

What’s What! Magazine is published by MC Marketing Ltd. The views expressed within this publication do not necessarily reflect those of MC Marketing. Any reproduction of any material is forbidden without the written permission consent of the publishers. Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, MC Marketing can in no way cannot accept liability for omissions or incorrect insertions or any consequence arising from use of this publication. Copyright MC Marketing Ltd 2006.

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LOCAL NEWS

Gorge lunar landings It’s 50 years since man first walked on the moon. Over the centuries, the moon has been interpreted as a god and as a planet, been used as a timekeeper, calendar and to aid night-time navigation. It has inspired artists, poets, scientists, writers and musicians the world over. Now moon fanatics can enjoy an immersive lunar experience at Enginuity when an enormous spherical sculpture created by artist Luke Jerram is installed at the museum from Monday 21 October to 10 November. Themed events will be held underneath the huge ‘moon’, which is 6m in diameter, including a special three-course moonlit dinner on Thursday 24 October, featuring a speaker from the Lunar Society. Internally lit, the installation gives visitors a surreal up-close experience by fusing lunar imagery and moonlight with a surround sound composition by BAFTA and Ivor Novello award-winner Dan Jones. For further information, call the Ironbridge Tourist Information Centre on 01952 433 424 or visit ironbridge.org.uk

Tributes paid Tributes have poured in for Bridgnorth’s mayor Jean Onions, who has died following her long battle with cancer. She was praised as having her love of Bridgnorth at the centre of everything she did and as being a ‘one of a kind’ Mayor. Deputy mayor Cllr Ron Whittle spoke of her tireless work for others, saying, “On behalf of the councillors, staff and residents of Bridgnorth, I wish to express the great sadness felt at the news of the death of Jean Onions. Our thoughts are with Jean’s family at this time. “Apart from being on town council together, I have known Jean and her late husband very well indeed since we were in our late teens. She was a true entrepreneur, running their florists with good humour and professionalism. She will be sadly missed.” 4


A local boy has set up a charity to support siblings of young cancer patients at Princess Royal Hospital. Callum Finazzi was eight when his brother Liam was diagnosed with leukaemia in 2016 which, together with his subsequent catastrophic brain injury during treatment, turned Callum’s world upside down. Callum’s aim is to help support other siblings pass the time and bring smiles to their faces while their brother or sister is being treated. Fundraising started with a sponsored walk up the Wrekin, raising over £400, and next in line for Callum and team is a fun football tournament and family day on Sunday 1 September at Shifnal Town FC. To donate or look for ways to help, visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/cal-sibz or search @Cal-Sibz on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

LOCAL NEWS

Callum’s gift

Prostate testing Bridgnorth Lions have announced their continuing support for prostate cancer screening with this year’s event taking place on Thursday 31 October at Castle Hall, Bridgnorth. The screening involves a simple blood test which the Lions offer for free. They aim to cover the £15 cost per person with regular fundraising events. Visit bridgnorthlions.org.uk for details

Councillor’s surgery Much Wenlock’s Cllr David Turner is holding an advice surgery on Saturday 21 September at Much Wenlock Museum. Local residents are invited to drop in from 10.30am. Lian and Callum with Princess Royal Oncology Dept. staff

Coracles return Friday 13 September at 2.30 will see the colourful and hotly-contested Coracle World Championships once again take place at the Pengwern Boat Club in Shrewsbury. Spectators are warmly encouraged to come along to see who will be crowned world coracle champion – all in the name of raising funds for Macmillan Cancer Support. Visit coracleworldchampionship.co.uk for details.

Litter picks The next Much Wenlock community litter pick will take place on Fridays 27 September and 15 October, meeting at 10am in the Square, with Jo and Sue at Tea on the Square providing a complimentary cuppa to reward workers afterwards.

CFR news Broseley’s Community First Responders have been awarded a substantial grant by the Town Council. The money will go towards a new vehicle for the life-saving volunteers and is set to be on the road in September.

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LOCAL NEWS

Doors open at Morville Morville Hall near Bridgnorth is once again opening its doors on selected dates this year. The stone-built family home of Elizabethan origin was extensively enlarged and expanded during the mid-18th century. The Hall today exudes Georgian charm and character, while preserved Elizabethan features give visitors a feel for the original house. Stone steps lead down to a garden where Elizabethan topiary meets the luxury and elegance that typified Georgian tastes. Senior house steward Alexa Buffey says, “It’s such a pleasure to open up Morville for visitors. The property is much loved, both by the families who live there today and local people.” Members of the public are welcome to visit on Friday 13 and Saturday 14 September from noon until 5pm, with last entry at 4.30pm. Refreshments will be available from St Gregory the Great Church. Admission applies, with free entry for National Trust members and under 5s. Visit nationaltrust.org.uk/morville-hall for details.

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The future of Much Wenlock’s town centre cashpoint has been secured after the town council succeeded in buying the former Barclays bank. The town council have been in discussions with Barclays about its premises at 10 High Street since it closed in October last year, and recently announced they had succeeded in buying the building.

30 years of care For 30 years this year, staff at Severn Hospice have been helping people through some of life’s toughest moments. In the years since its inception, more than 34,000 people across Telford, Shropshire and Mid Wales have been cared for by the charity. Heather Palin, chief executive at the hospice, said everybody was thankful for the public’s help in raising its required £8 million each year: “It’s incredibly challenging to raise the amount we need to. We’re very grateful for the commitment of our public. We are here to help people. We can’t make them better, but we can help them deal with their illness and be more in charge of where they receive their care.

The council intends to create a community hub offering information and advice and may even move their office to the site. A statement from Much Wenlock Deputy Mayor Daniel Thomas praised the ‘high level of co-operation’ from Barclays saying, “The council’s objective in purchasing the property was to retain the ATM in the High Street, providing a free to use cash facility, and to create a community hub for all to use.”

A lot has changed since 1989. Costs have gone up, care in the community has grown in importance, and even the name has been given an update. But one thing has remained exactly the same – the dedication to making sure those with incurable diseases are given the very best care possible.” Visit severnhospice.org.uk for more information.

Step up for charity On Sunday 13 October, the Rotary Club of Bridgnorth will hold their sixth Up the Steps walk, starting from the Town Hall at 2pm. The walk takes participants up and down the town’s famous steps, covering 800 steps in total and passing through the most historic parts of Bridgnorth via flights at Friars Loade, Granary, Bank, St Leonard’s, Stoneway, Waterloo Terrace, St Mary’s, the Library, Seven Sixes, Cannon and Ebenezer. Rotary secretary Elwyn Jones says, “Last year’s walk raised £6,800 benefiting 20 charitable causes – the most money so far raised by this event. “The ‘Steps’ is a community event and we want walkers to collect sponsor money for their club, their favourite charity or other good causes. It’s an opportunity for clubs to raise money to run their own events or buy equipment. Walkers can be in teams or as individuals. We want you to take part and be challenged. You know you want to!” Register by email at fej1284@btinternet.com or at bridgnorthrotary.org.uk. Registration costs £10 per person. 7

LOCAL NEWS

Council buys bank


LOCAL NEWS

Plastic-free Hills

dd Centre Manager Grant Wilson celebrates the arrival of plastic replacements with the Centre’s mammoth, Tusker

The staff at Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre are pulling together with their visitors to reduce the amount of single-use plastic used around the site, moving towards cutting it out all together in the coming months. Over the last year, the team at the Centre have made steps to remove plastic cutlery, cups and straws from the café, almost entirely replacing them with wooden and paper options. The Centre’s branded sweets are now packaged in entirely biodegradable film packaging that is compostable and will also biodegrade in ocean water. The Centre no longer provides plastic carrier bags, which have been ousted by tough, reusable paper bags. Manager Grant Wilson says, “It is very important to the charity and to us all as individuals that we make these steps to lessen our impact on our environment. Our mission is to connect people to the food, history and landscape of the Shropshire Hills and we want to preserve our countryside and oceans for years to come.”

Star in our next edition! Don’t forget all our local news comes from you. Tell us about your clubs recent happenings, your award-winning scheme, or a community project. Take a great photo and sent to whatswhatmagazine.co.uk and you could be starring in our Nov/Dec edition!

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LOCAL NEWS


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LOCAL NEWS

Ambition comes to fruition According to colleagues, the late Mansel Williams, the previous chair of Shrewsbury Railway Heritage Trust, was the driving force behind saving Shrewsbury’s Abbey Station for the community and opening it to the public… so he’d be thrilled to know that Abbey Station is now open between 10am and 3pm every Tuesday.

New BMX clubhouse Children at Dawley’s BMX club are celebrating after winning the backing of a local Rotary Club which has donated a new clubhouse. The Rotary Club of Wellington were left overwhelmed after hearing a presentation about the success of Wrekin Riders which, despite offering sessions to hundreds of riders a week, did not have a clubhouse or a permanent toilet facility.

David Morris, the Trust’s director, explains, “It was his original ideas, energy and sheer determination that saved the building for the community, supported by other volunteers and directors of the Trust, including our current chairman Terence Turpin and archivist David Giddins, who both remain actively involved.” The Station, also a former WWII air raid protection shelter, is home to some fascinating artefacts, and the original waiting room and station master’s office remain so the public can see what a small Victorian rural railway station looked like… down to the resplendent replica Victorian loo! For more information call 01743 232651 or email djmfastforward@hotmail.co.uk.

Rotarian Brian Richards explains, “The children are being offered such a brilliant opportunity to make new friends, get fit and enjoy a sport with friends and family – and it is solely run by volunteers. We wish the children and adults at Wrekin Riders every success for the future and we look forward to following their journey.” Kieran Edwards, club coach and chairman says, “We can’t thank the Rotary Club of Wellington enough for the support they have offered us.” To find out more about follow the club on facebook. com/wrekinriders or email wrekinriders@outlook.com.

Wellington walkers Now in its eighth year, the Wellington Walking Festival revisits old favourite routes and adds new events. The 28 events taking place as part of this year’s schedule include the Shropshire Way walk and Vineyard visit, the Denso Eco Garden tour (with pizza for sustenance!) and the Telford T50 50 Mile trail, anticlockwise in stages. There will also be the usual mix of themed walks including geology, industrial archaeology and natural history walks, together with walks just for walking’s sake. Visit wellingtonwalkersarewelcome.org.uk or email info@wellingtonwalkersarewelcome.org.uk for details. 11


LOCAL NEWS

Severn unlocked A major environmental project on the River Severn will create a permanent legacy for children and families at Severn Valley Country Park, near Bridgnorth. Unlocking the Severn, a collaboration by Severn Rivers Trust, Canal & River Trust, Environment Agency and Natural England, is one of the largest river restorations of its kind ever attempted in Europe. It will restore over 150 miles of the River Severn to endangered fish species, by creating routes around six weirs. The project also aims to reconnect millions of people with the UK’s longest river.

Ironbridge makeover Sixteen shops in Ironbridge are being repainted in colours that reflect the heritage of the town. The initiative complements the council’s Empty Retail Unit Grant scheme, which is helping new businesses to open in Ironbridge, Wellington, Oakengates and Dawley.

Community Engagement Manager Alex Ball says, “We really want to inspire young minds about the wildlife and stories of the River Severn. We have a new play area as well that will spark imaginative outdoor play and the hands-on sculptural trail will guide families down to take in the view of the river.” A grand opening celebration is planned for October. Find out more at unlockingthesevern.co.uk and follow @SevernUnlocked on social media for behind-the-scenes insights.

Urban Country Girl on the High Street is one of the first shops in Ironbridge to receive a makeover. Michala Williams from Urban Country Girl says, “The next six weeks in Ironbridge are going to be very exciting seeing the visual changes, which will help strengthen all the businesses in Ironbridge. This is an excellent scheme funded by the council. “Now the bridge looks amazing and soon the whole town will too. Even though it is not possible to refresh every shop front, the collective impact will transform the town and encourage more people to visit the many independent retailers here in Ironbridge.”

Fill and Harry The two special vehicles that help tackle potholes on Shropshire’s roads recently ‘met’ the children who chose their new names. In a competition earlier this year, the county’s children were invited to suggest names for the two Roadmaster vehicles, and the winning suggestions were Fill.I.Am and Harry Pothole. The newly named vehicles met the pupils from Oxon Primary School in Shrewsbury and Footsteps Nursery in Oswestry. Steve Davenport, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for highways and transport, says, “Thank you again to all the children who suggested names for our Roadmasters, especially those who picked the winning names. I’m really pleased that Harry Pothole and Fill.I.Am are now out and about tackling potholes across the county.” Children at Footsteps Nursery in Oswestry meet Harry Pothole 12


LOCAL NEWS

Name that bridge! Members of the public are being asked to vote from a shortlist of some of the area’s best and brightest to select a permanent name for Telford’s new footbridge. More than 200 school pupils from across the borough chose the people they felt should be commemorated. The shortlist includes Captain Webb, the first recorded person to swim the English Channel who was born in Dawley; Katherine Harley, president of the Shropshire branch of suffragists; Donnington Woods’ Sir Gordon Richards, considered by some the world’s greatest ever jockey; and Wolves legend Billy Wright, the first footballer in the world to earn 100 international caps, born at Belmont Road in Ironbridge. Councillor David Wright, Telford & Wrekin Council cabinet member for transport and infrastructure, explains, “There was so much public pride shown for the borough and the footbridge during its construction and we wanted to carry this right through to the very end of the project with the official opening and naming.” Visit telford.gov.uk/ footbridgevote to cast a vote.

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LOCAL NEWS

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LOCAL NEWS

Imagination Fest A new 14-day festival showcasing the amazing story of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ironbridge Gorge’s past, present and future is taking place from Sunday 15 September. From trails, street entertainment, exhibitions, demonstrations and performances to workshops and expert panels, the World Heritage Festival of Imagination 2019 is set to engage, excite, challenge and entertain audiences from far and wide. The festival will tell the story of the world-famous Gorge, its lasting impact on the world and the exciting possibilities for its future. Organised by Discover Shropshire & Telford and Telford & Wrekin Council, and funded by the Arts Council, the festival will see businesses, community groups, schools and residents come together to take part in the celebrations. To find out more, visit imaginationfest.co.uk.

Reunion after 50 years After closing its doors in July 1961, Harley School, near Much Wenlock – now the village hall – is to welcome back its pupils to an afternoon of memories and nostalgia (as well as tea and cake). All ex-pupils are invited to come ‘back to school’ on Sunday 15 September from 2-5pm to reminisce and share experiences and achievements, with one 89-year-old ex-pupil intending to share her memories of fried bread and marmite sandwiches!

Michaelmas Fair The Bishops Castle Michaelmas Fair takes place this year on Saturday 21 September. As usual, there will be stalls, performers, food and drink – and the vehicle processions at 12.30pm and 5.30pm. Visit michaelmasfair.org.uk for details.

The Ironbridge Gorge Museum has kindly offered to loan items the children would have used at school at that time. They hope these objects will evoke memories of their school days, school friends and teachers of a bygone era. Villager Jerry Bridgeland explains, “As we are all getting older and before it’s too late, we would like to capture the recollections of school life in our village.” For more information email vwtodd@hotmail.co.uk. 15


LOCAL NEWS

Parish gift for hospital A five-year fundraising programme between St John’s Catholic Church, Bridgnorth and the Diocese of Shrewsbury is set to benefit a Bridgnorth project. The church’s parishioners decided to give £5,000 to the League of Friends of Bridgnorth Hospital as “a very worthy local cause from which we can all benefit”. The League of Friends are passionate about making patient care and comfort at Bridgnorth Hospital the best it can possibly be. Their aim is to continuously improve and enhance the experience that patients have while at the hospital. The donation was gratefully received from Father Iain Griffiths by League Treasurer Stan Butler.

Pit at the park Severn Valley Country Park is holding a family-friendly event to mark 50 years since the closure of Alveley Colliery. Pit at the Park will be held on Sunday 6 October from 10am until 4pm, and will have something for everyone, from rides on a ‘landy train’ around the park to fascinating talks given by the Granville Miners.

Archeology at Albrighton An archaeological dig on the site of the old market hall at Albrighton, which was granted a royal charter to hold markets and fairs in 1232, has uncovered possible remains of an even earlier building dating back many hundreds of years. Fifteen children from Albrighton Primary School helped to find small broken pieces of pottery dating between 1290 and 1550 and lots of broken tobacco clay pipes dating between 1650 and 1750 as well as very old glass. The children were involved with the sifting and the washing of the finds. The excavation was organised after last year’s dry summer led to a strange patchwork on the grass, an indication that it was the site of an historic building… so historians, archaeologists and schoolchildren were thrilled when, five layers down, they discovered a compacted earth floor. Organisers of the dig, the Wolverhampton Archeology Group, hope there will be more excavations in future. For details visit tlaloc.demon.co.uk. 16

Other attractions throughout the day will include rock and fossil hunts, a chance for children to dress up as miners, and the unveiling of a new sculpture dedicated to those who worked at both Highley and Alveley Collieries. There will be coal shovelling competitions and a range of other activities. Information and train tickets sales are available at Severn Valley Country Park Visitor Centre, where refreshments will also be on sale and visitors can sit and admire the autumnal view of the Severn Valley. For more information visit, shropshiresgreatoutdoors.co.uk


LOCAL NEWS

Fundraising success

Ben Knowles, Sarah McManus, Kate Thomas and Clive Knowles mark the success of the Colour Run

This year’s British Ironwork Centre Colour Run event at the British Ironwork Centre raised a huge £18,750 for Macmillan Cancer Support. Clive Knowles, chair of the British Ironwork Centre, says, “This is definitely the area’s most eccentric event! Seeing the families and kids literally get blasted in paint is pretty amazing and knowing that they’re all here to help push cancer back is unbelievably uplifting. “Through the funding raised at this year’s Colour Run, Macmillan are now covered for 670 hours of highly important work. Thinking about it in those terms makes all the stress of planning and organising a truly worthwhile experience.” See macmillan.org.uk for more local fundraising events.

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LOCAL NEWS

Volunteers needed A Bridgnorth school is to be the first in the area to be given support by a charity called Mentor Link who already work in over 100 schools in the West Midlands area. Mentor Link provides long-term one-to-one social and emotional support to vulnerable and distressed children. The charity professionally recruits and trains volunteer mentors to listen to and support young people who may be facing difficulties such as illness, low self-esteem, bereavement, family breakdown, and relationships with others. Their aim is to create a more positive attitude in young people towards themselves and to their learning. With 17 years’ experience of providing this service to schools and a good track record of success, the charity is recruiting more volunteer mentors. No qualifications are necessary; you just need to be a good listener and role model, with an interest in supporting young people. For application details, go to www.mentorlink.org.uk.

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Good causes benefit Good causes have benefited to the tune of £35,000 thanks to Twincl, the Telford and Wrekin Community Lottery, which is celebrating its first anniversary. Twincl currently supports over 50 local good causes including local disability groups, restoration projects, sports clubs, theatre groups and local nurseries. Councillor Lee Carter says, “For one year now, Twincl has helped to fund a number of important good causes in Telford and Wrekin. I’d like to thank anyone who has chosen to support a good cause in the past year. You are making a real difference and helping to create a better borough. “We hope that even more of the community will get involved with the scheme, to help support the many worthwhile good causes across the borough.”


LOCAL NEWS

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LOCAL NEWS

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Avoid Flu this winter We sometimes talk about flu as if we get it all the time – but if you have ever had Influenza you will know it is much more than a common cold. A high fever, headache, muscle ache and a lot of coughing and sneezing. You may also suffer abdominal pain and vomiting. For a small number of patients it can be life threatening requiring hospital admission and intensive treatment.

Children aged 2 and 3 are given their preventative treatment with the use of a painless nasal spray NHS England recommends the flu immunisation to the most at-risk population from late September to develop immunity before the winter flu viruses take hold. Dr James Swallow explains “Bridgnorth Medical Practice aim to provide over 4000 immunisations this autumn to the at-risk population of the town, all other local practices will be running their own campaigns too.” Free flu immunisation is available to all patients over 65, patients who have a long-term condition such as diabetes, heart disease or lung disease. Carers are also eligible for the immunisation. Children aged 2 and 3 are eligible to have the painless intranasal spray whilst adults have the quick, simple jab. The immunisation should be given every year to the at-risk groups to maintain immunity against the ever changing

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strains of influenza. Dr James Swallow explains “We and most practices will offer immunisations with extra clinics, some at weekends and evenings to reach as many of those in need as possible.”

We offer free flu immunisations to all patients over 65, patients who have a long-term condition such as diabetes, heart disease or lung disease, carers and pregnant women If you would like to find out more about the flu and the flu immunisation or to see if you are eligible please visit NHS.UK or call us directly on 01746 767121.

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Apley Hall has a wealth of history. The house was the birthplace and adored childhood home of wealthy patron of the arts Gerald Lord Berners, darling of fashionable society between the wars. A home has existed on the site as far back as the 13th century. In 1551, Sir Thomas Lucy – Shakespeare’s magistrate – sold the Apley estate

to the royalist Whitmore family, who enjoyed close links to Charles I, the monarch who famously declared that Bridgnorth boasted ‘the finest view in all my kingdom’. Apley Hall was commissioned by Thomas Whitmore in 1811, just after the Napoleonic Wars, and was designed to emulate a romantic castle overlooking the River Severn.

The mile-long private drive leads through a glorious rolling parkland landscape to the River Severn… 22


Advertisement Feature The Apley Estate has been handed down through generations and is owned by the trustees of the estate of the fifth Lord Hamilton of Dalzell. The mile-long private drive leads through a glorious rolling parkland landscape to the River Severn and gives access to the Hall and Courtyard houses. Although the views and aspect evoke a wonderfully rural feeling, the nearby village of Norton is the gateway to a major road network, with links to the M54 and easy access to Bridgnorth, Wolverhampton, and Shrewsbury. Also nearby is Apley Farm Shop complex, which features a local butcher, delicatessen and cafe. Day-to-day amenities can be found in the historic market town of Bridgnorth just a few minutes away, while Telford’s new Southwater development offers cutting-edge entertainment and dining. The careful stewardship of Apley Estates stands testament to the ongoing desire to preserve the privacy and integrity of the parkland around the Hall, with around 17 acres of private, communal grounds to the Hall and Mews houses. The site offers five mansion house conversions and 12 courtyard homes. By permit, residents can enjoy miles of cross-country walking and cycling through this beautiful area, including bridge access over the River Severn to the old railway line to Coalport and Bridgnorth.

Libr ary House | £850,000 • 6 bedrooms • 5 bathrooms • Southerly garden with views • All in the period style

Courtyard House | £600,000 • Grand proportioned living accommodation • Three bedroom three bathrooms • Outdoor terrace • Parking

1 Apley hall Mews | £495,000 • • • •

4 large bedrooms Reception rooms with high ceilings Breakfast kitchen and utility Private garden with mature trees and parking

9 Apley hall Mews | £480,000 • Three bedrooms • Private parking • Large reception rooms • Beautiful large southerly garden

To view any of these properties, please call our Bridgnorth office.

Bridgnorth: 01746 766499 Tettenhall: 01902 747744 Wombourne: 01902 326366 Lettings: 01902 749974 www.berrimaneaton.co.uk 23


LOCAL ARTS

Film Fest returns Returning to screens this autumn, the Telford Film Festival will run for six weeks from Friday 6 September, with screenings and special events in venues all over town. Joining the line-up are some family favourites including Mamma Mia, a singalong version of The Wizard of Oz, Mary Poppins Returns and Dumbo. Telford Steam Railway will also host two special events in its carriages: a Scooby Doo Halloween Ghost Train and one for the adults, Brief Encounter, which includes a prosecco afternoon tea. Some of the venues include Telford Shopping Centre, Oakengates Theatre, a yurt at Dale End Park, RAF Cosford, Telford Cineworld, Dawley Town Hall, Coalbrookdale Community Centre, the Museum of Iron, Ketley Community Centre and Wellington Orbit. The Festival will also be supporting Severn Hospices Sunset Cinema at their outdoor screenings of Bohemian Rhapsody and Greatest Showman. Visit ticketstelford.com/whats-on/film/ for details and to buy tickets, or call the box office on 01952 382 382.

Aggers & Tuffers By popular demand, Jonathan and Phil have teamed up for a brand new show. From their first Evening With Aggers and Tuffers in 2016, they were an immediate hit with cricket fans and non-lovers of the game alike and have gone on to sell out theatres all over the country. Both broadcasters and former professional cricketers with Tuffers being the bad boy of English cricket the 1990s, but the best spinner as well known. Known as The Cat because of his love of dressing-room naps and well known for his successful TV career. See these two raise the roof on Sunday 13 October at 7.30. Tickets priced from £14.50. Visit grandtheatre. co.uk for details. 24


LOCAL ARTS

Atwood visits Wenlock Margaret Atwood is the author of more than fifty books of fiction, poetry and critical essays. Her novels include Cat’s Eye and The Blind Assassin. Her 1985 classic The Handmaid’s Tale went back into the bestseller charts with the election of Donald Trump, when the handmaids became a symbol of resistance for his opponents. The 2017 release of the award-winning TV series also boosted the book’s fortunes, with sales now topping 8 million copies worldwide. The author has won numerous awards including the Booker Prize, the Arthur C Clarke Award for Imagination in Service to Society, the Franz Kafka Prize, the Peace Prize of the German Book Trade and the PEN USA Lifetime Achievement Award. She has also worked as a cartoonist, illustrator, librettist, playwright and puppeteer and now lives in Toronto. See Margaret at 7.30pm at the Edge Arts Centre on Tuesday 10 September. Tickets are priced from £10. For more information visit edgeartscentre.com.

Boycie’s returns Come and enjoy an intimate evening with John Challis, one of the nation’s great comedy actors, best known as Boycie in BBC1’s Only Fools and Horses. In this one-off show on Friday 11 October, the national treasure will reveal secrets from the set with stories and anecdotes from his dazzling career. Having worked with some of the biggest names in show business, John will be spilling the beans about Only Fools and Horses co-stars such as Sir David Jason and Nicholas Lyndhurst and friends and fellow performers including the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, Oliver Reed and George Best. He’ll also recall tales from his time in Dr Who, Coronation Street and other TV classics. John will also meet fans after the show to sign autographs and pose for pictures, while signing copies of his autobiography, Being Boycie, and novel, Reggie: A Stag at Bay. The evening starts at 7.30pm and tickets are £18. For more information visit edgeartscentre.com.

Zoo’s company Take a journey out of the zoo and onto the stage as the zany characters from the blockbuster DreamWorks film Madagascar appear in Shrewsbury in this crazy production. Join Alex the lion, Marty the zebra, Melman the giraffe, Gloria the hippo and, of course, the plotting penguins in the musical adventure of a lifetime. Follow their escape from their home in New York’s Central Park Zoo and their unexpected journey to the madcap world of King Julien’s Madagascar. The show hits town on Friday 27 and Saturday 28 September, with performances at 1pm, 4pm and 7pm with tickets priced at £13.50. Visit theatresevern.co.uk for more details. 25


LOCAL ARTS

The Beatles are back! Head to Shrewsbury from Friday 20 until Sunday 22 September to celebrate all things Fab Four with the Shrewsbury Beatles Weekend. Organised by Mayor Phil Gillam and a team of volunteers, the event promises a whole range of experiences including live music, special guest speakers, open mic and Beatles film screenings. The entire weekend is in aid of the Samaritans of Shrewsbury, with sponsorship from Salop Leisure. Events will take place at Theatre Severn, the Buttermarket, the Wheatsheaf in Frankwell and the Hive in Belmont. For ticket and information see facebook.com/ shrewsburybeatles/events.

Life is a cabaret Put your top hat on and get ready for a production of Kander and Ebb’s landmark musical, Cabaret. Directed by National Theatre Artistic Director Rufus Norris, this darkly lush production has enjoyed two smash hit West End runs. It’s 1931. Berlin is a haven of divine decadence and the legendary Sally Bowles is about to take stage at the infamous Kit Kat Klub… The show stars John Partridge, known as Eastenders’ charismatic Christian Clarke and the West End star of Cilla, Kara Lily Hayworth as the iconic Sally Bowles. Anita Harris, who first rose to fame as a singer in the 1960s and has appeared on screen in Carry On films and on stage, notably as Grizelda in the West End’s Cats. Performances from Tuesday 3 to Saturday 7 September at 2.30pm and 7.30pm with ticket prices from £19.50. Visit grandtheatre.co.uk for details.

Green Book Green book is an American biographical comedy-based film. Set in 1962, the film is inspired by the true story of a tour of the Deep South by African American classical and jazz pianist Don Shirley and Italian American bouncer Frank “Tony Lip” Vallelonga who served as Shirley’s driver and bodyguard. The film was written by Brian Hayes Currie and Vallelonga’s son Nick, based on interviews with his father and Shirley, as well as letters his father wrote to his mother. The film is named after The Negro Motorist Green Book, a mid-20th century guidebook for African-American travelers written by Victor Hugo Green. Screening at 7pm with a 12A rating and tickets priced at £5. Visit edgeartscentre.com to book. 26


returns

The Secret Severn Art Trail is set to return this autumn. The popular Ironbridge art event is due to take place from Friday 20 to Sunday 29 September – with over 40 local artists busily making their final preparations for the biggest exhibition and trail yet. The Secret Severn Art Trail began when a small group of local artists identified a lack of exhibition opportunities within the Gorge. The perfect venue was found: a purpose-built exhibition space, Footprint Gallery, which sits serenely on the banks of the River Severn at Fusion, the contemporary building in the grounds of Jackfield Tile Museum. Artwork on display varies from fine art painting, printmaking, ceramics, sculpture, textile design, jewellery, art photography, and more, providing a superb opportunity for visitors to purchase original artworks.

The event has grown year on year since it began, with a record number of artists making it through the selection process for 2019, with open studios and galleries to visit as well as the exhibits at Footprint Gallery. The Trail spans the riverbanks of the Severn from Jackfield to Ironbridge, up to Broseley and along to Coalbrookdale. Visitors can meet the artists and see them at work in their studios and will have the opportunity to purchase work directly, cutting out the need for any commission fees or overheads. In addition to the Exhibition and Trail, there is also a programme of subsidised workshops in drawing, printing and many other disciplines, giving visitors the chance to ‘have a go’. Most of the workshops are held in the lovely rural setting of the Severn Gorge Countryside Park… so why not enjoy a day wandering through the beautiful Ironbridge Gorge, visiting the artists, and enjoying a break or two at the independent pubs and cafes en route?

The Exhibition is open every day from 10.30am-5pm | Open studios from 10.30am-5pm* *some of the smaller studios have limited opening hours, please check trail map for times

Secret Severn

20th - 29th September 2019 WWW.SECRETSEVERN.CO.UK

SECRET SEVERN

@SECRETSEVERNARTTRAIL 27

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Secret Severn


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*Terms and Conditions apply. Sold as an agent of Euronics Limited. All rights reserved. All offers are subject to availability while stocks last. Delivery & Installation charges may apply. Exclusions and Radius Apply. See in forig fullhdetails. purposes Copyright 3store 2H StrImages eet,forBillustration ridgno rth, only. WV 16 4Euronics DF 2018. E&OE September 2018.

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*Terms *Terms and and Conditions Conditions apply. apply. Sold Sold as as an an agent agent of of Euronics Euronics Limited. Limited. All All rights rights reserved. reserved. All All offers offers are are subject subject to to availability availability while while stocks stocks last. last. Delivery Delivery & & Installation Installation charges charges may may *Terms and Conditions apply. Sold as an agent of Euronics Limited. All rights reserved. All offers are subject to availability while stocks last. Delivery & Installation charges may apply. apply. Exclusions Exclusions and and Radius Radius Apply. Apply. See See in in store store for for full full details. details. Images Images for for illustration illustration purposes purposes only. only. Copyright Copyright Euronics Euronics 2018. 2018. E&OE E&OE September September 2018. 2018. apply. Exclusions and Radius Apply. See in store for full details. Images for illustration purposes only. Copyright Euronics 2018. E&OE September 2018.

28

*Terms *Terms and and Conditions Conditions apply. apply. Sold Sold as as an an agent agent of of Euronics Euronics Limited. Limited. All All rights rights reserved. reserved. All All offers offers are are subject subject to to availability availability while while stocks stocks last. last. Delivery Delivery && Installation Installation charges charges may may apply. apply. Exclusions Exclusions and and Radius Radius Apply. Apply. See See in in store store for for full full details. details. Images Images for for illustration illustration purposes purposes only. only. Copyright Copyright Euronics Euronics 2018. 2018. E&OE E&OE September September 2018. 2018.


LOCAL ARTS

Cromer Pier Sunrise

Sunrise or sunset Beautiful sunrise or sunset photographs are a sight to behold but not easy to capture. There are the intricacies of choosing the right location, a focal point, the composition and the light, not to mention the camera. These are just some of the considerations with which even the best processing or digital display can’t help… but perhaps Bridgnorth Camera Club can. If you want to take your photography to another level, Bridgnorth and District Camera Club would warmly welcome you to join them. The club welcomes photographers of all abilities, whether you’re experienced or a keen beginner, and offers a full programme of events including speakers, competitions, and excursions, all designed to improve your photography. The new season begins at 7.30pm on Thursday 19 September at Low Town Community Hall. Visit bridgnorthcameraclub. org.uk for details.

Sticking power Celebrating 10 stick-tacular years, a touching, funny and original adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s book Stick Man returns to the county in September.

Brothers Beyond

What starts off as a morning jog becomes quite the misadventure for Stick Man: a dog wants to play fetch with him, a swan builds a nest with him, and he even ends up on a fire. How will he ever get back to the family tree? This award-winning production, from the team behind Tabby McTat and Zog features a trio of top actors and is packed with puppetry, songs, live music and funky moves. On stage on Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 September at 11am, 1.30pm and 4pm. Tickets prices from £13. All ages are welcome. For more information visit theplacetelford.com.

Dress to impress in your finest technicolor robes and prepare for an amazing night on Friday 6 September at Theatre Severn, led by former stars from Bill Kenwright’s UK touring production of ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’. This tribute to musical theatre marks the 50th anniversary of Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber’s hit musical. It also celebrates former local ‘Joseph’ Richard Swerrun, who passed away earlier this year after being supported by Severn Hospice, in whose aid the show takes place. Featuring some of the best songs from West End musicals, the show will close with a spectacular finale from ‘Joseph’ featuring the entire company. The show starts at 7.30pm with tickets priced at £21.50. Visit theatresevern.co.uk for more detail. 29


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Legal Life Peter Wilding, Brexit Director at FBC Manby Bowdler

What next in Brexit Britain? FBC Manby Bowdler’s Brexit Director, Peter Wilding, says Britain has ‘entered the Brexit endgame’ with new PM Boris Johnson hell-bent on a general election before Halloween. So what else does the EU legal expert who coined the word ‘Brexit’ and was an advisor to former PM David Cameron ahead of the EU Referendum, think will happen next? We won’t forget Wednesday 24 July 2019 – this was the moment of truth. The Battle for Britain is about to begin as Prime Minister Boris Johnson walked through the doors of No 10. So, as fingernails are nibbled at the now full-steam-ahead prospect of a no-deal Brexit, my prediction is that the new PM will avoid the Brexit battle completely by seeking a general election on Thursday 24 October. I’m sure Boris would rather fight in a blaze of glory than suffer death by a thousand parliamentary cuts. I believe that the election will be won by who frames it best. And, on that point, Johnson is odds-on to win. Why?

The No 10 narrative is all about ‘changing the record’. The country needs a new tune. Boris demanded a change of the record. And that’s what Johnson will do. Behold the new nationalism. Have faith, be positive. The new leader is the happy dreamer of a Greater Britain. His first speech was a 1997 Things Can Only Get Better riff. But with a big difference. Blair faced calm. Boris faces chaos.

I believe that the election will be won by who frames it best. And, on that point, Johnson is odds-on to win. Make Britain Great Again will be the summer’s tune. If he challenges Parliament on no-deal, Brussels on the backstop, or the country with a Brexit referendum, he would lose. But a general election held 100 days after Trumpifying the country against a ‘remain’ Commons and ‘traitor’ Tories, means Johnson faces not unity but a three-way split opposition. It is the only way out. Not least because the true believers are now in power. And they want to keep it.

A no-deal general election victory means they can start straight away. Shorn of rules and summits, Britain as a new model market economy will be forged through shock therapy. Out of the dark early 80s came Thatcher’s new economy. Out of Brexit will come theirs. This is the policy hidden by the new nationalism. A bonfire of bureaucracy, markets wrenched open and tariffs slashed. The people will get bread and circuses. Farming and manufacturing face the smack of firm government. But only if Johnson gets his general election. Because, don’t forget, it’s not his to call. Only if he loses a vote of no confidence will that election happen, says the Fixed Term Parliament Act. And if the new nationalism is working in the opinion polls why on earth would the other parties fall into the trap? Why not call his bluff and trump no-deal at the last possible moment? While the people say ‘get on with it’ and our businesses saying ‘get it right’ we all have to get to grips with the Brexit reality. Because this is the Brexit endgame. We at FBC Manby Bowdler are here to help businesses navigate the uncertainty of the coming months, so don’t hesitate to get in touch.

If you would like to contact Peter or the rest of the team to discuss any of the above, please call 01694 724440 or email p.wilding@fbcmb.co.uk.

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LOCAL ARTS

Swan song The compelling and tragic romance in which a princess, Odette, is turned into a swan by an evil curse is bringing its magic to the county town in October. When a swan turns into a beautiful young woman, Prince Siegfried is instantly captivated. Will his love prove strong enough to break the evil spell that she is under? ‘Swan Lake’ captures, like no other ballet, the full range of human emotions – from hope to despair, from terror to tenderness, from melancholy to ecstasy. Performed by the Russian State Ballet, this production is accompanied by a large live orchestra. Showing at 7.30pm only on Sunday 27 October with adult tickets priced from £33.50 and children from £26.50. Visit theatresevern.co.uk for more details.

Rocky experience Get ready for a pelvic thrust as Richard O’Brien’s legendary rock ‘n’ roll musical visits the region. Starring Strictly Come Dancing professional champion Joanne Clifton as Janet and Stephen Webb as Dr Frank N Furter, this glamorous production brings the cult classic to the stage with a ton of panache and verve. This ‘time warp’ of a story is about two squeaky-clean college kids – Brad and his fiancée Janet. When, by a twist of fate, their car breaks down outside a creepy mansion while on their way to visit their former college professor, they meet the charismatic Dr Frank N Furter. It’s an adventure they’ll never forget. Be warned though, this show, from Monday 14 until Saturday 19 October, is not recommended for children under 14. Show start time varies with ticket prices from £17.50. Visit grandtheatre.co.uk for details.

Christmas comes early While the rest of us were enjoying the late summer sun, illustrators at Aardvark, the Church Stretton based illustration and design company, were busy creating this year’s Christmas card for Glyndebourne Opera House. This is third time they have received the commission, and this time they opted for a scene of sheep musicians. Owner Isobel Bushell says, “We take great pride in working with all our clients, from the small artisan food producer to a world famous music venue, and to do this in glorious Shropshire inspires us every day.” Aardvark, who illustrated the popular book about Peggy the Much Wenlock piglet who took part in the Olympian Games, are now working on a story book about a hedgehog without any prickles for local wildlife charity Cuan House. Visit aardvarkid.com for more information. 31


LOCAL ARTS

Bold as brass The residents of Paris were bowled over by the Wellington Brass Band when they performed in the city recently. A huge audience gathered to hear the band play a selection of music in the Jardins de Luxembourg bandstand.

New angel in Broseley

The award-winning band was visiting Chatenay-Malabry, just south of Paris, with other members of the Wellington Twinning Association. Mayor Anthony Lowe, who joined the group, recalls, “They played for over an hour, finishing with Les Marseillaises, God Save The Queen and an encore by popular request.

The brand-new Angel Gallery in Broseley will open its doors to the public on Friday 20 September.

“The audience could not get enough of them. As Mayor of Wellington, I felt so proud.”

Founders Ann and Mike Fraser say, “The gallery offers a new, tranquil and visually stimulating display of art. We are absolutely thrilled that an opening date has now been decided. We have put a lot of hard work and dedication into the gallery and we are excited to share this with the public.”

For future events visit wellingtonband.org.uk. Members of the We

llington Brass Ban

d in Paris

The gallery, on the town’s high street, will host Ann’s award-winning artwork, as well as serving as an exhibition point for many aspiring and senior artists. There will also be a café, meeting rooms available for hire, as well as new art classes starting in the near future. To find out more about the Angel Gallery, or if you would like to exhibit works, visit angelgallery.co.uk or call 01952 885834.

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LOCAL ARTS

Making a splash The Ocean Film Festival World Tour will splash back to Theatre Severn on Wednesday 18 September. The event offers a brand-new collection of spectacular ocean-themed films telling seafaring stories from both above and below the water’s surface, features mind-blowing marine life, wild adventures and stunning cinematography. The festival offers the chance to dip your toes into the wonders of the big blue from the comfort of a cinema seat. As well as short films, each screening will see a free prize giveaway to win ocean-related goodies too. The Ocean Film Festival World Tour originated in Australia, with the aim of inspiring people to explore, respect, enjoy and protect the oceans is in its sixth year of touring. To find out more, watch the trailer and book tickets, visit oceanfilmfestival.co.uk.

The IBROW Guy Scottish comedy award winner Gary Meikle is back with a bang and new brows after racking up over 100 million views with a rant about his daughters eyebrows. During the show he’ll guide us through eyebrow etiquette, logic and laws and how it’s changed his life, and how he feels about being known forevermore as the eyebrow guy. Gary as ever will always draw on his relationships with his girls but this time we’ll get more of an insight into the workings of his mind, his thoughts and opinions on things he dare not verbalise until now. Gary isn’t one for mincing his words so expect the unexpected from this playfully dark effervescent rising star. See Gary on Friday 20 September at 8pm, ticket priced at £16.50. For more information visit theplacetelford.com. 33


LOCAL ARTS

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Big names from the world of classical music and musical theatre have been unveiled as headline acts at this year’s Proms and Prosecco in the Park at Chetwynd Deer Park, Newport. Jesus Christ Superstar lead Jon Moses will be joined by Naomi and Hannah Moxon aka Classical Reflection from The Voice 2016. This eagerly awaited annual event, on Saturday 14 September, mixes top classical musicians with the best talent from West End musicals, choral groups and classic pop and is all topped off with a glorious proms finale including rousing renditions of standards such as ‘Rule Britannia’ and ‘Land of Hope and Glory’… and lots of flag waving. Visitors can enjoy six hours of live music, a free glass of Aperol Spritz (over 18s only), free parking, free activities for children and food stalls and bars… or just bring your own picnic.

Comedy and curry

For tickets, visit fizzfestivals.com.

Prepare to laugh the night away at the Ironbridge Gorge Museum’s Comedy and Curry Night in the Engine Shop at Enginuity on Friday 6 September. It promises to be a popular and entertaining evening with a line-up of comedians including Ian Stone, a regular guest on BBC Radio 5 Live’s Fighting Talk, musical comedian Kate Lucas, and Jonathan Elston, who combines sharp joke writing and quirky observations. Arrive at 7pm when the doors open and enjoy a curry with rice and naan; the curry will also be available during the first interval. A cash bar serving soft and alcoholic drinks will be open throughout the evening. The performance starts at 8pm and finishes at 10.15pm. Tickets must be purchased in advance online priced at £20 per person. Annual Passport Tickets are not valid for this event. The evening is recommended for those aged 16+. For further details visit www.ironbridge.org.uk.

Over the rainbow Join Dorothy and her faithful dog Toto as they are whisked over the rainbow to the magical Land of Oz. In her quest to find her way back home Dorothy encounters a host of enchanting characters and finds new friends, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion. They follow the Yellow Brick Road, mercilessly pursued by the Wicked Witch of the West, to the magical Emerald City in search of the mysterious and almighty Wizard of Oz. Featuring the iconic songs, ‘Over The Rainbow’, ‘Follow the Yellow Brick Road’ and ‘We’re Off To See The Wizard’, this production has all the magic of the original tale. There are two performances on Tuesday 1 October at 2.30pm and 7.30pm with tickets priced at £10. Visit grandtheatre.co.uk for details. 35

LOCAL ARTS

Fizz festival


LOCAL ARTS

Buddy and his crickets See this Rock'n'rollercoaster of a show on Thursday 19 September featuring all the timeless classics from a band who have been on the tribute trail for over a quarter of a century. Enjoy hits including 'That’ll Be The Day', 'Peggy Sue', 'Heartbeat', 'It Doesn’t Matter Anymore', 'Raining In My Heart' and 'Oh Boy!'. It stars some of the great actor-musicians in the UK whose combined West End credits include Buddy, Lennon, Forbidden Planet and Jailhouse Rock and was endorsed as Britains most popular Buddy Holly act when the boys guested on BBC Ones Saturday night live programme, The One and Only, hosted by Graham Norton who described it at “Buddy brilliant!” The show starts at 7.30pm with tickets priced from £19. Visit theatresevern.co.uk for more detail.

Nature’s champions Champions of the natural world from the 19th century to the present day will be celebrated in a new exhibition touring three National Trust locations in September this year, including Shropshire’s Attingham Park. The exhibition, Faces of Change: Nature’s Champions, is a partnership between the National Trust and the National Portrait Gallery, drawing on portraits from the gallery’s collection. It will focus on individuals who have transformed the way we perceive, experience, and aim to protect the natural world. The exhibition includes outstanding paintings, sculptures, photographs and recent commissions. Gardeners from Gertrude Jekyll to Bob Flowerdew will feature, as well as key figures of the Romantic Movement such as William Wordsworth, and early radicals and reformers William Morris and Octavia Hill. More recent figures include animal welfare and agriculture campaigners Linda McCartney and Prince Charles, and broadcaster Sir David Attenborough. Beatrix Potter is one of Nature’s Champions

36

For more information visit nationaltrust.org.uk/ peopleslandscapes.


LOCAL ARTS

We can hear music The Place will definitely be alive with ‘The Sound of Music’ from Wednesday 23 until Saturday 26 October when, 60 years on from first hitting the Broadway stage, Tadlop bring this Rodgers and Hammerstein classic back to Telford.

All Stretton artists After 25 year in their previous rural home, ceramicist Dennis Farrell and his teacher and aspiring painter wife Sally decided they needed to move closer to town and so the search for a new home began.

Based on the real-life story of the Von Trapp Family Singers, it is set in Austria on the eve of the Anschluss in 1938 and follows Maria, a young novice nun, who takes a job as governess to the large Von Trapp family. She falls in love, first with the children and eventually their widowed father. Under mounting pressure from the growing Nazi regime, the new family have some difficult decisions ahead of them. Packed full of well-known songs such as ‘Edelweiss’, ‘My Favourite Things’, ‘Climb Ev'ry Mountain’ and of course the title song, this is an all-time classic. Show times are at 2.30pm and 7.30pm with tickets priced at £15. For more information visit theplacetelford.com.

After a long search they chose a property in All Stretton with the potential to extend the main living area to a dilapidated garage, producing a light-filled space. Local design and construction companies Johnsons Design Partnership of Bridgnorth and Hayward Construction Ltd of Kenley helped turn their dream to reality. Sally explains, “The final result is overwhelmingly better than we hoped for. With views overlooking the magnificent Carodoc, we now have a truly inspirational room to contemplate, dream and inspire a ceramic piece or a painting, maybe.” See dennisfarrell.co.uk for information.

Healing The Nation As a preamble to this tour Andy says, “It was the 24th June 2016 and I found myself in a supermarket contemplating a meal deal. I only wanted a sandwich and I only needed a sandwich but given that I could get a snack and a drink for only 5p more it seemed financially irresponsible not to. It was the day after the Referendum, and I’d spent so long confused about what was happening to my country that I was in a rush as I took my three items to the lad on the till. He scanned the first two items no problem but the third item he couldn’t get to scan at all. I thought this is going to be a nightmare – there was a queue building up and he looked like he was going to call the supervisor. Then to his credit, he tried to scan it one more time, it wouldn’t scan – so he went bip’ himself and chucked it through. And it was at that moment I thought ‘oh we’ll be alright as a country we will’… and we will be alright. Trust me. I’m not a politician.” See this cracking joke rich rallying call for a better Britain on Thursday 31 October at 8pm with tickets priced at £17 (14+ only). Visit theatresevern.co.uk for more detail. 37


LOCAL ARTS

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LOCAL ARTS

The Girl from Tiger Bay

For one night only on Wednesday 16 October, ‘The Girl from Tiger Bay’ tells the unique story of Dame Shirley Bassey’s incredible rise to stardom and her magical career spanning 65 years. The ultimate ‘rags to riches’ tale, this musical show will leave you dazzled as it chronicles this remarkable artiste’s journey from the back streets of Cardiff’s Tiger Bay to the glitz and glamour of Monte Carlo Bay. It features dancers, replica costumes and a sensational saxophonist, using powerful live performance, narrative and footage. Featuring all the greats including ‘I Who Have Nothing’, ‘Big Spender’, ‘Goldfinger’, ‘Diamonds Are Forever’ and many more. International tribute artist and vocal impersonator Joanne Copeman has been performing globally as Dame Shirley since 2002. The performance starts at 7.30pm with tickets priced at £21. To find out more, visit theplacetelford.com.

Age UK to benefit The Carmichael School of Dance and Theatre Arts in Telford recently held their biannual dance show and raised an amazing £900 to support older people in Shropshire.

Place of origin We often remember places that were special to us as children; a favourite holiday location, a beach, a campsite, a hill, a lake… as we get older, we add to the list of places that have a special meaning to us. A Sense of Place is an exhibition of British artists’ roots and significant places. It features work from Ann McCay, Melissa Scott Miller, Andrew Lansley, Claire Scott, Matthew Wood, Sam Travers and more.

The show was a huge success with 150 children and 50 teachers and helpers attending. It provides an opportunity for its students to perform on stage and each year principal Nicola Carmichael-Phillips uses this opportunity to raise funds for charity, this year’s being Age UK; she says, ” I thank Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin for supporting my parents during a difficult time but also for helping the families of people that come through our school.” Nicola believes it is important for children to get involved with fundraising as it teaches them to appreciate what they have and to recognise they have the ability, even from a young age, to help others. For more information about Age UK visit ageuk.org.uk. Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin Chief Executive, Heather Osborne with students at cheque presentation

Local artist Claire Scott, whose family have farmed the Shropshire hills for many years, returns to her roots and finds a deep sense of place, emotionally drawn by the colour of a field, a dense patch of grass or bluebells. Sam Travers is drawn to the hills, where he lives in Wiltshire and also Shropshire where he grew up, his childhood special place. See A Sense of Place at Twenty Twenty Gallery, 4 Quality Square, Ludlow from Saturday 21 to 26 October. Visit twenty-twenty.co.uk for more information. 39


LOCAL ARTS

Islands in the Stream Leave your 9 to 5 worries at the door on Thursday 3 October and get ready for a night in the company of Country Music Royalty! Enjoy the songs of the Queen and King of country music - Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers. This thigh-slapping stage show brings together the beloved glamour and personality of Dolly, along with Kenny’s charisma and energy with hit after hit including ‘Jolene’, ‘Ruby’, ‘9 to 5’, ‘Lucille’, ‘Here You Come Again’, ‘The Gambler’, ‘I Will Always Love You’, ‘Coward of the County’, plus the smash hit ‘Islands in the Stream’. Enjoy a great score and musicianship and bring the house down with the ultimate tribute to two country music legends. The show starts at 7.30pm with tickets priced at £25. For more information visit theplacetelford.com.

Michael Morpurgo Join one of the UK’s best-loved authors on Saturday 28 September as he shares his gift for magical storytelling and reveals the secrets nearly 50 years of writing have taught him. Michael began writing stories in the early 70s, inspired by the children he taught in his primary school class in Kent. He has written over 130 books, including ‘The Butterfly Lion’, ‘Kensuke’s Kingdom’, ‘Private Peaceful’ and ‘War Horse’, which was adapted for hugely successful stage and film productions. But what about the real-life story of Michael Morpurgo? How did a boy supremely uninterested in books, who dreamed of becoming an army officer, become a bestselling author and Children’s Laureate? What stories in Michael’s own life motivated him to write more than a hundred books for children? To celebrate his 75th birthday he will be interviewed by award-winning actor and comedian Katy Brand at 2.30pm with adult tickets priced at £21.50 and £16.50 for children. Visit theatresevern.co.uk for details.

Fundraising continues This year’s Broseley Festival was another huge success, with over 5,500 visitors packing the streets of the town at the top of the Gorge. Co-organiser Daniel Glaze says, “The committee would like to thank everyone who attended and made it such a success.” And the Festival feelgood factor is set to carry on, as on Saturday 21 September a Motown Night will feature Baby Love and DJ Barry Davies, then on Saturday 12 October, the committee deliver a ska night with performances from Skaburst and DJ Barry Davies. On Sunday 27 October, Broseley Festival’s ‘not so scary’ Halloween Float will be making its way around the streets, starting at 5pm from the Library car park. See visitbroseley.co.uk or see the Broseley Festival Facebook page for full details. 40


Following their successful production of Little Red Riding Hood in February, the Buildwas Players are gearing up for their next panto, Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves, to be performed in February 2020. Rehearsals are on Tuesdays in Buildwas Village Hall at 7.30pm starting on Tuesday 3 September, and the players welcome anyone who would like to take part as cast or crew to get in touch. No experience is necessary. For more details, call 01952 432497 or email buildwasplayers@outlook.com.

LOCAL ARTS

Thieves needed!

Book Review Confessions of a Bookseller by Shaun Bythell (Profile Books, £16.99) I was delighted when my lovely Faber rep handed me a copy of Shaun Bythell’s latest book, Confessions of a Bookseller, continuing in the same vein as his earlier, very successful, Diary of a Bookseller. Having spent a short holiday with Shaun at his wonderful bookshop in Wigtown, Dumfries and Galloway, in 2015, the year in which Confessions is set, I led a Readers Retreat in his bookshop in the middle of a cold, dark February. We stayed with Shaun for five days and enjoyed roaring log fires in the elegant Regency sitting room above the shop, and lovely long walks by the estuary on the edge of town. Wigtown is Scotland’s Town of Books, a smaller version of Hay on Wye, and the town has many bookshops along its broad, quiet High Street. Shaun could not have been more accommodating: we completely took over his living space with our morning meetings to read and discuss short stories, and during the afternoons we read by the fire (which he kept well stocked with logs) and browsed the shelves in his spacious and rambling bookshop. Shaun was a funny, genial, intelligent host and joined us each evening for delicious food and plentiful shared wine. The bookseller of these titles tries hard to be curmudgeonly and brusque, but his gentle nature, humorous spirit and warm personality break through again and again and the reader can’t help but enjoy his stories, even as we might wince a bit at some of the tales of customers’ behaviour.

Dracula live! Step into the world of Dracula on Thursday 31 October - if you dare. Broadcast live to cinemas for Halloween Bram Stoker’s legendary vampire lives on in this ballet. The dark tale of the immortal Count is played out through Northern Ballet’s blend of dance and theatre enhanced by gothic sets and costumes and features music by Schnittke, Rachmaninov, Pärt and Daugherty.

In places laugh-out-loud funny, Shaun is disarmingly frank about his relationship with his girlfriend Anna, from America, and ruefully sarcastic about the struggles of bookselling in today’s world (I know the feeling!). If you’ve ever been a customer in a bookshop, or wondered what it might be like to ‘live the dream’ and be a bookseller – this is the book for you. By the way, plans are in hand for our Readers Retreat in March 2020, back at the Bookshop, Wigtown: do contact me on info@wenlockbooks.co.uk if you’d like more information.

If you think you know what to expect from ballet, think again. This is ballet with a dramatic bite that will leave you thirsty for more! Grit your teeth for this 7.30 showing with tickets priced at £13. For more information visit edgeartscentre.com.

Anna Dreda 41


SCHOOL NEWS

dd A firework display rounds off the evening

Prom parade Blakelands Country House in Bobbington was the place to be as Bridgnorth Endowed School students turned out for their end of year prom. The Year 11s arrived in style in an array of vehicles, including high-performance sports cars, vintage motors, stretch limos, tractors, and even a US Army jeep. Dressed to impress, the school leavers stepped out in front of a crowd of parents and staff, donning glamorous gowns and sharp suits ready to celebrate the end of their GCSE exams. An exciting evening of entertainment was laid on, with music from live DJ Steve Chase, a fun mirror photo booth, and a pop-up glitter bar to add some extra sparkle. The milestone occasion came to a spectacular close with a stunning firework display in the grounds of the hotel, providing the perfect end to a perfect evening.

Hats off to Holly Keen sewer Holly Paget came to Herefordshire and Ludlow College initially for a textiles short course, before completing her Levels 2 and 3 in Millinery and Fashion. During this time, Holly started her own business producing embroidered art, which she sells on Etsy, and the young seamstress has also been recognised nationally for her skills: Holly won the Innovative Use of Felt Prize at the Feltmakers of London Design awards competition. Holly said, “I was thrilled to win the Innovative Use of Felt prize, where I combined my love of sewing and Harry Potter into a hat, creating a barred owl out of felt. In Edwardian times, ladies’ hats were usually trimmed with feathers, fruits and real stuffed birds. My version was a modern-day, environmentally-friendly take on the traditional hat using needle felting, which is now an extremely popular craft.” 42


SCHOOL NEWS

Bookfest in Bridgnorth Castlefields school in Bridgnorth held their first Bookfest just before the end of term, with the aim of getting children excited about reading. The year-long project, which has included drama workshops, creative art activities and movie making, culminated in a visit from best-selling author Adam Baron and a special award ceremony attended by pupils, parents, governors and guests. During Castlefields Bookfest, children read shortlisted books for their age group and voted for their favourite. The winning books were: The Ugly Five by Julia Donaldson, Tom’s Magnificent Machines by Linda Sarah, Super Happy Magic Forest by Matty Long and The Boy at the Back of the Class by Onjali Q Rauf. Emma Spenser, manager of Bridgnorth Library, who attended the event, says, “It was fantastic to see over 200 children cheering for their favourite authors and having a real excitement about reading.” Bookfest winner

s

Christopher and Victoria McAllister

College’s new head The governors of Tettenhall College have announced the appointment of Christopher McAllister as the new head of Tettenhall College. Chris will take up his post in January 2020. After graduating in Theology and Secondary Education, Chris has enjoyed a successful career in teaching. Chris is also a keen runner and has completed the London marathon. Chris will be joined by his wife Victoria. Their children William and Lydia will be joining the school in January. Chris says, “I am excited and honoured, in equal measure, to be leading Tettenhall College into 2020. I have been hugely impressed by the commitment of the governors, the staff I have met, and most of all the pupils of Tettenhall College who are being prepared to embrace new challenges and opportunities as they face an ever changing world.”

Primary schools celebrate A total of 63 schools recently took part in the Shropshire Homes School Sport Summer Festival Games, the culmination of months of competition for students. More than 750 youngsters took part in the day of competition in Shrewsbury, where activities included arrows archery, boccia, cycling, dodgeball, mini tennis, new age kurling, orienteering, rounders, tri-golf, kwik cricket, and sportshall athletics. The festival began with an opening ceremony featuring entertainment from Shrewsbury High Prep School’s rock band, and Longlands Singing Club from Market Drayton. The Spirit of the Games award, for the area which best demonstrated the six School Games values – determination, passion, respect, honesty, self-belief and teamwork – went to the Telford & Wrekin Burton Borough area. Two local sporting champions; Paralympic wheelchair racer

Deborah Johnson, and GB U19 handball star Jaymie Kerr were also on hand to provide support and motivation. For more details about the School Games programme, see energizestw.org.uk. East Shropshire celebrating victory in the tri-golf competition 43


Advertisement Feature

Building on success After opening as a Free School in 2016 and following an ambitious and successful growth in pupil numbers over the past three years, The Royal School’s building programme is now well underway as the school’s management team continue to develop first-class teaching facilities for pupils. Phase one of the development plan saw a new Sixth Form Centre and refurbished classrooms. Phase two started this summer, with new science labs and more classrooms opening in September.

The Royal combines traditional values with a modern outlook and a ‘real-world’ attitude… At the centre of all that The Royal does is an inclusive community where students study, play and live together harmoniously with a friendly atmosphere for both day pupils and boarders alike. The Royal’s strong academic tradition is based upon individual attention and encouragement, and the excellent pastoral care is founded on respect, tolerance and understanding of others.

Principal Mark Heywood explains,” We prepare pupils for Oxbridge and other top universities while also catering to pupils of all abilities. The school regularly achieves high standards in both A-Level and GCSA results, particularly in STEM subjects of mathematics and the sciences. The Royal combines traditional values with a modern outlook and a ‘real-world’ attitude.

“Developing the ‘whole person’ in sport, drama, music and adventurous activity, young people at The Royal are also Students achieve their full academic potential, while a better placed to make the best of their opportunities to wide range of extended-day activities develop character become well-rounded individuals with confidence and and leadership. Royal Ad 146 x110.5_Layout 1 07/08/2019 10:49 Page 1 empathy for those around them.”

OPEN DAYS Year 7 Saturday, 21 September, 9 am – 12 pm

Sixth Form Saturday, 16 November, 9 am – 12 pm

Reception

Saturday, 23 November, 9 am – 12 pm Bookings must be made via School Website

The Royal School

Wolver hamp to n

Penn Road, Wolverhampton, West Midlands WV3 OEG Tel: 01 902 341230 info@theroyal.school www.theroyal.school

44


Advertisement Feature

Top grades for Moor Park Staff at a Shropshire school are celebrating after being awarded a rating of ‘excellent’ in all areas. The school was inspected in June by the ISI, a government-regulated body equivalent to OFSTED, who judge the quality of independent schools. Moor Park’s inspection report contains the best results of any independent school in the immediate area. The inspection confirms Moor Park’s ability to get the best out of every child, regardless of their ability, and specifically mentions the school’s innovative new approach to teaching, the Moor Park Mindsets, as being central to its success at encouraging higher order thinking skills in all pupils. Charlie Minogue, head of the Richards Castle school, was delighted with the findings in what he describes as a team effort throughout the school: “This report highlights both the historical strengths of Moor Park together with the improvements to the school made over the last few years, made possible due to the excellent working relationships between staff, pupils and parents. It is well-deserved recognition of the hard work contributed by everyone.” The full report is available on the Moor Park website at moorpark.org.uk.

explore. discover. inspire

Every day is Open Day! Places available Visits welcome MOOR PARK was given top grades and deemed to be EXCELLENT IN ALL AREAS (ISI June 2019)

Moor Park’s TICK TOCK NURSERY was judged to be OUTSTANDING IN ALL AREAS (ISI June 2019)

Moor Park - Ludlow - Shropshire - SY8 4DZ www.moorpark.org.uk - T: 01584 876061

Brockton, Much Wenlock TF13 6JR 01746 785671 brocktonprimary.co.uk admin.brockton@taw.org.uk 45


SCHOOL NEWS

Record laps for St John’s Pupils from St John’s Catholic Primary School in Bridgnorth recently took part in Race for Life, raising money for Cancer Research. Depending on their age group, children ran between three and five laps around the school and raised an amazing £3,105 for the worthy cause, with friends and family digging deep to sponsor them The youngsters were also joined by some of their teachers and a good time was had by all.

Madeline’s magnificent music A teenager from Shropshire has scooped a prestigious award for a piece of music she composed. Thirteen-year-old Madeline Chassar-Hesketh from Cleobury Mortimer won the BBC Proms Junior Composer of the Year Award for her piece Cycle of the Sun. Madeline explains, “I wanted to write a piece that could be used as a meditative cycle that could be played again and again; a piece that would celebrate the ebb and flow of seasons, leaving the listener contemplating the cyclical nature of life. “By appreciating the earth’s cyclical nature and realising how much it is at odds with the modern world’s linear way of thinking, I hope it will allow us all to make better, more environmentally sound decisions in the future.” Madeline, currently preparing for her piano diploma exams, has always enjoyed writing music. She also plays the harp and has recently started playing the flute. Madeline Chassar-Hesketh won the BBC Proms Junior Composer of the Year Award

Time for a rest! Homework will take on a whole new meaning for a couple who are both retiring this month after almost 80 years of teaching between them. Andy and Chris Hurd are retiring from the Wrekin Old Hall Trust, where they also set up home on the Wellington campus for the last four decades. Not only did their daughters join them as pupils at both schools but both girls also got married in the school chapel. Andy, 64, started at Wrekin College in 1980 while his wife Chris, 60, enjoyed her first day with kindergarten, now known as reception, at the adjoining Old Hall School in 1985. Andy says, “There were so many highlights for me such as the house plays and getting to perform in them along with seeing our rugby teams record some significant victories over the years.” The couple hope to devote more time to their interests outside the classroom when they retire and to spend more time with their four grandchildren. 46


SCHOOL NEWS

Secret Millionaire helps celebrate Telford College welcomed back one of its most famous former students to hand out the prizes at its end-of-year awards evening. Mo Chaudry, who appeared on the Channel Four TV show Secret Millionaire, grew up in Wellington and began his education at the college. He has since become one of the UK’s most successful Asian businessmen. Mo gained some of his first qualifications at the college’s former King Street campus, on his way to a sparkling career which has seen him launch a range of companies including health clubs and spas, adventure mini golf sites, and property investments. Mo spoke to students about the importance of ‘seizing the moment’, following their dreams and instincts, and refusing to be defeated by life’s disappointments or setbacks. Graham Guest, Telford College’s principal, says, “The evening was an opportunity to celebrate the incredible achievements and progress of our students throughout the year. “We were delighted to welcome Mo Chaudry to talk about his memories of his time at our college, share his motivational and inspirational story, and help recognise our students’ success.”

Open Evening Reception (entry 2020) Wednesday, 25 September 5.30pm to 6.30pm

Open Mornings Friday, 11 October 10am to 12.30pm Saturday, 12 October 10am to 12.30pm

Telephone: 01902 372534 Email: dfrost@birchfieldschool.co.uk Website: www.birchfieldschool.co.uk Birchfield Preparatory School, Harriot’s Hayes Lane, Albrighton, Near Wolverhampton, WV7 3AF

47


SCHOOL NEWS

personalised education

Open Day Saturday 28th September 10am to 12.30pm Nursery – Preparatory – Senior – Sixth Form Contact: admissions@tettcoll.co.uk • 01902 751119

48


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An illustrious past; a bright future With a history dating back to 1863, Tettenhall College has played a significant role in educating young people from across the region and today provides a stimulating learning environment for boys and girls, boarders and day pupils, from the age of two to 18.

The emphasis at Tettenhall College is on a personalised education that develops the whole person… In 2019, 25% of pupils achieved A*, A or B in all of their subjects, with the majority of our pupils gaining places at their first choice of university, including some of the top institutions in the country. As we go to press, this year’s GCSE and A Level pupils eagerly await the 2019 results, which are anticipated to once again cement the school’s position as one of the leading independent schools in the Midlands. However, for a non-selective school, an equally important measure of success is ‘value-added’, which compares pupils’ predicted grades at entry with actual grades achieved at 16. On this measure, Tettenhall College is also above many of the highly selective state and independent schools in the country. The school’s small class sizes ensure that the most able pupils receive the necessary stretch to flourish while those requiring support receive it – at no extra cost.

A new fleet of minibuses has made Tettenhall College more accessible to families in Shropshire, Staffordshire and across the West Midlands… The emphasis at Tettenhall College is on a personalised education that develops the whole person, both in and beyond the classroom, with exceptional extra-curricular opportunities that complement the rigorous academic environment. The school’s skilled staff ensure everyone will find their niche and grow in confidence.

Pupils in front of the historic Towers Library and Theatre

Life skills and preparation for life beyond school are important elements of the educational offering and this permeates from Nursery through to Sixth Form. In the Preparatory School, the unique enrichment programme aims to deepen and widen the experiences of pupils with subjects ranging from Latin, Mandarin, and Philosophy to Engineering. English, reading and mathematics remain at the heart of the curriculum and are taught daily. Science classes, taught in the modern laboratory, now include an engineering focus. Recent developments have transformed many areas of the site, with major new facilities now on offer. Multi-purpose sports pitches, squash courts and study facilities plus a new Sixth Form Centre and a vibrant Library all add to the new face of Tettenhall College in 2019. And a new fleet of minibuses has made Tettenhall College more accessible to families in Shropshire, Staffordshire and across the West Midlands.

Tettenhall College has come a long way since its foundation over 150 years ago, yet the traditional values and the wonderful historic setting remain the same. To contact the school and arrange to see for yourself, call 01902 751119 or visit tettenhallcollege.co.uk. The school’s Open Day takes place on Saturday 28 September, with Information evenings for Y7 and Sixth Form on Wednesday 16 October and Thursday 17 October respectively. 49


Advertisement Feature

A learning journey Mindfulness, coding, gardening and even the chance to be in a world final are all part of the journey outside the normal classroom day at a Shropshire school. Old Hall School in Wellington has given its after-school clubs a makeover, adding new and innovative activities to enhance the experience for all children. The setting now boasts almost 40 different clubs in which children can take part, divided between Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2. Get Set Go in German will start in September, while a mindfulness club has proved to be a massive success. “We’re very proud of our extra-curricular provision, which includes a rich and varied calendar of after-school activities,” says head Martin Stott. “We know how important this part of the school day is for both children and parents and how if you get it right, it can add to family life in all kinds of ways.

Motion club introduced by Head of Academic Michael Sturrock. This year, a team of four players reached the World Championship Final, crossing the virtual finish line in the top five primary schools and ninth overall.

“Children are selected for football, rugby, hockey and swim squads, together with chapel choir where their skill set can be further enhanced by specialised coaching and training.”

The chapel choir, which rehearses as an after-school club, also qualified for the International Musical Eisteddfod in Llangollen. The school also brings in outside agencies; new this year is the Blackout Dance Camp run by Levan Peart who has featured on Britain’s Got Talent and Sky’s Got to Dance.

Mr Stott said the school are fortunate to have a wealth of experience and expertise among the staff in areas other than teaching to help improve their offering. Engineering and maths skills have played a key role in the Maths in

Staff will be available to talk through the clubs available and all other aspects of the school at the next open day on Saturday, October 5, a joint open day with the adjoining Wrekin College.

TOGETHER WE ALL ADD UP TO

Co-educational day school 4-11 01952 223117 admissions@oldhall.co.uk Wellington, Shropshire TF1 3LB

GREAT OPEN DAY Joint Open Day for Old Hall School and Wrekin Saturday 5th October 10am - 1pm Wrekin Sixth Form Open Evening Thursday 26th September, 6pm

Co-educational day and boarding school 11-18 01952 265603 admissions@wrekincollege.com Wellington, Shropshire TF1 3BH

REGISTER ONLINE OR FIND OUT MORE: www.wrekincollege.com • www.oldhall.co.uk Registered Charity No. 528417

Wellington, Shropshire, TF1 3BH 50


SCHOOL NEWS

A matter of course Shrewsbury Colleges Group Business students recently raised a whopping £1,500 for local charities by organising multiple fundraising events. Each year, teams of Level 3 Extended Diploma in Business students organise fundraisers as part of their course. Students have to plan, implement and evaluate a real-life event in groups of four. This year there were nine teams in total – six of those volunteered their time at College events and the other three organised their own events. All involved get to practice first-hand life-skills of setting up and running an event with the purpose of making a profit for charity. The events raised over £1,500 for Lingen Davies, Hope House and Severn Hospice. There was a cheese and wine night in Clayton Hall, a Charlie and the Chocolate Factory afternoon tea in Origins Restaurant and a summer barbecue at Bomere Heath Cricket Club.

Come and join our success story!

Wolverhampton Girls’ High School HIGH R ANKING STATE SCHOOL OFFERING FREE EDUCATION

SIXTH FORM OPEN EVENING Wednesday 9th October at 7pm

SIXTH FORM OPEN MORNING Wednesday 15th January 2020 (See website for timings)

TETTENHALL ROAD WOLVERHAMPTON W V6 0BY

“We welcome students new to the school in the Sixth Form” 01902 551515 www.wghs.org.uk 51


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Ludlow’s advantage Providing education for over 800 years, Ludlow College is spread across three campuses next to Ludlow Castle. The College offers a comprehensive selection of A Level courses and Extended Diplomas. Ludlow College prides itself on offering all students the opportunity to reach their full potential and has a comprehensive set of systems in place, designed to guide and support each individual happily and successfully on every part of their journey. Students leave as well-rounded individuals possessing not just academic flair but intellectual curiosity and a desire to learn. Open events are an opportunity to come and meet tutors, tour the outstanding facilities and find out what makes Ludlow College so special. Teaching staff will be on hand to discuss course options and progression routes. The Ludlow College Open Event takes place on Thursday 3 October from 5pm until 8pm.

Open Ev e nt

Thursday 3rd Oct 2019 5.00pm - 8.00pm

Golden opening One of Telford’s most famous sons, Paralympic gold medallist Mickey Bushell MBE, recently opened the new Daily Mile track at Grange Park Primary School in Stirchley. The free initiative sees children run or jog at their own pace each day for 15 minutes. The school is also opening the track on Thursdays after school for parents to join in too. Grange Park’s head Richard Thorpe explains, “The Daily Mile is a great example of a simple, free inclusive exercise to boost the wellbeing of the whole school and the community around it. Children are more settled in their work, concentration levels have improved and fitness levels are also on the up. It’s great to see children and the teachers really enjoying the initiative and we hope parents will also get on board. Isabelle Bowman and Jacob Morgan on the Daily Mile track

0800 032 1986 WWW.LUDLOW-COLLEGE.AC.UK 52


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Family-friendly learning St John’s in Bridgnorth is a Catholic Voluntary Aided Primary School within the Diocese of Shrewsbury and the Shropshire Education Authority, teaching pupils aged from five up to 11. The school has been in existence since 1856, providing education for the children of the Catholic community of Bridgnorth and the surrounding district. The original site was behind St John’s Church, now the parish hall. The present school is a single storey building, built in three phases since the 1950s and situated within its own grounds, including a playing field, a trim trail, buddy benches and two playgrounds.

“We aim to provide an environment where learning is enjoyable and where children feel safe and happy…” St John’s offers a faith-based setting that welcomes everyone. Head Mrs J Buzzing explains, “At St John’s, we provide a sound secular education within the framework of a strong religious tradition and background. We recognise the need for the development of the whole

child – academically, spiritually, socially, morally, in artistic, creative and sporting achievements. This provides the basis for their future school and adult lives. “Our school prides itself on being a caring community. We aim to provide an environment where learning is enjoyable and where children feel safe and happy with our faith central to what we do and who we are. We believe every child is a unique individual and we encourage them to explore and develop their learning skills, grow with confidence and enthusiasm, learn how to accept responsibility and, very importantly, strive to reach their full potential.” The school welcomes potential parents to come and look around – call 01746 762061 to arrange a visit.

53


SCHOOL NEWS

Independent Day School for Boys and Girls Junior School ages 7-11 Senior School ages 11-16 Sixth Form ages 16-18

25

acre site

Dedicated, Expert Pastoral Team Judged ‘Excellent’ in all areas by the Independent Schools Inspectorate Securing places at the most prestigious universities including Oxford and Cambridge

School

Open Day

Saturday 5th October 2019, 11am-3pm

Wrap around care from 7.30am - 6.15pm A community like no other

For more information about the open day or joining our School, please contact Jane Morris, Admissions Registrar. T: 01902 422939 E: jam@wgs-sch.net or register online www.wgs.org.uk

54

What's What Magazine - 146mm x 225mm.indd 1

Flexible and convenient School Bus Services across 3 counties

TES Independent School Award Winners 2018

05/08/2019 12:23


Advertisement Feature

Award-winning education is closer than you think Wolverhampton Grammar School is an extraordinary school. Founded in 1512, it’s one of the oldest schools in the country, yet today is within easy access of the wider West Midlands, Staffordshire and Shropshire thanks to flexible school bus links. Ranked top of the league tables for grades 9 to 7 at GCSE, the school is rated ‘excellent’ by school inspectors. The award-winning school also ranks top 25 nationally for GCSE results across all independent schools.

First priority is the happiness of your child Children at Wolverhampton Grammar School receive pastoral care like nowhere else – that’s because happy children do well, thrive, and leave the school with excellent exam results and the confidence to embrace whatever opportunities come their way.

Small class sizes and space for individual tuition enables teachers to get to know each and every child… Your child will never feel alone at Wolverhampton Grammar School. Assistant Head of Pastoral Care Claudine Jones leads a team of staff to work with families to ensure every child gets the care and individual attention that they need. Support includes a dedicated, expert pastoral team, school counsellor and annual adolescent mental health tracking using the latest digital tools.

Academic excellence The academic achievements of the students speak for themselves. All teachers are experts in their own academic disciplines; trained and experienced

professionals who love their subjects as much as they enjoy teaching students. Small class sizes and space for individual tuition enables teachers to get to know each and every child. Wolverhampton Grammar School also offers a tailored and individual approach to UCAS and careers support, and students can expect the very best preparation possible when it comes to life after school. The examinations and Sixth Form team ensure every student is supported with the very best support possible to ensure students make the right choice for their next step.

Life outside the classroom The school offers over 100 extra-curricular clubs – the largest range available from any school in the area: everything from political forums, technology clubs, debating, Warhammer to climbing, cooking and gardening. Residential trips begin as early as Y3 and from Y7, all children have the opportunity to travel to Europe, culminating in a choice of worldwide expeditions for older students.

Interested in learning more? The school hosts open events throughout the year. The next Open Day is Saturday 5 October, from 11am to 3pm. Alternatively, contact Jane Morris at 01902 422939, email jam@wgs-sch.net or register visit wgs.org.uk. 55


WHAT’S ON

Dates for your diary – September & October SAT 31 AUG – 1 SEP

Guildex 2019 International Centre, Telford The main event in the calendar of any model railway enthusiast, Guildex offers two days of specialist trade sales, demonstrations, models and layouts. Tickets are valid for both days. Doors close an hour earlier on Sunday. 10am-5pm £10 (2 adults & 2 U16s); £15 for non-members gauge0guild.com/events

SUN 1 SEP

Alice in Wonderland Dudmaston Estate, Quatt

SUN 1 SEP

Italian Auto Festival and Continental Market Bridgnorth High Street Bridgnorth’s main roads will be closed as the town welcomes drivers of Italian automobiles for the third festival, which runs alongside a continental market. If you’d like to show off your ‘bella’ Alfa Romeo, Ferrari or Lamborghini, call 01743 232651 or 07773 537564. FREE 10am-5pm italianautomotoclub.co.uk

SUN 1 SEP

Spitfire 10K and Family Run RAF Museum, Cosford Take a unique opportunity to race across the airfield and down the runway in an exclusive charity run raising money for the Museum. The 10K is fully booked but there are still places on the family run. 10am £5 per person (U16s must be accompanied by an adult) 01902 376200; rafmuseum.org.uk/Cosford 56

Bring the family along for a summer’s afternoon on the top terrace and watch this magical open-air production, performed by Immersion Outdoor Theatre Company. Adult £10.50; child £9 (3-16) 01746 780886; nationaltrust.org.uk 2pm

TUE 3 – 7 SEP

THU 5 – 7 SEP

Cabaret

CAMRA Beer Festival

Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton

The Railwayman’s Arms, Bridgnorth

Put on your top hat and get ready for this multi award-winning production of Kander and Ebb’s landmark musical. Directed by the National Theatre’s Rufus Norris, the production has enjoyed two smash hit West End runs. 2.30pm & 7.30pm From £19.50 grandtheatre.co.uk

Bridgnorth Station’s CAMRA Beer Festival triumphantly returns. The Station will host over 60 real ales, ciders and perries for the much-loved festival. Entry is FREE and the trains will be running all day too. Thu 5-11pm, Fri & Sat 11am-11pm FREE svr.co.uk

FRI 6 – 8 SEP

Summer Nights Film Festival Attingham Park, Atcham Pack your picnic hamper and bring your friends along for an unforgettable evening under the stars. See Jurassic Park (Friday), Bohemian Rhapsody (Saturday) and Mama Mia: Here We Go Again (Sunday), all shown in front of the mansion. 8pm Adults £15.50; U12 £10.50 (booking essential) 01332 290 606; nationaltrust.org.uk/attingham-park


WHAT’S ON

SAT 7 SEP

THU 12 SEP

Apple Pressing

Bizfest 2019

Sunnycroft, Wellington

Shrewsbury Business Park

September is the traditional time of harvest so come and see how apples are traditionally pressed and have a taste of freshly pressed juice. 11am-3pm 0344 2491895; nationaltrust.org.uk/sunnycroft

One of the largest free networking events accommodating over 400 attendees. The event will feature over 12 topical seminars, hands on workshops, one-to-one meetings with business experts, over 30 trade stands, live music and entertainment, street food, craft beer, cocktails and wine. shropshirebizfest.co.uk

SAT 7 SEP

Beckbury Show Beckbury A traditional show including a traditional farmers market, funfair rides, have-a-go dog shows, trial bike displays, equestrian dressage, gun dog and falconry displays, plus music and dance. The show brings the countryside to life while raising money for local charities. £2.50 (U12s FREE) 11am-5pm beckburyshow.co.uk

TUE 10 SEP

Margaret Atwood Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock Meet Margaret Atwood, author of more than 50 books of fiction, poetry and critical essays. Her novels include Cat’s Eye and The Blind Assassin as well as her 1985 classic The Handmaid’s Tale. £12; £10 7.30pm edgeartscentre.com

FRI 13, 20 & 27 SEP

Buzzy Beats

SUN 8 SEP

The Hive, Shrewsbury

Autumn Plant Hunters’ Fair

Set your under 5s off on a creative, music- filled journey in this great workshop with Mary Keith. 10.30-11.30am £5 per child, £5 per sibling hiveonline.org.uk

Weston Park, Weston under Lizard Take the opportunity to brighten your garden and find some late-blooming plants to cheer it up, or get in quick for next year’s blooms. £2.50 10am-4pm planthuntersfairs.co.uk

WED 11 SEP

A Celebration of Opera Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton

MON 9 – 15 SEP

Wellington Walking Festival

Celebrate the wonder of opera in the company of Mozart, Verdi, Bizet, Puccini, Offenbach, Gilbert & Sullivan and more, in a feast of some of the greatest music ever composed. With artists from the London Festival Opera, the Royal Opera, the English National Opera and Glyndebourne. From £22.50 7.30pm grandtheatre.co.uk

Various locations around Wellington This year’s festival will feature old favourites with some new ventures, with a blend of themed and full-day walks. The Wrekin and Ercall will again star in trails exploring geology, animal habitats and industrial archaeology. £2 (suggested donation) 9.30am wellingtonwalkersarewelcome. org.uk

WED 11 SEP – 16 OCT

Creative Writing Workshop Bridgnorth Library Come along and flex your writing skills in a relaxed, friendly environment that is suitable for beginners and beyond. £2.50 1-5pm 01746 763358

FRI 13 SEP

Coracle World Championships Pengwern Boat Club, Shrewsbury Teams of four take part in the hotly-contested competition to see who will be crowned world coracle champion – all in the name of raising funds for Macmillan Cancer Support. 2.30pm coracleworldchampionship.co.uk 57


WHAT’S ON

SAT 14 SEP

Proms and Prosecco in the Park Chetwynd Deer Park, Newport FRI 13 SEP

The Christians Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury The Christians enjoyed huge acclaim in the late 80s and early 90s both in the UK and Europe, with hits such as Words, Ideal World and Harvest for the World, also appearing on the Hillsborough fundraiser cover of Ferry Across the Mersey. £24.50 7.30pm theatresevern.co.uk

FRI 13 – 15 SEP

Ludlow Food Festival Ludlow Castle This 25th annual food festival has a stellar line up including Claridge’s chef Olivia Burt, BBC forager James Wood and Gardeners World regular Alys Fowler, plus over 180 exhibitors offering tastings and talks and three main stages hosting over 40 hours of demonstrations. 10am-6.30pm Adult £9; child £2; family £20 (pre-festival) foodfestival.co.uk

FRI 13 – 15 SEP

V-Dubs in the Valley Lion Lane, Bewdley Celebrating this year’s 50th birthday of Herbie the Love Bug, this family-friendly Shropshire VW show presents live bands including The Ganders, Ultra 90’s and Louis Briggs, plus a kids’ party at 6pm on Saturday. vdubsinthevalley.co.uk 9am-9pm Adult £10; with camping £28.50; child (14-17) £5; U14s FREE 58

Six hours of live music including classical, musical theatre and pop, along with children’s entertainment. Bring your own picnic or indulge in treats from food and drink stalls, including a dedicated prosecco bar. fizzfestivals.com 2-9pm Adult early bird £26; on gate £38; child (10-18) £5; U10 FREE

SAT 14 – 15 SEP

SUN 15 SEP

Midland Game Fair

Wild Food Foraging

Weston Park, Weston under Lizard

Wilderhope Manor, Wenlock Edge

The UK’s premier hunting and shooting event offers everything from worldclass clay pigeon shooting to game and coarse fishing demonstrations; gun dog competitions; falconry displays; and rural crafts, plus over 600 stands. Dogs welcome. Adult £18; child (6-16) £10; U6 £6 midlandgamefair.co.uk

Learn how to identify different edible and poisonous species. This will be a short walk, foraging for foodstuffs, before heading back to the manor house to taste a variety of wild treats. 10am-1pm £15 nationaltrust.org.uk

THU 19 SEP SAT 14 – 29 SEP

Festival of Imagination Ironbridge Gorge A new 14-day festival showcasing the amazing story of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ironbridge Gorge’s past, present and future. There will be trails, street entertainment, exhibitions, demonstrations and performances and a mini-festival village near Dale End Park. ironbridgefestival.co.uk

Buddy Holly & the Cricketers Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury Rock ‘n’ rollercoaster of a show featuring timeless classics from a band who’ve been on the tribute trail for over a quarter of a century. Enjoy hits including ‘That’ll Be the Day’, ‘Peggy Sue’, ‘Heartbeat’, and ‘Oh Boy!’. £19-£21 7.30pm theatresevern.co.uk


THU 19-22 SEP

Autumn Steam Gala Severn Valley Railway Come and get close to an array of exciting locomotives and sample a fantastic range of attractions up and down the line in this muchanticipated annual event. 8pm Adult £28.80; child £19.30; family £63.90 (two adults & up to four children) 01562 757900; svr.co.uk

SUN 22 SEP – 23 OCT

Secret Severn Exhibition & Art Trail

Store Stories: A Behind the Scenes Tour

Various locations around Ironbridge

Attingham Park, Atcham

Uncover some of this World Heritage site’s lesser-known attractions on a trail showcasing the work of many of the talented artists and craftspeople who live and work there. You can also drop into one of the workshops. 10am-5pm @Secretsevern on Facebook; secretsevern.co.uk

Enjoy a rare opportunity to go behind the scenes in the Mansion with a conservation assistant. See the hidden treasures in Attingham’s stores and meet the team carrying out conservation work on paintings, textiles, furniture and photographs. 10.30am-noon £8 (plus admission for non-members) 03442 491895; nationaltrust.org.uk/events

TUE 24 SEP

Calendar Girls – The Musical Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton

FRI 20 SEP

Star Wars: The Force Awakens RAF Museum, Cosford Come along for an evening of fast jets and flying machines at the outdoor cinema screening of Star Wars: The Force Awakens on a huge 30ft inflatable screen, with a backdrop of aircraft and historic hangars. 6-8pm £13.50 (advance), £15 on the gate 01902 376200; rafmuseum.org.uk

SUN 22 SEP

Bridgnorth Town Carnival Castle Grounds, West Castle Street The carnival returns following its postponement in June due to flooding. The procession will move from Nock Deighton’s into the High Street, where it’ll stop for spectators to have a closer look at each entry then continue to the castle grounds for prize presentations, entertainment and refreshments. 12.30-5pm bridgnorthtownevents.org

Direct from the West End. Written by Gary Barlow and Tim Firth, this awardwinning production is based on the true story of the calendar girls, a group of ordinary ladies who achieved something extraordinary. £19.50 2.30pm & 7.30pm grandtheatre.co.uk

THU 26 SEP

One Man, Two Guvnors (Encore) Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock Featuring a Tony Award-winning performance by James Corden, the hilarious West End and Broadway hit returns to cinemas to mark National Theatre Live’s 10th birthday. Adult £13; £11 7pm edgeartscentre.com

SUN 22 SEP

Ludlow Cycling Festival Ludlow Rugby Club FRI 20 SEP

Gary Meikle – The IBROW Guy The Place, Telford

Scottish comedy award winner and viral sensation Gary Meikle is back with a bang and new brows after racking up over 100 million views with a rant about his daughter’s eyebrows. £16.50 8pm theplacetelford.com

Now in its sixth year, the Ludlow Cycling Festival is a fun day out for all the family, with different rides pitched at different groups, including a 11km family ride and a 106km route for serious riders. The event raises funds for Macmillan Cancer Support. ludlowcycling festival.co.uk

THU 26 SEP

Gin Evening Ludlow Kitchen, Bromfield Sample a range of gins and tonics, enjoy a few nibbles and quiz the experts in this fun and informative masterclass. Places are limited so booking is essential. £12.50 7-9.30pm ludlowfarmshop.co.uk 59

WHATS’ ON

FRI 20 – 29 SEP


WHAT’S ON

FRI 27-28 SEP

Madagascar JR Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury Take a journey out of the zoo and onto the stage with a few familiar faces from the blockbuster DreamWorks film. Join Alex the lion, Marty the zebra, Melman the giraffe, Gloria the hippo and the infamous plotting penguins as they bound onstage in the musical adventure of a lifetime. £13.50 1pm, 4pm & 7pm theatresevern.co.uk

MON 30 SEP

Green Book Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock

SAT 28 SEP

SAT 28 SEP

Stars and Stories by the Campfire

Jess Morgan & Nels Andrews

Dudmaston Estate, Quatt

The Hive, Shrewsbury

Meet at Heath Barn in Corner Woods to gaze at the night sky and settle down for supper and starry stories by the campfire. Suitable for age 5 and above. Includes snack and drink. 7pm Adult £15; child £10 01746 780886; nationaltrust.org.uk

With books and songs to satisfy the most avid record sleeve-readers, comic bookworms, or just about anyone feeling lost in the digital age, this co-headlined show promises an atmospheric concoction of songwriting and storytelling. 7.45pm £12 hiveonline.org.uk

SAT 28-29 SEP

The Stick Man The Place, Telford

SAT 28 SEP

Michael Morpurgo Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury Join one of the UK’s best-loved authors as he shares his gift for magical storytelling and reveals the secrets learned over nearly 50 years of writing. Michael began writing stories in the early 70s, inspired by the children he taught in his primary school class. His books includes Kensuke’s Kingdom, Private Peaceful and War Horse. theatresevern.co.uk 2.30pm Adult £21.50; child £16.50

60

This touching, funny and utterly original adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s book returns. The awardwinning production features a trio of top actors and is packed full of puppetry, songs, live music and funky moves. Suitable for all ages. 11am, 1.30pm & 4pm Adult £15; child £13 theplacetelford.com

Two men, one white, one black, from polar opposite backgrounds with wildly contrasting personalities get thrown together under unusual circumstances. They learn from each other, change each other for the better and discover that they’re not so different after all. 7.30pm £5; £4 edgeartscentre.com

THU 3 – 5 OCT

Autumn Diesel Gala Severn Valley Railway Autumn heralds the return of SVR’s diesel bash, offering your chance to sample the railway’s home-based locomotives. 11am-3pm Adult £28.80; child £19.30; family £63.90 (2 adults & up to 4 children) svr.co.uk

SUN 29 SEP

Race on the Edge Wenlock Edge, Much Wenlock The Wenlock Olympian Society presents its second Race on the Edge. This is a challenging off-road, multi-terrain race with an online entry deadline of Mon 23 Sep. Age minimum 18 years on day of event. 10.30am £15; £17 raceontheedge@wenlock-olympiansociety.org.uk

FRI 4 – 5 OCT

Oktoberfest The Quarry, Shrewsbury Brewers from the region and beyond serve up around 150 real ales, with bars offering lager, cider and perry, plus a prosecco parlour, gin den, and wine bar, which can all be mopped up with a vast array of delicious street food. Adult £12.50; child £3 shropshireoktoberfest.co.uk


MON 7 – 12 OCT

Suzi Ruffel

National Libraries Week

Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock

Bridgnorth Library

On Live At The Apollo and 8 Out Of 10 Cats, Suzi has made a name for herself by turning tragedy and anxiety into laughs. This show answers the question: are all standups at their best when they’re miserable? A mix of storytelling, observations, personal tales and a dash of social politics. £14 edgeartscentre.com

Look out for a series of special events to celebrate everything your local library has to offer. bridgnorth.library@shropshire.gov.uk

FRI 11 OCT THU 10 OCT

John Challis

The Ultimate Eagles

Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock

The Place, Telford

SUN 6 OCT

WHAT’S ON

SAT 5 OCT

The Ultimate Eagles return once again to perform their legendary hits and newer favourites. Members have shared festival stages and appeared alongside artists such as Queen, Iron Maiden, Status Quo and of course, the Eagles themselves. £26 7.30pm theplacetelford.com

Come and enjoy an intimate evening with one of the nation’s greatest comedy actors, best known as Boycie in BBC1’s Only Fools and Horses. In this one-off show, John will reveal secrets from the set with stories and anecdotes from his career. 7.30pm £18 edgeartscentre.com

Dormouse Walk National Trust, Wenlock Edge Wenlock Edge is home to the largest population of hazel dormice in Shropshire. Walk through these ancient woods and look for evidence of these beautiful creatures, learn about their ecology and find out what’s being done to help them. Booking essential. £4 10am 03442 491895; nationaltrust.org.uk

SUN 6 OCT

Lulu – Still on Fire Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton Lulu has plenty to shout about as she embarks on a mammoth tour of the UK. Still on Fire is packed full of hits, as Lulu takes you on her own personal journey through her music. Supported by a four-piece band, and an LED screen with carefully selected family and career-defining moments. £25-49.50 7.30pm grandtheatre.co.uk

FRI 11 OCT

The Eagle Huntress Birchmeadow Centre, Broseley The spellbinding and highly unusual documentary film follows Aisholpan, a 13-year-old nomadic Mongolian girl who is fighting to become the first female eagle hunter in 12 generations of her Kazakh family. 7.30pm £5.50 birchmeadow.org.uk

FRI 11 OCT

The Drifters The Place, Telford The legendary group have been listed among the greatest artists of all time by Rolling Stone magazine and have produced an incredible list of hits including ‘Saturday Night at the Movies’, ‘Come on Over to My Place’, ‘Stand By Me’, and ‘Under the Boardwalk’. 7.30pm £25; £23.50 theplacetelford.com

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WHAT’S ON

SUN 13 OCT SAT 12 OCT

Broseley Festival’s Ska Night Broseley Social Club

An Evening with Aggers & Tuffers Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton

Ska Night with music from Skaburst and DJ Barry Davies. All proceeds will go towards Broseley Festival 2020. Tickets are available from Broseley Social Club, Edwin Davies, or Carol’s Hair Fashions. 8.30pm £10 in advance debbie.broseleyfestival@gmail.com

By popular demand, Jonathan Agnew and Phil Tufnell have teamed up again for a brand-new show. From their first Evening in 2016, they were an immediate hit with cricket fans and non-lovers of the game alike and have gone on to sell out theatres all over the country. £14.50-£29.50 grandtheatre.co.uk 7.30pm

SAT 12 OCT

Life Stories: True Colours RAF Museum, Cosford Caroline Paige is a retired RAF navigator with a 35-year flying career. Her story reveals a remarkable journey of inspirational courage and endurance, in overcoming adversity in an unforgiving world. FREE 2pm 01902 376200; rafmuseum.org.uk/Cosford

SAT 12 OCT

Bavarian Evening West Midlands Safari Park Enjoy a fun-filled evening complete with an interactive Bavarian oompah band! German bottled beers and steins will be available to purchase, along with street food. Fancy dress is warmly encouraged. 7.30pm £20 wmsp.co.uk

WED 16 OCT SUN 13 OCT

Charity Steps Walk

The Wildlings of Shropshire

Start at Bridgnorth Town Hall

Shropshire Wildlife Trust, Shrewsbury

Making the most of Bridgnorth’s hilly terrain for the sixth year, the infamous Steps Walk is the Rotary Club’s flagship fundraising event. Participants head up and down the town’s historic steps, raising money for their own good causes as they go. Register at the website. bridgnorthrotary.org.uk 2pm

Wildlings is a weekly outdoor play group for under 5s, which takes place whatever the weather. Little ones can explore, play and discover in the safe wild child garden with their parent/carer. 10.30pm-12noon £5.50; under 12months FREE shropshirewildlifetrust.org.uk

MON 14 – 19 OCT

Rocky Horror Show Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton

SUN 13 OCT

Morris Gang Dancing Blists Hill Victorian Town, Madeley The Blists Hill Morris Gang will be entertaining the crowds with traditional dances in the lower part of the Town. 11.15am, 2pm & 3pm From £11.50 01952 433424; ironbridge.org.uk 62

Get ready for a pelvic thrust with Richard O’Brien’s legendary rock ‘n’ roll musical. Starring Strictly Come Dancing professional champion Joanne Clifton as Janet and Stephen Webb as Dr Frank n Furter, it’s a musical adventure you’ll never forget. Recommended for age 14+. 2.30pm; 5.30pm; 7.30pm £17.50-£22.50 grandtheatre.co.uk


WHAT’S ON

SAT 19 – 20 OCT

Open Cockpits Weekend RAF Museum, Cosford

WED 16 – 19 OCT

Murder on the Nile Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury Queen of mystery Agatha Christie penned this atmospheric play which sees Kay Ridgeway, a woman blessed with beauty, enormous wealth and a new husband, embark on a honeymoon voyage down the Nile. Fatal circumstances await when the idyllic surroundings are shattered by a shocking and brutal murder. 2.30pm & 7.30pm £16.50-£18 theatresevern.co.uk

Explore some of Cosford’s amazing planes close up. During the day you’ll be able to speak to experienced and knowledgeable staff and volunteers, who will share aircraft information and answer any questions. 10am-4pm £13.50 01902 376200; rafmuseum.org.uk/Cosford

WED 23 – 26 OCT

The Sound of Music The Place, Telford

SAT 19 OCT

Keith Nichols Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock In concert with Much Wenlock Male Voice Choir, jazz pianist Keith Nichols returns with his unique style of classic jazz alongside the sound of the renowned male voice choir. Proceeds to support the fight against cancer. 7.30pm £10 from The Edge or Penny Farthing Shop, Much Wenlock edgeartscentre.com

SAT 19 OCT

Joni Mitchell Celebration concert The Hive, Shrewsbury In this show named Both Sides Now, the music of Joni Mitchell is celebrated in a performance of some of her bestloved songs. £16 in advance, £18 door 8pm hiveonline.org.uk

Sixty years on from first hitting the Broadway stage, this Rodgers and Hammerstein classic returns to Telford thanks to Tadlop. Packed with well-known songs such as ‘Edelweiss’, ‘My Favourite Things’, ‘Climb Ev’ry Mountain’ and of course the title song ‘The Sound of Music’, this classic tale of a nun on the run gets everyone signing along. 2.30pm & 7.30pm £15 theplacetelford.com

SUN 27 OCT

10k Trail Run Dudmaston Estate, Quatt The Trust10 is a monthly 10k trail run that gives you the opportunity to explore the wider Dudmaston estate. 9-11am FREE nationaltrust.org.uk

THU 31 OCT – 2 NOV

Comedy at the Broads Birchmeadow, Broseley

SUN 27 OCT

Bridgnorth 10K Starts at Bridgnorth Town Hall An undulating 10km road route through the historic market town, starting and finishing at the iconic Town Hall. The race is full, but spectators are welcome. 11am from Town Hall bridgnorthrunningclub.weebly.com

With a title as impressive as this one – They came from Mars and landed outside the Farndale Avenue Church Hall in time for the Townswomen’s Guild’s coffee morning – this am dram sci-fi promises to be as intriguing as it is entertaining. A parody where the WI meets War of the Worlds. 7.30pm £9; £7 broseleybroads.co.uk

For more local events - check out our online diary at whatswhatmagazine.co.uk. It’s got everything from regular classes and workshops to plant sales, along with plays, gigs, walks and talks. What’s more, it’s free to add your event and you might be selected to appear on these pages and reach 16000 homes and businesses! 63


WHAT’S ON

Halloween Even ts SAT 12 – 31 OCT

SAT 26 OCT

MON 28 – 1 NOV

Spookley Pumpkin Festival

Star Wars Halloween Bonfire

Halloween Workshops

Apley Farm Shop, Norton

Haughton Hall, Shifnal

Ride the Pumpkin Express, listen to the story of Spookley the Square Pumpkin, pick your own pumpkin from the pumpkin patch and carve it ready to take home for Halloween. Enjoy pumpkin recipes in the Creamery Café. Adult £5; child £8.50 apleyfarmshop.co.uk

This new event includes amusement rides for the children with food and drinks on sale Gates open 5.30pm Adult £5; child £3 (advance), £7; £5 (on the day) haughtonhall.com

Come and decorate a ceramic tile with your own spooky design. These fun workshops will take place during the autumn school half-term holiday. From £5 each 11am-5pm 01952 433424; ironbridge.org.uk

SAT 26, WED 30 – 31 OCT SAT 26 OCT

Halloween Lantern Making and Walk Severn Valley Country Park, Alveley Make your very own colourful Halloween lantern with the park rangers, then venture into the spooky woods for the lantern parade. Price includes sandwich, pizza slice, Halloween fairy cake and drink. Children must be accompanied by an adult; suitable for age 4+. 4.30-6.30pm £7.50 (adults FREE) 01746 781192

Halloween Extravaganza Wonderland, Telford Visit the spooky houses and funfair and take the trail but watch out for scary characters along the way. Both night and day events on all three days. The spooky night event is suitable for older children and the daytime event for little ones. 11am-3pm; 5.30-8.30pm Adult £10; child day £11.95; child night £14 01952 591633; wonderlandmidlands.co.uk

SAT 26 – 31 OCT

Halloween Ghost Trains

SAT 26 OCT

Severn Valley Railway

Halloween at Wenlock Edge

Enjoy a thrilling night-time steam train ride, dress up and enjoy disco entertainment before boarding. Then scare yourself silly at the SVR’s spooky stations and get a ghoulish goody bag. Advance booking essential. £14 svr.co.uk

Presthope car park, Wenlock Edge Come to the woods and take part in creepy craft before going in search of a witch who will tell spooky stories. Children are encouraged to wear fancy dress to win a prize and all little monsters will receive a ghostly treat. Booking essential. 3-5pm £3 per child 01694 725000; nationaltrust.org.uk

SAT 26 OCT

All Hallows Eve Walk Presthope car park, Wenlock Edge Come and join, and enjoy this spook walk for older children. Wear sensible shoes and warm clothes and bring a torch. Age suggestion 10+. 7-9pm £5 nationaltrust.org.uk 64

SAT 26 – 31 OCT

Wizard Express Severn Valley Railway Collect your wax-sealed invitation and head off on a magical journey to Wizard School. The experience includes lessons in wizardry and workshops in butterscotch witches brew, spell casting and team games with the Lost Sock Pixies. 11.50am (Bridgnorth) 10am & 2pm (Kidderminster) £30 – advance booking essential svr.co.uk

Jackfield Tile Museum

WED 30 – 31 OCT

Ghost Walk Town Hall, Bridgnorth Guides will lead you through the avenues and alleyways of ancient Bridgnorth, where ghosts lurking in the shadows will tell eerie tales of how they met their grisly ends. Early booking recommended. Adult £12; child £6 7pm 01746 766477; theatreonthesteps.co.uk

THU 31 OCT

Prison Ghost Hunt Dana Prison, Shrewsbury Enter this vast old Victorian prison in Shrewsbury for the Dana Halloween Fest. There’s every chance of having a haunting experience so bring your camera. Over 18s only. £69 8.45pm-3am dusktilldawnevents.co.uk

THU 31 OCT

Halloween Market Castle Square, Ludlow Come along again this year to the Halloween themed market with lots of spookily decorated stalls selling all sorts of eerie produce. ludlow.org.uk/ludlowmarket.ht

FRI 1 NOV

Halloween outdoor cinema Shrewsbury College Campus, London Rd Open Air Film and Chill Shrewsbury present Halloween classic Hocus Pocus on the big screen. Wrap up warm, bring your chairs, food and drink and torches, and enjoy this spooky favourite outside Halloween. Who knows what surprises will appear? 6pm & 9pm screenings Adult £10; family £30; U16 £4 scg.ac.uk


WHAT’S ON

Looking ahead to November…

Fireworks & Bonfires

FRI 1 NOV

Woodland Wild Toddlers Severn Valley Country Park, Alveley Really Wild Fridays are a fun way to get kids exploring wildlife. Join the park rangers for a hunt in the woods. All equipment provided; booking not necessary. 10am-12 noon FREE 01746 871192

THU 7 NOV

Rock for Heros The Place, Oakengates Music, laughter and a rockin’ night out and all in support of Help for Heroes. There will be music by Dire Straits, Status Quo, Queen, David Bowie, Spandau Ballet, Bryan Adams, Elton John and more, performed by a full live rock band. Escape the 9 to 5 and let your hair down with the Rock for Heroes family. 7.30-10pm £18.50 theplacetelford.com

SUN 17 NOV

Beckbury Trail Higford Lane The 5.6 mile trail starts off in the village of Beckbury and winds its way through Stableford and Badger before arriving back at Beckbury, where you will be presented with a medal and goodie bag. 11am £13; £15 lawleyrunningclub.co.uk/beckbury-trail

Got an event coming up? Submit it for free! whatswhatmagazine.co.uk

For more events go online and click on What’s On

Every effort is made to provide correct information at the time of going to press, however it is advisable to check details with the venue concerned.

Remember, remember the fifth of November! Here’s a heads-up on all the whizzes, bangs and flashes being planned in our area. Please note that at the time of going to print most venues have not finalised their entry price. Please see our Nov/Dec edition for full details or our online diary at What’s What.

SAT 26 OCT

SUN 3 NOV

Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre, Craven Arms

Weston Park, Weston under Lizard

The annual sizzling bonfire and fireworks display is on again, supported with a bar and refreshments. 4.30pm shropshirehillsdiscoverycentre. co.uk

SAT 2 NOV

Blists Hill, Madeley As well as the family fireworks display on the green, you can see molten iron being poured into moulds during the dramatic iron casting demonstration in the foundry. 6pm 01952 433424; ironbridge.org.uk

SAT 2 NOV

Wellington Cricket Club, Haygate Rd, Telford A fireworks display with fairground rides, food and drink in this familyfriendly spectacular. Fireworks at 7.30pm. wellingtoncc.co.uk 5.30-11pm

SAT 2 NOV

West Midlands Showground, Shrewsbury The annual extravaganza includes a variety of entertainment for all the family including farmers’ market, funfair, stalls and music. Fireworks at 6.15pm and 7.45pm. 5pm shropshirecountyshow.com/ bonfire

One of the region’s most spectacular bonfire celebrations, with entertainment for all the family. 3pm weston-park.com/event/ bonfire-firework

TUE 5 NOV

Shifnal Cricket Club There will be music, stalls, food and fairground attractions and a grand firework display at 7pm. shifnalcricketclub.com 5pm

SAT 9 & SUN 10 NOV

West Midlands Safari Park, Bewdley Spectacular fireworks and bonfire, late-night rides and attractions, music, refreshments and bar. Fireworks at 6.30pm. 1pm Adult £12.80; U16 FREE wmsp.co.uk

SAT 9 NOV

Bridgnorth Rugby Club, Edgar Davies Ground Bridgnorth Rugby Club’s annual firework and bonfire extravaganza features music, a hog roast and bar. bridgnorthtownevents.org 5-9pm

SAT 9 NOV

Donnington, Broadoaks Playing Field Huge bonfire, firework and funfair with rides to entertain all ages. Fireworks displays at 7pm and 9pm. donningtonbonfire.co.uk 4pm 65


COMPETITION

WIN family tickets for

Jack and the Beanstalk!

The kids are back at school, the nights are getting longer, and Christmas is just around the corner – oh yes it is!

That’s right! Panto season’s almost upon us and we have a magical competition to WIN one of three sets of family tickets to experience a panto that climbs to new heights in Telford this festive season. Jack and the Beanstalk celebrates 20 years of spectacular panto right here in Shropshire, and this year, The Place Telford have pulled out all the stops to bring you a humdinger of a show, with laughs, costumes, scenery, effects and that all-important audience participation that the kids love. The quality cast this year includes a soap superstar, comedy and cabaret at its best. Playing Fleshcreep is Oliver Mellor, best known for his appearances in Coronation Street as Dr Matt Carter. Back by popular demand is master of magic and comedy Carl Dutfield, who brought the house down last year as Buttons and this year stars as Jack himself. Cabaret star Tim Ames will be bringing the wonderful Dame Trott to life with his largerthan-life costumes, musical performances and rib-tickling gags. And showcasing the very best of Telford’s talent is Chloe Barlow, who’s making her panto debut playing Princess Jill. The show runs from Wed 11 Dec to Sun 5 Jan, with a BSL signed show on Sun 28 Dec and a relaxed performance on Sun 5 Jan. You can find out all about tickets (from £8) and times at www.theplacetelford.com or call the box office on 01952 382382 for more information.

To be in with a chance to WIN a ticket to take your family to this wonderful show, simply answer the question below:

Q. In Jack and the Beanstalk, what does Jack use to grow the beanstalk? (circle your answer)

A) Magic peas

B) Magic sweetcorn

C) Magic beans

Name .................................................................................................................................... Tel No ............................................................................ Address ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................ Email .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. Please cut out and send to: (winners will be notified by telephone/email) What’s What Magazine, Woodfield Cottage, St Mary’s Lane, Much Wenlock TF13 6HD Terms & Conditions: Only one entry per household. Entrants must be over 18. Performance is 29 December at 2.30pm. Tickets cannot be exchanged for cash or for alternative dates/times. All entries must be received by 31 October 2019. 66


At the Parlors Hall Hotel in our Lounge Bar

WHAT’S ON

ALL-NEW

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Live S anta music SPECIALS 19

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2019 7802

SANTA’S BACK AT

BRIDGNORTH!

Saturdays* 8.30 – 11.30

*subject to availability, please call ahead for details

Tickets from just £27.50pp*

*See online for details.

Reserve your own table for 4 people or compartment for 6 and enjoy sweets, treats and a present worth at least £10 for every child.

01746 761931 Mill Street, Bridgnorth, WV15 5AL

SVR.CO.UK/SANTA or 01562 757900 BRIDGNORTH · BEWDLEY · KIDDERMINSTER

www.parlorshallhotel.co.uk

#pressuresoff

Relax, we’ve got your days out sorted! Enjoying life at the Iron Bridge Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site

Buy tickets online now IRONBRIDGE.ORG.UK 67


RECIPE

Caribbean FLavour South Londoners Craig and Shaun McAnuff started their foodie journey by filming recipes in their nan’s kitchen – and they’ve now released their own cookbook. Original Flava captures the tastes of the Caribbean, making it easy for anyone to whip up a flavoursome

feast in their own kitchen. There are recipes for all day, everyday food; breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner; dishes for big gatherings with family and friends – and we bring you three recipes that’ll fill your home with Caribbean sunshine (even in the good old British autumn)…

Original Flava by Craig and Shaun McAnuff (Bloomsbury Publishing, £22) is out on Thursday 22 August. Images courtesy of Matt Russell.

ACKEE AND SALTFISH

Ingredients (serves 4-6) • 600g boneless saltfish cod • 2 tbsp vegetable oil • 1 medium onion, finely diced

Ackee _ which has a texture similar to scrambled eggs – is available here in a tin, but in the Caribbean it’s picked fresh from the trees.

• 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped • 3 spring onions, finely sliced • 1 scotch bonnet chilli pepper, seeded, finely chopped • 1 tsp dried thyme • 1 tsp ground pimento or allspice • ½ red pepper, seeded, finely diced • ½ green pepper, seeded and finely diced • 1 large tomato, diced • 2 x 540g cans ackee, drained Method 1. Put saltfish in pot. Add enough cold water to cover. Bring to boil. Boil for 5 minutes. Drain and add fresh cold water to cover. Repeat this process until you’re happy with the saltiness when you taste it; we tend to boil 3 times to leave a perfect balance of salt in the fish. Drain for the final time. Set aside to cool. Use fork to shred cooled saltfish into small pieces. Set aside. 2. Pour oil into large frying pan over high heat. Once sizzling hot, turn heat down to medium-low. Add onion, garlic, spring onions and scotch bonnet. Cook down until soft, for around 5-7 minutes. 3. Add saltfish, dash in some black pepper, the thyme and pimento or allspice, then mix. Cook down for around 3 minutes. 4. Add red and green peppers and tomato. Mix. Cook down for 2–3 minutes. 5. Now add in your ackee and dash in a little more black pepper. Fold ackee in very gently until well combined and serve.

68


Ingredients (serves 4-6) • 1.35kg goat, cut into 3-4cm chunks • 5 tbsp curry powder • 1 tsp ground ginger • 1 tsp ground pimento (or allspice) • 2 tsp ground turmeric • 4 tbsp vegetable oil • 1 large onion, chopped

RECIPE

The GOAT aka the Greatest of all Tastes for many Caribbean food lovers. You can use either boneless goat or on the bone. If you really can’t FIND goat, you can use mutton.

CURRY GOAT

• 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped • 400ml coconut milk • 500ml water • 3 spring onions, sliced • large handful of fresh thyme sprigs • 8 baby potatoes, peeled and halved • 1 scotch bonnet chilli pepper

Method 1. Put goat in a bowl. Add 2 tbsp curry powder, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp black pepper, ginger, pimento and turmeric. Cover. Marinate in the fridge for up to 8 hours. 2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 tsp of remaining curry powder with onions and garlic. Cook 2–3 minutes until dark brown. Add a little coconut milk to create a thick paste. 3. Add goat. Sauté until brown all over. Add half water and remaining coconut milk. Cover. Cook for up to 2 hours on medium until tender, stirring occasionally and adding remaining curry powder halfway through. 4. Add spring onions, thyme, baby potatoes and scotch bonnet. Cook further 15 minutes. Remove the scotch bonnet (or leave it in longer for a spicier taste).

BANANA FRITTERS

We love to snack on these banana fritters when we feel like a sweet treat. eat them straight out of the frying pan with some ice cream melted over them for dessert.

Ingredients (serves 4) • 4 overripe bananas • 120g soft brown sugar • 1 tsp vanilla extract • ½ tsp ground cinnamon • ½ tsp freshly grated nutmeg

• 1 tsp baking powder • 250g plain flour • 80ml water • vegetable oil, for shallow-frying

Method 1. Mash bananas in a bowl. Mix in sugar. Add vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder and ½ tsp salt and mix. Add flour and water. Mix well until you have a thick consistency. 2. Pour vegetable oil for shallow-frying into a large frying pan over high heat. Using a large spoon, carefully add spoonfuls of mixture, flattening them slightly and fitting in as many as you can without overcrowding (you will probably have to fry in batches). 3. Turn heat to medium. Fry fritters for 3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer to a plate lined with kitchen paper to drain the excess oil. 69


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within The Raven Hotel, Barrow Street, Much Wenlock TF13 6EN enquiry@ravenhotel.com ravenhotel.com 70


This year Ludlow Food Festival, the original festival for food and drink lovers, celebrates its 25th anniversary with a feast of mouth-watering events in the picturesque mediaeval town. Taking part in the event, which claims to be the country’s first food festival, over 140 food and drink producers will deliver cooking demonstrations, sausage, bread and ale trails, inside Ludlow Castle and around the streets. The foodie fun runs from Friday 13 to Sunday 15 September.

Oktoberfest returns The huge beer tents for Shropshire Oktoberfest are due to return to Shrewsbury’s Quarry Park on Friday 4 to Saturday 5 October. The Shropshire Festivals team have organised brewers from the region and beyond to serve up around 150 real ales. There will also be numerous bars serving up lager, cider and perry, plus a prosecco parlour, gin den, and wine bar, which can all be mopped up with a vast array of street food.

There will be superstar chefs from Michelin-starred restaurants, including vegetarian and vegan, award and scholarship winners, plus award-winning food historians. The restaurants sending representatives include River Cottage, Cabritto Goat, Gridiron and Heston Blumenthal’s Dinner. And to top all off, on the popular fire kitchen stage, there will be five of the best live-fire cooking demos around. Check out foodfestival.co.uk for further details or phone 01584 873957.

The festival’s comedy club will be compered by Chris Brooker. He will be joined by Stephen Carlin’s deadpan wit, Keith Carter’s character comedy, Vince Atta and his multi-track looper creating on-the-spot comic pieces, and Gordon Southern, who headlines following huge success on the international comedy circuit. The music line-up includes the Paprika Blues Band, Custard Connection, the Follicles, Vorsprung Durch Oompah, Dirty Rockin’ Scoundrels and Bouncing Betty. Tickets can be purchased from shropshireoktoberfest.co.uk.

No plastic here A Shropshire meringue maker has beaten the likes of Mars and Nestlé to become the first company in the confectionery sector to move into plastic-free packaging. Flower & White, which sells its gourmet treats in outlets such as Selfridges, as well as overseas, launched its latest gourmet product Meringue Bites using an innovative paper-based pouch with a heat-sealable coating. Run by Brian and Leanne Crowther, the company has also relaunched its successful Meringue Bars’ range in paper sleeves as part of a wider commitment to improve sustainability and reduce energy. Leanne says, “We’re proud to be the first company in the sector to adopt this new paper packaging… but this is just the start of our efforts. What’s doubly exciting about the switch to paper packaging is that it’s been done in league with another Shropshire firm, packaging experts Sirane, which has a factory in Stafford Park, Telford. “Shropshire has some very innovative, forward-thinking food producers, and it is great to see Shropshire-made confections packed in a plastic-free solution developed and manufactured just down the road.” 71

LOCAL FOOD NEWS

Silver anniversary


LOCAL FOOD NEWS

Pheasant aims for award Furnace kitchen opens Visitors to the Ironbridge Gorge Museums at Coalbrookdale will be able to extend their day at the historic attractions with a visit to the new Furnace Kitchen Restaurant, overseen by Shropshire celebrity chef Marcus Bean. Bringing fresh and locally sourced food to Coalbrookdale, the Furnace Kitchen will be serving brunch, lunch, coffee and tea, cakes and main meals. The menu will feature an exciting mix of modern British cuisine and European classics, all handmade in the state-of-the-art kitchen by a hand-picked team of chefs.

The Pheasant at Neenton has been shortlisted in the Best Social Enterprise, Charity or Community category at the 2019/20 Rural Business Awards. It will battle it out against fellow rural businesses, entrepreneurs and enterprises from across the region for a place at the national final. John Pickup, chair of Neenton Community Society explains, “The Pheasant is the economic as well as the social hub of our community, offering a sustainable future for a village that was dying and jobs, training and work experience for local young people.” The competition, now in its fifth year aims to celebrate the success of businesses across the UK’s rural economy.

Rory Hunter of the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust says, “We are delighted to be able to offer the local community and all visitors to our museums a new and exciting destination restaurant. Diners can enjoy a relaxing meal in our smart new facility”. For more information, visit thefurnacekitchen.org.uk.

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Fresh faces at the Meadow An Ironbridge eatery is about to get a new lease of life thanks to a passionate local foodie. The Meadow Inn, near the Museum of the Gorge and Dale End Park, has been bought freehold by the owners of one of the riverside town’s enduring success stories, the White Hart. Alex Nicoll, who has overseen its transformation over the past five years, will now manage the development of the Meadow – and he’s very much looking forward to the experience. “Despite changing management in recent years, the Meadow remains a well-loved pub eatery with lovely gardens overlooking the Severn, and we hope to carry that tradition on,” explains Alex. “We’ve spent the last couple of months getting the business back into shape, introducing a new fresh food menu and reducing the number of dining spaces so we can concentrate on quality rather than quantity. It’s by no means perfect yet, and we'd love more feedback from customers. “We’ve kept the steak and grill menu, but we’ve changed our butcher to Aubery Allen of Leamington Spa because of their commitment to meat reared to the highest possible standards, many local to this area. We’ve kept

the Monday steak night deal – £30 for two steaks and any wine from our list… except for the fizz! We’ve also retained for the coming winter the lunchtime offer of any two mains for £15 from our regular daily menu.” The Meadow’s building and interior, including its six letting rooms and private dining room for up to 20, are set for a makeover and rebrand at some point in early 2020 but in the meantime Alex and the team are full steam ahead for the autumn and Christmas season. He says, “We’re also considering a name change and rebrand for the launch – and we’re really looking forward to showing off our new look early in 2020.” The Meadow is open every day from 10am until 10pm, with food served from noon to 2.30pm and 5.30 to 9.00pm Monday to Saturday and noon to 6pm on Sundays. Visit meadowironbridge.com for details.

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GARDENING TIPS

Good Gardening Tips for September & October

A season to savour? Our gardening expert Ann Winwood is hoping summer lingers on… If we get a nice spell of weather through August and into the beginning of September, the flowering season of summer bedding and perennials will continue into early autumn. The range of new varieties of tried and tested herbaceous perennials has expanded quickly over the last few years with the introduction of new foxgloves, delphiniums and lupins alongside the newer plants of perennial salvia, gaura and heuchera – they make a cost-effective alternative to summer bedding. Buying perennials from spring through to autumn will give colour for many months of the year. Summer baskets and tubs should still be in their prime through September and possibly into October if we don’t get any early frosts, but as the nights draw in and the weather gets cooler, they’ll begin to fade. Continue to dead-head and feed regularly to encourage a late show of colour. 78

Basket cases Once your baskets have been emptied, why not replant for winter colour? There’s plenty to choose from – pansies, violas, polyanthus, heathers, ivies and don’t forget to add a few spring flowering bulbs for added colour. Most garden centres sell smaller-sized shrubs that are suitable for tubs and baskets and can then be planted out in the garden next spring. These include gaultherias, leucothoe, skimmias and grasses. Once borders have been cleared of summer bedding, you can replant with winter pansies, violas, sweet williams and wallflowers. Hopefully if the weather has been moist we’ll have some of our own field grown wallflowers available from the end of September – they give excellent value for money- flowering in the spring with the bulbs.

Harvest home Harvest onions and potatoes now – lift up onions and allow to dry out where they’ve been growing if the weather is fine, before storing. Potatoes should be stored in a cool but frost-free environment. Hessian


GARDENING TIPS sacks available from garden centres are ideal for this purpose. Continue to pick runner beans and courgettes on a regular basis so they don’t become stringy. Pick any remaining tomatoes before the first frosts and ripen on the windowsill or use for green chutney.

Once borders have been cleared of summer bedding, you can replant with winter pansies, violas, sweet williams and wallflowers. A common occurrence on tomatoes seems to be blossom end rot – a brown leathery patch at the base of fruits. This is a physiological disorder rather than a disease or pest and can be worse during days of high humidity which limits the amount of water taken up by the plant roots. It is also encouraged by calcium deficiency; while most composts don’t lack calcium, they do need regular watering to enable it to be taken up by the roots and then to the fruit. If water uptake becomes limited, calcium uptake can become limited.

Make sure plants are watered several times a day in very hot weather, give good ventilation and ideally give a foliar spray of calcium.

Fresh fruit Pick early apples and pears as they become ripe. Eat the earlier varieties straight away, storing later ripening ones for later use. Cover autumn-fruiting raspberries against birds. The old fruiting canes can be pruned out during the winter months as the autumn varieties fruit on the new season’s growth each year.

Essential maintenance Dead-head roses, trimming back any very long growths. Remove any foliage with rust or blackspot, making sure you dispose of it rather than putting on the compost heap. Remember to clean up any debris under rose bushes as blackspot will overwinter ready to infect bushes again next year.

insulate with bubble wrap. Check heaters ready for the first frosts. As you bring in plants to overwinter, watch out for vine weevil larvae, especially on fuchsias. If you do see signs of them, drench the compost with one of the chemicals available for their control. Encouraging hedgehogs in your garden is another good control, and there are also nematodes on the market, which are best used in September. Buy prepared hyacinth bulbs for Christmas flowering and plant them in bowls with bulb compost by mid-September. Give them a drink and put in a cool, dark place, bringing gradually into the light and warmth once the shoots are approx 3cm high. Overwintering onions, shallots and broad beans will soon be in stock; plant them as soon as you can and you’ll get an early maturing crop next year. Happy gardening!

Clean out greenhouses before putting in overwintering plants, and

This issue’s tips are provided by Ann Winwood of Lealans Garden Centre, Shipley. 79


GARDEN NEWS

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GARDEN NEWS

Boost for bird scheme As a result of the generous donations from customers, a local firm has presented the Shropshire Wildlife Trust with a contribution of £1,000. The donation from CJ Wildlife in Upton Magna is to be used on the community project Feed the Birds, helping local vulnerable people connect with nature through bird feeding. Feed The Birds involves training volunteers to visit people who are experiencing social isolation, to install and refill bird feeders and chat about garden wildlife. With National Lottery Funding, Feed the Birds aims to reach 100 beneficiaries, matching them with 100 volunteers. Diane Monether, project officer at Shropshire Wildlife Trust, says, “We are passionate about ensuring everyone can have access to nature and bird feeding is one of the easiest ways of doing this.” Anyone interested in finding out more about the project should contact Diane on 01743 284271 or email dianem@shropshirewildlifetrust.org.uk.

Top award for park Telford Town Park has again been recognised by the Green Flag Award Scheme as one of the very best in the world. The park is among a record-breaking 1,970 UK parks and green spaces and 131 in thirteen other countries around the world that will today receive a prestigious Green Flag Award the mark of a quality park or green space. Parks are given the award for high environmental standards and good maintenance and visitor facilities.

Places to go As August transitions into September, many county gardens still amaze with riots of colour. Lovely late summer gardens in Shropshire including Goldstone Hall, with its sedums and roses stunning in September, has an open day on Wednesday 4 September and is also open by arrangement. Also, Edge Villa near Yockleton has large herbaceous borders with many unusual plants and fragrant roses. Its open day is on Sunday 8 September and it’s also open by arrangement.

Telford & Wrekin Councillor Carolyn Healy says, "We are absolutely delighted to receive a Green Flag Award for the fifth year. “A special ‘thank you’ goes to the Friends of Telford Town Park for their valuable contribution to maintaining our park and helping it achieve such high standards of recognition.” Other county winners were Severn Valley Country Park, the Mere at Ellesmere and Montgomery Canal.

Don’t forget also Ruthall Manor in Bridgnorth, which sits beautifully within the stunning Shropshire countryside. Set against the Clee, the one-acre garden is defined by an unusual and mature collection of architectural trees, which subtly divide the garden into intimate sections. Open days are on Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 September. Visit ngs.org.uk/late-summer-colour for details. 83


LOCAL WALKS

FRI 30 AUG – MON 2 SEP

Local walks

Wenlock Walking Weekend Walks are FREE but booking is essential. Highlights include…

FRI 30 AUG

At this time of year there’s a beautiful palette of colours waiting to be discovered across the breathtaking Shropshire countryside. From bracing hikes over windswept moorland to gentle woodland walks, let a kaleidoscope of colourful walks inspire you this autumn.

Historical Highlights of Broseley (by bus from Much Wenlock) and Wenlock to Sheinton circular walk

SAT 31 AUG Foraging Walk from Stretton Road, Wenlock, Barrow & Shirlett Walk and Olympian Trail

SUN 1 SEP

SAT 14 SEP

SUN 1 SEP

The Mayflower Walk

Bat walk Dothill

Wenlock to Ironbridge circular walk

7 miles muchwenlockwalkers.org.uk

2 miles walkersarewelcome.org.uk

SUN 8 SEP

SUN 22 SEP

Stapely Hill and Corndon

Joint walk with Shrewsbury Ramblers

9 miles 01746 862652; bridgnorthwalkingclub.org.uk

9 miles

syr.org.uk

SUN 22 SEP MON 9 SEP

Rock around the Wrekin 6 miles wellingtonwalkersarewelcome.org.uk

TUE 10 SEP

Severn Hospice Walk and Garden Trail 3.5 miles walkersarewelcome.org.uk

FRI 13 SEP

Temporarily Misplaced! (navigation skills) 4.5 miles walkersarewelcome.org.uk

Kempton to Bury Ditches from Clunton 7.5 miles 01746 862652; bridgnorthwalkingclub.org.uk

MON 2 SEP Join the Walking for Health guides with 4 grades of walk: striders, steppers and strollers all start from the Square, Much Wenlock at 10am Full details at Wenlock’s Tourist Information Centre or Guildhall and at muchwenlockwalkers. org.uk or call 01952 727542/728646.

WED 4 SEP ONWARDS

Nordic Walking Severn Valley Country Park

SUN 29 SEP

Chirk & Offa’s Dyke 7 miles or 10 miles 01746 862652; bridgnorthwalkingclub.org.uk

Join a drop-in session with a qualified instructor every Wednesday. £4 per person 9.45-11am 01746 781192

SUN 13 OCT

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Kerry Ridgeway

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8 to 10 miles 01746 862652; bridgnorthwalkingclub.org.uk

7 to 9 miles 01746 862652; bridgnorthwalkingclub.org.uk

Information is correct at press time but always call beforehand to ensure walks are going ahead. Wear weather-appropriate clothing and footwear and carry water and, if required, a snack/lunch. 84


LOCAL WALKS

MON 9 SEP – SUN 15 SEP

Regular walking groups

Wellington Walking Festival Booking is recommended. Highlights include…

MON 9 SEP

THU 12 SEP

Rock Around the Wrekin

On the Trail of Thomas Telford

WED 11 SEP

SUN 15 SEP

Wellington Walking for Health

Fungus Foray in Apley Woods

SEVERN STROLLERS ALVELEY Tuesdays at 10am

BRIDGNORTH

There are lots of other walks suitable for all abilities so visit wellingtonwalkersarewelcome.org.uk for details

Mondays at 2pm Wednesdays at 10.30am

BROSELEY

Shropshire Way Festival

Wednesdays at 10.30am

To mark the completion of the Shropshire Way main route, 297 miles of Shropshire’s finest countryside, walking groups have been invited to join the route between 21 and 28 Sep to provide a Festival of Shropshire Way Walks. All will culminate in a celebration event on Sat 28 Sep. See shropshireway.org.uk for details.

HIGHLEY Mondays at 10.30am (grade 3) and 11am (grade 2)

MUCH WENLOCK Mondays at 10am

SHIFNAL Tuesdays at 10.30am For more information call 01743 255059 or visit walkingforhealth.org.uk

Image courtesy of Telford and East Shropshire Ramblers

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WILDLIFE DIARY

A poppy for all reasons Ed Andrews explores the famous poppy fields of Bewdley……

In Flanders fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row John McCrae, 1915 My son loves steam trains. Living in Bridgnorth, this means that we spend a lot of time on board the Severn Valley Railway. It was from the window of a carriage that I first saw the famous poppy fields of Bewdley. A buttercup meadow or a bluebell woodland is a relatively common sight around the Shropshire countryside, but a field of shimmering red is an unusual and striking view. Photographs of the fields have featured in many local and national newspapers in recent years. A week later I went to visit the fields to get a closer look. It was around 8pm when I arrived at Blackstone car park but it was high summer and sunset was still several hours away. I was surprised to see a steady stream of people walking up a footpath opposite the car park entrance. I made my way up the same track, passing beneath the sandstone railway bridge. After running alongside a hedge-line, the track swung round and suddenly all around me were gently rolling fields covered in poppies.

Colourful blooms It is only when one walks, waist-deep, through the poppies that one gets a true sense of the movement, colour and life in these fields. The gentle breeze blows channels through the poppy stems and the flowers gently sway in the breeze. It is like being surrounded by a constantly shifting, scarlet sea that stretches away to the horizon. 86

Corn chamomile

As well as the poppies, I can see corn chamomile and other wildflowers growing. I can also see the distinctive stems of barley, an indication of the past management of these fields. The land is part of Blackstone Farm so was once used for growing crops. The poppies and corn chamomile are classed as arable weeds so would have existed in low numbers amongst the barley. The weeds would have been controlled by spraying with herbicides in order to maximise food production. Before the land was farmed, it would have been part of the Devil’s Spittleful, an area of lowland heathland. Worcestershire Wildlife Trust now own the farm and are embarking on a programme of work to restore these fields to lowland heathland, an internationally important habitat.


WILDLIFE DIARY

Kestrels were hunting in the grassy field margins and bumblebees and soldier beetles feasted on the flowers…

In November, poppies will cover war memorials and village greens all across Shropshire. After World War I ended, battlefields were covered in poppies. Their seeds had been disturbed by the heavy artillery and they bloomed in huge numbers. Ever since then, the poppy has been adopted as a symbol of Remembrance. The Poppy fields of Blackstone Farm

The key building block for any habitat is the soil beneath our feet. The sandy soil at Blackstone Farm will favour development of heathland. However, when land is farmed for a long time, the upper layers of soil are enriched to make fertile conditions. Looking ahead, fertility will need to be reduced so no fertilisers will be added to the soil.

Wild returns Now that the land is no longer being used for intensive agriculture, the fields have been left fallow. The seed bank is full of poppy seeds, so the flowers have bloomed and a sense of wildness has started to return. In order to germinate, poppy seeds require disturbance by cultivation of the soil. Therefore, the poppies are a temporary stage as the land is saved from the plough and allowed to breathe once again. On the evening that I visited Blackstone Farm, it was a place filled with skylark song. Kestrels were hunting in the grassy field margins and bumblebees and soldier beetles feasted on the flowers. I was surprised how many other people I saw soaking up the sights and sounds. Some had expensive-looking cameras, others were taking snaps of the poppies on mobile phones. This is a place of wonderment and a reminder of how breath-takingly beautiful the natural world can be.

Poppies are actually a family of plants with several different species and cultivars. Our relationship with the plant is not straightforward. We wear replicas of the field poppy (Papaver rhoeas) on Armistice Day to provide comfort as we remember loved ones lost in conflict but another species of poppy is the source of harmful drugs. Papaver somniferum or the opium poppy is grown on plantations in places like Afghanistan to produce heroin. At Blackstone Farm, the poppies are a brief and beautiful symbol of hope for a wilder future.

Do one thing for wildlife… For a future where food production is balanced with nature conservation, we all need to reduce our food waste. Currently one bag in five of all UK food shopping is wasted. If we reduced our food waste, more land would be available for wildlife. For practical hints on how to reduce food waste, visit lovefoodhatewaste.com. For more information about Blackstone Farm and the Devil’s Spittleful nature reserve, visit worcswildlifetrust.co.uk.

In each issue, WW! nature expert and Shropshire Council’s Parks and Greenspace Officer Edward Andrews looks at the changing seasons.

You can follow Ed on Twitter: @shropshirewild 87


ANIMAL CARE

Happy Tails Q: What is ‘Asian Fusion’ grooming and can I have it on my shih tzu?

Grass seed season It’s the time of year that spaniel owners dread – grass seed season! The unique shape of the grass seed means they attach easily to an animal’s fur and burrow into the skin.

Signs that your dog may have picked up a grass seed Ears: If a grass seed goes down your dog’s ear during a walk they will often shake their head violently, scratch at their ears and be in obvious discomfort. It’s not safe to assume that it might work its way out on its own – the hooked barbs on the seed mean they only travel one direction. It may require sedation or anaesthetic to remove it safely, especially if it’s near the delicate eardrum.

Eyes: Your dog may paw at their eye, which will usually appear red, weeping, closed or partially closed and obviously sore. Your vet will need to examine the eye to safely remove the seed and treat any ulceration and pain.

Feet: Grass seeds between the toes may go unnoticed for a day or two until the seed has penetrated the skin. Your dog may appear lame and lick or chew at their feet. You might also see a painful swelling or oozy wound between the toes. Once in the skin, the seed may ‘track’ further into the foot or up the leg. In very rare cases they can travel throughout the body and be found causing problems in very odd places! Your vet will want to explore the area with forceps and may prescribe antibiotics if there is infection present.

To prevent grass seed injury and problems Consider not walking your dog in areas where there are long, flowering grasses during summer. Some breeds, including spaniels, are more susceptible due to their long or curly coats and long ears. You can help by trimming their coats shorter, especially the hair between the toes, around the feet and feathering around the ears. After your walk, check your dog’s coat thoroughly, paying particular attention between the toes and in the ears. It is often possible to spot and brush out the seeds before they start to work their way deeper into the coat and ultimately into the skin. Dr Carlie McMillan BSc BVMedSci BVM BVS GPCert(FelP) MRCVS 88

As the name suggests, Asian Fusion grooming is a style of grooming from Asia which is not to breed standard. Shih tzus suit this form of styling, as their hair type lends itself well to the shapes created. Normally, the body is short and legs can have a flared style. The faces are often shorter than breed standard styling and the overall finish can look very cute and teddy-like. Some fusion styles incorporate pet-safe colouring such as pink highlights through the tail or ears. Ensure your groomer is competent with this form of styling before you opt for it.

Q: I’ve never used a professional dog groomer. What should I look for? In addition to qualifications and experience, it’s important to get recommendations from other pet owners, pet sitters and vets. Go to the salon and have a good look; is it clean and tidy? Are they friendly to both you and your dog? Are they happy for you to stay while the groom’s in progress? Ask to see some photos of their work and be very clear what you’d like your dog to look like. A good groomer will tell you if your ideal style is realistic for your pet’s coat, lifestyle and frequency of groom.

Amy Stewart of Happy Tails Dog Spa has a BSc in Animal Behaviour and is a certified pet health counsellor.


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89


BUSINESS NEWS

Funding to boost skills training Some of the county’s top business talents have joined forces with Telford College students as part of a national campaign to connect more young people with industry mentors. The college is among just a handful of sites chosen to take part in the One Million Mentors programme. The scheme has been inspired by the Spirit of 2012 initiative, which was launched after the London Olympics, and also honours the memory of MP Jo Cox. It aims to connect a million mentors from a variety of industries, sectors and backgrounds with young people, in a bid to increase youth employability, support social action and help break down social barriers. Mayor Stephen Reynolds spoke to the group, saying, “The collaboration between Telford College and One Million Mentors is fantastic and I sincerely thank both for hosting such a wonderful event. Mentor support can provide essential skills and brighten the futures of Telford and Wrekin’s young people.”

Shortlisted for award Ludlow Farmshop at Bromfield has been shortlisted in the Midlands Best Rural Food or Drink Business category at the 2019/20 Rural Business Awards, held in partnership with Amazon. The local company will battle it out against fellow rural businesses, entrepreneurs and enterprises from across the region for a place at the national final. The shop, set in the heart of the Earl Of Plymouth’s Oakly Park estate on the outskirts of Ludlow, is surrounded by farms and fields that provide grass-fed beef and lamb, rare breed Gloucester Old Spot pork, wild venison and game, milk, honey, fruit and vegetables with minimal food miles and complete control on quality. The shop itself is a hive of activity in a unique, purpose-built food hall surrounded by seven production units where you can see the award winning teams baking, cheesemaking, coffee roasting, butchering, preserving and cooking the wide variety of products on offer.

Kelly Davies of Fodens with the Mayor and Mayoress of Telford & Wrekin

The Rural Business Awards will be hosting a series of regional finals in the North, East, Midlands, South East, South West, Wales and Northern Ireland, throughout October and November, ahead of the National Final next February. Visit ruralbusinessawards.co.uk for details.

£1.1m boost Three schemes to boost skills training across Shropshire have been awarded more than £1.1 million. The awards come from a £42 million pot of ESF funding allocated to the Marches Local Enterprise Partnership to support investment in employment, skills and social inclusion across the region and to make sure education and training meets the needs of employers. The Marches Centre for Manufacturing and Technology (MCMT) in Bridgnorth has been awarded £736,771 for its Skills for Growth project from the European Social Fund to ensure skills training meets the needs of business. The University of Chester has been awarded £236,000 for its Building Skills and Growth Capacity project based at University Centre Shrewsbury, while Telford & Wrekin Council is receiving £210,000 for its Life Ready Work Ready project. The Marches Centre for Manufacturing and Technology in Bridgnorth 90


BUSINESS NEWS

Ask the Lions Need a helping hand with financial support for a good cause or local charity? Bridgnorth Lions may be able to help. Bridgnorth Lions, which has supported the local community since 1976 and is well known for funding major events, also helps dozens of smaller good causes and charities and is open to requests. Newly elected community and welfare chairman John White explains, “The Bridgnorth community is always generous whenever we run fundraising events. It also responds incredibly well when we have high street bucket collections, especially for big natural disasters overseas. “We can’t promise to meet every request but we can promise to look at each one, consider it carefully and respond quickly. Our Bridgnorth walk and marathon this year raised more than £100,000 for local and national charities and other good causes. This was largely from the entrants themselves but also from local companies who sponsored the event.” If you have a request for help, email lionjohn@mail.com.

Star in our next edition! Don’t forget all our business news comes from you. Tell us about your clubs recent happenings, your award-winning scheme, or a community project. Take a great photo and sent to whatswhatmagazine.co.uk and you could be starring in our Nov/Dec edition!

Local

financial advice

Richard Stilwell (left) hands over the chain of office to the new President of Bridgnorth Lions, George Lee

For cost effective, practical advice on all aspects of your business Call

Pensions Retirement Planning Investments Life & Critical Illness Protection Mortgages/Equity Release Income protection Wills LPAs Home Insurance Health Insurance

01746 765215 admin@jcassociatesltd.co.uk www.johncannabyassociatesltd.co.uk Smithfield Centre, Whitburn Street, Bridgnorth WV16 4QT

01746 769700

Progress House • Churchill Court Faraday Drive – Bridgnorth WV15 5BA www.andrewsritson.co.uk

Equity Release will reduce the value of your estate and can affect your eligibility for means tested benefits

91


LOCAL SPORTS

Success at world champs Hours of painstaking practice and dedication have seen a group of Telford-based cheerleaders named the leading performers in the country at an international competition. And now, following participation in the World Championships in Orlando, Cheerforce Ten are now ranked 14th in the whole world. Rachael Swinnerton, the team’s program director and former Bridgnorth Endowed pupil, said she was hugely proud of the team’s efforts and they would be looking to build on their success at future competitions: “It was something we have worked for over the past eight years, so it was a dream come true. Now we want to enter again and get into the top 10.” Cheerforce Ten academy is based at Ketley Business Park in Telford and has around 120 members training, aged from 13 to 30 years old. For more information visit the Facebook page @cheerforceten or contact 07966 966026.

Going for gold A young superhero from Shropshire has been chosen to partner two Paralympic gold medallists at the 2019 Superhero series. Tom McIntyre will be taking part in the Superhero Tri with Menna Fitzpatrick and Jen Kehoe, the team who won gold in the visually-impaired slalom at the 2018’s Winter Paralympics in South Korea. Tom, who is seven years old and lives in Bourton, was born with a rare condition called Proximal Femoral Focal Deficiency (PFFD) which means that his right femur did not grow correctly and at the age of one he had his foot and ankle amputated to enable him to have a prosthetic fitted. Tom says, “I’m very excited to be running on a team again. “The Superhero Series is one of my favourite things to do and I love going. I’m a bit nervous about being interviewed for the television, but I remember being filmed last year and I loved it because I got to meet Jonnie Peacock for a second time.” This year Tom is raising money for the SaTH End of Life Care Swan Fund and the Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (RJAH). To donate to SaTH’s End of Life Care Swan Fund visit justgiving.com/fundraising/Caroline-McIntyre6. To donate to RJAH visit justgiving.com/fundraising/ Caroline-McIntyre5. Tom McIntyre and Jonnie Peacock

Bridgnorth run The Bridgnorth Running Club are pleased to announce that the Bridgnorth 10k is back in October for its sixth year. The race is an undulating 10 kilometre road route through the historic Shropshire market town of Bridgnorth, starting and finishing at the iconic Town Hall. This year’s race will be held on Sunday 27 October, starting at 11am. For details visit bridgnorthrunningclub.weebly.com/ bridgnorth-10k.html. 92


LOCAL SPORTS

Race on the Edge The 2019 Wenlock Olympian Society’s Race on the Edge will take place on Sunday 29 September. This year, a short distance Fun Run will also take place for families and young people. Both events will start and finish at Edge Adventures on the outskirts of Much Wenlock. There is an entry deadline of Monday 23 September with an entry cap of 250. Sign up soon at shropshire-events-guide.co.uk/event/ race-on-the-edge-2019. Image by John Pennifold

Telford gets active Almost 1,000 people so far have joined a fitness campaign sweeping Telford and Wrekin… and there are plenty more opportunities to get involved. Over the next 12 months, volunteers and community groups will host sports, activities as well as road shows, workshops, taster sessions and open days around the borough in parks, village halls and community centres as well as sporting facilities. The activities mean friends and families can enjoy sport together or as part of a wider group. Councillor Andy Burford says, “Fun and also support are so important when it comes to being active and we’re lucky to have so many passionate people in our communities helping to create these events.” For more details about keeping active in Telford, visit healthytelford.com.

93


BOOK KEEPING

SUE RAESIDE BOOK KEEPING

General Builders & Roofing Specializing in Restoration Work

01746 763909

Mobile 07974 956292

• • • •

Block Paved Drives Patios Tarmacing Fencing etc

For small businesses & self-employed T: 01746 763806 M: 07854 013198

susanraeside@btinternet.com

CAR/CARPET CLEANER

CARPENTRY/JOINERY

Clean & Gleam

A.W. Moore

CArpenter & JOiner

Mobile Valeting Service

All vehicles - large & small Domestic & Commercial Carpet & Upholstery Patio & Driveways

Call Paul Nock: 07860 457745

01952 510793

CARPENTRY/JOINERY

K M JOINERY

HIGH QUALITY SPECIALIST JOINERY Doors • Windows • Sash windows Staircases • Green oak porches www.kmjoinery.net 01746 718265 / 07870 640749 enquiries@km-joinery.com

High Quality Carpentry and Joinery at prices you can afford!

Kitchens • Bathrooms Home Office • Wardrobes All hand finished to perfection. Call Tony now

01746 764952 07711 758593 CHIROPODIST

Wenlock Carpentry All aspects of domestic & commercial carpentry undertaken

• LOCAL • RELIABLE • AFFORDABLE Call Andrew: 07935 940654 carpentry.mitchell@gmail.com

94

Brid north

“for all your chiropody needs in the comfort of your home”

foot Care

Nail care • Corns & callus • Foot pain Verruca treatments • Diabetic foot checks

01746 762683 Mrs Amy Weeks

07814 404353

BSc Hons MSCh HPC registered Podiatrist (CH31093)

H o se me rv v ic isi e t

LOCAL EXPERTS

BUILDING/ROOFING


LOCAL EXPERTS

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

HAIRDRESSER

Perry & Phillips FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Hair by Suzanne

Mobile hairdresser

Cutting & colouring specialist in the comfort of your home

Our family helping yours since 1835

Fully qualified with 20 years’ experience

Call 07837

679839

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

01746 765255

Haynes Plumbing & Heating Ltd

24 Hour Service

The local company you can trust

Main Office and Private Chapels at 4 Underhill Street, Bridgnorth

perryandphillipsfunerals.com

PLUMBING / HEATING BOILERS / BATHROOMS

Monumental Masonry Service. Written estimates always given

01746 218207 07734 851574

IT SPECIALIST

Kitchens Bathrooms Tiling Decorating

For local, professional, accredited and security cleared IT Experts who get ‘IT’

Contact

0333 241 2544 gnctechnology.co.uk

And much more…

M.A.W Home Maintenance For reliability, constructive advice and a quality finish call T: 01746 712918 M: 07851 943973 @mawhomes

95


LOCAL EXPERTS

MOTORING

BILLINGHAMS MOT CENTRE CALL 01746 762 600

Premier Auto Body & Paint Part of the Premier Mini Company

• Full body shop facilities • Insurance work undertaken • Full restorations

FREE WIFI

❱ MOT’s – Motorcycles, cars, vans, campers ❱ SERVICING ❱ TYRES at competitive prices ❱ STEERING ❱ EXHAUSTS OPENING TIMES 8 – 5.30 Mon – Fri 8 – 12 noon Sat

Unit 2c, Building 11, Stanmore Industrial Estate WV15 5HR

www.billinghamsmotcentre.co.uk

Free Quotations 01746 714444

See our ne & o w rk onli t our a h read w customers say!

www.premierautobodyandpaint.co.uk Unit 6, Muckley Cross, Bridgnorth WV16 4RR

TREE CARE

Grow your business with WW Magazine

Car sales, servicing and MOTs

Reach 16,000 homes and businesses from as little as £6 per week

Keep motoring simple

01746 764200 www.daviddexters.co.uk

JOFFREY WATSON

Stanley Lane, Bridgnorth WV16 4SF

40+ cars in stock

Call Leanne on 01952 728162 or email leanne@whatswhatmagazine.co.uk

WASTE DISPOSAL

Fully qualified & insured

Domestic & Commercial

Septic Tank Emptying

24 /7 CALL OUT

96

ALL ASPECTS OF TREE CARE & REMOVAL

20 years’ experience

Please call for a free quote and expert advice

SHROPSHIRE • HEREFORDSHIRE • WORCESTERSHIRE

C.MAIDEN Waste Disposal Call 01885 482305

TREE SURGEON

Environment Agency Registered

01952 727966 / 07813 685091 JOFFREY WATSON RFS CERT ARB (HONS) Based in Much Wenlock


Activities & Clubs All seasons Park Wrekin Gymnastics

Dog Groomer 38 8

Johnson Design Partnership

LW Foxall

Berriman Eaton 96 96 96

Local Attractions 28

Ironbridge Gorge Museums Secret Severn Art Trail SVR

22

Nursing Home Oldbury Grange

91 6

Seal Fuels

81

Perry & Phillips 38 94 94

96

Carpenters 94 94 94

Garolla

94

Gardening & Landscaping Harley Nursery Lealans Garden Centre Severn Valley Landscapes WC Ritchie

Schools & Colleges Birchfield School Brockton School Buildwas Academy Old Hall Prep Ludlow College Moor Park St Johns Primary Tettenhall College The Royal School Wolverhampton Girls High School Wolverhampton Grammar School

47 45 53 51 52 45 53 48 44 51 54

Solicitors Garden Services

Hopskotch Number ten

94

99 19 2

Dr Dan Dhunna Envision Salon Ten Suzanne Hair

76 78 80

Andrews Ritson FBC Manby Bowdler Fodens Williams & Co

8, 91 30 6, 14, 38 35

Tree Care 38 14

Dentist

Arc Tree Care Joffrey Watson

76 76 77 95

Easyflow

Bridgnorth Veterinary Centre Severn Edge Vets 85

DIY & Home Improvement 95

28

Veterinary Surgeons 89 89

Waste Disposal C. Maiden

15, 17

81 96

Underfloor Heating

Heating & Plumbing Haynes Plumbing & Heating

MAWS Home Maintenance

80 81 80 80

Hair & Beauty

Curtains, Blinds & Shutters

Twickel Dental

18

Gifts

Chiropodist

Just Jayne Love your blinds Love your shutters

93

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95

Garage Doors

Greenthumb MowerMec Shed City

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Clean & Gleam

Physiotherapy S B Clinic

Car Sales

Tile Choice

13

94

Building & Construction

AW Moore KM Joinery Wenlock Carpentry

32

Optician Tim Vanes

Funeral Directors

David Dexters

67 27 67

95 Fuel Supplier

Access for Lofts C.S. Paving & Building Evans & Evans

95

Financial Advisers John Cannaby Associates RMB Financial Planning

Book-keeper Sue Raeside

GNC Technology

Estate Agents

Bathrooms & Kitchens Maw Home Maintenance

IT Consultants 87

9

Auto Repairs & Service Billinghams MOT Centre David Dexters Premier Auto Body & Paint

Happy Tails Electrical Appliances

Architects

LOCAL BUSINESS INDEX

Local business index

YOUR QUICK GUIDE TO LOCAL BUSINESSES AND SERVICES

96

Hotels, Pubs & Restaurants Eurasia Meadow Inn Parlors Hall Hotel The George & Dragon Telford Hotel & Golf Resort The Lounge The Raven Hotel

72 73 67 70 34 70 70

Windows & Conservatories Bridgnorth Windows Trotfield Windows

10 20

97


WHAT’S THAT NUMBER?

In an EMERGENCY always dial 999 For your local POLICE STATION in a NON EMERGENCY dial 101

What’s that number? Animal Care

Local Services

Air Ambulance

0800 389 8999

Cuan House Rescue

01952 728070

Environment Agency

0370 850 6506

Dogs Trust Rehoming

01952 770225

Fire & Rescue

0300 1234 999

Health Visitors

01746 711958

Severn Edge Emergency

01746 763998

National Grid

0800 111 999

Wrekin View Veterinary

01952 4604799

Bridgnorth Veterinary

RSPCA

01746 711561

Councils

Bridgnorth Town

01746 762231

Severn Trent

0800 783 4444

West Mercia Police

0300 333 3000

Western Power

0800 6783 105

Broseley Town

01952 882172

Libraries

Much Wenlock Town

01952 727509

Bridgnorth

Shropshire Council Shifnal Town Telford & Wrekin

0345 678 9000 01952 461420 01952 380000

Doctors

Bridgnorth

01746 767121

Broseley

01952 882854

Claverley

01746 710223

Cressage

01952 511166

Ironbridge

01952 432568

Lightmoor

03300 536 456

Much Wenlock

01952 726011

Shifnal

01952 460414

Dentists

01743 260200

01746 763358

Broseley

01952 884119

Much Wenlock

01952 728293

Shifnal

01952 461018

Southwater

01952 382915

Schools & Nurseries

Alveley Primary School

01746 780284

Bridgnorth Endowed School

01746 762103

Brockton C.E. Primary School

01746 785671

Broseley C.E. Primary School

01952 882673

Brown Clee C.E. Primary School

01746 712652

Buildwas Primary Academy

01952 432135

Castlefields Primary School

01746 764072

Coalbrookdale & Ironbridge C.E. Primary School

01952 386620

Cressage C.E. Primary School

01952 510383

01952 585539

Idsall School

01952 468400

Pure Dental

01746 765711

John Wilkinson Primary School

01952 882950

Regency House

01746 766114

Lightmoor Village Primary School

01952 387620

Twickel Dental

01952 728799

Madeley

Much Wenlock Nursery

Hospitals

Bridgnorth

Morville C.E. Primary School

01746 762641

01746 714219 01952 728807

Much Wenlock Primary School

01952 727634 01746 765454

New Cross

01902 307999

Oldbury Wells School

Princess Royal

01952 641222

Poppets Nursery

01746 767800

Royal Shrewsbury

01743 261000

Puddleducks Pre-School

01952 884420

Shifnal Primary School

01952 460500

St Andrews C.E. Primary School

01952 460226

St John’s Catholic Primary School

01746 762061

Out of Hours

NHS Direct Shropdoc

111 0333 222 6655

Leisure Centres

Abraham Darby Bridgnorth

01952 382770 01746 761541

Idsall, Shifnal

01952 460499

Much Wenlock

01952 727629

Severn Centre

01746 860 000

Local Facilities

St Leonards C.E. Primary School

01746 762781

St Mary’s Bluecoat C.E. Primary School

01746 763455

Stottesdon C.E. Primary School

01746 718617

William Brookes School

01952 728900

Worfield Endowed C.E. Primary School

01746 716606

Travel

Brambles Private Hire

01746 767076

Bridgnorth Taxis

01746 765000

0345 678 9007

Diamond Cars

01952 222222

03444 991100

Rail Enquiries

08457 484950

Shifnal Recycling

01952 462122

Shrewsbury Taxis

01743 244477

Telford Recycling

01952 384384

Traveline

0871 2002233

Bridgnorth Recycling Citizens Advice

98


BEAUTIFUL INTERIORS

Approved suppliers of

Made to Measure Curtains & Roman Blinds – Roller, Vertical & Venetian Blinds Upholstery – Wallpaper & Fired Earth Paint – Carpets & Karndean Flooring Home Accessories & Gifts – Professional Fitting Services Unit 4, Smithfield Centre, Whitburn Street, Bridgnorth WV16 4QT (next to the antique centre opposite the turning to Sainsburys)

t: 01746 766799

e: sales@justjayne.co.uk

www.justjayne.co.uk

e ce m r vi ho se EE ing FR sur ea m

Just Jayne


upto

creating your own amazing space

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01902 405526

01902 715482

7 Millfields Road Bilston Wolverhampton WV14 0QJ

Inside Carvers Littles Lane Wolverhampton WV1 1JY

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

SHREWSBURY

KIDDERMINSTER

01743 464565

01562 825720

Unit B & C Arrow Point Retail Park Brixton Way SY1 3GB

Unit 6 Easter Park Worcester Rd (Opp. Hoo Farm) DY11 7AR

for your nearest store

CANNOCK

173 Walsall Road Bridgtown Cannock WS11 0JH

01543 469400

- www.tilechoice.co.uk


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