Parish News Holy Cross Group of Churches

Parish News Holy Cross Group Of Churches

Febr

uary

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The Parish News February 2020

Letter from Canon Sue

For me there’s always something hopeful about February.

For a start, it’s the shortest month. So, by the time we’ve gotten to the end of the month, the year is well and truly up and running …….

And the days are getting noticeably a little bit longer….. the year is lightening up! Snowdrops, crocuses, catkins and pussy willows all start appearing. The garden and the lanes are waking up again.

In the Church there is festival coming up ….and as the year develops, a Holy Cross pilgrimage…..

This is the Feast of Candlemas on February 2nd. This celebration marks the formal end of the Nativity season, the end of Christmas and Epiphany. We have to take away all the Christmas tree and the crib. But not before lighting every candle we can find in the churches and making a great slash of light, symbolizing the light that Jesus Christ is in the world.

Candlemas also commemorates the presentation of the infant Jesus in the Jerusalem Temple as was the custom in those days. When I conduct Baptisms, also known as Christenings then the parents will be giving thanks for their children in the same way as Jesus’ earthly parents, Mary and Joseph were doing.

Of course not all parents do choose to baptize their children, in the same way as not all people connect with God in Church. And there is a long history of that. From early on in the history of Christianity of finding God while walking, with friends or alone, from and to sacred sites. Going on Pilgrimage, the formal name for walking with God, was discouraged from the time of the Reformation because the reformers knew it was a lot of fun and disapproved.

It has taken a long time for our local churches in Worcester Diocese to grow out of all that solemnity, for which there is a time and place…… but Church should be fun too in the right way. And going on Pilgrimage is something I want to encourage and get going among these villages.

There are a lot of lovely walks around the Churches of the Holy Cross Group. A group is now planning how to encourage on particular days and more generally, our churches to host tea and cakes for weary travellers between our churches, having laminated map routes, histories of all the churches in brief, giving an opportunity to encounter God in our beautiful countryside, with your dog if you want. To go on the Holy Cross Pilgrimage. You might just walk between two churches, or all eight or any other number. But all will be good fun when you join in.

If you would like to be part of the planning group, please do get in touch with me.

May this shortest of months also be a very good month for you and those you love

Prayers and Blessings

Canon Sue

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Email: [email protected] 1596 The Parish News February 2020

Letter from the Archdeacon of Dudley

Lent will soon be upon us, with its opportunities for taking up spiritual disciplines for a season, doing those things which we know deep down are good for our spiritual health, but often struggle to commit to. Our culture is increasingly short-term, getting people to sign up for anything which stretches indefinitely into the future is challenging, but most of us can manage something for six weeks. And the good news is, research shows it takes about six weeks to form a habit!

So which Lenten discipline might we consider in 2020?What is going to be of most benefit for our growth as disciples of Jesus, as kingdom people? For some of us it may be good to take up something new, like joining a Lent study group in our church, or committing to daily bible readings in one of the many excellent resources available. Others will want to fast from something for the entire season, or a day a week. This may be physical fasting from food, or alcohol or chocolate, or perhaps a lifestyle fast, cutting out social media or TV. The key thing is that all these disciplines serve to help us focus more on God, making some space in our lives to pray and listen to him. Perhaps we may simply want to do something we are already doing, but more intentionally and regularly, with more focus, giving a little more time and effort to it.

Discipline is hard work! If our souls, bodies or minds are not stretched by our Lenten endeavours, we are probably not being disciplined enough. I am learning a great deal about physical discipline as I undertake training for running my first marathon at the end of April. The fact that so many lovely supporters are sponsoring me to raise funds for the Children’s Society means I have further incentive to keep going, but on a cold and wet day, getting my running shoes on is all about discipline, mind over matter, doing what I have committed to, however it feels. Sometimes it is inconvenient, sometimes it hurts, but I know that I have to keep going, or I will never complete the race before me.

Often when I run, God reveals to me how spiritual disciplines can be similar to physical ones. Routine, habit, consistency are all the staples for health and fitness whether that is in our physical or spiritual life. I will be praying on my ever-longer runs, and using that space away from the phone and email to build my relationship with God, asking him to show me where I need better patterns in my spiritual disciplines to grow closer to him.

My hope is that my new running regime won’t stop at the London Marathon finish line, and that (after a suitable rest!), I will maintain my new level of fitness. I hope and pray too that all of us who take up new spiritual disciplines for Lent will build healthy habits which stay with us and help us mature as followers of Jesus will beyond Holy Week. Just like my running, they will require effort, and also appropriate rest!

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NEWS

OPEN THE BOOK WITH SUPPORT FROM THE MISSION ENABLERS

Open the Book is a great resource for churches hoping to deepen their relationship with their local First and Primary Schools.

The national initiative involves church groups visiting their local school and bringing Bible stories to life in assemblies and acts of Collective Worship. Local adults and children who are involved often call it the highlight of their week. Three of our diocesan Mission Enablers provide support to the national and regional teams through training storytellers across the region. If your parish would like advice about setting up an Open the Book team, please get in touch with the Mission Enablers via the diocesan office. More information is also available on the Bible Society’s website: www.biblesociety.org.uk/get- involved/open-the-book/

CHURCH ACTION ON POVERTY SUNDAY

Church Action on Poverty (CAP) Sunday takes place on the last Sunday before Lent, which this year is 23 February.

CAP is asking churches to speak truth to power, especially when too many are struggling to make ends meet across the UK. CAP has a vision of a fairer world with a smaller gap between rich and poor and works to make that vision a reality, by empowering people in poverty to overcome the injustices they face, and equipping churches to work alongside them.

Martin, a single parent from Halifax, like thousands of others, has been struggling on Universal Credit: “I just snack, I don’t eat proper meals. The children always come first and I just eat small bits here and there. If I’m in the house on my own all day, I’ll tend not to eat until 6 or 7 o’clock, if at all, and I know that I can keep food in the cupboard a bit longer, that’s another day of survival.

Church Action on Poverty Sunday is a day to give, act and pray to make a difference to those in poverty. Find out more at www.church-poverty.org.uk/sunday.

St. Leonard’s Church Social

This popular annual event takes place in Clent Parish Hall, Church Avenue on Friday 21st February (7 for 7.15pm). Before and after a fish and chip supper there is a variety of home-grown entertainment from members of the congregation and others.

Tickets costing £8 each are available either at St Leonard’s after each service or from David Stokes on 07807 917319.

Please bring your own drinks

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The Parish News February 2020

NEWS

USED STAMPS......

When I visited Primrose last I felt quite shocked to be told that Charities have been advised they should no longer collect used stamps because of fraud! I have been collecting for over 20 years and feel quite bereft. I shall make some enquiries and hopefully find another outlet. Meanwhile a big thank you to all who have donated over the years and all Good Wishes for a Happy New Year.. Margaret Must.

PS I have now found a home for used stamps. ECO Work-Shop CIC run workshops for adults with learning disabilities and autism in the Stratford area. They use the stamps for art work etc., and will be happy to take ours. You can read about them on www.work-shop.org.uk. Not very local I know, but still a good cause. Many thanks. M.M.

Thank you to Mr & Mrs Slater of Pepperwood House for the very kind donation of the largest ever Christmas Tree we have ever had in Holy Trinity Church

COFFEE MORNING BIBLE STUDY Belbroughton Church Hall Bible study is held weekly at Friday 14th February Belbroughton Church Office, at 10am to noon 7.30pm on Tuesdays. (normally second Friday of the month) When the office is not available, it In aid of Holy Trinity Church, Belbroughton is sometimes held on other days. Contact Pat Weston or the church EGGS office for details.

Did you know that Christine at the office sells chicken and duck eggs to raise funds for the church office? Only £1 for half a dozen. Planning a wedding Pop by one morning! For 2020 / 2021 ?

Then you might like to discuss the THANK YOU possibility of getting married in one of our ancient and beautiful For your contributions towards parish churches. the Parish News Christmas Card – £855 was raised If so, please call the Church and charities to which it will be donated Office on 01562 730777 Mon- will be announced in due course Weds 9-12 and we will be pleased to help you

It is our aim to provide a range of good quality self-storage facilities at a reasonable price with a minimum rental period of one month. Central village location

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(calls will be answered Clarkson Controls)

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Help your body and mind unwind Reduce stress, anxiety and depression Soothe tired, stiff muscles or simply treat your body to some well-earned pampering Restore natural wellbeing and bring awareness back to your body Relax … unwind … and enjoy

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The Parish News February 2020

PARISH REGISTER

ST MARK’S FAIRFIELD

Cremation at Stourbridge Crematorium: 18th December 2019 Anne Elizabeth Ince Aged 82

BELLS

Sometimes writing for the magazine shows me how things change but stay the same. Is it really 12 months since I was writing about our annual dinner? In January we hosted the northern branch of our local bellringing area (Worcester and district change ringers association) with Pauline serving us well with evensong and Harry Grove on the organ (the one weekend Irving was busy). February I anticipate being a quiet month apart from the annual dinner wherever we hold it alongside Hagley and Clent ringers. We have had a few ringers unwell over Christmas but hopefully they will be back with us hale and hearty. We still welcome help from Bromsgrove on a Tuesday and are very grateful. We are always on the look out for new ringers – it is a little physical so good for health and mental so stimulating for brain power. Details for me and Martin are in the magazine

Rosie Marshall Tower Captain Belbroughton

15 EXERCISES WE'D BE BETTER OFF WITHOUT IN 2020...

~ Climbing the walls ~ Jumping on the bandwagon ~ Beating your own drum ~ Wading through paperwork ~ Dragging your heels ~ Running around in circles ~ Jumping to conclusions ~ Pushing your luck ~ Grasping at straws ~ Playing in traffic ~ Fishing for compliments ~ Spinning your wheels ~ Throwing your weight around ~ Adding fuel to the fire ~ Passing the buck ~ Beating your head against the wall ~ Running with scissors

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(01527) 876 200 Mobile: 07710 976 744 The Parish News February 2020

READINGS FOR ALL THE CHURCHES THIS MONTH

Sunday February 2rd Candlemas (Gold/White) Presentation of Christ in the Temple First Reading Malachi 3.1-5 Second Reading Hebrews 2.14-18 Psalm 24.(1-6)7-10 Gospel Luke 2.22-40

Sunday February 9th 3rd Sunday before Lent (Green) First Reading Isaiah 58.1-9a(b-12) Second Reading 1 Corinthians 2.1-12(13-16) Psalm (1,3) 4 Gospel Matthew 5.13-20

Sunday February 16th 2nd Sunday before Lent (Green) First Reading Genesis 1.1-2.3 Second Reading Romans 8.18-25 Psalm 136.1-9,23-26 Gospel Matthew 6.25-34

Sunday February 23rd Sunday next before Lent (Green) First Reading Exodus 24.12-18 Second Reading 2 Peter 1.16-21 Psalm 2 Gospel Matthew 17.1-9

When it's all over

When the song of the angels is stilled When the star in the sky is gone, When the kings and princes are home When the shepherds are back with their flocks The work of Christmas begins…..

To find the lost To heal the broken To feed the hungry To release the prisoner To rebuild the nations To bring peace among the people To make music in the heart

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The Parish News February 2020

KITCHEN CORNER

WINTER VEGETABLES & GRUYERE PARCELS

This is very tasty dish and extremely convenient as it can be prepared in advance and frozen. Ideal for those who don’t want to be tied to the kitchen when entertaining guests or want to start preparing meals after one of those lovely long winter walks.

Ingredients – serves 6

For the pastry, (or puff, which can be bought ready made): 5oz (150g) plain flour 3oz (75g) unsalted butter chilled and diced For the filling: 5oz (150g) root vegetables, ie carrots, leeks, sweet potato, peeled and cut into ½ inch dice 3oz (75g) parsnips, peeled & grated ¼ tin of vacuum packed chestnuts ½ teaspoon freshly chopped thyme 1 clove garlic, finely chopped 2 medium eggs, lightly beaten 2 tbs olive oil ½ oz (15g) butter salt & pepper 3 ½ oz (100g) long grain brown rice A little beaten egg to glaze 3 ½ oz (100g) fresh white breadcrumbs Pinch of nutmeg 3/1 oz (100g) gruyere cheese, grated

Method To make the pastry, place the flour in a mixing bowl and rub in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Add the cheese. Gradually pour in 1 tablespoon water and the egg, stirring until if forms a firm dough. Cover with cling film and chill in the fridge for 30 mins. Cook the rice according to the packet instructions, drain and cool. Place the diced vegetables, garlic, olive oil and butter in a small roasting tin and cook in the top of the oven for 20-25 mins until golden brown and slightly caramelised. Leave to cool. In a large bowl, combine the roasted vegetables with the cooked rice, breadcrumbs, grated parsnips, thyme, chestnuts, cheeses, eggs, seasoning and nutmeg. Mix together well, cover and chill for 10 mins. Roll out the pastry and cut into six 6 inch (15cm) squares. Place a ball of the rice mixture into the centre of each square and brush the edges with the egg glaze. Carefully bring the corners of the pastry to the centre (like an envelope) and crimp the edges to seal.* Place the parcels on a baking tray and brush with the beaten egg and cook in an oven preheated to 200ºC/400ºF/Gas mark 6 for 15-20 mins until golden brown.

* The parcels can be frozen after stage 5 above. When ready to use, defrost thoroughly, brush with beaten egg and cook as above.

Do you have a recipe to share? If so, please send it along to the Editor

Clent Clent

Parish Parish

Hall Hall

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The Parish News February 2020

THE TWELVE THANK-YOU NOTES OF CHRISTMAS

Dec 25 My dearest darling Edward, What a wonderful surprise has just greeted me! That sweet partridge, in that lovely little pear-tree; what an enchanting, romantic, poetic present! Bless you, and thank you. Your deeply loving Emily

Dec 26 Beloved Edward, The two turtle-doves arrived this morning, and are cooing away in the pear-tree as I write. I'm so touched and grateful! With undying love, as always, Emily

Dec 27 My darling Edward, You do think of the most original presents! Whoever thought of sending anybody three French hens? Do they really come all the way from France? It's a pity we have no chicken coops, but I expect we'll find some. Anyway, thank you so much; they're lovely. Your devoted Emily

Dec 28 Dearest Edward, What a surprise! Four calling birds arrived this morning. They are very sweet, even if they do call rather loudly--they make telephoning almost impossible--but I expect they'll calm down when they get used to their new home. Anyway, I'm very grateful, of course, I am. Love from Emily

Dec 29 Dearest Edward, The mailman has just delivered five most beautiful gold rings, one for each finger, and all fitting perfectly! A really lovely present! Lovelier, in a way, than birds, which do take rather a lot of looking after. The four that arrived yesterday are still making a terrible row, and I'm afraid none of us got much sleep last night. Mother says she wants to use the rings to "wring" their necks. Mother has such a sense of humor. This time she's only joking, I think, but I do know what she means. Still, I love the rings. Bless you, Emily

Dec 30 Dear Edward, Whatever I expected to find when I opened the front door this morning, it certainly wasn't six socking great geese laying eggs all over the porch. Frankly, I rather hoped that you had stopped sending me birds. We have no room for them, and they've already ruined the croquet lawn. I know you meant well, but let's call a halt, shall we? Love, Emily

Dec 31 Edward, I thought I said NO MORE BIRDS. This morning I woke up to find no more than seven swans, all trying to get into our tiny goldfish pond. I'd rather not think what's happened to the goldfish. The whole house seems to be full of birds, to say nothing of what they leave behind them, so please, please, stop! Your Emily

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The Parish News February 2020

Jan 1 Frankly, I prefer the birds. What am I to do with eight milkmaids? And their cows! Is this some kind of joke? If so, I'm afraid I don't find it very amusing. Emily

Jan 2 Look here, Edward, This has gone far enough. You say you're sending me nine ladies dancing. All I can say is, judging from the way they dance, they're certainly not ladies. The village just isn't accustomed to seeing a regiment of shameless viragos, with nothing on but their lipstick, cavorting round the green, and it's Mother and I who get the blame. If you value our friendship, which I do (less and less), kindly stop this ridiculous behaviour at once! Emily

Jan 3 As I write this letter, ten disgusting old men are prancing up and down all over what used to be the garden, before the geese and the swans and the cows got at it. And several of them, I have just noticed, are taking inexcusable liberties with the milkmaids. Meanwhile, the neighbours are trying to have us evicted. I shall never speak to you again. Emily

Jan 4 This is the last straw! You know I detest bagpipes! The place has now become something between a menagerie and a madhouse, and a man from the council has just declared it unfit for habitation. At least Mother has been spared this last outrage; they took her away yesterday afternoon in an ambulance. I hope you're satisfied.

Jan 5 Sir, Our client, Miss Emily Wilbraham, instructs me to inform you that with the arrival on her premises at 7:30 this morning of the entire percussion section of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and several of their friends, she has no course left open to her but to seek an injunction to prevent you importuning her further. I am making arrangements for the return of much-assorted livestock. I am, Sir, yours faithfully, G. Creep Attorney at law

FUNNIES

A guy gets shipwrecked and washes up on a beach.

The sand is dark red. He can't believe it. The sky is dark red. He walks around a bit and sees there is dark red grass, dark red birds and dark red fruit on the dark red trees. He's shocked when he finds that his skin is starting to turn dark red, too.

"Oh no!!" he says. "I've been marooned!!"

THOUGHT OF THE DAY

We tend to criticize others not because they have faults, but because their faults are different from ours.



We also host all of the following regular clubs – there’s something for everyone! Dog & puppy training  Bridge Club  Rhythm Time Music sessions  Indoor Bowling  Self defence classes  Keep Fit  Scorpion Kick Boxing  Lingo Bugs French classes 

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Bees Pigeons Bird Proofing Rodent Proofing

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The Parish News February 2020 BELBROUGHTON VILLAGE NEWS

BELBROUGHTON HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY Founded 1961 Affiliated to The RHS Chairman Mr Alan Starling 07858 576532 Secretary Mrs Gill Barber (01562) 730983 Email [email protected]

February Meeting Belbroughton Church Hall

Friday 21st February 2020 7:30pm Conservatory & House Plants Philip Aubury

Monthly Competition 1. Pot Plant 2. A Decorated Cup Cake

We bid a warm return welcome to Philip Aubury. Many will know Philip from his time as the general manager of Birmingham Botanical Gardens and also from his many visits to Belbroughton and Clent.

For our February meeting Philip will be talking to us about Conservatory and house plants. During the cold winter months those with a conservatory or keen house plant collectors use this time more due to the potential cold wet weather. As always Philip will have some of his home raised plants for sale. Why not banish the winter blues and come along for some top advice and help.

Looking Back

December 2019

Our final meeting of 2019 saw us welcome in the festive season with a lovely meal and musical entertainment from Peter and Hazel. Our catering team cooked up a lovely chicken and beef casserole's plus vegetarian option. A wonderful festive feast, I know some had difficulty moving afterwards! :-)

This was our second social event and one we all look forward to. It would have been nice to welcome more new people so if you are thinking of coming along to any of our events in 2020, please do, you will be most welcome.

Clent Community & Social Club

Clent Community & Social Club is a great place to visit so why not hold your family occasion or business event in our newly refurbished Smout’s Lounge; business meetings, funeral wakes, christenings, parties – we can also cater for any buffet requirements. We have teamed up with Fever Tree to produce a bespoke gin menu for our members together with a large selection of popular gins

• Real Ales & Ciders • Large selection of flavoured Gins • Fresh cobs & snacks • Live Entertainment on Saturday nights • Quiz Nights • Large TV’s showing all the latest sporting events • Function room available for hire • Beer garden with beautiful views • Dogs are welcome but must be on a lead at all times

If you have an upcoming event and need more details please call after 4:30pm Monday – Thursday Club is open all day from 12 noon Friday, Saturday and Sunday

Pool Furlong Tel: 01562 730279 Clent Email: [email protected] DY9 9RE Website: www.clentclub.com

The Parish News February 2020

Belbroughton Church Hall Management Committee are pleased to present A Fun Night with BEV PEGG & Great Comedy Duo DANDY

Saturday March 14th at 7.30pm Belbroughton Church Hall

Fish & Chip Supper

(Vegetarian Option available on request) Bar Funds raised in aid of our Church Hall Restoration

Tickets: £18 Text; Di Ash 07975824100, Jo Holman 07890269696 or Sharon Boss 07747097633

BELBROUGHTON RECREACTION CENTRE UPDATE

We are delighted to have raised £58,500 so far to fund the development of a new Playground at the Recreation Centre for 1-12 year olds in the village. We have been overwhelmed with the support from the community and would like to thank everyone who has been involved or who has donated so far. This project has always had the community spirit at its heart and we would therefore like to reopen the Bricks campaign (www.justgiving.com/belbroughtonrecreationcentre) to allow people and businesses to buy personalised bricks which will be displayed on the side of the Recreation Centre. This will show future generations what a fantastic, supportive community we have here in Belbroughton. We will be having a consultation on the final design early in 2020 so please keep a look out for the date on the notice boards around the village. We are still £30,000 short of the total we need and, when we have gathered all of the funds we will begin the project. We are hoping for Autumn 2020. If you have any questions please feel free to contact us on Belbroughton [email protected] Thanks, Ali & Sam

The Parish News February 2020 BELBROUGHTON HISTORY SOCIETY

Welcome to our next meeting on –

Wednesday 19th February at 7.30

As usual it takes place at Belbroughton Church Hall. Entry is £3 and includes tea or coffee and biscuits. All are welcome.

Julian Hunt will give a talk on The Blue Bird Toffee Factory.

In 1927, Harry Vincent brought his toffee factory from Birmingham to the wide open spaces of Hunnington. He built a model village for his key workers and provided work for over 300 locals, most of whom were women.

Future date for your diary, more details to follow.

Wednesday 18th March In Their Own Write: Letters from the Poor by Sarah Bradley and colleagues.

Animal Sanctuary and Protection

A big thank you to all the people who came and sang carols with the horses just before Christmas. May I also add a BIG thank you to the Club for the Mulled wine and drinks for the children. To the DELI for the mince pies, but I never got one!!! Thank you too to Beautoxology for sponsorship. Fudge promises to be carol perfect next year as he has problems learning big words, and new tunes.

Belbroughton Scythe Fund A date for your dairy, back by popular demand

Crossing the Rhine with the TRENCH RAIDERS Saturday 22nd February, 7-30pm , Church Hall.

£15 per person, to include a fish and chip supper. Bring your own drinks.

Admission by ticket only, available from the DELI And Clent Hair Design.

Or ring me on 730539 and I can help. Looking forward to a fabulous evening. 1940's dress optional but would be lovely. Gaye Hadley

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The Parish News February 2020 BELBROUGHTON HISTORY SOCIETY – FROM THE ARCHIVES

Happy Birthday Belbroughton History Society!

Belbroughton History Society will be 40 years old on Friday 27 March 2020. Back in 1980, there was no written history of the village, apart from an entry in the Victoria County History (pub 1913) and Dr Pell-Walpole’s booklet on the church. So on 27 March 1980, some dozen villagers gathered at Foxglove Cottage in Hartle Lane and decided to form a history society with the aim of encouraging an interest in the history of the village, collecting records, conducting research, publishing books and arranging talks, exhibitions and other activities.

A small exhibition was held at Belbroughton School on 5 May, at which people were asked to share old photographs of the village and its residents. The response was excellent and copies were made of over 400 photographs, creating the start of the Society’s archives.

The second meeting, on 8 May, was held at Rose Cottage, and was mainly spent sorting out two boxes of old papers and documents which came to the Society from Dr Pell-Walpole via Margaret Watson (whose husband was Rector, 1931-45), another valuable contribution to the archives.

The third meeting on 27 May, at Bellem Cottage, saw the adoption of a constitution, and the formation of a committee consisting of Agnes Spier (Chairman), Dorothy Cope (Vice-Chairman), Nicki Campbell (Secretary), Alan Spier (Treasurer ) and Mary Hinton (Archivist). Life membership was subsequently set at £1 (now £2 – still a bargain!) with attendance at meetings costing £1 (now £3.50 – also a bargain!)

The following twelve months were busy. In August, calendars featuring copies of old photographs of Belbroughton were made and sold at 75p each to raise funds for the new society. The first talk was given on 9 September when John Roper spoke about C16th and C17th Scythemakers in Belbroughton. Some 80 people attended and the calendars sold out! On 13 November, Colonel Swinnerton spoke about ‘Tracing your Ancestors’, and on 10 March, a talk was given about Avoncroft.

Meanwhile, plans were being discussed to set up an extra-mural class, led by Eric Hopkins, through Birmingham University. This aimed to discover as much about the village as possible from the documentary material to hand, including wills and probate inventories, parish registers, poor law records and census enumerator books. It eventually led to the Society’s first publication, ‘Aspects of the History of Belbroughton in the C18th and C19th’ in October 1982.

The Society is still going strong and next month we will look at what we’ve done over the years. Finally, don’t forget that our meetings are open to anyone who is interested. If you’d like to join our mailing list, or contact us for any reason, please email: [email protected]

Sarah Bradley Belbroughton History Society www.belbroughtonhistory.org.uk

The Parish News February 2020 BELBROUGHTON & FAIRFIELD PARISH COUNCIL

Former Parish Councillor Marjory Rees At the 6th January Council meeting the members, the clerk and County Cllr. Karen May stood for a one minutes silence in memory of the late Mrs Marjory Rees. The Chairman Dr Bob Morgan said she was a very valued member of the Council in years past and had also been instrumental in the setting up of the Wildmoor Residents Association.

Footpath – Belbroughton Rec. to the Primary School The Parish Council has carried out repairs to this County Council owned footpath.

Fairfield Recreation Ground Potholes have now been filled in on the carpark.

V.E. Day Commemorations May 2020 The Council has agreed in principle to give financial support to local groups holding events later this year.

Precept 2020 The council has confirmed its budget for the year commencing 1st April 2020 and agreed to freeze again the Precept (that part of your Council taxes that goes to the Parish Council) at £65,000. This will equate to an approximate £54.00 for the year for a band ‘D’ property.

Planning Decisions advised by the Bromsgrove District Council: The Committee noted the following decisions: 19/01340/LBC Springfield House Dark Lane Belbroughton. To create an en-suite bathroom to the third bedroom on the second floor. Status: Application Granted 19/01332/LBC Farmhouse Barn Stourbridge Road Fairfield Replacement windows and doors in style to match existing. Status: Application Granted 19/00817/FUL Fairfield Cottage Wood Lane Fairfield Replacement Dwelling Status: Application Granted

Councillor Vacancies - Fairfield Ward The Council continues to have two positions available and would like to see the ward have full representation from its community. If you have an interest in helping your community then please come to our Council meetings to see what we do and maybe consider joining. For an informal chat please ring the clerk on 01299 270722.

Council Meeting dates The next full Council meetings are on 3rd February 2020 in the Fairfield First School then on 2nd March in The Jubilee Room, Belbroughton Recreation Centre All residents are welcome to attend, each meeting starts at 7.30 pm.

Community Engagement The Council holds an ‘Open Surgery’ session of up to 15 minutes at the beginning of full Council meetings to give residents the opportunity to meet and discuss any issues directly with their councillors.

Parish Council Website The site www.belbroughtonandfairfield-pc.info includes full details of council meetings, agendas and, minutes along with useful community information.

John Farrell, Clerk to Belbroughton and Fairfield Parish Council E mail: [email protected] Tel: 01299 270722 15

The Parish News February 2020 CHURCH SERVICES

Sunday February 2nd Candlemas (Gold/White) 9.00am Holy Communion Broome 10.00am Holy Communion Churchill 10.00am Worship 4 All St Leonard’s 10.00am Informal Service Blakedown 11.15am Morning Praise Holy Trinity 11.15am Holy Communion St Mark’s

Wednesday February 5th 11.15am Holy Communion St Leonard’s

Sunday February 9th 3rd Sunday before Lent (Green) 9.30am Holy Communion St Leonard’s 10.00am Holy Communion Blakedown tbc 11.15am Holy Communion Holy Trinity tbc 11.15am Worship4All St Mark’s

Wednesday February 12th 10.00am Holy Communion Broome

Sunday February 16th 2nd Sunday before Lent (Green) 9.00am Informal Service Broome 10.00am 3rd Sunday Worship St Leonard’s 10.00am Holy Communion Churchill 10.00am Worship4All Blakedown 11.15am Worship4All Holy Trinity 4.30pm Holy Communion St Mark’s

Wednesday February 19th 10.00am Holy Communion Broome Followed by PCC meeting 11.15am Holy Communion St Leonard’s

Sunday February 23rd Sunday before Lent (Green/Red) 9.30am Holy Communion St Leonard’s 10.00am Holy Communion Broome 11.15am Holy Communion Holy Trinity 4.00pm IONA Holy Communion Blakedown 4.30pm Evening Praise St Mark’s

Wednesday February 26th Ash Wednesday 10.00am Holy Communion Broome 11.15am Holy Communion St Leonard’s

• Information correct at time of going to press; some services may change, check Church Office if unsure

The Parish News February 2020 LOCAL ORGANISATIONS

Please note: due to new Data Protection Laws, only those who have given consent to display their details will be shown. Please contact the Church/Village Hall for further contact details.

Belbroughton

Animal Sanctuary and Protection Gaye Hadley Tel: 01562 730539

Belbroughton Church Hall Diane Ash E:[email protected] Belbroughton Cricket Club Belbroughton Club - Function room hire Belbroughton History Society Undine Tel: 01562 730050 E: [email protected] Belbroughton Horticultural Society Gill Barber Tel: 01562 730983 Belbroughton First Steps Nursery Nina Read Tel: 01562 731840 Belbroughton Recreation Centre - Hall Bookings Andy Finnie Tel: 07970 957838 E: [email protected] - Belbroughton Dog Training Club John & Brenda Head Tel: 01384 825084 E: [email protected] - Talented K9s Tel: 07708 143024 E: [email protected] - Best Pals Dog Training Club (Evenings) Karin Sweryda Tel: 07759 775619 E: [email protected] - Jnr Football Training PSI Sports Ian Delo Tel: 01299 826379 Or 07809 625620

- New Aerobics & Body Conditioning, Pilates Julie Weston Tel: 07864 186403 - Tennis Club David Slann Tel: 01562 730322 E: [email protected] - Indoor Mat Bowls Sheila Booth Tel: 07758 207575

Belbroughton Royal British Legion Rodney Spencer Tel: 01562 730030 Belbroughton Scythe Fund Jim Brown Tel: 01299 489733 Roger Hadley Tel: 01562 730539 Belbroughton Scarecrow Committee - www.belbroughtonscarecrow.co.uk Belbroughton Spinners - Belbroughton Church Hall Jill Edwards Tel: 01562 730415 Belbroughton Toddlers Mary Hughes Tel: 01562 730346 - Wednesdays 9.30-11.30am 07889 743532 Belbroughton Cricket Club E: [email protected]

The Parish News February 2020

LOCAL ORGANISATIONS Clent

Clent Parish Hall James or Tricia Tel: 01562 730381 Clent Parish Council Nick Farress Clerk E: [email protected] Clent Church Guild of Bellringers Service ringing Sun 9.30-10.00 Martin Whittaker Tel: 01562 883891 Practice Monday 19.45-21.00 Kim Topham Tel: 01562 887441 Clent Cricket Club - Centenary Field Belbroughton Rd, Clent Clent Gardening Club – Chairman Martin Grange Tel: 01562 883009/07917 184762 4th Fridays 7.30pm Clent Parish Hall Clent Hills Rotary Club Thurs 7 for 7.30pm, The French Hen, Clent Clent History Society Meets in Clent Parish Hall Paul Timmins Tel: 01562 730421 Clent School PTFA Andrea Wilkinson Tel: 07733 163517 Clent WI – Secretary Heather Carter Tel: 01562 882904 COMIC (Comedy Opera and Music in Clent) E: [email protected] Social Dancing Ballroom & Latin Lynne Thomas Tel: 01384 918892 E: [email protected] Keep Fit - Fridays 9.30-10.30pm Jennifer Field Tel: 01562 882669 Fat Blast and Body Tone Class – Weds 9.20am Jayne Sheldon Tel: 01562 887840 E: [email protected] Tai Chi/Chi Gong (meets Mondays 6.30-7.30pm) Gail Johnston E: [email protected]

Fairfield

Fairfield Village Hall - Chair Conrad Palmer Tel: 01527 833583 E: [email protected] Bookings: Andrew Billau Tel: 07762 749943 E: [email protected] Fairfield Community Association – Chair Conrad Palmer 01527 833583 E: [email protected] Fairfield Ramblers Group George Gration E: [email protected] Bingo Joanne Barnes 07979 192422 Line Dancing Ann Waldron Tel: 01527 871645 E: [email protected] National Vegetable Society Roy James E: [email protected] Pre-School & Toddlers Sharon Shorthouse Tel: 07960 060024 Ramblers Group George Gration E: [email protected] Sequence Dancing Dennis Anelli Tel: 01562 885536 Welcome Club Fairfield WI - President Carol Hine Tel: 01527 873072 E: [email protected] Zumba Elisha Waldron E: [email protected]

The Parish News February 2020 PARISH DIRECTORY

Church Office: 01562 730777

Belbroughton Fairfield Clent Priest: Revd Canon Susan Oliver Priest: Revd Richard Newton Priest : Revd Canon Susan Oliver 01562 701076 01562 701076 01562 882442

Churchwarden: Churchwarden: Churchwarden: Mr Glynn Ashman 01562 730122 Mrs Mary Fairbairn 01527 368008 Miss Rosemarie Buchan Pro-warden: Vacant 01562 700539 Pro -Warden: Mr John Penlington 01562 730888 Mr David Stokes 07807 917319 Lay Reader: Lay Reader: Lay Reader: Mrs Pauline Jones 0121 453 7785 Mrs Pauline Jones 0121 453 Mrs Kim Topham 01562 887441 Organist: 7785 Secretary to the Church Council: Mr Harry Grove 01562 777967 Please contact Church Office Guild of Ringers Tower Captain: Bookings Secretary for Village Treasurer: Mrs Rosie Marshall 01562 730535 Hall: Mr Jonathan Prior 01562 730428 Guild of Ringers Secretary: Andrew Billau 07762 749943 Organist: Mr Harry Grove 01562 777967 Mrs Sarah Bradley 01562 731025 Email: Belbroughton & Fairfield Parish [email protected] Mothers’ Union Branch Contact: Council Clerk: Mrs Anne Harris 01562 730254 Mr John Farrell 01299 270722 Bookings Secretary for Parish Bookings Secretary for Church Hall: Belbroughton with Fairfield Mrs Tricia Bradbury 01562 730381 Hall: Email: Guild of Ringers Conductor: [email protected] Secretary to the Church Mr Martin Whittaker 01562 883891 Bookings Secretary for Rec. Council: Lenny’s Contact: Centre: Mrs Undine Yates 01562 730050 Mrs Kim Topham 01562 887441 Mr Andy Finnie 07970 957838 Clent Parish Council Clerk:

Ms Ruth Mullett 01562 710255

Parish Magazine Parish Magazine DISTRIBUTION DISTRIBUTION The Editor 01562 730777 Mrs Meriel Scurrell 01527 876485

OFFICE OPENING HOURS: Mon-Weds 9-12am for Weddings, Funerals & Baptisms, Weds-Fri 9-12am for Parish Magazine/publications COPIES Can be ordered from the Distributors or purchased from: McColl’s, Belbroughton & the Churches CONTRIBUTIONS For consideration to Church Office, 19 Church Road, Belbroughton DY9 9TE Email: [email protected] COPY DATE Is the end of the first week of the preceding month ADVERTISEMENTS / EDITOR Contact: The Editor (Christine Thomas), on 01562 730777 at Church Office, address above, or Email: [email protected] WEBSITE Three Churches website: www.bfc-worcs.co.uk Clent website: www.clent-worcs.co.uk Fairfield & Wildmoor Community Notice Board website: www.fairfieldvillage.co.uk Clent Parish Council website: www.clentparishcouncil.gov.uk MISSION GROUP website: www.thebeneficemissiongroup.weebly.com

The PARISH NEWS accepts NO RESPONSIBILITY for the service, products or otherwise of Advertisers in this publication. Advertisements are reviewed on an annual basis, although ad-hoc adverts may be placed throughout the year. Should you wish to place a new advert or make changes to an existing advert, please contact the Editor Tel: 01562 730777 or Email: [email protected] to be included in this publication

The Parish News February 2020

FAIRFIELD VILLAGE NEWS

Date Reading the Lessons Sidespeople Flowers & Brasses 2nd February Mr T Jones Mr R Garvin P Jones 9th February Mr P Jones Mrs M Scurrell M Fairbairn 16th February Mr C Palmer Mr P Jones C Brogan 23rd February Mrs M Fairbairn Mr D Hardeman M Scurrell 1st March Mr T Jones Mrs M Scurrell No flowers

St Mark’s Church Cleaning Rota

31st January M Scurrell 7th February P & T Jones 14th February C Brogan st 21 February C Morris 28th February P Jones

FAIRFIELD 200 CLUB DRAW DECEMBER 2019

PRIZE NUMBER NUMBER NUMBER NUMBER £100 118 Not a member? Why not £10 74 191 95 join? Only £1.00 p/mth, with some great cash £5 57 180 71 49 prizes up to £200.00 to be

won. Proceeds support Fairfield Village Hall http://fvca.org.uk/200-club/ Administrator – Linda Garvin 01527 834935

FAIRFIELD DINING GROUP

Make new friends and catch up with old at our lunchtime gathering, touring fine eateries in and around Bromsgrove.

Please contact Pat Steward (01527 832360) if you wish to attend or require further information.

17th February Bromsgrove16 Golf Club 16th March The Fox, Chaddesley Corbett

The Parish News February 2020 National Vegetable Society at Fairfield West Midlands District Association (DA)

Growing Vegetables for the Kitchen

The first meeting of 2020 by West Midlands District Association (DA) of the National Vegetable Society (NVS) will be at Fairfield Village Hall on Thursday 27 February. The hall will be open 7.00 pm with Free Tea/Coffee.

The Meeting will commence at 8.00 pm with a brief report on last year’s progress and an update of the plans and programme for 2020 which again includes the DA hosting the display at Gardeners World Live at the NEC June 18th-21st and the Annual Show Thursday 27 August.

The main event of the evening is a Presentation by David Thornton FNVS entitled Growing Vegetables for the Kitchen. David a former General Secretary of the NVS is an Experienced Lecturer, qualified Show Judge and Exhibitor having won many prizes at National Level. He is owner of Select Seeds, which has been established for 30 years, David and wife Jill have run the business for the last 5 years, many of the UK’s top Exhibitors have had good success on the Show Bench using the varieties available from Select Seeds.

The business is open all year round, but by it’s very nature can be quite seasonal, therefore David has a part time “day job”; being a qualified animal nutritionist and feed specialist he provides technical support to a 9 strong farm sales team

Returning by popular request, it is more than 5 years since he gave us a very interesting talk on the use of Fertilisers in the Kitchen Garden, this time he will be able to give us more information and advice on growing vegetables for the kitchen, which will include some of the newer varieties like Minoprio F1 Tomato, Hawkesbury Wonder French Bean and possibly some new introductions this year. He will bring Catalogues and have Seeds available.

New Members, Visitors or anyone interested in growing vegetables are always welcome to attend. For Visitors there is a £3 admission fee which includes Tea/Coffee and Biscuits.

Fairfield Village Hall is situated on the B 4091 (Stourbridge to Bromsgrove Road) about 2.25 miles from J4 on the M5. For anyone using Sat. Nav. the Post Code of the Village Hall is B61 9LZ. If anyone requires further information please contact: Roy James on Tel: 01527 831508 or email roy_james2 @sky.com (preferred).

Something better than biscuits One Sunday morning, at a small village church, the new Vicar called upon one of the congregation to lead in the opening prayer. The man stood up, bowed his head, and proceeded as follows: Lord, I hate buttermilk and Lord I hate lard. Also Lord, I am not too keen about plain flour, but after you mix them all together and bake them in the oven, I just love the biscuits. So Lord, help us to realise that when life gets hard, when things come up that we don’t like and when we don’t understand what you are doing, that we need to wait and see what you are making. After you get through mixing and baking, it will probably be something better than biscuits. Amen

The Parish News February 2020 FAIRFIELD VILLAGE COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

PRESS RELEASE: FEBRUARY FLICKS

The Fairfield Flicks initiative to reduce social isolation is attracting people of all ages who would otherwise not interact with the local community.

During the half-term break, a film for all ages PETER RABBIT (PG), Wednesday 19th February 11am.

Peter Rabbit, the mischievous and adventurous hero who has captivated generations of readers, takes on the starring role of his own cute, contemporary comedy with attitude. In the film, Peter’s feud with Mr. McGregor (Domhnall Gleeson) escalates to greater heights than ever before as they rival for the affections of the warm-hearted animal lover who lives next door (Rose Byrne). James Corden, with playful spirit and wild charm, voices the character of Peter, alongside Margot Robbie, Elizabeth Debicki and Daisy Ridley voicing the roles of the triplets, Flopsy, Mopsy and Cotton-Tail.

Relive the 1980’s with the feel-good film of 2019 BLINDED BY THE LIGHT (12A), Wednesday 19th February 7.30pm.

Set in 1987, during the austere days of Thatcher’s Britain, ‘Blinded By The Light’ is a joyous, coming-of-age story about a teenager who learns to live life, understand his family and find his own voice through the words and music of Bruce Springsteen.

Step back in time to the Great Depression and enjoy the comedy-drama film O BROTHER, WHER ART THOU? (12A), Wednesday 26th February 2.15pm. Written, produced, and directed by Joel and Ethan Coen, and starring George Clooney, John Turturro, and Tim Blake Nelson.

Three escaped convicts, led by smooth-talking Everett Ulysees McGill (George Clooney), set out to recover money, buried after an armoured car heist, before they are captured by the mysterious lawman Cooley.

Afternoon Screening £3.00 p/person and Evening screening £5.00 p/person. Tea, Coffee, Pop Corn and Ice Cream on sale. Films are screened at Fairfield Village Hall (Stourbridge Road, Fairfield, B61 9LZ) and there is FREE PARKING.

For further information and to book tickets visit www.fairfieldflicks.org.uk

Neighbourhood Watch FVCA have been made aware of incidents in neighbouring areas, plus ongoing telephone and online scams. Please review your home and vehicle security.

The Parish News February 2020 Community Litter Picks Help keep your community clean and tidy, join the volunteer litter pickers on the 2nd Saturday of each month. Meet outside the Village Hall 10.30am. Litter picking equipment is provided, wear suitable clothes and footwear.

Gullies Drainage grids and gullies across Fairfield, Wildmoor & Stoneybridge have still not been cleared and recent heavy rainfall has further eroded some of our lanes. FVCA will, once again, be raising these issues with Cty Cllr Webb and Highways Officials.

Social Wednesdays 2nd Wednesday of the month is a Social Afternoon at the Village Hall, with

Coffee and Natter - enjoy a catch up with a Danish Pastry;

Talk, Tea & Tech - bring along your phone, tablet and/or laptop for gadget assistance (Barton Room);

Ping in the Community - play a friendly game of table tennis. 2pm - 4pm

Fairfield Flicks Enjoy the big screen at Fairfield Village Hall. Afternoon Screening £3.00 p/person and Evening screening £5.00 p/person. Tea, Coffee, Pop Corn and Ice Cream on sale.

19th February 11.00am Peter Rabbit 19th February 7.30pm Blinded By The Light 26th February 2.15pm O Brother, Where Art Thou?

Fairfield Diners Next meal 17th February at the Bromsgrove Golf Club. Make new friends and catch up with old at our lunchtime gathering, touring fine eateries in and around Bromsgrove. Please contact Pat Steward (01527 832360) if you wish to attend or require further information.

Festive Fairfield Feedback We need your honest feedback to help shape future Festive Fairfield activities. What did you think of last December’s Festive Fairfield? Which activities did you attend? Did you enjoy the activities? If you did not come along to any of the activities, what would have encouraged you to support a Festive Fairfield activity? What changes do you feel would keep Festive Fairfield fresh and new? What new activities would you like to take place? Email: [email protected]

Hedges Before the end of February, please cut back your hedges that are adjacent to the footpaths. Some hedges are narrowing footpaths, forcing people with mobility aids and pushchairs to walk on road – which has, as we all know, some very fast traffic.

The Parish News February 2020 Saturday Socials/Meetings Come along to the Village Hall on the first Saturday of the month, 10am. Enjoy a catch up with friends, play table tennis and discuss community issues. Occasionally there will be a short film.

February 1st Social Saturday, Village Hall, 10am – 11am 8th Litter Pick, meet Village Hall, 10.30am 12th Coffee & Natter, Village Hall, 2pm 12th Talk, Tea & Tech, Village Hall (Barton Room), 2pm 12th Fairfield W.I., Village Hall, 7.30pm 17th Fairfield Dining Group, Golf Club, 12.30pm 19th Fairfield Flicks - Peter Rabbit, Village Hall, 11am 19th Fairfield Flicks - Blinded By The Light, Village Hall, 7.30pm 26th Fairfield Flicks - O Brother Where Art Thou? 2.15pm

March 28th Scratchy Beard in Concert, Village Hall, 6.30pm

The Paradoxical Commandments

People are illogical, unreasonable, and self-centred. Love them anyway. If you do good, people will accuse you of selfish ulterior motives. Do good anyway. If you are successful you will win false friends and true enemies. Succeed anyway. The good you do today may be forgotten tomorrow. Do good anyway. Honesty and frankness make you vulnerable. Be honest and frank anyway. The biggest men and women with the biggest ideas, can be shot down by the smallest men and women with the smallest minds. Think big anyway. People favour underdogs but follow only top dogs. Fight for a few underdogs anyway. What you spend years building may be destroyed overnight. Build anyway. People really need help but may attack you if you do help them. Help people anyway. Give the world the best you have and you may get kicked in the teeth. Give the world the best you have anyway.

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The Parish News February 2020 FAIRFIELD WI

This was the first meeting of the New Year and The Norbury Theatre is situated within this everyone was warmly welcomed. building and it is a volunteer run theatre. Subscriptions had to be paid so it made a very I was surprised to hear of the number of busy evening for Sheila our Treasurer. productions they put on in a year and they have a Children's Theatre and Youth Theatre Group Mary was absent as she is not very well, we also. wish her a speedy recovery. Besides the Theatre they have a cinema, hold The cup for the most points gained in the music and events and live screening. So very Competition entries for 2019 was presented to extensive usage and they also hire out Maggie Mason. theatrical costumes and properties. Anne Maggie said that in all the years she had been showed us pictures of the Theatre and the a member this was the first time she had won auditorium and some items of the old hotel they the trophy. She was clearly delighted . have managed to salvage and still use. Our annual meal has been arranged for 26th It was very interesting and they have a full February at The Swan, Upton Warren. We programme of events for 2020. Well worth a have to be there at 6.30 for 7pm. visit I am sure. WFWI are holding the Spring meeting in Another interesting fact is that the ATS did all Pershore on 30th March. The cost is £8.50. their initial training in the Hotel. NFWI Annual meeting is being held in The Shirley gave the vote of thanks saying how Royal Albert Hall London on 4th June. The cost much we all enjoyed the talk. is £22.00 but it is advised that members make The competition of 'An Interesting Theatre their own way there as coaches appear to be Programme' was won by Maggie, 2nd Beverly full. 3rd Beverly Blackwell and Burcott WI are holding their soup The raffle prizes were won by Maggie, Sheila lunch on 12th February in Burcott Village Hall. and Jennifer. The cost is £4 per person. ( Maggie had a very good evening winning The Group have asked members to knit red everything that was going – well deserved) wool squares for Worcester Hospital. Wool will be provided. Our next meeting is on February 12th at 7.30 pm the Speaker is Tina Hobin on Belly Dancing The Spring Group Meeting is being hosted by (sounds good) the Competition is Baubles, Dodford WI on 24th March. Bangles and Beads. Do come along you will be Our speaker this evening was Anne Lane on very welcome. 'The Norbury Theatre Droitwich'. We first had a short introduction on the building itself and the fact that it started out as a 5* hotel called The Norbury House Hotel. After the War it had been used as a hospital, flats to house families of serving regular soldiers who would otherwise be homeless, Council offices, and again flats.

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The Parish News February 2020

CLENT VILLAGE NEWS

CLEANING ROTA

1st February Jenny Trigg & Jane Collins 8th February Rose Hughes & Lyn Bruton 15th February Lynn Edwards & Melinda Martin 22nd February Liz Coyle & Janet Adams 29th February Clare Morgan

CLENT MOTHERS’ UNION

As usual, in January, we held our AGM and it was encouraging to see all our members in attendance with only 3 apologies for unavoidable absence.

After our time of worship, our branch leader, Anne Harris, opened the meeting, which was conducted with Anne’s usual efficiency. Members were given copies of Minutes of 2019 GM, also copies of the accounts, which were crystal clear as usual. Anne read out her annual report, in which she warmly thanked members for their unstinting support and generosity. The minutes were approved and signed. All officers and committee members agreed to continue in their posts. Our treasurer, Jan Woolley, made a point of thanking Anne for her excellent leadership of our branch, which is borne out by the fact that we have a very active, well-supported branch. There being no other business, the business of the AGM came to a close. Our next branch meeting on the 6th February will be the Candlemas Party and Quiz, and Anne asked for volunteers to help provide food for the event. Members responded very generously and Anne thanked them very much. Candlemas will be at 2pm in Clent Parish Hall and members are requested to bring the food on plates and covered. Thank you

When it's all over To find the lost When the song of the angels is stilled To heal the broken When the star in the sky is gone, To feed the hungry When the kings and princes are home To release the prisoner When the shepherds are back with their flocks To rebuild the nations The work of Christmas begins….. To bring peace among the people To make music in the heart

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Saturday 8 February at 7-30 pm

Clent Parish Hall Fundraisers

present in assoc with Shindig (Worcs. Arts Council)

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An evening of music and lively banter. Blues, jazz & folk delivered with wit and a tongue-in-cheek style by three of the most experienced musicians in the business.

Eclectic Acoustic Vaudeville……… …..and everyone gets a kazoo!! Tickets £11 - Licensed bar provided From Roland 01562 887733 or via email: [email protected]

Saturday 14 March at 7-30 pm Top Tip of the month Clent Parish Hall Fundraisers Petra from Perpetual Wellbeing says: present in assoc with Shindig (Worcs. Arts Council) If you think you eat too much and your portion sizes are too big....then you do, and they are! Spitz & Co in Cut down the portion, cut down the calories! ‘Les Gloriables’ Kind regards

PW Team Glamorous French actress Gloria Body, Mind Health & Fitness Coaching Delaneuf has dreamed a dream…..to take ‘Les Miserables’ to the streets Chaddesley Corbett History Society (and hapless assistant Josephine has

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‘Les Gloriables’…...Vive La Revolution!!

Tickets £11 - Licensed bar provided From Roger 01562 886457 or via email: [email protected]

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The Parish News February 2020 CLENT HISTORY SOCIETY – FROM THE ARCHIVES

January 1904 Parish Magazine.

After this magazine had gone to print, there passed away one who had spent the greatest part of a long life in Clent. Mr. Alfred Roberts died on December 29th, only a few hours after receiving Holy Communication. He held strong views on many matters which are com- prehended in the width of our Church, but of his genuine earnestness there was no doubt, and he was extraordinarily kind to a great number of people. His interest in Missionary and Temperance work was unflagging; his house was constantly filled with guests- especially sons of poor clergy- who could obtain little other holiday, and he was always thinking out kindnesses for some one or other. He faced death bravely and faithfully, trusting that he passed hence at peace with God and man.

August 1905 Parish magazine.

There has been an increasing need felt in past years for a Parish room. Our school rooms have many demands upon them, and cannot always meet them all: more over school desks and benches are not the best seats for grown up people; and school hours necessarily limit the time available. So that an offer from the Trustees of the estate of the late Mr. Alfred Roberts to provide the main cost of a Parish room is a matter for much thankfulness. The room will be known as" the Alfred Roberts Memorial Room” and will be in control of the Vicar, Churchwardens, and two others (elected at the Easter Vestry) as administrative Trustees. A site in Church Avenue has been offered as a gift from Mr. G. F. Chance. A Meeting was held at the School on July 28th to consider the matter, and was well attended. The offer from the Robert’s Trustees was gratefully accepted, as also was that of the site from Mr. Chance. Mr. T. Grazebrook submitted a ground plan of the proposed building, which was generally approved; and a Committee was appointed to carry on the scheme, and with authority to accept plans.

Paul Timmins (Chairman)

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ANDREW E S SHERREY CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT LABURNUM HOUSE, ADAMS HILL, CLENT, STOURBRIDGE DY9 9PS TELEPHONE: 01562 885496 E mail: [email protected] • Business forecasts • Business & Personal Taxation • Advice on Start-ups • Bookkeeping • Accounts Preparation • Company Formations • VAT Returns • Payroll Service PleasePlease phone phone for for an an initial initial freefree consultation The Parish News February 2020 CLENT PARISH COUNCIL

This is the time of year where the Parish Council sets its budget for the financial year beginning 1st April 2020.

The Council have decided not to increase its share of the council tax this coming year. This is because the Council will make savings on the cost of staff and administration in 2020/2021 and will therefore have adequate funds to run its services even taking into account inevitable cost increases. The savings will also mean that the Council can consider improvements to the playing fields and update some equipment, as well as keep a reserve for any unforeseen issues that might require attention during the year.

The next meeting of the Council will be the 17th February 2020 at the Parish Hall.

Clent Village Commemoration of 75th Anniversary of VE Day

Next year sees the 75th anniversary of VE day and a number of events are being organised to commemorate the end of World War 2 in Europe. The 8th May 1945 was the day peace emerged after nearly 6 years of war so the anniversary on the 8th May 2020 represents an important milestone in history. The celebrations will cover the weekend of the 8th to 10th May 2020 and will be a celebration of peace across the land and especially here in Clent. One of the events for the weekend will be a concert by the Trench Raiders who gave such an excellent concert to mark A Nation’s Tribute on 11th November 2018. They will be performing in Clent Village Hall on the evening of 8th May. Further information can be obtained from Sue Hindle-Smith [email protected] 07807836746. Details of how to buy tickets and of what other events will be taking place over the commemorative weekend will be in the next Parish News.

CLENT GARDENING CLUB

All are welcome at our meetings which are held at Clent Village Hall on the 4th Friday each month and anyone interested in either joining or just visiting the Club can get further details by visiting our website on https://clentgardeningclub.wordpress.com or by contacting our Chairman Martin Grange 01562 883009/07917 184762.

Our next meeting is on Friday 28th February.

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The Parish News February 2020

CHURCHILL AND BLAKEDOWN HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Forthcoming Events at the Norman Dawson Sports Pavilion

Forthcoming guest speakers’ evenings and events, held on the third Monday of the months shown, in the Norman Dawson Sports Pavilion at 7.30pm. Entrance £2 members, £4 non members

17 February 2020 “The Back to Back Houses Project”. Derek Clarke returns to tell us about the National Trust’s acclaimed Birmingham conservation project 16 March 2020 “Worcestershire Worthies”. Notable people from our County introduced by Anthony Collis 18 May 2020 “Hear ye! Hear Ye!” Ken Knowles the Town Crier of Lichfield tells us about his interesting role in a historic Staffordshire town. Preceded by AGM 20 July 2020 “Adventures with our 1933 Austin Motor Car”. Continental journeys with Robin Skerratt 21 Sept 2020 “The Great Fire of Warwick” with Dr Gillian White, who explains the events of 1694 19 October 2020 “The Bluebird Toffee Factory” with Julian Hunt. A reminder of all our local childhoods

Historical Society Events at the Signal Box

OUR COFFEE MORNINGS ARE NOW ON SATURDAYS!

Saturday Coffee mornings now 10am till 1pm – Filter coffee, teas, home made cake, all proceeds to Historical Society funds. Come and enjoy a pleasant cup of filter coffee and watch the trains go by!

New - Come on Coffee morning Saturdays and look at selected photo albums from the Historical Society’s archive. A lot of talking points we are sure! What can you spot that’s new to you, or that you can add background information for? Bring your memories of Churchill and Blakedown…..

Our website is live! Visit at https://candbhistorical.weebly.com. Here’s where it all comes together, including online links to the Society’s digital archive and the archive of the parish magazine going back as far as the 1860s!

Society Membership is just £10 for the year, renews every 1st April. Members meeting entry £2, including refreshments….and there is our prize draw! If you want to see what it’s like before joining, non-members are welcome at the speakers’ evenings for just £4 on the door. For more information contact Jim Long on 01562 701168.

Famous last words

(Spoken by Hugh Latimer to Nicholas Ridley before they were burnt at the stake for heresy) Be of good comfort, Master Ridley, and play the man; we shall this day light such a candle, by God’s grace in England, as I trust shall never be put out. 27

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The Parish News February 2020

Rotary Club of Hagley Godfrey Partridge phf, Vice President and Public Relations Officer No 1328 District 1060 5 Shelduck Grove, Kidderminster, Worcestershire DY10 4EF

 01562 827 225 E-Mail [email protected]

November/December 2019

This autumn The Rotary Club of Hagley enjoyed a number of memorable events. We were privileged to be given a presentation by Charlie Burke from Midland Air-Ambulance, which was Past President Julie Banks nominated charity for our year 2018-19. We were able to present them with a cheque to support the excellent work they do throughout the Midlands

Two of the clubs old friends, Chrissy and Michael Bentley also visited us in November and gave us a much needed reminder of the excellent work F.O.A.G is doing in the development of agriculture grain storage and crop harvesting in Africa. We were able to present them with contribution to support their efforts and future projects.

Katie Price, the recipient of the Haybridge High School Rotary Clubs award for Endeavour, visited us in December to thank the club for installing this annual award as its first nomination and student. Mr Price accompanied his daughter and joined the club in commending this new initiative the club is providing.

Finally the club celebrated its Christmas Party on the 16th which was also the 1st anniversary of the clubs meetings being moved to the Lyttleton Arms. In addition to an excellent festive meal the club was introduced to the game of Naughty Santa with great originality and fun. We look forward to the new year when our club reconvenes on Monday 6th January 2020 So if readers would like to have fun with purpose, give consideration to joining our club who meet at 7.00pm for 7.30pm on Monday evenings at the Lyttleton Arms by visiting our website at https://hagleyrotary.wixsite.com/website. Or make a phone call to: Martin Freckelton on 01562 700 391 or Dave Santus on 01562 886 529 They will be delighted to tell you more about our club

FEBRUARY IN THE GARDEN

1. Prepare vegetable seed beds, and sow some vegetables under cover 2. Chit potato tubers 3. Protect blossom on apricots, nectarines and peaches 4. Net fruit and vegetable crops to keep the birds off 5. Prune winter-flowering shrubs that have finished flowering 6. Divide bulbs such as snowdrops, and plant those ‘in the green’ 7. Prune Wisteria 8. Prune hardy evergreen hedges 9. Prune conservatory climbers such as bougainvillea 10. Cut back deciduous grasses left uncut over the winter, remove dead grass.

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The Parish News February 2020

BELBROUGHTON RECREATION HALL – REGULAR BOOKINGS AS FOLLOWS:-

MONDAY 1.00 – 3.00 pm Talented K9s 7.00 – 8.00 pm Pilates Class TUESDAY 1.00 – 3.00 pm Talented K9s 7.30 – 10.00pm Belbroughton Dog Training Club

WEDNESDAY 10.00 – 12.00am Talented K9s 2.00 – 4.00 pm Bowling Club 3.30 – 5.15 pm LingoBugs Children’s French Speaking Class (Jubilee Room) 6.30 – 9.30 pm Best Pals Dog Training Club 7.00 pm No Fear Bridge in Jubilee Room

THURSDAY 6.30 – 8.30 pm Best Pals Dog Training Club FRIDAY 9.30 – 3.00 pm Scent Pals

Outside of these regular bookings, other times are available for activities. The adjacent play area makes the Hall an ideal venue for childrens’ parties. The newly upgraded Jubilee Room is available for day and evening hire, business meetings, activities, private parties, etc.

For full details please contact Andy Finnie on 07970 957838

BELBROUGHTON CHURCH HALL BOOKINGS

MORNING AFTERNOON EVENING Sat 1 2-11 Party 2-11 Party Sun 2 9-11 tidy up 2-6 Party Mon 3 Tues 4 6-7 Dance / 7.30-8.30 Yoga Weds 5 9.30-11.30 Toddlers 7.30-9.30 Spinners Thurs 6 9.10-11.30 Pilates 6.30-7.30 Yoga Fri 7 Sat 8 12-5 Party Sun 9 Mon 10 Tue 11 6-7 Dance / 7.30-8.30 Yoga Weds 12 9.30-11.30 Toddlers 7-10 Vets Thurs 13 6.30-7.30 Yoga Fri 14 10-12 Coffee Morning Sat 15 Sun 16 Mon 17 Tues 18 6-7 Dance / 7.30-8.30 Yoga Weds 19 9.30-11.30 Toddlers 7-10 Belbroughton History Society Thurs 20 9.10-11.30 Pilates Fri 21 7-10 Horticultural Society Sat 22 6-11 Party Sun 23 Mon 24 Tues 25 6-7 Dance / 7.30-8.30 Yoga Weds 26 9.30-11.30 Toddlers Thurs 27 9.10-11.30 Pilates 6.30-7.30 Yoga Fri 28 Sat 29 9-7 Party 9-7 Party

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FAIRFIELD VILLAGE HALL BOOKINGS

MORNING AFTERNOON EVENING Sat 1 Childrens Party Sun 2 Mon 3 Preschool Preschool / Jo's Dance Line Dancing Tues 4 Preschool Preschool Sequence Dancing Weds 5 Preschool Social Wednesday Thurs 6 Preschool Preschool Zumba Fri 7 Preschool Preschool Martial Arts Sat 8 Children's Party Childrens Party Sun 9 Children's Party Mon 10 Preschool Preschool / Jo's Dance Line Dancing Tue 11 Preschool Preschool Sequence Dancing Weds 12 Preschool Fairfield WI Thurs 13 Preschool Preschool Zumba Fri 14 Preschool Preschool Martial Arts Sat 15 Childrens Party Sun 16 WMGA (Barton Room) WMGA (Barton Room) Mon 17 Line Dancing Tues 18 Sequence Dancing Weds 19 Junior Flicks Social Wednesday Fairfield Flicks Thurs 20 Zumba Fri 21 Martial Arts Sat 22 Sun 23 Mon 24 Preschool Preschool / Jo's Dance Line Dancing Tues 25 Preschool Preschool Sequence Dancing Weds 26 Preschool Social Wednesday Thurs 27 Preschool Preschool Zumba Fri 28 Preschool Preschool Martial Arts Sat 29 British Fuchsia Society British Fuchsia Society

CLENT PARISH HALL BOOKINGS

MORNING AFTERNOON EVENING

Sat 1 Sun 2 Mon 3 Tai Chi COMIC Theatre Co Tues 4 Yoga with Chet Weds 5 FROGS Ballroom & Latin class Thurs 6 Mothers Union Soaring Association Fri 7 Keep Fit Sat 8 Fundraisers Fundraisers Sun 9 Mon 10 Tai Chi COMIC Theatre Co Tue 11 Yoga with Chet Weds 12 FROGS Ballroom & Latin class Thurs 13 WI Fri 14 Keep Fit Sat 15 Sun 16 Mon 17 Clent Parish Council Tues 18 Yoga with Chet Weds 19 FROGS Ballroom & Latin class Thurs 20 COMIC Theatre Co Fri 21 Keep Fit Church Social Church Social Sat 22 Sun 23 Mon 24 Tai Chi COMIC Theatre Co Tues 25 Yoga with Chet Weds 26 FROGS Ballroom & Latin class Thurs 27 COMIC Theatre Co Fri 28 Keep Fit Gardening Club Sat 29 COMIC Theatre Co COMIC Theatre Co

Fri 31 Keep Fit 30

WHAT’S ON AT A GLANCE

FEBRUARY MARCH

3rd Belbroughton & Fairfield Parish Council 2nd Belbroughton & Fairfield Parish meeting 7.30pm Fairfield 1st School Council meeting 7.30pm 6th Clent MU Open Afternoon - Candlemas Belbroughton REC Party 2pm Clent Parish Hall 5-7th COMIC present Out Of Order 8th Mumbo Jumbo in Concert 7.30pm 7.30pm Clent Parish Hall Clent Parish Hall 5th Clent MU Branch meeting 2pm 12th Fairfield WI 7.30pm FVH Clent Parish Hall Speaker: Rosie 13th Clent WI 7.30pm Clent Parish Hall Marshall & Martin Whittaker – Sally Dickson – the Lunar Society of Bellringing in Belbroughton and Birmingham Clent 14th Belbroughton Coffee Morning 10-noon 12-14th Wave of Prayer Belbroughton Church Hall 12th Belbroughton Scythe Fund – 14th Fun comedy night at Belbroughton Celebrations marking 75th Anniv Church Hall 7.30pm with fish & chip Of VE Day – Comedy evening with Supper Dinner at Ye Olde Horseshoe 17th Fairfield Dining group 12th Clent WI 7.30pm Clent Parish Hall 19th Belbroughton History Society – Annalisa Jones – The Making of 7.30pm Belbroughton Church Hall Handwoven Bags from the Philippines Speaker: Julian Hunt - The Blue Bird 14th Comedy night at Belbroughton Church Toffee Factory Hall 7.30pm with fish & chip supper 19th February Flicks at FVH 11am and 14th Clent Parish Hall fundraisers present 7.30pm Spitz & Co in Les Gloriables 21st St Leonard’s Church Social 7.15pm 16th Fairfield dining group Clent Parish Hall 18th Belbroughton History Society – 21st Belbroughton Horticultural Society In Their own Write: Letters from the 7.30pm Belbroughton Church Hall Poor by Sarah Bradley, Speaker: Philip Aubury – Belbroughton Church Hall 7.30pm Conservatory & House Plants 28th Scratch Beard in Concert 6.30pm 22nd Belbroughton Scythe Fund – Crossing Fairfield Village Hall The Rhine with the Trench Raiders 30th Fairfield WI Spring Meeting Belbroughton Church Hall 26th Fairfield WI Annual meal at The Swan Upton Warren 26th Fairfield Flicks at FVH 2.15pm 27th NVS at Fairfield 7pm Fairfield Village Hall – Growing Veg for the Kitchen 28th Clent Gardening club 7.30pm Clent Parish Hall

Friends for Lunch, Belbroughton - last Tuesday of the month 12-2pm

Front Cover picture: Clent Photo: c/o Nina Warwick Printed by Pace Design Ltd (01905 754554)