GROUPCOMMUNITY REPORTSANNUAL

NEWSLETTER No.74 | March 2019 | lickeyandblackwellpc.org

an invitation to The Annual Assembly 7.30pm Monday April 2019 The Trinity Centre,1 [-\ ‘Our - Past, Present and Future’ with special guest presenters

Burcot Grange Jazz - August ‘18 Bilberry Wake - July ‘18 Blackwell Festival - July ‘18

Residents & press are invited to attend our PC meetings usually the first Monday of the month at 7.30pm with allotted public question time 1 April, Lickey - 6pm followed by 7.30pm ‘Annual Assembly’ | 13 May, Blackwell - ‘Annual Meeting’ LICKEY AND BLACKWELL PARISH COUNCIL FOREWORD FINANCE Summary Receipts and Payments Account 2017/18 Nick Forknell, chair Peter Harvey, lead 2016/2017 RECEIPTS 2017/2018 Signs of spring can be seen around our parish; the The audited summary of receipts and payments for the year £ £ snowdrops will soon be joined by daffodils and there ended 31 March 2018 is shown here. 44,000 Precept 44,000 is evidence already of the bluebells which will fill the Grants o The only exceptional item of expenditure in that year was 45 Interest received 31 country park. So welcome to springtime in Lickey and £1,027 to replace one of the defibrillators, due to an act of 2,670 VAT Refunds 2,821 Blackwell and welcome to our March Newsletter and drunken vandalism. The large decreases evident in Other 2,997 Lengthsman 1,833 Annual Report of the Council. income, Community events and Highways/litter picking 7,676 Other income 2,176 Although we had hoped to be voting on our payments were due to higher receipts and payments in 57,388 TOTAL 50,861 Neighbourhood Development Plan (NDP) last autumn 2016/17, as detailed in last year’s report, which were not perhaps we were too optimistic. However, the good repeated in 2017/18. PAYMENTS news now is that the NDP has been accepted for During both the year 2017/18, reported opposite, and consultation by District Council. Their The PC ‘Tea, Talk and Tech’ Residents’ Meeting, February 2019 (p.4) 8,622 General administration 8,313 the current year to March 2019 the regular ongoing consultation period now starts and should be complete Cllrs. Nick Forknell and Janet King flanked by L-R: Mike Webley, 12,121 Salaries & staff expenses 14,900 Kevin Foster, Jo Hughes and Roger Custance from Age Concern UK programme of maintenance and activities has continued, 9,047 Play areas and open spaces 11,296 by our Annual Meeting on 1 April. The next stage is including, grass mowing, maintenance and safety 10,851 Community events 4,522 the appointment of an Examiner for final review and inspections of the Blackwell Play area, maintenance of 600 Donations and grants 950 report before we can arrange for the referendum to take Please keep an eye open for news and events concerning 11,167 Highways/litter picking 6,386 Greenfield Bank and the cemetery extension, production place. We had been hoping for that to take place with the referendum for the NDP, later in the year, and please 2,639 Cemetery maintenance 2,281 and delivery of newsletters, maintenance of our website, the Elections in May, but that now seems increasingly get out and vote “Yes” to our proposals. 4,820 Newsletter 4,876 litter picking, hosting residents meetings, replanting the unlikely. 369 Health & wellbeing 1,395 Have a blessed and happy year. colourful parish planters, administering the lengthsman 3,651 VAT paid 2,961 Elsewhere in this issue you will find reports on all the Nick scheme and other administrative duties as required. 63,887 TOTAL 57,880 activities of your Parish Council throughout 2018/19. I For some time Council expenditure has been well in believe it’s been a good year with lots of things achieved, excess of income in order to reduce a larger than necessary -£6,499 Surplus/(Deficit) -£7,019 no doubt due to the fact that for much of the year we’ve reserve. Having achieved the required level, we now need to had a full complement of Councillors. Unfortunately, 3 April – deadline for councillor nominations 2 May – Parish and District Local Elections match the precept to the level of expenditure. To meet this towards the end of 2018 Councillor Tibbits moved out end it has been decided to increase the precept for 2019/20 The above statements represent fairly the financial position of the Council for the 1-16 June – PC Best Front Garden Judging year ended 31st Mach 2018 of the area and so we now have a vacancy for the Ward by 4.44% to £47,000, about £1 for a band D property. called ‘Lickey Grange’. If you would like to consider 15 June – Blackwell Festival ‘Flower Power’ becoming part of our team then please don’t hesitate to 14 July – Best Front Garden prize giving, Holy Trinity 2pm

get in touch with either myself or our Executive Officer DATES DIARY 7 Sept – Blackwell Music Festival

to find out what really happens! HIGHWAYS

Nick Forknell, lead

The Parish Council This year has seen speed surveys undertaken in Lickey is pleased to report elections – become a PC Councillor and stand for what you believe in Rock, Mearse Lane, Plymouth Road and Twatling Road. some progress on a Except for Twatling Road, all have shown the average What matters to you in your local area? Is it the state of the local park, the need for new footpath along speed of traffic to be at the speed limit. The data from more activities for young people, improving services for older people, making the Blackwell Road, Twatling Road indicated that the average speed of traffic roads safer or ensuring that local businesses can thrive? following the closure was 33mph, but Cllr Kit Taylor has advised that this is Whatever needs changing in your neighbourhood, you could be just the person to of the railway crossing. within tolerance levels and as such no action will be change it by becoming a Parish Councillor. No other role gives you a chance to make Network Rail has taken by WCC. These are disappointing and frustrating such a huge difference to quality of life for people in your local area. devised a new path in results especially for those residents who are adamant consultation with both Parish Council elections are approaching fast, we will be looking to fill nine vacancies speeding is a problem. WCC have given permission Blackwell Golf Club here in Lickey and Blackwell. for the Parish Council to place a speed sign on Lickey and WCC. This would You must be least 18-years-old on the day of your nomination, a British citizen or a Rock, so this will now join Rose Hill, Greenhill and be (for the most part) citizen of the Commonwealth or European Union and registered to vote in the area or Spirehouse Lane in the rotation of the portable sign. The just inside the grounds have lived, worked or owned property there for at least 12 months before the election. Parish Council have also installed a permanent solar- of Blackwell Golf Club. For more information on the role of a parish councillor and the process of becoming powered flashing speed sign on St Catherine’s Road in The route has yet to Colin Ricketts maintaining the Lickey Wildflower one please see the following websites: Blackwell opposite the school which we hope will go Verge Weather Station for WWC Highways Dept. be signed off by either some way to deterring speeding. www.beacouncillor.co.uk/ Blackwell Golf Club or WCC, but the Parish Council www.nalc.gov.uk/our-work/elections WCC has loaned the Parish Council a mobile speed believes that this solution is the best way forward and If you wish to stand, please contact our Executive Officer, Lisa Winterbourn. device for use by volunteers and we would like to hear remains cautiously optimistic that agreement will be from any residents who wish to participate. given by all relevant parties in the not too distant future.

cover picture: Blackwell Craft Fair – June 2018 unless otherwise stated all photographs by Keith and Simon Woolford 2 lickey & blackwell parish council newsletter | Number 74 | March 2019 March 2019 | Number 74 | lickey & blackwell parish council newsletter 3 PLANNING That’s where you get a chance to vote on the plan, a COMMUNICATIONS straightforward ‘Yes’ or ‘No’. As your Parish Council we Stephen Nock, lead Janet King, lead think the NDP is a good one and so we will be advising BEST FRONT GARDEN COMPETITION –June ‘18 that you go and vote ‘Yes’ when the opportunity arises. The prizes were presented to our The last 12 months meant a busy year for the PC A year of unprecedented activity in our Parish Council We don’t know exactly when that will be but will let 2018 BFG winners at the Holy Planning Committee. My fellow Councillors Jill Harvey, area has given our group much to communicate to you know as soon as possible. Please look out for any Trinity Church, Lickey. The Jo Eales and Janet King our Executive Officer and I residents through the PC Newsletters published in advertising or link to our Facebook page – Lickey and Gift vouchers were once again have met at least once each month to discuss planning March, September and December and now to readers of Blackwell Parish Council. generously donated by Fresh at matters and applications to represent the views of the ‘The ’ magazine to which we contributed a page Burcot. Parish. At the time of writing the Committee have for the May, July and November issues. dealt with 76 planning applications, to which we raised ENVIRONMENT This was followed by an Jo Eales, lead This April, we shall review this trial policy agreed last opportunity to watch the video, 15 objections. On two occasions where we objected, year so if any readers wish to comment on how this is which was later submitted as permission was refused and on one occasion where we working, do please let us know. evidence for our Neighbourhood supported an application, permission was not granted. We are very fortunate to live in Lickey and Blackwell We responded to County Council consultations on the Development Plan. On other matters, we have been involved in discussions and our aim is to enhance and preserve the environment county bus services and the future of our libraries . regarding Marlbook Tip with the Environment Agency around us. We work alongside WCC and BDC who this CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING & COMPETITION –Dec ‘18 Our programme of residents’ meetings continued to and BDC and we have responded to the Bromsgrove year have supported environment issues with footpath The topic for the 2018 children’s District Plan Issues and Options Consultation. maintenance, providing a fence to protect the wildflower attract larger audiences than ever and theNick photographs Forknell Christmas competition was illustrate the diversity of people, who attended them. We look forward to the release of our Neighbourhood verge opposite Lickey church and providing signage and a ‘Christmas Card’. We were assistance to prevent dog fouling in Blackwell. Our Facebook page is useful for conversations between delighted by the high standard Plan and the referendum later this year. Planning issues We have a limited budget but we use this to maintain residents and promoting local events and public notices. and large number of entries. will be a feature of our Parish Assembly on 1 April. footpaths, some verges, Blackwell play area, Greenfield Do get in touch with any local news story or event to share. The winning design became If you would like to discuss a planning issue, please Bank, and litter Finally, we wish to thank everyone who has contributed our PC Christmas card. Many contact our Executive Officer, who will pass on your congratulations to all who entered comments or give you the date of our next planning picking. We are time and skills during the past year, particularly Keith usually supported Woolford, for his maintenance of our website. News and especially to the children meeting so that you may attend. of Lickey Hills Primary School in our work by updates are made regularly and Parish Council policies Residents can express their views on planning a volunteer tree and other documents, including the Neighbourhood Nursery whose collective winning applications via the BDC ‘Public Access’ website page entry was illustrated in last issue. warden and footpath Development Plan and Village Design Statement, may given below. warden, however be found. Dates and venues of our monthly council The first prize-giving was at Planning Committee meetings this year both Fridays 11am Parish Office, Trinity Centre, Lickey meetings with minutes and agendas may also be found Lickey Church where the singing retired from their there on the website. If you haven’t visited yet – take a group of Lickey Hills Primary https://publicaccess.bromsgroveandredditch.gov.uk/ positions and we are online-applications/ look and enjoy reading about our activities! School and Blackwell Concert currently looking Band entertained a full venue with for volunteers to RESIDENTS’ MEETINGS a lovely programme of Christmas replace them. Many thanks to David Crockett and Sue music. The second took place at NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN SPECIAL MEETING WITH POLICE –June ‘18 Tibbits (Sue pictured top p.4) for their hard work. If you The Wheel, Blackwell before the Nick Forknell, lead are interested in either position please make contact. In our low crime area, a number of attempted burglaries school Christmas Fair. and several cases of vandalism led to a well-attended and We fund the supply, planting and maintenance of the lively meeting at The Wheel, Blackwell. PC Marc Ginder/ SENIORS MEETING –Feb ‘18 The last year has been a very busy time for the NDP planters in the parish and the flower borders around Lickey and PC Barney Kelso/Blackwell heard about the Held at Cricket Steering Group. In May 2018 we published the draft of Lickey Square and the War Memorial. They really senseless vandalism to saplings planted by the children Club, 55 residents enjoyed a our final plan. Then in July we consulted extensively look lovely and we would like to thank Ron Smith for in Blackwell First School’s Forest area. School teacher, `Talk, Tea and Tech’ presentation within the Parish and with various interested ensuring they look their best all year round. Sian Cain, explained how upsetting this had been to their by Jo Hughes and the IT team organisations, including some potential developers. Local residents and Jane Banner plant more daffodils children. New trees have since been planted. from Age UK Bromsgrove. The That all resulted in a ‘Submission Plan’ being finalised and snowdrops every year, with the displays becoming There is a move to ask for the return of roadside parking illustrative talk on the many ways in the autumn and submitted to more prominent looking fabulous. infringements to be handled by the police rather than in which going on-line could Council (BDC) for consideration and approval by the There will be a parish litter-pick on Saturday 30 March civilian enforcement officers. Car parking on Old change older people’s lives for the Executive Council. BDC will also conduct a consultation as part of the national ‘Keep Britain Tidy’ campaign and Rd at school pick up time has been a problem better – it’s never too late to learn with various statutory bodies to ensure our proposals do in association with The Lickey Hills Society. Further for many years; could land be acquired for a car park? how to use smart phones and not contravene any existing plans. tablets. Demand dependent, the details will be available on our website. Dealing with the recent spate of burglaries, the police In the meantime, members of the Steering Group PC will discuss how it can work We would also like to thank Andrew Douglas for asked residents to be more watchful but agreed that public plus willing volunteers are working on the Character with Age UK to improve IT skills. maintaining both the Cemetery Extension and CCTV at village entrances was not effective. Smart Water Appraisals of both . These will form part of protection can be obtained from the police and restarting The entertainment was courtesy the evidence which will be submitted to a Planning Greenfield Bank in recent years. Our new contractors the Neighbourhood Watch scheme was suggested. We of ‘Singing for Fun’ group, led by Examiner shortly. Providing everything is in order the are 4 Seasons and resident Steve Wardle. were advised to keep car keys safely hidden – not to hang Libby Parr, followed by delicious Examiner will approve our plan and will instruct BDC Thanks to all those people, paid or otherwise, for their them by the front door! refreshments. to conduct a referendum. valued work around the parish.

4 lickey & blackwell parish council newsletter | Number 74 | March 2019 March 2019 | Number 74 | lickey & blackwell parish council newsletter 5 COMMUNITY GROUP

REPORTS – 2018/19 S E H G

BLACKWELL & BURCOT WI U H

Y O

Our WI is 88 years young and we are still attracting new R members. Our annual programme of monthly meetings, BFS: A day Bell-Boating at Upton Warren HHW: WWI Armistice 100th anniversary tree planting and talk LCG: Tip Meeting, Mike Adams with Sue and Roy Hughes theatre visits, craft afternoons, shopping trips and our – June 2018 – April 2018 – January 2019 popular summer trip is a mix of the well tried and the new. first outing, the ever popular Cider brought BLACKWELL SCOUT GROUP THE LICKEY COMMUNITY GROUP their classic cider and the Viking enactors performed Last year’s highlights included a Harvest Supper with We have met at the St Catherine’s Road Scout Hut since The Marlbrook Tip issue sprung back to life in October frighteningly realistic battles and demonstrated period women’s Morris dancing and Spring and Autumn Annual the 1960s and continue to offer a wide range of exciting 2018, when lorries were spotted tipping. BDC were crafts. The Blackwell beach returned along with the Meetings at Malvern. At the 2018 National Federation activities to both boys and girls of six-years-old and immediately alerted but it took until January for a bouncy castle and slide and, of course, the running races Annual Meeting in June in Cardiff the resolution, upwards. ‘Temporary Stop Notice’, valid only 28 days, to be and tug of war were the highlights! applied. There is more information on the saga on p.11. ‘Mental Health Matters’, was passed. It reads: We welcome new members whether as Beavers, Cubs The music festival on Saturday 8 September was the best For some considerable time now, we have engaged with “Mental health matters as much as physical health. The or Scouts or as adult/youth leaders and helpers. As the yet with more visitors and volunteers, and an expanded the PC, the Police and Enforcement Officers to find ways NFWI urges all WI members to recognise the importance world’s biggest youth movement, Scouting makes a volunteer ran bar, real ale, children’s shop (run by of tackling inconsiderate/illegal Lickey parking. The of parity between mental health and physical health, and positive difference both locally and right around the and for). Local food catering proved very popular double yellow lines seem of little effect. take action to make it as acceptable to talk about mental world. Join us! (Warwick’s butchers, Pizza Heaven and Crêpes at Chez health issues as much as physical health issues, and to The PC have affixed a ‘No Parking’ sign by the water Jacey) and of course the amazing music by: Charlie Contact: Angus Watson 07734 526 267 trough but to little effect. We believe that parking here lobby government for better support for mental illness.” Santy, Bromsgrove Rock School, The Quad, Vaseline, www.bromsgrovescouts.org.uk impairs drivers’ sight line when leaving the Trinity Our Federal Committee will now work with Karkosa, Monty Taft and Killerstream. Centre and we have made suggestions to alleviate this. Parliamentarians and health services providers until the Money left over stays in the charity and is spent on HIGH HOUSE WOOD MANAGEMENT TEAM Vehicles on the school run on Old Birmingham Road campaign’s aims are achieved. future Blackwell Festival events. Thankfully, we’ve had fewer trees damaged due to continue to cause difficulty for residents trying to leave In 2019, our local programme includes topics as diverse their drives. Both they and locals ignore the yellow lines. We are also pleased to announce this year’s Party in the snow and wind, than the last year. This has allowed us as `100 Years since the Women’s Vote’, `My Life in a Park with a ‘Flower Power’ theme) will be on Saturday to concentrate on other maintenance duties, including The Country Park, already with insufficient parking at Back to Back House’ and `Trouble in Store’, with our 15 June and the Music Festival on Saturday 7 Sept 2019. keeping the paths open, thinning saplings and ensuring weekends/Bank holidays, is going to have charges imposed 89th birthday party in October and Christmas lunch in sections remain free of the pink Rosebay Willowherb. by Birmingahm Council. The PC seem relaxed about the December. These amazing village events are only possible thanks to possibility of more cars being parked on our roads. our kind supporters and volunteers. If anyone wants to Our second attempt at a trial wildflower area has proved Elsa Slim, our secretary, will be pleased to tell you more get involved, please contact us. as successful as the first. Which means only weeds have The 2018 AGM saw guest speakers talking on recycling, about our activities. and the Lickey Hills Country Park. Cllr. Nick Forknell [Films: Youtube/Keith Woolford] grown through! A third attempt will start soon using Contact: Elsa Slim, [email protected] seeds generously donated by the Country Park Rangers. discussed the Neighbourhood Plan and showed a short facebook.com/blackwellfestival or film. The ‘90-Second Challenge’, entitled ‘Confessions [email protected] April saw a community event when a Red Sentinel Crab of...”, was won by Cllr. Janet King! BLACKWELL FESTIVAL Apple tree was planted to commemorate the 100th Since last April the Blackwell Festival Charity volunteers anniversary of the First World War Armistice. Around 25 We attend every PC meeting, engage with councillors of BLACKWELL FIRST SCHOOL the parish, district and county, and are also represented have been very busy fund raising, organising and localFUTURE residents OF OURenjoyed LIBRARIES talks on this period, including Len It has been another busy year at Blackwell First School, on the Lickey Hills Country Park Consultative running events for the village. We started last year with CottonWorcestershire who brought County along Council’s a framed (WCC) picture current and medal of • 70% of the County libraries budget is spent on from exciting projects such as life in Baghdad AD900 and Committee. Our website Trades People Directory is very a well attended fund-raising quiz at Blackwell Club. We hisconsultation father who on fought the future in France. of our public libraries can be staffing, the aim is to increase the use of volunteers the presentation of art work at the ‘Voices and Visions’ popular with members – just one of the benefits of joining. planned and fundraised found on their website. – there are two ways of achieving this ie ‘Open art festival in Worcester Cathedral to bell boating at the Lickey Hill Primary School make regular educational Contact: Keith Woolford 445 4619 for the ‘Viking Party Responses can be made until 2 February 2019 and this is Libraries’ and ‘Community Managed Libraries’. Bromsgrove Regatta. trips (literally 100 metres away!) to the woods and we Website: www.lickeycommunitygroup.btck.co.uk in the Park’ which was hopea real to opportunity arrange another to have event your to say involve on a thevaluable children. public • Following the consultation a recommendations report held Saturday 16 June, There have been plenty of memorable experiences over service, which has to make £800k of savings from 2020. for change will be taken to WCC Cabinet by late and part-funded, with the year. Recently the Year 2 children learned about We were delighted to learn that Graham Martin, Vice LICKEYSpring FESTIVAL2019. sustainability during their project work on ‘Planet Earth’ ChairThe consultation of the offers a number Wildlife of Trust,options had to visitedensure thanks, by our supporters ThisAt a recentyear’s Festivalmeeting was at Parkside, held as a jointBromsgrove, event, the Councillor ‘Lickey and decided to help the planet by ordering milk bottles HHWthe future and ofpersonally all county nominated libraries andmyself closures as a ‘Wildlife are not which included the HillsJanet PrimaryKing took School part inand a livelyCommunity discussion Festival’. on behalf Leaflets, of instead of the non-recyclable cartons that are supplied by Hero’.an option In January, at this stage. I attended The mobile their Lower library Smite service Farm will Parish Council. withyour aparish prize-winning council when logo designedmembers by and the officers pre-Reception spoke the dairy. HQremain near with Worcester no changes. for an awards evening, meeting like The attractions included class, were distributed locally. minded• The County people hasfrom a statutorythe area. Thisduty isto certainly provide itsgroup 23 about the options. Derek Tindall Birds of Looking ahead, the children on School Council will be It was a fine, if too breezy day with a good turnout effortlibraries. with myThe fellow school management library service team has members. closed – some There will be similar public consultation events at all Prey with several flying designing four pieces of artwork for the four new lounges enjoying the many stalls and activities – from community libraries have been moved or built next to schools. libraries in Worcestershire – see our website for further at ‘Burcot Grange – The Lodge’. The children had a great Volunteers continue to help in the inevitable and groups, pony rides, Mango Slimee workshops and the displays and a static details: show with a variety of trip to the new facilities and will be designing art based necessary• All libraries litter-picking are being and encouraged bench cleaning. to find Therecommercial are Animal Man. Refreshments were provided by Lickey WI birds. The Blackwell Concert Band filled the air with on famous local people or places. Happy 2019 everyone! plansopportunities in place to toreplace offset the costs. three information boards. andwww.lickeyandblackwellpc.org an Old Rose and Crown hog roast. The event raised a atmosphere, the WI dished out more tea and cakes than Anna Moss, Headteacher. School office: 445 1622 This• There time will each be will an extensivehave unique upgrade information. of the libraries’ brilliant and: £1,989www.worcestershire.gov.uk/libraries for the school. ever, Village Vineyards gave their horse box bar its [email protected] computer Contact: systems. Keith Woolford 445 4619 Contact: Lisa Winterbourn, Executive Officer

6 lickey & blackwell parish council newsletter | Number 74 | March 2019 March 2019 | Number 74 | lickey & blackwell parish council newsletter 7 N O T N I H

E V E T S Geo-Champions: ‘Rocks & Landforms’ board launch LHCP: Trainee Ranger Jack Rosa, right, installing new bridge LHLHS: WWI enactors at the Open Day, Country Park LHS: A group visit to the Oratory House, Rednal – May 2018 – November 2018 – October 2018 – October 2018

LICKEY GEO-CHAMPIONS a partnership called Natural Prospects. This will provide LICKEY HILLS PRIMARY SCHOOL & NURSERY Brian Draper, and following on from last year, wildlife The Geo-Champions were formed in 2011 and, with traineeship opportunities for six people over the next One of our highlights of this year was joining with the photographer Peter Preece gave us an illustrated talk – the support of the Ranger team, have been involved in three years. From the first round of trainees taken on parish council and hosting a joint ‘Community Festival’ ‘Every Picture tells a Story II’. In October we had a guided maintaining and promoting the geological sites in the the Lickey Hills has gained Jack Rosa. Jack volunteered during the summer term. It was lovely to bring the visit to the Oratory House, Rednal, led by Fr Francis from Country Park. with our week day work group before securing himself a children and families together and welcome everyone to the Oratory in Edgbaston, pictured above. He described place on the traineeship. He has been working alongside the background to the House and took us around the In 2018, we have held clearance sessions at Barnt Green the school for a day of entertainment and refreshments. our Rangers, gaining experience and working towards grounds including a visit to the site of the grave of Road and Warren Lane quarries and have hosted several Thank you to everyone who came along and helped Cardinal Newman. groups on guided walks – most recently for the Lickey a qualification. Some of the projects Jack has taken on raise funds across the community and for our school IT Hills Society ‘Active Parks’ Walks Group. supported by the other trainees, have included the new projects. Our outdoor activities included supporting the park bridge by the playground and Heathland regeneration. Rangers with the Bilberry Wake, when hobby horses This year has seen the completion of a two year project to The children really enjoy welcoming the community were made and raced, and the best ever attended Wassail. establish a geological information panel entitled ‘Rocks If the enthusiasm and work ethic Jack shows is reflected into school. It’s lovely to see so many of you at our class The mummers play had Slivy Tove trying to sell off the & Landforms – the view from Bilberry Hill’, pictured in the next trainee we get then we are on a winning assemblies, music concerts and Christmas celebrations. Green Belt, but Robin Hood and the demon Harry-ca-nab above. The panel was unveiled in May and adds to three streak. The children also enjoy getting out of school and into foiling his wicked plans. information panels in the Visitor Centre and three in Steven Hinton, Ranger Services Manager the community; Young Voices at the Genting Arena, Barnt Green Road Quarry. In 2015, the Earth Heritage Visitor Centre: 445 6036 sports tournaments throughout Bromsgrove, singing Our practical work included litter-picks and Himalayan Trust received Heritage Lottery funding for the ‘Voyages carols at the nursing home and around the community Balsam clearance. We supported an event in April in Deep Time’ project and the Lickey Hills were chosen tree and our visits to Lickey church, the woods and the when, as part of the centenary celebrations of the LICKEY HILLS LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY as the subject for a geological teaching app for youngsters. Monument. Birmingham Civic Society attended by the Lord Mayor Our Open Weekend in September highlighted the WWI of Birmingham, 25 mature trees were planted in the The new panel is linked to the project. The ‘Voyager’ app In December, we were visited by Ofsted who confirmed can be downloaded from the Google Play Store or Apple Project; the men on our local war memorials; lost local Country Park Arboretum. churches; our collection of local maps; the 1918 Suffrage we were still a ‘good school’ and commended our staff App Store, or by using the QR code on the panel, and and children noting: ‘You want the best for all pupils at We continue to lead free weekly guided walks, open to it takes you on a voyage through geological time, with Act and the Spanish Flu and how they affected our local all, under the Active Parks scheme, at 10.30am every area. The Worcestershire WWI Bell Tent and re-enactors Lickey Hills, and you have carefully nurtured a staff who images and soundtrack to bring it all to life. There’s an give high priority to developing pupils’ well-being and Thursday at the Visitor Centre – just turn up! interactive game for the youngsters (and young at heart!). returned and again showed their detailed knowledge with display items. happiness as well as their academic success.’ We are very Website: www.lhs.org.uk This year, in May and October, we shall be hosting proud of our children and their efforts, thoughtfulness Our programme of talks included the Kings and Queens two free public walks for the James Watt bicentenary and growth as global citizens and we hope that LICKEY PHAB CLUB celebrations: ‘The Geology of the Lickey Hills - Walking of ; the scythe-making industry; their time at Lickey Hills Primary provides a strong We are a social group for people with and without in the shadow of James Watt and sons’. Clent Village; Bromsgrove Magistrate’s Court in the foundation for whatever ambitions they have as they disabilities, and provide the opportunity for people Contact: [email protected] 1890s; Louisa Ryland’s gift of Cannon Hill Park to continue to dream, believe and achieve. Birmingham and Kidderminster’s industrial architecture. to come together each week, to have fun and try new Website: www.ehtchampions.org.uk/ch/?page_id=76 Please let us know if you have any community events or activities. We meet at the Trinity Centre on Monday The Christmas social looked at scenes that no longer exist projects we can be involved in or if you’d like to join our nights. Members can join from 14 years old and we have in ‘Warwickshire in Pictures - Ooh! I remember that…’. LICKEY HILLS COUNTRY PARK school community as a governor or volunteer. It would no upper age limit! Members led the History Walk, part of the be great to hear from you. Well, another 12 months has flown past for the park. As This year has been another busy year for us; our par for the course, we began the year dealing with the Bromsgrove Festival, and Enjoy Rubery Weekend. This School office: 445 1992 | lickeyhills.worcs.sch.uk membership continues to grow and 50 to 60 people continued issue of the Phytophthora ramorum plant was heavily oversubscribed, and so was split into two attend each week. We have completed a range of activities disease. This year, due to the area needing felling and groups. It ranged from The Plough at the western end of this year. Some of the highlights were a Pancake Party, a THE LICKEY HILLS SOCIETY the late notification for the trees removal, a mechanical New Road to the Rubery Hill Asylum at the east, with Royal Party to celebrate the Royal Wedding, a fabulous harvester was brought in to carry out the work required. a brief stop at St Chad’s Church for a guided tour and Our walks book, ‘Exploring the Lickeys’, continues to sell concert from Blackwell Concert Band, a sponsored walk As the tree removal was in the heart of the park, how to ending at Rafters for a cup of tea. well. We have donated two replacement fruit trees – one in Sanders Park, a BBQ in the height of the summer and manage the aftermath has been a difficult decision. In Our research group is currently researching WW1 and for the Community Orchard, the other for the Rose and learning some Yoga. We also went on a weekend away to some areas we have been hand clearing the debris and we WWII in the area, local churches, the men on our war Crown grounds, new batteries for the defibrillator at the an outdoor adventure centre in the Lake District. This was will be replanting shortly with native species. In other memorials, the Old Rose and Crown, Lickey Scouts and Country Park Visitor Centre and a new concrete outdoor an amazing weekend and we had the opportunity to go parts of the wood further mechanical intervention may significant local trees and hedges for our Open Days on table-tennis table, sited near the Rose and Crown pools. caving, climbing, abseiling, canoeing and even learnt to be required. 21 and 22 September. At our AGM, Carole Burden and Jill Harvey gave an light a fire! We are looking forward to our next big event which is our Spring Ball in March. The Midlands Local Authorities and the Wildlife Trust Contact: [email protected] update on the work of the World War One Project. for Birmingham and the Black Country have entered into Website: www.lhlhs.org.uk Other talks were on ‘Ironbridge and Coalbrookdale’ by Contact: Louise Boother, 07814 122 990

8 lickey & blackwell parish council newsletter | Number 74 | March 2019 March 2019 | Number 74 | lickey & blackwell parish council newsletter 9 Lickey and Blackwell Parish Council – all wards are available for nominations – see page two Mr Nick Forknell, chair 40 Pine Grove, Lickey B45 8HE 0121 439 9324 [email protected] Lickey Monument Ward (H/lead) Mrs Jill Harvey, vice chair 36 Rose Hill, Lickey B45 8RR 0121 453 5838 [email protected] Lickey Ward (C + P) Mrs Anna Boehm 48 Linthurst Newtown, Blackwell B60 1BS 0121 445 6659 [email protected] Linthurst Ward (F) Ms Jo Eales Pinfield House, Cherry Hill Road, Barnt Green B45 8LL 0121 445 5754 [email protected] Shepley Ward (E/lead + P) Mr Peter Harvey 36 Rose Hill, Lickey B45 8RR 0121 453 5838 [email protected] Lickey Grange Ward (F/lead) LHLHS: WWI board launches, Simon Woolford/illustrator Mrs Janet King Singing For Fun: At ‘Tea, Talk & Tech’ PC Residents’ Meeting 110 Linthurst Newtown, Blackwell B60 1BS 0121 445 2802 [email protected] – February 2019 – September 2018 Linthurst Ward (C/lead + P) Mr Stephen Nock Tavistock House, Mearse Lane B45 8HL 0121 445 3213 [email protected] LICKEY WI ST CATHERINE’S WI Shepley Ward (P/lead) *** vacant *** In 2018, our WI had entertaining talks on The Cadbury Please contact the Executive Officer We are a very friendly group of ladies and meet Lickey Grange Ward Story, The Little Black Dress and a talk from a podiatrist at 7.30pm on the third Thursday at The Wheel, St Mrs Sara Woodhouse 27 Twatling Road, Lickey B45 8HU 0121 445 6167 [email protected] member on looking after your feet. Members were moved Catherine’s Church, Blackwell. Linthurst Ward (H) to collect money for another speaker who brought her dog Mrs Lisa Winterbourn Parish Office: Trinity Centre, Old B’ham Road, Lickey B45 8ES 07930 837 770 [email protected] and talked on hearing dogs for deaf people. Our programme has included talks on the Gunpowder Executive Officer Wednesdays and Fridays 10.30am-3.30pm Plot and on Worcester Porcelain, visits to the Artrix PC Groups: Environment | Finance | Highways | Planning | Communications | Editorial – Executive Officer We had a lunchtime meal out in January and an evening Cinema, Churchfields Farm, Wedgewood and Hanbury visit with tea and cake to some local gardens in August. Hall at Christmas. We celebrated Worcestershire WI Bromsgrove District Council We rocked along to a singer at our birthday meeting and Centenary with a fabulous buffet and entertainment by Council House, Parkside, Market Street, Bromsgrove, Worcs B61 8DA 01527 881 288 bromsgrove.gov.uk were hugely entertained by a magician at Christmas. The Cats Chorus at Barnt Green Cricket Club. Cllr. Dr. Brian Cooper, 6 Lord Austin Drive, Marlbrook, Bromsgrove B60 1RB – Marlbrook Ward 07711 014 820 b.cooper@ We go on group walks and have a book and luncheon club. bromsgroveandredditch.gov.uk This year we have seen the ballet, Beauty and The Beast Cllr. Mr Richard Deeming, 502 Groveley Lane, , B'ham B45 8UB – Cofton Ward 0121 445 3114 r.deeming@ We provided cakes and refreshments at the Lickey Festival and will soon visit Birmingham Hippodrome. bromsgroveandredditch.gov.uk and sold cakes at the Lickey Church Fayre. Cllr. Mr Kit Taylor, Brook Cottage, Priory Rd, Dodford,Bromsgrove B61 9DD – Lickey Hills Ward 01527 879 339 k.taylor@ Do come and join our WI. Visitors are always welcome. bromsgroveandredditch.gov.uk New members and visitors are always made welcome. Worcestershire County Council Contact: Sue Barratt 01527 596 092 Contact: Janet Ratcliff, president 445 0163 County Hall, Spetchley Road, Worcester WR5 2NP 01905 763 763 worcestershire.whub.org.uk

WWI PROJECT Cllr. Mr Peter McDonald, 10 Waseley Road, Rubery, Birmingham B45 9TP – Beacon Division 0121 453 9267 [email protected] SINGING FOR FUN This HLF funded project, which aimed to record and Cllr. Mr Kit Taylor, Brook Cottage, Priory Rd, Dodford,Bromsgrove B61 9DD – Lickey Hills Ward 01527 879 339 [email protected] In early 2018, we made a start on learning some Taize research World War I structures in the Lickey Hills songs in preparation for the church’s Maundy Thursday Country Park, has now officially ended, though the Cllr. Mrs Shirley Webb, 74 Golden Cross Lane, , Bromsgrove B61 0LE – Woodvale Division 01527 882 392 [email protected] and reflective service with Communion, so that we Team will have a continued interest in the site. Member of Parliament could sing with confidence and help the congregation to During 2018 the gun butts were photographed using Mr Sajid Javid MP House of Commons, SW1A 0AA 01527 872 135 [email protected] learn them. We enjoyed a quiet spring singing together, drone cameras, and the results will be on a website before working on a programme for a fund-raising soon. In June members visited the Wolfson Centre in DETAILS OF LOCAL GROUPS AND ORGANISATIONS – see back page and our website concert on 8 July in aid of Bloodwise, the charity which the Birmingham Archives where the Parks Committee supports sufferers from blood cancers, and which had minutes provided valuable information. particularly helped one of our congregation members. MARLBROOK TIP In August we had a display at the Worcestershire • No useful explanation of the next step was given The concert included solo and duet items from all ages A lively meeting took place in January at Bromsgrove District in our church family, interspersed with songs. We were Remembers event organised by the Worcestershire World • It was established that the culvert was broken War One Hundred HLF Project showcasing activity in Council (BDC) Parkside, by the Tip Focus Group – the first delighted to raise over £300. since 2017. • Concerns were raised about the number of lorries using the county commemorating the WWI Centenary. Old Birmingham Road when children went to and from We took our summer break and re-convened in The Environment Agency (EA) gave a report and confirmed September. After a few weeks of revisiting favourite At the Open Weekend in September we held the official school unveiling of two information boards. There were record that the site remains ‘safe’ following a survey paid for by the songs, and adding one or two new ones, we began site owners. They also stated that under the existing Waste It is hoped that talks will take place soon between BDC, EA learning some new Christmas carols to sing in the numbers of visitors, and the Quarry site was open for and the site owner to establish a way forward. both days. Since then we have launched a school pack Permit, 68,000 tonnes were allowable. However, a site visit in parish carol service on16 December, along with helping December 2018 determined that found metals and plastics 1) If you are concerned about lorries at the Tip, please contact to lead the congregation in the traditional carols. which has been used by three different school groups. A leaflet summarising the history of the site is now should be removed. Further inspections are due. Simon Jones and Ruth Bamford at: We were pleased to be invited to entertain again at the available at the Visitor Centre. Some particular points: [email protected] Parish Council Residents Tea Party, on 14 February, and [email protected] • Once again BDC had to be advised lorries were back our audience enjoyed joining in as much as possible! The last of the money was spent on fitting new doors on the toilet block to fianally replace the old 1990s boards! tipping 2) If you think the mud on the road is a possible traffic Singing for Fun is a ‘come along when you can’ group, hazard please report this to Worcestershire Highways Our final activity was a ‘Thank you lunch’ for those • EA says it would take up to 4,000 lorries to deliver 68,000 and all are welcome, whether members of the church or tonnes to cover site with 300mm of material Authority, using their on-line reporting facility: not, and with no commitment to attending each week. If who had helped the project over the last two years. • BDC Planning Permission is required to import restoration https://e-services.worcestershire.gov.uk/onlinereporting/ you would like more information, please make contact. To find out more about the results of the Project visit: soil – no application has been received FindLocation.aspx?FaultType=5 Contact: Libby Parr, 01527 872 598 www.thelickeyhills.uk/wwi-project/ • A ‘Temporary Stop Notice’ valid 28 days posted 9am on the Links to two articles from the February 2019 issue of The [email protected] Contact: [email protected] morning of the meeting – no further TSNs can be issued Village magazine can be found on our website.

10 lickey & blackwell parish council newsletter | Number 74 | March 2019 March 2019 | Number 74 | lickey & blackwell parish council newsletter 11 NOTICEBOARD Blackwell Baby & Toddler Group Lickey and Blackwell Parish Council Wednesdays 10-11.30am Blackwell Methodist Hall Parish Office, Trinity Centre, Lickey • We currently have a vacancies for a Parish Baby, toddlers and mothers group – all welcome Wednesdays and Fridays 10.30am-3.30pm Tree Warden and a Parish Footpaths Warden – come along and join us! Monthly meetings open to residents including – applications welcomed. consultation beforehand plus an opportunity Blackwell and Burcot WI • Parish Council Elections – see page two. Second Wednesdays 2pm Burcot Village Hall for public question time – see cover for times and dates. Interesting programme of talks, visits, craft group, —Lisa Winterbourn, Executive Officer lunch club and fund raising. Apr 10 The Baby in the Locket by Mary Bodfish May 8 AGM and Resolutions (no speaker) Jun 12 The Amish People by Ron Gallivan Lickey and Blackwell Churches The Lickey Hills Society – Elsa Slim, [email protected] • Holy Trinity Church, Old B’ham Road, Lickey Practical Activities and talks with guided walks Blackwell Club Mar 30 Table Top Sale, 11am- 2.00pm, tables £10ea every Thursday 10.30am from CP Visitor Centre Linthurst Newtown book with Alison Mar 30 Spring Litter Pick - meet at the Visitor This popular venue is available for hire for parties, June 22 The Big Party, an invitation to the church Centre, Warren Lane 10am meetings and other events. family Jun 15 & 29 Balsam Bash – removal of Himalayan Mar 13 Spring `19 Launch by Scallop & Bell 7pm • St Catherine’s Church, Blackwell after school Balsam. Visitor Centre, Warren Lane 10am Mar 22 Drop in coffee morning 10am coffee and last Friday of month for coffee, cake and – Baden Carlson, [email protected] | www.lhs.org.uk Mar 23 Indian Supper Evening 7.30pm chat in The Wheel. – 445 2134 | www.facebook.com/blackwell-club – Alison Rushton 445 6170 | [email protected] Lickey Hills Primary School www.lickeychurch.com Old Birmingham Road, Lickey B45 8EU Blackwell Concert Band Apr 5 Easter Quiz and Cinema Night 6.30-8.30pm Available to play at various formal & informal Lickey Church Wednesday Fellowship Apr 12 -29 Easter holidays. occasions - see website for list of concerts 1st & 3rd Weds 2.15-3.45pm Trinity Centre, Lickey May 23-Jun 3 Summer half-term Apr 8 Lickey PHAB Club,Trinity Centre Speakers, craft activities, quizzes & charity events – 445 1992 | www.lickeyhills.worcs.sch.uk – blackwellconcertband.co.uk – Sandra Smith 445 1425 Lickey PHAB Club Blackwell Craft Fair Lickey Community Group Every Monday 7.30-9.30pm Trinty Centre, Lickey To build confidence, socialise and have fun for the Blackwell Methodist Hall, Greenhill Local residents improving Lickey & Marlbrook disabled and able-bodied alike. Jun 6 Handmade craft goods, food, children’s craft communities. Responsible for stopping Marlbrook – Contact Louise Edgell 07814 122 990 activities. 50p including Fairtrade refreshments Tip illegal tipping and ongoing monitoring plus – [email protected]. speeding and parking issues. Lickey WI – Keith Woolford, [email protected] First Tuesday 7.30pm, Trinity Centre, Lickey Blackwell Festival www.lickeycommunitygroup.btck.co.uk Held on Catherine’s Road, Blackwell Theatre/cinema visits, skittles/bowling matches. Jun 15 Flower Power, The Field, Catherine’s Road Apr 2 Scams and Fraud Workshop, staff from Sept 7 Music Festival Lickey Geo-Champions Santander. Comp: information on best scam ever – 445 1622 | www.facebook.com/blackwellfestival Explore the fascinating Geology of the Lickey Hills May 7 AGM and Resolutions (no comp) May 30 Walk. The Geology of the Lickey Hills - www.lickeywi.wordpress.com Blackwell First School walking in the shadow of James Watt and sons, St Catherine’s Road, Blackwell B60 1BN 10.30-12.30 Lickey Wine and Social Circle Apr 12 Easter coffee morning – Details: Jill Harvey 453 583 Last Thursday in month 8pm Burcot Village Hall Apr 12 -29 Easter holidays Talks, games, theme evenings and making wine! – 445 1622 | www.blackwellfirstschool.com Lickey Hills Art Society – Sheila 445 5436 1st Sat each month 7.30pm Longbridge Methodist Blackwell Scout Group (1st Hall, Bristol Road South, Rednal. Visitors welcome. The Midland Sinfonia Bromsgrove) – Graham Wilson 463 7097 Programme of classical music (Reg.Charity) 1st Blackwell Scout group and the Lickey groups [email protected] St Laurence Church, 7.30pm (7pm bar) meet at the Hut, St Catherine’s Rd, Blackwell. Apr 6 ‘Chamber Classics’ – Haydn ‘The Lark’, Mozart Open to boys and girls of all interests & abilities. Lickey Hills Country Park ‘Clarinet Quintet’ & Schubert ‘Death & the Maiden’ • Beaver Scout Colony 6-8 years Thurs 6-7pm. Visitor Centre, Warren Lane, Lickey B45 8ER May 18 ‘The Choice is Yours’ – Grieg ‘Peer Gynt’, Bax • Cub Scouts Pack 8-10½ years Weds 6:45-8:15pm 445 6036 www.birmingham.gov.uk/lickeyhills ‘String Quartet’ plus requests! • Scouts Troop 10½-14 years Thurs 7:15-9pm Unless otherwise stated, activities start from VC Jul 6 ‘Bach to the Future’ inc. Bach ‘Concert for Two • 1st Lickey Scout Group runs three sections on (BE = booking essential) Violins, Handel ‘Arrival of the Queen of Sheba’, Elgar Tuesdays details: [email protected] • Park Events ‘Serenade for Strings’ • Explorer Scouts & 1st Blackwell Scouts feed into – Marian Barwell 447 7040 | midlandsinfonia.co.uk Bonington Explorer Unit based at Sanders Park Apr 17 & 18 Easter Kids Activities, family event. Wear suitable outdoor clothing 11am-1pm. BE. Rosehill Flower Arrangement Soc. Blackwell Table Tennis Club May 29 Kids Half-Term Activities, family event. Wear suitable outdoor clothing 11am-1pm. BE. Second Monday 2pm Trinity Centre, Lickey Thursdays 7.30pm at Blackwell Methodist Hall Demonstrations/refreshments – visitors welcome. • Habitat Heroes Tables & all equipment supplied. – Belinda Winroope 447 7477 Every Tuesday 10am-2pm. Join our conservation Adults £2 / child u18 £1 – just turn-up! – Janet King, [email protected] volunteer team, learn new skills. Tools & training provided – 445 6036 St Catherine’s WI Third Thursday 7.30pm The Wheel, Blackwell Burcot Gardening Club • Active Parks Varied programme of talks, craft projects & visits. First Wednesday 7.30pm at Burcot Village Hall Thursdays - free guided walks from VC 10.30 til Mar 21 The History of Johnsons Coaches talk + Draw Speakers and visits. noon – Brian & Jenny Adams 01527 522 109 Apr 18 From Pillory to Prison Cell talk + tombola – Just turn up! May 16 AGM & resolutions + cheese and wine • Keeping Fit for Free Friday Bridge Club Jun 20 Cheerboys! Its Hartlebury talk + plants sale Tai Chi – Sun 10-11am Monument Lane, Beacon Hill – Rosie Mackenzie, 0121 445 1266

Every Friday 7pm at Burcot Village Hall 0121 445 4619 Arch Media and Tues 10.30-11.30am Cofton Park | Friendly competition, everyone welcome. [email protected] – Just turn up! – Gill Croft 01527 401 019 Yoga and Meditation Classes Library Services Lickey Hills Local History Society Mondays - Yoga 7pm & Meditation 8.25pm at The Library Service At Home may be available to Third Tuesday at 7.30pm Trinity Centre, Lickey Blackwell First School the house-bound via Rubery Library. Apr 16 Bells, Books and Candles: St John’s Church, Wednesdays - Yoga 12.45 & Meditation 2.15pm & Rubery Library open Mon/Tues/Fri 9-5.30pm; Bromsgrove in the 18th & 19th Centuries by Simon 7pm, The Ark, Alvechurch Thurs 9-7pm; Sat 9-4pm (Alvechurch has a library) Henderson Wednesday - Yoga 9.30am, Rowney Gn Village Hall – 01905 822 722 | worcestershire.gov.uk – George Gascoyne 453 6320 | [email protected] – Sally Wall 07903 663 085 | www.MyYogaMind.co.uk Woolford by Keith design

Your PC newsletter contains material responsibly sourced from managed and sustainable commercial forests. The paper used plus delivery to printer is ‘Carbon Neutral’ through the Woodland Carbon scheme. NUMBER 58 ‘FSC’DECEMBER is made from 2014 totally lickey recyclable, and blackwell biodegradable parish council and acid-free material – please pass on or recycle. 12 Every effort is made to ensure newsletter accuracy but disclaim any liability if incorrect – do check with the relevant group.