Meriden Mag Summer 2008
Sunday 8 ththth June Saturday 14 ththth June Festival Fair and Megaride Centre Celebrations
11.45am onwards On the Green at Meriden playing fields 10.30am – 3.00pm In aid of County Air Ambulance Games and activities Stalls, Face Painting Huge motorcycle ride in from Outreach bus Leamington Spa Charity auction Coleshill Brass Band cream teas at the Lots of stalls Centre Hot and cold food Organised by Free entry for all local residents Heart of England Outreach Come along and join the fun Organised by the Rotary Club of Meriden
Friday 6 ththth June ththth Wednesday 18 June National Festival Circus Fun afternoon Meriden School For accompanied pre-school children 4.00pm, 5.30pm and 7.00pm At Meriden tickets £4 for children and OAP’s Methodist £6 for adults Nursery, Main Rd available from the School or Meriden 1.00 - 4.00pm Library, stalls and fun activities for all £3 per the family adult ndndnd st Sunday 22 June SunSundayday 31 stst Open Air Service August The Preacher’s Tree, Kinwalsey Lane Open Gardens Meet at 2.30pm to walk from the in aid of Cancer Research Village Green or 4.00pm at the Tree 11.00am – 5.00pm Tea afterwards. Tickets £2.50 from Lavender House Organised by the Methodist Church (next to Village Hall)
For further information, and photos of last year’s event have a look at the Meriden Festival website www.meriden-festival.org.uk Perhaps you can see yourself in some of the photos or contact David Maugham on 01827 68271 STRAWBERRY BANK HOTEL & RESTAURANT
Our restaurant serves
A La Carte English and
continental menus, as well
Ideal setting for a family reunion whether as a 3 course Dinner Menu from £15.95 Monday – a wedding, anniversary, christening or Friday funeral. £16.95 Saturday Set in beautiful gardens, we cater for £15.95 Sunday Lunch for small or large parti es in the restaurant or three courses our two Function suites. Licensed for Civil Ceremonies. NEW Visit our website for more information or BAR SNACK MENU come along to see us. From £3.95 to £6.95 In restaurant lounge www.strawberrybank.co.uk Tuesday to Friday telephone: 01676 522117 Lunch & Evening Email:[email protected] Main Road, Meriden, Coventry CV7 7NF
Don’t forget the Meriden Mag has its own web site, “I am on the gin and where you can view back issues or friends and tonic diet – so far I have relatives not in the area can catch up on local news www.meridenmag.co.uk lost two days!”
Lavender Hall Lane Berkswell
01676 530 299 / 07949 119 436
Painting and decorating Cafe open to the public from 8.00am – 2.00pm daily Contractors 7 days a week Coving Specialists Serving hot and cold food Specialising in an all day breakfast GeneGeneralral for £3.90! Building Repairs 5 fishing lakes in glorious Tel: 01922 631750 countryside Now selling a complete range of baits Mob: 07831 600829 Mob: 07785 333636 Gates open at 7.00am close at dusk
Hello from Meriden School
It’s coming up to the time of year that we hold Induction meetings for our new Nursery and Reception children and parents. We enjoy meeting families again with a new and younger sibling- and for some of you parents it’s a return to Meriden where you came as a child! If for any reason you have not entered your child for school Nursery yet, do call us straight away to arrange a visit.
The summer term has many events and visits going on. We are carrying on with a programme of visits to Meriden library with each class, which is proving very valuable. Years 4 and 5 are having cricket training from Warwickshire Cricket Board and taking part in a festival at the end to try out their newfound skills. Our Music evening is on Thurs 5 th June from 6-7.30pm when nearly every class will be performing as a showcase for all the music opportunities here in school.
The Circus will be in town! Friday June 6th The PTA have arranged a Circus for our summer event. There are three showings at 4pm, 5.30pm and 7pm, and tickets are going fast. You are all very welcome to come- there will be some stalls and refreshments as well. If you are interested tickets are available from the school office- 01676 522488.
‘Healthy Week’ Mon 16 th – 20 th June Lots of activities are planned to make this an exciting and interesting week for the children. Are there any people out there in the village who would like to offer any involvement? Maybe you are St John’s Ambulance trained and would like to come and show the children what you do? Are you a nurse or dietician…or keen on exercise or simply someone with a couple of hours to spare to help? We want to give a wide variety of experiences to show the children ideas to live a healthy life.
Our Junior Production will be on Wed 9 th and Thurs 10 th July ; there is as usual an open invitation to come along to the Dress rehearsal to you our village friends, on Tues 8 th July. Please ring school if you’d like to come along. There are rumours of devious spies and wartime nostalgia flying round school at the moment, so it sounds like a lot of fun!
I hope to see you all at one of our events and wish you all a happy and healthy summer. Jacky Smith
Visits to Meriden Library
Help! - Lunchtime Supervis ors Required All the staff and pupils would like to say “Thank you” to Donna and Marion at Meriden Library. Throughout the Would you like to work with children? school year, one class each week has visited the library to use the resources there to research a particular topic. Meriden School is looking for, positive, Some sessions have been led by the class teacher, with flexible lunchtime supervisors to join our assistance from Marion and Donna, and some by Donna friendly team. and Chris Turner from Solihull Library. Do you have a few hours a week to help The topics have ranged from “Magnets and Springs” to supervise children during the lunch period, “the Great Fire of London” and Donna and Marion have 11.50am – 13.20pm either each day or provided some wonderful books and resources and particularly Wednesdays and Fridays? produced quizzes which the children have enjoyed Please ask amongst family and friends – it completing. could easily suit an active retired person. We feel so lucky to be able to take the children out of the Do contact school if you are interested or classroom to experience a different learning environment know anyone who may fit the bill on in the local community. 01676 522488. See children’s thank you letters later in this Mag. ST LAURENCE CHURCH NEWS Rector Rev Michael Dawkins Tel 01676 522 719 The Rectory The Green Meriden CV7 7LN Church Wardens Marian Theobald Tel 01676 523 475 Linda Barnett Tel 01676 523 277
A lady asked if I could find a hymn for her. It comes, like All Things Bright and Beautiful, often asked for, from the happiness of childhood. Later, on a Sunday evening, we sang it at Bablake House with the ninety and hundred year olds. They didn’t know it but picked it up quickly and loved it!
1. Daisies are our silver, 4. God, who gave these treasures Buttercups our gold: To your children small, This is all the treasure Teach us how to love them We can have or hold. And grow like them all.
2. Raindrops are our diamonds 5. Make us bright as silver: And the morning dew; Make us good as gold; While for shining sapphires Warm as summer roses We've the speedwell blue. Let our hearts unfold.
3. These shall be our emeralds 6. Gay as leaves in April, Leaves so new and green; Clear as drops of dew Roses make the reddest God, who made the speedwell, Rubies ever seen. Keep us true to you.
Jan Struther, 1901 -1953
Do you know what one of them said? She picked up the phrase ‘good as gold’. She said gold could not corrode and, in spite of a very slow and shaky ninety something year old body, expressed an assurance she had had from childhood that the eternal life Jesus had given her could not corrode. It was ‘good as gold’. I wouldn’t mock a child who saw diamonds in raindrops nor an old lady who saw eternity in Jesus. Michael Dawkins
The Earl of Aylesford 1918 –2008
Former war hero and magistrate Charles Ian Finch-Knightley lived at Packington Old Hall, near Meriden, and owned a 5,000-acre estate including 11 tenanted farms, a golf course, deer park and trout and coarse fishery. In 1979, he and his family suffered a major setback when fire destroyed part of Packington Hall. Repairs cost about £l million, but the cause of the blaze was never established, although it was thought it could have been started by a workman's blowtorch. Born in November 1918, the earl was edu cated at Oundle in Northamptonshire and served in the Black Watch in the Second World War, gaining the rank of captain, and was wounded by friendly fire while in service in Sicily. Described by close friends as a true gentleman and with no airs o r graces who knew the real meaning of a hard day's work, he was concerned with the development of the com munity in and around Meriden throughout his life. He also introduced the many enterprises on his estate and oversaw the construction of a leading environmental land-fill site at Little Packington. Appointed a Justice of the Peace, sitting on the Coleshill bench in 1948, he succeeded to the title of the 11th Earl of Aylesford on March 20 1958 and at the same time the title of 11th Baron of Guernsey. Lord Aylesford served as Vice-Lord Lieutenant for the West Midlands between 1964-74 and then as Lord Lieutenant from 1974-93, only standing down when he reached the age of 75. It was a role that he considered extremely important and entailed accompanying royals during their visits to the West Midlands. A former member of the then Meriden Rural District Council, he was also closely involved with the scouting movement in the area, holding the position of County Commissioner. He married Margaret Rosemary Tyer, the daughter of Major Austin Amold Tyer, in March 1946 who died in 1989. They had three children — Charles Heneage Finch-Knightley Lord Guernsey, , who has succeeded to the Earldom of Aylesford, Lady Sarah Elizabeth Jane Finch-Knightley who died in September 2005 and Lady Clare Charlotte Rosemary Remington - Hobbs. The earl died at Heartlands Hospital last month after being taken ill the previous day. A private funeral took place in the family chapel on the Packington Estate and a memorial service took place at the chapel on May 9th.
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Registered with all major insurance companies Clinic No: 01676 533106 Fax No 01676 532106 Now Open Saturday mornings 8.30am- 12.30pm [email protected] www.physiomatters.com NOW AT OUR NEW ADDRESS 3 Gipsy Lane Balsall Common CV7 7FW Berkswell Village Museum
Hidden away in the centre of BBBerkswell and District History Group Berkswell Village is a small museum full of interesting Meetings are held in Berkswell Reading items from the past with Room at 8.00pm unless otherwise stated. connections to the village and the surrounding area. The Thursday 12 th June 1.45pm Visit to museum is housed in a pair of cottages built about 1500 and Kenilworth Castle Gatehouse (Guided tour is very typical of the half-timbered framed cottages found in with Jan Cooper numbers limited to 30) Warwickshire. The cottages were turned into one p roperty for the home of the village district nurse and midwife early in the th twentieth century and were then condemned for habitation in Wednesday 9 July “Little Known the 1940s. It has been a museum since 1981 and consists of Warwickshire” – Alan Winterburn memorabilia, agricultural and domestic articles displayed in four attractive rooms. Wednesday 13 th Aug “Midland Murderers” Berkswell’s famous people are remembered with displays Graham Sutherland about Maud Watson – the first Ladies Singles Champion at Wimbledon, R E S Wyatt – a former England Cricket Captain Visitors are most welcome at all open and the film star Jeremy Brett – best known for his role as meetings. Sherlock Holmes. Admission to meetings, including This year the new resource room is opening. This is housed in refreshments, £2.50 non-members; an almshouse outhouse, which has been specially converted. £1.50 members. All the archives are stored in here and will be available to the public by appointment. Annual membership £5 The museum is open on Sunday afternoons and Bank For our latest news visit the website: Holidays at Easter and from May to the end of September and www.berkswell-history.org at any other time by request, contact 01676 532138. Telephone 01676 535782 or 532645 Afternoon teas are available in Berkswell Reading Rooms. Methodist Church News Minister Jenny Dyer BA MTh Tel 01676 533737 Phone to arrange Marriages, Baptisms and Funerals Services: Sunday morning 10.30am (Junior Church & crèche for children) Sunday evening 6.30pm 3 rd Sunday in month only
The things that thrive in my garden are the things I didn’t plant but which arrived by accident. At the moment (early May) it’s the pretty blue forget-me-nots. The name comes from the old French, and there are a number of romantic legends about how it arose. Over the centuries the flowers have been used as a gift for a sweetheart, in remembrance of those who died in war, and as the badge of some Alzheimer’s Societies around the world. I guess they would be good flowers to plant on a grave, perhaps along with a rosemary bush, because ‘rosemary is for remembrance’. In busy lives, we are not always good at remembering those we do not see, and not good at remembering God, except in times of need. Sometimes though we find ourse lves thinking of him in spite of ourselves. A young mother I knew, who grew up in an atheist family and had no religious belief, nevertheless found herself saying thank-you each night at the children’s bed-sides to she knew not who.
The book of Ecclesi astes in the Bible offers the advice, “Remember your Creator in the days of your youth.” But the quote I particularly like is this prayer, spoken by Sir Jacob Astley before the Battle of Edgehill in 1642: “O Lord, thou knowest how busy I must be this day; if I forget thee, do not thou forget me.” Rev. Jenny Dyer
Kinwalsey Tree Service As part of the Meriden Festival we are organising the Kinwalsey Tree service on 22 nd June, 4.00pm at the Preachers Tree Kinwalsey Lane. For those feeling a little more energetic there will be a walk from the Village Green starting at 2.30pm led by Alan Gabbittas. The preacher this year will be the Rev William H. Anderson (Chairman of the Birmingham District of Methodist Churches) and Rev. Jenny Dyer and some local musicians will be providing the music. Please bring a garden chair and park your car in the paddock at “Hillwood Cottage” before walking down the lane to the tree. Tea will be provided following the service.
Rev Jenny Dyer On July 13 th Jenny will be taking her last morning service at Meriden and on August 3 rd her final evening service. The family will be moving on to pastures new in Harpenden. Jenny and her family Nigel, Naomi and Jacob have been with us for the past seven years and as is the practice in Methodist Churches it is now time for them to move on. Jenny has been a wonderful inspiration to us all, giving us encouragement when needed and sharing with us her family’s musical talents. They will be missed very much but we wish them every happiness as they settle down in their new home. In September we shall be welcoming our new minister the Rev.Andrew Charlesworth. He is married to Sarah and has two little girls.
We, at the Meriden Mag, would like to thank Jenny for her contributions over the years and send her our best wishes for her life and work in her new Parish
Friends in Retirement We are still thriving in Balsall Common with many members from Meriden. Activities include Art, Bowls, Bridge, Rambling, Patchwork and we hope to re-launch the swimming group when the new pool is complete in July or August. The coffee mornings are held in the Jubilee Centre (the old library in Balsall Common) on Friday June 20th, Friday July 18th and Friday August 15th from 10.00am -12 noon. The AGM will be held on Thursday August 14th followed by a talk on Canals by Roger Craig .
New members are always made very welcome please ring 01676 532537 for more information
The Farm Shop Heart of England Berkswell Traditional Social Club Farmstead Meats
Larges Farm Back Lane Meriden Come along and visit us! Tel & fax 01676 522409 The club offers a warm welcome, with excellent www.farmsteadmeats.co.uk facilities for all, including a large concert room For meats of outstanding quality & flavour with live entertainment, lounge with the best • Selection of superb Barbecue Meat view in the village, bar, games room, snooker • Licensed to sell Game room and beer garden with play area. • All cuts of beef including beef on the bone We now have • Superb home made sausages & burgers Premiership • Free Range Chickens Football on • Famous Berkswell Ewes Milk Cheese • Traditional pork with real crackling Satellite • Real home cured bacon television!!! Warwickshire’s only accredited traditional breeds butcher Sunday evenin g Bingo at 8.30pm Listed as one of Rick Stein’s “Food Heroes” Room hire available for private functions Phil Tuckey Opening Hours Heart of England Social Club Monday –closed “The Country Tuesday to Saturday Berkswell Road,Meriden 9.00am-5.00pm Butcher” Sunday 9.00am-1.00pm 01676 522430
Brailes Farm 522318 Meetings are held
in the Village Hall Fresh cut turf,
on the first Rockery stone Monday in the Topsoil and other month at 7.30pm Garden needs Contact Our speakers Joan Russell Village delivery
01676 522666
Monday 2 nd June BEECHWOOD TREES Open Meeting - speaker Nikky Smedley “My life as a Teletubby” Arboricultural Experts Monday 7 th July ALL YOUR TREE NEEDS… Teddies Bears’ Picnic - speaker Beryl Romana “The History of Teddy Bears” For free professional advice On your trees and shrubs th Monday 4 August call your local Arborist on Members evening st 024 7640 2137 Monday 1 September Local Authority approved contractors Driving standards Agency - “Arrive Alive project” ARB assoc risk assessment certified S Rotheram NDTM & Arb Today’s Women working for [email protected] Tomorrow’s World www.beechwoodtrees.co.uk
All work is carried out to BS3998 and insured to £5 million
The Centre Charity Shop 01676 523050
Greetings, Firstly, once again I would like to thank everyone for their support, particularly our hard working staff and volunteers. Everyone comments on the lovely stuff we have donated to us so our thanks to everyone who supports us in this way. On a practical note we still need black or green sacks so if you have any to spare we would be extremely grateful. At the moment we are still inundated with books but we are hoping to get some nice weather soon so that we can have a big book sale and put some new stock in the bookshop. At the moment we are in need of some good quality summer clothing particularly Ladies sizes 14 and 16 You will probably ha ve noticed that we have had some very nice small pieces of furniture donated over the last couple of weeks, we are able to take small items furniture but we can only really fit in two or three at any one time or we can’t move!! So if you would like to giv e us furniture please ring us first on 01676 523050 to check that we have space first or to leave your number so that we can get back to you.
At the time of writing this article we are discussing having a coffee morning on a Friday – keep an eye on the shop window and it will verify times and the starting date. The idea is that it will be a place to just drop in and have a coffee /chat and meet up with others. However numbers are limited to approx 18-20 so first come first served! The time has come again when our minds start thinking about the Meriden Fair and Centre Celebrations (14 th June 2008) and we hope it will be even more successful than last year. We will be serving Cream Teas at The Centre again so why don’t you pop in and try one!!
In the last edition of the magazine we said we’d update you on where some of the money you have been instrumental in helping us achieve has gone. So far we have given a gift to the Meriden Scout Club and one to The Meriden Methodist Nursery and will soon have an amount of money to donate to another worthwhile cause. The time of our church services is now put up in the window of the bookshop for each month so that everyone knows exactly when they are on including the Saturday morning prayer meeting. Last week was the first anniversary of us taking over at The Centre and it has been a steep learning curve with many changes along the way. We hope you like the alterations we have made to the shop and enjoy coming in and having a chat with each other and us. We are one of the designated drop off points for the completed Meriden questionnaires so you are welcome to drop them off to us and we also have a couple of spare copies for anyone who hasn’t received one already. On the Ministerial side of the work we do here at The Centre, we never fail to be amazed at Gods amazing grace and how he rarely answers our prayers in the way we expect him to but without doubt, his way is always the best way!! When a man’s ways are pleasing to the Lord, he makes even his enemies live at peace with him. Proverbs Ch. 16 v 7.
Hope to see you soon Kevin and Lyn Hunt LuLuLu cy Dyer would like to thank everyone who supported the Eve Appeal Tea PHYSIOTHERAPY Party. She raised £1,346.22 REFLEXOLOGY COMPLEMETARY THERAPIES Treatment for pain, stress, acute and chronic conditions Alison Stain M.C.S.P., S.R.P., I.T.E.C. The Therapy Centre, Balsall Villa 287 Kenilworth Road Balsall Common Tel: 01676 521066
MERIDEN Meriden C of E Primary School, Fillongley Road, Wednesday 6.30 – 8.00pm Classes also available in Solihull Call Sandra or Jenny on 0121 705 7078 www.rosemaryconley.com
Class Fee - £5.35 Membership Fee - £10 * Trialists lost on average 7.25lbs in two weeks. ** Valid until 30/09/08 - Cut out this ad and bring it with you to claim free membership.
free membership ** worth £10 plus free portion pots worth £4.99 when you pay for six weeks
Meriden Village Hall is available for private “I was the first woman to burn my bra – it parties etc. Contact Valerie Martin 01676 took the fire department four days to put it 522963 Rates are £10.00 per hour out!” Dolly Parton Queen’s Head BERRY FIELDS FARM SHOP Old road Meriden
Monday night is music night, Berryfields Farm, Berkswell Road, come along and join us, Meriden CV7 7LB music starts 9.15pm approx 01676 522155
nd June 2 Guy Surtees June 9 th Backbeat Dry Cured Bacon th June 16 Julie Christie Gammon, Honey Roast rd June 23 Stevie Best and Breadcrumbed Hams June 30th Terry Fox Fresh Succulent Pork Sausages th July 7 Steve the Buskin Rambler Pork pies, Cooked Meats and Faggots July 14 th Charlie Waterford st Free Range Eggs July 21 Keith Brett July 28 th Paul Tracini Locally produced Lamb and Honey Fowlers Cheese and Berkswell Cheese th August 4 Keith Brett August 11 th Justine Claire We breed and August 18 th Marade rear all the Pork th Opening times: - August 25 Hannah Dallas we sell and we Tuesday – prepare and cook Saturday everything Pop in for good food and good company 8.00am- 5.30pm oursel ves. Phone 01676 522256 for further information
Walk 17-“Two Castles & A Manor” This is the seventh in a series of walks kindly provided by the Coventry Way Association
Main Walk 1.Fwd along Church Lane to reach the Nuneaton Road (B4102). Fwd over to go along opposite roa d (Berry Fields), left at junction, down thro’ 2 f/g’s , T/R & thro’ p/g (in f/g) to enter field. (Route A see below). 2.Fwd, on track thro’ p/g (in f/g) then V/L cross-field up to top left hand corner, thro’ p/g, fwd up cross- field under OPL to field boundary in front of farm buildings. Thro’ small gap, fwd hg-right to x-stile, thro’ walkway to x-stile into field. Hg-right to field corner (over gap), T/L for a short distance & T/R between two pools along green lane. After 15m thro’ k/g on right, initially fwd cross-field to pick up hg- right to corner. Thro’ k/g, H/L plus cross-field parallel to OPL on right to go thro’ f/g in corner. Fwd cross-field under pylon to go thro’ k/g, fwd cross-field leaving hedge on right to go thro’ k/g ahead onto road. 3.T/R & cross road (with care), just before The Weavers Arms x-stile on left. V/L cross-field to outward corner (laurel hedge) to go thro’ k/g in corner, along walkway to road. T/R along road (pavement), passing cottages on right to x-stile on left opposite Wood End House. Hg-right for 200m, over s/b on right thro’ p/g, T/L , hg-left (ditch) to corner. T/R at tree stump, hg-left for 180m to go thro’ p/g & over s/b on left, T/R, hg-right up to go thro’ p/g into garden, thro’ second p/g, hg-right to join house drive near & onto road.
4.T/L & immediately T/R down road. Fwd down road (joining ACW) for approx. 700m to fishing pool on right, x- stile into pool area, hg/fc-left to corner of enclosure to x-stile into field. Fwd up cross-field aiming for high hedge area & WMP ahead. T/L hg-right. 5.Continue round to field corner, thro’ gap into copse area ahead. H/L thro’ copse on zig-zag path to WMP, fwd cross-field aiming for left end of conifers. Thro’ p/g into garden, fc-right thro’ p/g’s & gate onto road. T/R up road to next road junction (Wood End Lane). 6. Opposite junction thro’ k/g into field. Hg-right to outer corner, V/L to go over s/b & thro’ k/g, pass pond on left hg- left, to field corner, thro’ kg, hg-left to field corner thro’ k/g & over s/b. Hg-left to go over culvert thro’ gap, fwd to pick up fence on right. Just past metal f/g x-stile on right (leaving ACW). 7.Fwd cross short gap to reach start of hedge, hg-left to go over f/b. Up hg-right, pass pond on right, fwd cross-field to go over s/b & stile. Fwd cross-field (short) to go thro’ gap. Hg-right uphill to go thro’ gap & downhill hg-right to field corner. Follow round to left (ignore gaps) & in 180m over f/b & thro’ p/g on right into site of castle. Fc-right, over f/b & thro’ k/g into field. T/R , fence & stream right for 130m, thro’ p/g on right & over fib, up steps & x-stile on left to exit into an area between houses onto road. T/L down road, T/R into Church Lane. Route A At the end of Note 1 T/R , hg-right (N W Circular Walk). Fwd to corner T/L , then fwd with hg-right to go thro’ p/g. Hg-right to go thro’ k/g, hg-right for 40m to cross stream over fib on right. T/L hg-left for 140m, H/R cross-field to reach metalled track at field corner. T/R up lane to main road & cross over to the nearby Weaver’s Arms. In car park x-stile in back hedge, H/R cross-field to corner. X-stile, pass pond right to x-stile into field. T/R, hg-right, follow round to reach & go thro’ p/g in garden fence. Thro’ garden onto road (Sandy Lane). Thro’ k/g opposite, hg-right to corner, thro’ k/g on right. Hg-right for 30m, T/L to go thro’ k/g, cross stream into field. Fwd, hg-right, go thro’ k/g in corner. V/R to go thro’ k/g onto road (Wood End Lane). Thro’ k/g opposite into field, V/R cross-field downhill to field corner & thro’ k/g and over s/b. Fwd up to incoming hg-right (WMP). Continue up & round hg -right until a WMP is reached. Continue with Note 5. Meriden Library now has one copy of the new version of the 21 Walks book for reference, and copies of the book for sale at £6.00 each. More information regarding the Coventry Way Association from John Green 02476 503044 Peter Page 02476 413553
Stonehouse Farm, Fillongley Sunday 10 th August from 9.00am Adults £6 Children £3 One-day country show featuring horticultural & handicraft tents, trade stalls, raffle, horse show, dog agility, vintage tractors, livestock and many other attractions.
Schedules and entry forms from Mrs Cheryl Brookes Tel: 02476 460287 162 Stonebury Ave Eastern Green www.fillongley -show.co.uk CV5 7NX E:[email protected]
LARCH TREE OSTEOPATHIC PRACTICE Local Farmers Markets
TREATMENT OF MUSCULAR AND Solihull High Street – 1 st Friday in SKELETAL PAIN, SPORTS AND month 9.00am – 3.00pm PERSONAL INJURIES nd Kenilworth Abbey End- 2 Saturday Liam Halton B.Sc (Hons) Ost. in month 9.00am – 2.00pm 49 Larch Tree Avenue, (Off Broad Lane), Warwick Market Square -3rd Friday Tile Hill, in month 10.00am – 3.00pm COVENTRY, CV4 9FT Leamington Spa – bottom of Parade www.larchtreeost.co.uk TEL: 024 7647 0019 4th Saturday in month 9.00am – 2.00pm
Benefits of one month’s gentle exercise revealed Gently exercising for one month is enough to have significant positive effects on fitness according to new research from University of Birmingham The study which looked at overweight middle aged men showed moderate exercise like brisk walking was more effective in burning fat than short intense exercise like running, and can be effective in improving fitness and tackling the early stages of diabetes Studies show the older member wants a personalised programme Christina Eccles writes in Workout magazine that older members want a personalised programme for them and their particular lifestyle and needs. They want an achievable programme that sets them realistic goals. Some members prefer the gym as opposed to classes which they may find intimidating, whereas some members prefer some of the low intensity, low impact classes on offer
The leisure club at Marriott forest of Arden offers a discounted seniors membership along with personalised programmes and over 30 classes per week. For details call us on 01676 526107
A Message from Caroline Spelman MP
It is ten years since the leaders of the world’s richest nations came to Birmingham, a city at the heart of England with its long history of looking outward to the needs of the developing world. It is also ten years since many of us formed a human chain round Birmingham calling on these leaders to drop the debt of the poorest. Yet so many countries are still deeply indebted despite some progress being made on multilateral debt relief over the last few years. Take Malawi for example, a country I have visited at a time of famine. One of my lasting memories is of being shown a community orphanage which consisted of a health visitor doing a daily round of small huts where children as young as two had to fend for themselves. Well-managed debt relief has produced many success stories. Uganda used the money to double primary school enrolment and investment in a successful HIV/AIDS plan. Mozambique’s debt relief has enabled its government to immunise 500,000 children. Debt is just one – albeit important – issue in the complex, interlocking challenge of global poverty. Aid, trade, conflict, wealth creation, governance and corruption all impinge on appropriate international development policy. Many things have changed in my life since the human chain days – my son, who was then five and who was carried on the Bishop of Aston’s shoulders, now towers above me and is a very enthusiastic rugby and cricket player. Whenever I come to Meriden Primary School, at Christmas events and other times of the year, I am reminded just how lucky our children are to be brought up in such a lovely place. How many children in the developing world will have had opportunities beyond all expectation because of the debt relief offered? But how many more could have benefitted if even more progress had been made to drop the debt.
Caroline Spelman advice surgery dates To contact Caroline or make an
appointment for a surgery please Date Time Location Fri 6 th June 4.30-6.00pm Knowle Village contact Hall Rachel Anderson on 020 7219 4189 Saturday 9am – 10.30am Chelmsley www.carolinespelman.com 14th June Wood 11am – 12noon Library [email protected] Arden Hall, Castle Bromwich Attenborrow Roofing Fri 11th July 4.30-6.00pm Knowle Village Hall Thurs 17th 4.30 –6.00pm Dickens Heath Library July Sat 19th July 9- 10.30am Chelmsley 11 – 12 noon Wood Library Arden Hall Registered with Solihull & Castle Birmingham Age Concern Bromwich Solihull Trading Standards
(Ship Shape )
EFT or Emotional Freedom All Roofing Work Technique is an emotional form of Felt, Tile or Slates acupuncture without needles. It Canopies involves tapping on certain PVCU Fascia & Guttering acupuncture points on the face Small Building Work – Walls etc and upper body while tthinkinghinking Contact about your problem or fear. Why not give it a try? Robert Attenborrow 0800 073 0294 Emotional Freedom Technique mobile 0788 065 7381 www.attenborrow.co.uk 07528 852106 Local recommendations available www.tap4healing.co.uk All insurance work undertaken THEIR NAME LIVETH FOR EVERMORE
Over the last several issues Paul & Melanie Lee have featured the Officers and Men named upon Meriden’s War Memorial who fell on foreign soil. They now fea.ture two that made it home but presumably died of wounds sustained during the First World War. They also appeal again for information on F Cheadle and also re -feature Mick Jones’s photograph of Meriden’s Home Guard with those identified since the last is sue.
nd th Private Joseph Albert Jeffcott, No. 39168, 2 / 7 Battalion, The Lancashire Fusiliers Joseph Jeffcott was born in Aston, Warwickshire, the son of Joseph Albert and Clara Jeffcott of Rose Cottage, Kinwalsey Lane, Meriden and enlisted in Coventry. Died of wounds on the 6 th May 1918 at the age of 20 at his home in Meriden and is buried in the north west corner of St Laurence Churchyard.
Gunner George Davies, No. 162969, The Royal Garrison Artillery son of Worthington and Ann Davies. George died on the 12 th December 1918 at the age of 25 and is also buried in St Laurence Churchyard, North Section.
A/B F Cheadle you may recall from our first article that we were unable to find any information on F Cheadle who is named on the Meriden War Memorial, unfortunately this is still the case and we would again like to appeal for further information. Do you know anyone who no longer lives in Meriden but may have information, if so please contact them and let us know. We now know the commemoration locations of all the Meriden casualties from both World Wars, whether it is a burial site or named on a Memorial to the Missing. F Cheadle remains unknown and it is imperative that we ensure HIS NAME LIVETH FOR EVERMORE.
MERIDEN’S HOME GUARD We have received an excellent response from the last issue of the Meriden Mag where we featured Mick Jones’s photograph of Meriden’s Home Guard and list below (left to right) the update on who has been identified. We are delighted to have received contact from Fred Malin (pictured top left on the back row), Dorothy Print wife of David Print (pictured far right on the middle row) and also Dorothy’s daughter-in-law Monica. Many thanks to Fred, Dorothy and Monica for getting in touch. We now have a discrepancy on the identification of the man pictured in the middle of the front row, is it James Edward Warmingham or Hickman? Back Row: Fred Malin, Stan Ivans, Lol Holtom, DEVINE , Stan Fisher, Ernie Jones, Charlie Davies, ?, George Sweet, ? Middle Row: ? , BILL HARVEY , ?, ?, George Wilcox, ?, ?, ?, DAVID PRINT Front Row: George Pegden, Cecil Hallard, ?, HICKMAN or James Edward Warmingham, ?, JACK BARLOW, ?
Mick Jones knows that the following men are pictured: Austin, George and Joe Ellard. Can you identify them or indeed any of the others, we would also welcome information on any of those pictured.
PS. Don’t forget to complete the Meriden Parish Appraisal and Plan – Household Survey 2008. Let us remember the sacrifice made by the Officers and Men of Meriden who answered the ‘Call to Arms’ by preserving the past and building for the future of Meriden. Letter from Meriden, Connecticut, USA (Glenn Richter wrote this article for his newspaper The Record –Journal)
I always knew they were a little odd over there, but this really takes the cake.
I’m leafing through the Spring 2008 edition of the Meriden Mag, the local quarterly publication in the charming (I’m sure) village of Meriden, smack-dab in the middle of England, and I come across an item from Caroline Spelman, who is their Member of Parliament, and who always has something informative in the Mag for her constituents. This notice tells how “to contact Caroline or make an appointment for a surgery” with a list of dates and places (including Meriden Village Hall on April 18 th ) where Mrs Spelman -scalpel in hand, presumably- will be doing the honors, or maybe she’s just the one who keeps the appointment book. But, in either case, it seems an odd job for a member of the Mother of Parliaments to be doing. Does this mean that British politicians not only tax their constituents, but also get to cut them up? Vote for me –or else? Imagine if you will, going to Congressman Chris Murphy, say, for a little 5 th District facelift; or maybe dropping in on Joe Leiberman to have your tonsils senatorially yanked out. So that’s how the National Health Service works? Well not quite. This is just another of those British-American semantic misunderstandings, of course. In a meaning that’s never used over here (so you won’t find it in any standard –issue dictionary) a “surgery” is simply a time and place appointed for getting advice from someone, especially from your MP. But if it’s not the meaning, it’s the spelling. Regardless, eager to learn more about village life there, and to see what trouble I can get into I forge ahead with the Mag: Meriden Primary school, it seems “have a new football kit.” What they’re holding up is a uniform. And football is what we call soccer. The Rev. Michael Dawkins reports that the restoration of the church roof proceeds, despite a great deal of rot and deterioration due to “beetle activity.” But now his church, “symbol of our nation’s founda tion truth and civilisation,” will stand for a long time to come. Go to Ace Garage for “service, tyres and exhausts.” If you need it they’ll collect you.
Well, we really need to respond to this – who puts their luggage in the trunk of the car? We all know that an elephant has a trunk and a car has a boot. Much Ado About Americans sit in their yard, we relax in our garden, a yard is where machinery is stored. Nothing And what about spelling – dropping the “u” in words such as honour and colour. An outdoor play by We, of course, are totally confused by American electoral system - a primary in the UK is a school for 5-11 year olds. Oddsocks We could go on – however it is fun hearing from Glenn and we wish him good health after his recent heart attack, he has just returned to work and we send Productions him best wishes from Meriden Saturday 21 ststst June Fillongley Lodge
Lawns open from 4.30 for picnics Play starts at 6.30pm
Tickets £12.00 adults, Children 5-15 £6.00
Tickets from Caves Newsagents Fillongley, Fillongley Post Office or John O’Brien 01676 541 409 Waves
The Orme As cold as the icy North Pole, School of Dancing School of Dancing Spitting fountains of water, Meriden branch Swirling to the ocean,
Methodist Church Hall As large as killer whales,
It’s galloping like a horse’s hooves. Classes in Ballet, Tap, Modern Jazz, Freestyle and Contemporary They are bloodthirsty waves,
Principal Sandra Clarke FIDTA M.B.B.O The waves are deep blue,
Advanced Diploma (hons) Showers of water filling the sea,
Fellowship Teaching Degree (hons) Hear the furious waves tearing at the shore. Tel: 02476 467271
Helping to keep dance available in Meriden By Jack (9) and James (8) Meriden School
R.J.KENNING Painter and Decorator All aspects of decorating undertaken
Free quotations available Meriden Village Hall will be celebrating Interiors, Exteriors References available on request its 60 th Anniversary on Saturday 20th Woodwork No job too big -No job too small Papering & September this year. More details in Established over 25 years Painting the next issue of the Mag. Mark this A reliable and friendly service date in your diary to join in the fun.
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Chris’s Barbers *Weddings* * Engagement Parties* 326 Kenilworth Road, Balsall Common *Birthday Parties* *Christenings* Tel :07702 713094 *Dinner Parties* * Retirement Parties* No Monday 10.00 -17.30 appointment Please call for a Free Menu & Quote Tuesday 10.00-17.30 required Wednesday CLOSED Wendy - 07974 910763 Thursday 10.00-19.30 De Montfort House, Friday 10.00-17.30 Saturday 9.00-17.30 Fillongley, Warks, CV7 8EZ Sunday CLOSED
1st Meri den Scout Group
In April Beavers & Cubs from the 1st Meriden Scout Group planted 4 trees
at the Scout Hut. District Commissioner,
Mick Judd attended the event
THANK YOU The Scout Group would like to thank Paul Morgan from Heart of England Property Services and Jim Higginson for their recent hard work to improve the Scout Hut
We are looking to start a Scout Troop for girls and boys aged 10 and half to 14 years old. We shall be meeting to start with on a Tuesday evening 6.30pm at the Scout Hut. Please phone Lis Willis 01676 521080 for further details
If you have a child aged between 6 and 10 interested in joining us, or if you are an adult, who is happy to help, please contact the leaders:
1st Meriden Beaver Colony (ages 6-8) 1st Meriden Cub Pack (ages 8-10) Meeting Mondays 6.30pm –7.30pm Meetings Tuesdays 6.30pm –8.00pm Tel: Jo 522625 or Gaynor 523191 Tel: Lis Willis 521080 or Liz Mackenzie 523674
1st Meriden Brownies
S&J Sadly the 1st Meriden Guides are no longer running after 4 years due to dwindling numbers. Plastering Services • Over skimming The Brownies are still going strong however for girls aged 7 to 11. There is a waiting list, but please contact us if you • Dry lining wish to put your daughter’s name on it. We do lots of interesting activities, which have included a • Over boarding circus skills day, pottery painting, first aid, and lots of • Rendering games. Coming up on 4 th June 2008 we are holding a sponsored • Stud walling event in aid of Children with Leukaemia. We ALL have • Arches to learn 26 “Hellos” in different languages. We will have a sponsorship envelope at Meriden Library where any • All plastering requirements donations will be gratefully received!
If anyone has any interests they would like to share with us Members of the Guild of Master we are always looking for volunteers. Craftsmen
We meet every Wednesday 6.15-7.45pm For a free quotation call at Meriden Methodist Hall, term time only. 01676 523501
Contact: Jane 01676 542501 Mobile 07976 952004 Tracy 01676 541134 Sharon 01676 522591
CAMEO Come and Meet Each Other at the Community Centre on the 4 th Friday of the month at 2.00 p.m.
In February Lyn Dowling, a volunteer from Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, gave an interesting informative talk illustrated with slides. The scheme came to this country from America in 1982. Dogs are chiefly selected from Rescue Centres. They receive sixteen weeks training and then further ‘individual training’ to suit the recipient. Lyn mentioned a number of ways in which people can help: donate or socialise a puppy, adopt or sponsor a dog, become a volunteer, speaker or fundraiser. A ‘Bring and Buy’ at the end of the meeting raised £100 for the scheme. .
Margaret Oliver and her singers once again entertained us with a wide variety of songs and hymns. We In March all enjoyed singing along.
meeting we welcomed back Rev. Jenny Dyer on her last visit to us before she leaves Meriden in the At our April summer. She was thanked for having been such a source of encouragement to CAMEO since its inception. Jenny spoke about the Devon village of Morebath and what the Reformation meant to the villagers as seen through the detailed accounts kept by the vicar from 1520 until his death in 1554. This was extremely interesting and showed the tremendous changes the church underwent during this period when the country changed from being Catholic to Protestant, then briefly back to Catholic under Queen Mary until Queen Elizabeth came to the throne and the church once again became Protestant. Although not a rich parish they had to fund the various changes demanded by the Monarch of the day.
In June we are holding our third ‘Holiday at Home’ in Berkswell and are planning a varied programme of fun, music and art. We look forward to welcoming more friends to this and other meetings so if you need information or a lift please telephone:
Ellen 522534 or Peggy 522221 Forthcoming Meetings:- Please telephone Ellen 522534 or Peggy 522221 27Forthcomingth June – Holiday Meetings:- at Home 25 th July – Strawberries and Poems 15 th August – Coach Trip to Charlecote Park. State Registered Chiropodist Mrs C Booker Franklin Construction Services SRCh, MChS Established 1979 Home visiting practice only • The complete building service for all properties. • New build, renovations, extensions, conservatories. Tel 01676 534265 • Full maintenance service. • Plumbing, electrics, glazing, joinery, plastering, roofing and brickwork. Do you need a cleaner? • All UPVC work undertaken – Doors, windows, soffits and facia. Do you want someone to do all those household jobs
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Rotary Club of Meriden
Senior Citizens Party
For the 27th year, almost every year of Meriden Rotary Club’s existence, we held our annual party for some of our elder local residents at Fentham Hall. As always, it was a great occasion and everyone had an enjoyable time. We had around 112 guests this year, around 75 of whom required lifts, so the pressure was on to find enough drivers. We managed it and thank you to everyone who helped. The meal was as great as ever and our sincere thanks go to our friends in Inner Wheel for preparing this. Without their kind and unwavering support we simply could not hold this event. The entertainment was provided by 3+ 3, the same wonderful Rotary President Celia Parker with the and extremely popular group who also played last year. two most senior guests Particular thanks from the whole club go to them for freely giving their services. I have received a number of ‘thank you’ cards from Our own John Wilson as ever did a fantastic job as Master of pleased guests. Their comments, I am sure, reflect Ceremonies and is clearly very popular with all our guests. the feelings of all. I know all Meriden Rotarians are Indeed, every Rotarian, some accompanied by friends and proud to be members of our local Rotary club; this family, did a wonderful job in helping throughout the evening. event provides a very good example of why we should feel such pride. Many thanks too must go to The George Fentham Trust, The th William Avery Trust, The Manor Hotel, Pertemps and Roll on Saturday, 17 January 2009, the date for Rockwell Sheet Sales for their generosity. They all help to next year’s event. ease the financial burden of the event. David Maugham
For more details of Meriden Rotary Club please contact Roger Swindells 01675 481754 or Chris Swindells 01676 523510 or visit www.meridenrotary.org.uk Warwickshire Wildlife Trust
What is Warwickshire Wildlife Trust & what do we do? Warwickshire Wildlife Trust (WWT) is one of 47 Wildlife Trusts across the UK working to achieve the shared aim of securing a better future for wildlife. WWT is the leading local voluntary organisation concerned with all aspects of nature conservation (Registered Charity No: 209200), with over 18,000 members. Activities in June Saturday June 7 th 3.00pm Using Your Ears – Bat Conservation Trust Survey Workshop This workshop is an introductory course, designed specifically for volunteers to learn how to identify bats by their call and to carry out The Bat Conservation Trust’s surveys. Location: Brandon Marsh Nature Centre (sign posted off the A45 towards London after the Toll Bar roundabout) Booking essential : Contact Andrew Heath on 0121 244 8946 or [email protected] (small charge) Saturday June 7 th 8.30pm Mighty Moths Warwickshire boasts a list of almost 600 species of moth, why not join county moth recorder to see how many you can discover on one site in one night. Location: Meet at field gate adjacent to the entrance of the Highlands property, situated on A428 midway between Binley Woods and Brandon. Contact: David Brown on 01789 840 295 (no charge) Activities in July Saturday July 5 th 10.30 am Dragonfly Surveying Workshop This workshop is aimed at the non-professional who is interested in helping us survey dragonflies for local projects in Warwickshire. There will be an indoor session in the morning followed by an afternoon visit. Refreshments are provided. Location: Brandon Marsh Nature Centre (as above) Contact: Peter Reeve on 01926 632 400 or [email protected] cost £6.50 Saturday July 19 th 10.30 am Orthotoptera Surveying Workshop This will be similar to the dragonfly workshop, except we will be looking at grasshoppers and crickets. Location, contact and cost as the dragonfly workshop Saturday July 27 th 10.00 am Introduction to Habitat Management Join with the volunteers at Hampton Wood for an introductory session carrying out habitat management. Location: Hampton Wood Barford Contact: Dave Sollis on 01789 205 908 (no charge) Activities in August Saturday August 23 rd to Sunday 24 th Family Bank Holiday Weekend Fun 10.30am-12.00 noon and 1.00pm-2.30pm Join us for an extravaganza of outdoor family activities Location: Brandon Marsh Nature Centre cost £4.00 per child To book contact: 024 7630 2912
th Monday August 25 Bank Holiday Bonanza 10.30am-12 noon - capture creepy crawlies 1.00pm-2.30pm – pond dipping Location: Parkridge Centre, Brueton Park, Solihull cost £4.00 per child
To book contact: 0121 704 0768
How can you find out more about WWT? On Line Our website www.warwickshire-wildlife-trust.org.uk or Email: [email protected] Telephone Brandon Marsh Visitor Centre, Coventry 024 7630 2912 or Parkridge Centre, Solihull 0121 704 0768 Post Warwickshire Wildlife Trust, Brandon Marsh Nature Centre, Brandon Lane, Coventry, CV3 3GW Balsall Common and District Horticultural Society
HOSTAS
Fat spikes of hostas are now poking their heads up in the borders, a promise of spectacular displays in a few weeks time. To the determined hosta collector this is an exciting time of year. Hostas, also known as plantain lilies, are named in honour of the Austrian botanist Nicholas Thomas Host and will provide interest throughout the growing season. Hostas are generally long-lived garden plants, relatively disease free, requiring little care other than watering and some fertilizer to enhance growth. We started to grow hostas or plantain lilies in our garden about 30 years ago and have enjoyed the new varieties that have been introduced, frequently from North America. Many of the recent introductions produce attractive flower spikes as well as spectacular leaves. There are over 5,000 named cultivars and most are easy enough for beginners. However, some new varieties have been produced with very pale leaves and often lack vigour and in our experience are poor ‘doers’. One commonly held view is that hostas require a damp shady position. However our hostas thrive in very dry parts of the garden and several are very tolerant of a sunny spot. We grow a variety with broad silver margins in very dry soil under trees where they light up an area of deep shade. Hostas can also be grown very successfully in containers. The other problem associated with growing hostas successfully is the problem of slugs and snails. We have found that the large grey leaved varieties are less susceptible to attack. Most hosta nurseries admit to using slug/snail pellets, but they can be seen as a threat to birds. I have used a liquid preventative very successfully and apply it early in the season... Recently we found the recipe for an organic deterrent, 2 crushed garlic bulbs are boiled in 2 pints of water for 3 minutes. 1 tablespoon of the mixture can mixed with a gallon of water and applied to plants. We like to plant hostas together with Arum Italicum Pictum for the latter comes into foliage early and then disappears as the hostas come into leaf. Hostas can be divided easily in spring or autumn, small clumps can be pulled apart and large ones divided with a spade. If left alone they will increase to form large plants and provide ground cover. Some of the most attractive large varieties include: Francis Williams, with blue green leaves edged beige, tolerant of a sunny position. 'Big Daddy', with deep blue round puckered leaves. 'Thunderbolt', with creamy yellow leaves with blue green margins. Gold Haze has sticking bright golden leaves, gradually fading to green as the season progresses. My favourite hosta is called ‘June’, a small to medium plant with beautifully variegated blue and green leaves. Hosta 'Halcyon', - a medium sized plant, probably the most popular blue leaved variety producing lilac flowers. “Fireworks” is a small plant whose leaf centres become whiter as leaves mature through the season.
Hosta Gold Haze Hosta Frances Williams Hosta Fireworks
Hostas can be purchased by mail order from specialist nurseries such as Park Green Nurseries and Mickfield Hostas, both of Stowmarket, Suffolk.
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Mick Neary 1941 - 2008 Mick was born into a large family and they came t o the village when he was three years old. He lived in Meriden for the rest of his life. He married Jan in 1970 and they had four sons and later eight grandchildren. He worked on the farm and later at the Triumph Motor Cycle Factory. For the last twenty-five years he Design and Construction worked as a driver for John Pointon and Mick Jones. • Cultivated Turf & Lawns For many years he was the Committee Treasurer at the • Patios - Paths - Yorkstone Heart of England Social Club, and later enjoyed his • Block Paving - Drives social life at the Club and the Queen’s Head. His large family were very special to hi m. He loved shooting and • Decking - Pergolas dancing in his younger years; he enjoyed feeding the • Fencing - Trellis Work birds in his garden and the company of his dogs. • All Brickwork - Ponds Mick was a “larger than life” character who was very popular and had many friends. • Garden Maintenance At his funeral the church at Berkswell was pa cked with Free advice & estimates standing room only and his close friend Barry Curtis reminisced about the outrageous antics they got up to Portfolio and references available in their early years. Mick was very brave coping with cancer and adopted a 01676 522 828 positive attitude. The size of the congregation was significant to the popularity of the man and he will be Mobile : 07976 205143 missed by many.
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It looks like the Meriden Art Group are in for Meriden Art Group another good season of exhibitions with loads more new art work to show. As you may have noticed, we try to regularly exhibit some of our work in the library, for which we are very grateful to have the space and opportunity. So keep an eye open for paintings on show there. We will also be having two official exhibitions this year. There will be a stand at the Megaride on the 8 th June and also a week at Coleshill in conjunction with the Coleshill Art Group. This will be at the Old Market Hall from 9th to16 th July. Entrance to both of these is free. It is very rewarding for the group to have your support and interest and it’s great when locals or even visitors from outside of the village want to purchase some of the work. We are gradually developing a reputation for good artwork! Julie Hyde 523357
Stop Press!!! UPDATE ON 900, 192, 194 BUS SERVICES Responses have been received from Mark Kipling the Area Manager, Acocks Green National Express West Midlands and Martin Nixon, Interim Area Director for West Midlands Travel to the issues raised at the Open Meeting on 31 st March. These are posted on all of the Parish Council notice boards and in Meriden Library.
To relieve the overcrowding on the 9.42am bus service 192 from Meriden to S olihull an additional bus two minutes ahead of the 9.42am has been put on . This will not be a low floor vehicle and will operate Monday to Friday school days only, starting its journey from Meriden and running through to Solihull. This arrangement will be on a trial basis, which will be reviewed in three months. Please use this additional service to ensure it continues! WE CARE FOR T’ai Chi YOUR TREES and
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Tom’s Butchery ZOE’S MARKET Established 25 years (Formerly the Fruit Basket) 3 The Green 3,The Green, Meriden Meriden Telephone: Vegetables
01676 522822 Fruit • Genuine Scotch Angus Beef Flowers sold as seen on TV Pet Foods • Wide selection of prize winning Fresh and Frozen Fish sausages • Best quality English Lamb & Fresh Vegetable Kebabs for your pork BBQ • Local farm turkeys, boneless turkey breast, fresh farm Preserve, Pickle & Kilner Jars now chicken available • Wide selection of bacon Order your preserve jars now in including dry cure English • readiness for the new jamming season Deli counter with a wide selection of cheese, pies and Proprietor Zoe Wilson cooked meats
Meriden library MERIDEN LIBRARY READERS' GROUP
01676 522717 Our discussions on Poetry took us from William
Open Monday 10.00am – 7.00pm Blake via Sylvia Plath to Pam Ayres! A lively Thursday 10.00am – 7.00pm evening! For June we shall be reading contemporary children’s stories – NB 4 th June. In Saturday 10.00am – 1.00pm July – Tibet- and in August sporting heros and heroines (we are nothing if not topical!) The summer Reading Challenge has an Olympic theme this We meet on the second Wednesday of the month year. The idea is for children to read 6 library books of their at 7.30 pm (apart from June) - details of the choice during the summer holidays. There will be stickers to venue from Meriden Library staff. Please think collect and a certificate and medal on completion. So come and about joining us - you will be most welcome. join the challenge and make the most of your local Library. Sue Fuller Starting date is 12 th July. There will be an activity in the Library on August 19 th for 5 - 11 year olds. We shall be testing our skills at the ‘Mini BALSALL COMMON Olympics’. Tickets are free and available 2 weeks before the event. We have been pleased to welcome class visits from Meriden School on a weekly basis. It is always good to see children using the Library and we hope they will continue to visit out of school hours as well. In April we held our 2 nd AGM when the Executive We welcome Rob to Meriden Library as the Lunchtime Committee was returned unopposed. Assistant; we hope he will enjoy working here. The membership of the group has now reached a Remember our Internet access is free to use. Pop in or very satisfactory 120 with many newly formed telephone to reserve a computer. Keep in touch with family interest groups, these include Scrabble, Creative and friends, check out holiday availability, research your family Writing, Garden Visits and Strollers and in history, the opportunities are endless. The staff are always on September we commence Philosophy, which is a hand to help. definite challenge. As part of Solihull Heritage weekend 11 th - 14th September , As a result of an application to Birmingham we are hoping to display some local artefacts and photographs International Airport Community Trust we have in the Library. If you have anything we could borrow we recently received £2000 which will be spent on would be pleased to hear from you. There is an exhibition at purchasing a laptop and power-point equipment. the Central Library in Solihull called ‘Just the ticket’. It This will enable us to make our own presentation. celebrates 30 years since the opening of t he new Library. Share Our website for the coming year has also been your memories of the old and new. The exhibition is in the updated, this gives the Executive Committee Heritage Gallery from 21 st April – 30 th August. members, the Interest Groups and our monthly This year is National Year of Reading and each month there speakers. The website will be a different theme. May is Mind and Body so for our http://balsallcommonu3a.org also has a link to our Coffee morning on 29 th May we will be pleased to welcome recently formed flickr.com group. This is a Kay from Lloyds Pharmacy who will be offering blood pressure worldwide site to post photographs; you can find and diabetes testing during the morning from 10.00 – 12.00 us on http://flickr.com/photos/balsallcommonu3a/ . Please support us you will be most welcome. This site will be regularly updated with photos of 'what we do' 'where we go' an 'who we are'. We have recently formed a Social Committee and Meriden Knights the first event a Quiz Evening proved very popular. Our first coach outing to Bletchley Park another
Chess Club success. We meet on the 4 th Monday in the month, unless it is a Bank holiday when it will be the 3 rd Monday – Here we are again at the end of another chess season. 2-00pm in The Village Hall, Station Road, Balsall We have had our most successful one yet. We have regained Common. We are a friendly group still accepting the Division 3 trophy and are moving up to Division 2. members and anyone interested is welcome to Great news, but unfortunately our team numbers have dwindled come as a prospective member to one of our core once more due to work commitments. If you would like to join meetings for a small charge of £2. us or know anyone else who might be interested do not hesitate in contacting either Graeme or Shirley on 01676 521259 , any If you wish to know more please contact me on age or ability welcome. 01676 534003 or email We charge £1.50 a night when we meet at home in the Dawson [email protected] lounge at Meriden Methodist Church but play away in the Coventry and District Chess League. Anne Santos Hon. Chairman
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Independent personal attention Property Internet & e-mail, troubleshooting & tuition
‘Meriden Mag’ would like to thank Peter for his help Maintenance with recent computer problems and are pleased to recommend him to our readers Plumbing Need your windows guttering or fascias Carpentry cleaned? Sparkling General Maintenance UPVC frames and conservatories a speciality Painting & Decorating Also carpet cleaning and other handyman tasks Contact Paul Morgan on Phone Paul 01676 542885
07917 692948 mobile Telephone: 0121 764 5872 Mobile: 07979 064835 blitz Beauty Salon Telephone 01676 521100 Men and Women welcome Open 7 days a week Monthly offers available New dual treatment room Gift vouchers available All aspects of Beauty Therapy to include; Manicures, Pedicures, Waxing, Eye treatment, Facials, Caci facials and body treatments, microdermabrasion , massages, Hopi Ear Candles, Reflexology, Gel Nail Extensions, Body Wraps, Hot Stone Massage, Spray Tanning and Vertical Sun bed.
Clinics available for Restylane, Muscle relaxing injections and Teeth whitening Also the home of Blitz the Bulge slimming club!! Monday 9-5, Tuesday 9-9, Wednesday 9-9, Thursday9-9, Friday 9-7, Saturday 9-5, Sunday 10-2 For more details or to go on our mailing list Telephone 01676 521100 Also treatment rooms available at the Windmill Village Hotel and Nailcote Hall Hotel Solihull’s
Open Gardens
How often have you caught a glimpse of a wonderful garden
through some part-open gateway, and wished that you had the
chance to see more! Well, now is your chance to explore more than
20 of the Borough’s finest gardens, when they open this year for Chelmsley Citizens Advice Bureau began its life in charity.
November 1971. The Bureau has recently moved to new premises in Bosworth Drive These delightful gardens will be open to the public over three The new premises offer more interview rooms, a Sundays, starting on 8th June, and followed up with 13th and training room, and a public car park. 20th July . Some will open to the public for the very first time. Many of the gardeners will be offering additional treats for visitors, Our current opening hours are; with homemade refreshments and superb selections of home grown Monday, Tuesday, and Friday – We open the doors plants for sale: you may also hear live music in some gardens, and at 9:30 and issue time slots on a first come, first maybe see a demonstration of some traditional craft skills. Visitors served basis. can also test their skills in the garden photo competition, and win Monday Evening – We have fortnightly prizes in other attractive competitions run during the season. As a appointments for people who work and cannot attend special bonus, Solihull College will join the event by holding their the Bureau during working hours. open day on 8 June, when, amongst many attractions and displays, Wednesday – We have a benefits surgery. the grounds of Tudor Grange will be open, and their extensive Animal Centre will also be open to the public. This is a perfect treat Appointments are available in advance by telephoning the Bureau. for the children or grandchildren, with free entry for the children to see all that is going on! Friday – We have an Employment Surgery. Appointments are available in advance by telephoning the Bureau. Money raised goes to help the three Citizens Advice Bureaux in Solihull to flourish. We provide free, independent, confidential and impartial advice to everyone on their rights and Details of prices and opening arrangements are available responsibilities. We value diversity, promote equality and challenge discrimination. from the website –www.solihullsopengardens.org.uk, from We aim: To provide the advice people need for the posters in local garden centres and from Solihull Tourist problems they face. Office in May, or by phoning 0121 705 1059. To improve the policies and practices that affect people’s lives. We are a registered Charity and the Advisers who deal with the enquiries above are all Volunteers. We are hoping that we can extend our services but in BRI ASSET MANAGEMENT PLC order to expand our services to people within the local community we need to recruit volunteers to join our team. We have numerous roles that range from administration duties, reception, social policy BRI is an independent firm based locally in Meriden reporting, fundraising and advice work. We ask for a offering expert investment management for: • commitment of minimum of 6 hours per week and Stocks and Shares • full training is given, no qualifications are necessary. Unit Trusts • Peps and ISAs • Personal Pensions
If you are interested, please contact Maggie Deutsch on 0121 779 6707 for further details We also provide advice on planning for Inheritance Tax and Capital Gains Tax. Please call us for a free review of your existing investments
“Local professional Investment Management”
To find out more information, please contact Paul Cusack BRI Asset Management plc BRI House, Meriden Business Park, Meriden CV5 9RL Tel 01676 523550 Fax 01676 522799 Email: [email protected]
024 7640 2137 BRI Asset Management plc is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority
Meriden onday 11 th December18
JuneMondayFloral £ Society
June 16 th Open Evening “Auctioneers Lots” by Nick Grounds everyone welcome
Tickets £6.00 For the very best for your dog, contact… Meetings are held in Meriden Village Hall Roy & Lesley Thompson, at at 7.30pm prompt Meriroyles For further information & tickets 118 Fillongley Road, Meriden. Telephone Val Miller on 01676 540380 Telephone 01676 522405 Sandra Jones on 01676 523023 also “HOLIDAY HOME FOR SMALL PETS” RUN BY SOPHIE. Telephone 01676 522405 for details
PILATES CLASS MERIDEN METHODIST CHURCH HALL Tuesday evening 6.15pm – 7.15pm Classes run in 6-week courses
1 to 1 Pilates reformer equipment at The Hampton Gym, Hampton in Arden Free trial session with this advertisement
For more details contact Jo on 07952 473526
Meriden Surgery and Pharmacy News - Updated information
Appointments Available from BALSALL COMMON & MERIDEN GROUP PRACTICE Old School House, Main Road, Meriden CV7 7NG Tel 522252 MONDAY AM THURSDAY 2.00pm Surgery Hours MONDAY PM FRIDAY 8.30am Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 8.30am to 6pm Wednesday 8.30am to 12.00 TUESDAY AM FRIDAY 2.00pm Repeat Prescription Requests TUESDAY PM MONDAY 8.30am We prefer these to be ordered using the list attached to your previous prescription. • Post to the surgery WEDNESDAY AM MONDAY 2.00pm • Hand to the surgery WED PM CLOSED • Fax 01676 523865 to the surgery If necessary telephone requests will be taken between 10.00am THURSDAY AM TUESDAY 2.00pm and 12.30pm & 2.00pm-4.00pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & THURSDAY PM WEDNESDAY 8.30am Friday. Please quote your computer number. 48 HOURS NOTICE MUST BE GIVEN FOR ALL FRIDAY AM THURSDAY 8.30am PRESCRIPTION REQUESTS FRIDAY PM THURSDAY 8.30am IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF ALL PATIENTS TO CHECK THAT PRESCRIPTIONS COLLECTED (EITHE R FROM THE CHEMIST OR THE SURGERY) DETAIL THE MEDICATION In an “out of hours” emergency ORIGINALLY REQUESTED. REFUNDS WILL NOT BE GIVEN The Practice uses a GP co-operative BY THE PRACTICE FOR MEDICATION DISPENSED BUT NOT Badger for emergencie s outside normal REQUIRED surgery hours. For details on how to Home Visits : If patients are too ill to attend the surgery, or are housebound and need a doct or to visit them at home please obtain medical help when the surgery telephone the surgery BEFORE 10.00am. is closed please telephone Comments : If you would like to make any comments, complaints or suggestions concerning the surgery please contact Joanne 01676 532587 Hope , Practice manager on 01676 532213 or in writing to the surg ery. PRE BOOKED APPOINTMENTS
We would like to make patients aware that appointments can be booked with doctors in advance of 48 hours. We understand that patients have commitments that require them to book appointments with us further in advance than 48 hours. We have therefore allocated a number of appointments that can be booked in advance, these are included every surgery taken by a doctor with the exception of locums . Once these appointments have been allocated the remaining will be available on the 48 hour booking rule . Please ask at reception if you would like to book further in advance than 48 hours.
What is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease?
The condition chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is often referred to as Chronic Bronchitis, Emphysema and even long standing Asthma. “Chronic” means long term and progressive but can be controlled in many cases. The main cause of COPD is smoking, resulting in damage and narrowed airways which make it harder to breathe, the air passages become inflamed which causes cough and excess phlegm. Eventually affecting a person’s quality of life.
IF YOU STOP SMOKING YOU STOP THE ACCELERATED DECLINE OF YOUR LUNG FUNCTION.
To diagnose COPD a breathing test is performed called a SPIROMETRY, the respiratory nurse can do this at the surgery. COPD cannot be cured but compliance to treatment can improve symptoms of cough, shortness of breath and phlegm production. It is important to keep well and protect against chest infections e.g. make sure you have a pneumonia injection and yearly flu vaccin ations, simple daily activity e.g. walking and a good healthy diet.
COPD Screening Programme
We are offering a screening programme at the Meriden surgery to all our current and ex-smokers aged 35-75+ years who are experiencing any signs of daily cough, shortness of breath and/or phlegm production. A spirometry test will be performed and the results explained. An opportunity to discuss smoking cessation will be made available at the appointment.
National Blood Service . The next session for blood Donors will be Thursday 31 st July at the Heart of England Social Club 1.30 –3.30pm & 4.30 - 7.30pm for enquiries please ring 0845 771 1711 Balsall Common and Meriden Group Practice
Prescription Request and Delivery Service – Pharmacy2U
Further to the recent letter sent to all patients receiving repeat medication from the Practice, I felt I should write to answer concerns voiced by both patients and the local pharmacies. At no time did the Practice want to threaten the services presently provided by the Lloyds chemist at Balsall Common and Meriden; in fact the letter clearly states that:
• The services is offered in addition to all other existing services • All the existing services will continue • If you want a local chemist to dispense your medication, you need take no further action • If you do not wish to take part with this scheme you need take no further action
As a Practice we are aware that through ill health, work commitments or other personal circumstances some patients find it difficult to obtain the repeat medication prescribed by the Practice. The Pharmacy2U service is offered as an alternative to all existing services. We feel th at we have an obligation to our patients to give them a choice of services to use so that they may use the one most appropriate to their needs. Pharmacy2U will:
• Remind patients that their repeat medication is due • Deliver to any address free of charge
Each patient has a choice to use this service or to continue ordering their medication as they do now. If you do sign up to Pharmacy2U and decided you no longer wish to use their service either for one occasion or permanently all you have to do is request your medication from the Practice as you do now. I should like to confirm that the Practice sent out the letters to all patients including the registration form from Pharmacy2U so as to make it easier for patients who wished to either know more about the service or who wanted to sign up for the service.
IF YOU WISH TO CONTINUE TO ORDER YOUR MEDICATION DIRECTLY FROM THE PRACTICE AND EITHER PICK UP YOUR PRESCRIPTION FROM THE SURGERY OR LOCAL LLOYDS CHEMIST YOU CAN STILL DO SO, PHARMACY 2U IS AN ALTERNATIVE SERVICE
Joanne Hope Practice Manager
Lloyds Pharmacy Meriden United Charities The Green Meriden The Meriden United Charities is a trust fund, which manages income from a collective combination of endowments, which were made by Tel/ Fax 01676 various local benefactors over the centuries. 522722 By today’s standards, the Annual Income is modest but the trust states that it will offer provision
“…to persons resident in the Parish of Meriden who are in conditions of need, hardship or distress, by making grants of money or providing or paying for items, services or facilities calculated to reduce the need, hardship or distress of such persons.”
Monday – Friday The Trustees meet three times per year to consider applications from 9.00am – 6.00pm residents of any age who feel they have a specific need not fulfilled by statutory provision. Anyone wishing to apply for help should, in the Saturday first instance, write to The Clerk to the Trustees, 9.00am – 5.00pm Mr Alan Barker, 163 Avon Street, Coventry CV3 3GQ Sunday Closed Children from Meriden School visited Meriden Library for some of their lessons: here are some of their letters of thanks When I went to the library on Firstly thank you to all the Meriden st I enjoy going to the library Thursday 1 May, I researched library staff for putting all the because it helps us to find some scientific facts about books out for us, Its nice to go down books quickly when we need Saturn. The librarians set out all to the library now and again because them. Also you find things for the books that we needed and it’s a break from school and its just your self and not been given left us to it. I had a fantastic enjoyable to look at books them. We go because it helps time I would like to thank the Thomas Callaghan year 5 you with your education. I Librarians Connor Boyd would like to say a big thank I enjoy going to the library you to the staff at the library because it links with our for getting things ready for us education for example it helps I enjoy going to James Hughes year 5 with team work, helps our Meriden library because you can computer skills and we find work with partners or on your own I enjoyed the library because information on topics were doing and find more information out for it was fun. We read lots of in school. It helps give me ideas your self. It helps your education books to find lots of facts for what I would like to borrow because its got LOADS of books about the Moon. Thank you to Clare Scruby year 5 and a few computers the Meriden library ladies. Evie Spalding year 5 Harry Hammon year 5
Domestic, Office & Commercial Cleaning Service
I offer a domestic or commercial cleaning service for your home, office, workplace or communal areas Whatever your cleaning needs are I can provide a service to match them. I have FULL insurance and have an enhanced CRB (police) check
Please call Lynda on Home 02476 638 1783 [email protected] 139 Yoxall Road, Shirley Solihull B90 3RW Mobile 07702 789 264
Make A Better Life Trust (MABL)
0800 032 6317
If you need to talk to someone in confidence about Domestic Violence please call the above number. It is open 10am till 12 noon Monday to Friday (except bank holidays) We will listen We will believe
Meriden Volunteers for Cancer Research UK
Thank you for supporting us last year. At the Open gardens in Meriden end of our financial year we were pleased to Sunday August 31st have sent another £14,000 to Cancer Research. It’s hard to believe it is two years since our last We have recently had another successful Black open gardens. The weather was scorching hot- a Country Night at the Heart of England Club bit too hot really! and raised £1,200 –so we’re off again for This year we hope to have good weather again to another year. look over the gardens and chat away. The price “Turmeric Gold” have been very generous and stays the same at £2.50 are offering their establishment for a “Sunday which means you can Lunch with a difference”(see the advertisement spend all day below). We are very much looking forward to pottering around. our Open Gardens on August 31 st . This is always a popular event and everyone enjoys the Refreshments & stalls “community feeling” will be available en route. If you feel you can share your garden- big or Maps can be collected small, modern or traditional please call: - from “Lavender House” Mary 522160 by the Village Hall and the gardens Carol 07811 613 905 will be open from 11.00am to 6.00pm
Donations of plants and bric a brac will be most “ Together we will beat cancer” welcome Mary 522160
Turmeric Gold Turmeric Gold For Cancer research UK @ Meriden @ Meriden
Healthy * Lifestyle * Cuisine Join us for a Sunday lunch with a difference Tel: 01676 521055 th OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK Sunday July 13 Traditional Indian Buffet lunch with a LUNCHTIME glass of wine 12 Noon – 2.00pm Lunchtime menu available £15 adults, primary aged children - £10 2 course £7.50 3 Course £8.50
Ideal for business lunches or for pleasure There will be two sittings: - EVENINGS 1.00pm and 2.30pm. 5.30pm – 11.00pm Monday – Saturday You will be able to sit in the garden with 5.30pm - 10.30pm Sunday drinks before or after your meal. The Meriden Hotel 155 Main Road Meriden CV7 7NH Booking essential call www.turmericgold.co.uk Mary 522160 or Carol 07811 613 905 Meriden in the time of Cranford: Part 2- James Kittermaster. M.D.1789-1876
Mrs Gaskell wrote about individual members of her community with flair and had she lived in Meriden, Dr Kittermaster’s varied lifestyle and good fortune would doubtless have attracted her attention. When young, ‘Kittermaster’ Road caught my eye. Who was he? As usual Basil Warmingham came to the rescue: a village doctor in Victorian days whose house still stood on the Hill. Dr Platten our G.P. added, ’His tombstone is by the rear gate of the church yard.’ Though I wanted to know more, it took me until 1990 to satisfy my curiosity. That was when I got in touch with descendants, especially the playwright Michael Kittermaster. The doctor’s parents, James and Margaret nee Harper were butler and housekeeper in the home of Revd. Anthony Bliss, Meriden’s rich, long serving, bachelor vicar. Mr Bliss paid for James’s public school education, after which he served as an army doctor in the Peninsular War and Canada but his heart literally remained in Meriden where he returned in 1813 to marry Miss Mary Zachery, a talented teacher. The ‘young marrieds’ at first lived in the vicarage, but in 1815 when the vicar died aged 86, they inherited Meriden House, which they rented out for more income, land and money. The 1851 census records his qualifications: M.D Glasgow, saying he practiced medicine without charge: a blessing to the village poor but not to other doctors who needed to earn a living! In 1829 his mother died, leaving him a cottage and small field called ‘Hill Orchard’ in the lane ne ar the church. With a growing family of his own, and a friend’s widow, Ann Beaufoy with two children to accommodate, he decided to build a family house ‘Church Cottage’ on part of the field, soon enlarged for his wife’s project: a boarding school for young ladies. Mrs Beaufoy assisted as a teacher. The Dr enjoyed shooting, fishing, walking, picnics and botany but his most creative hobby by 1830s was drawing and watercolour painting. These pictures give us a wonderful image of the village and its surroundings just before the era of photography. Sometimes he took one of his young daughters with him and sketched a series of pictures as they walked to Hollyberry End or Gt Packington. Often he strolled down the field path as you still can do, to the ‘Queen’s’ for a drink or drew himself, usually smoking, with one or two of his sons. The village looked as it did in my childhood but by then vast changes were afoot and many old buildings he depicted like Darlaston Hall have vanished while others like the ‘Queen’s’ are not recognisable from his work. His younger sons’ imaginations were fired by his tales about Canada so as young adults, they decided to emigrate taking with them part of his archive of pictures. The Dr lived out his life in the village working for its betterment: a true village worthy. His youngest daughter Miss Edith Harriette Kittermaster played the church organ and in her turn built a house in Eaves Green Lane. A few weeks ago his Canadian descendant decided many of the pictures ought to ‘come home’. I have set myself the task of conserving them (as they are rather frail) for the community. I hope many of you will enjoy viewing them on slide, hear more about the Dr’s life and times and by paying a small fee, contribute to this Project. Doreen Agutter The Bull Head Inn 1832
Inner Wheel Club of Meriden
Hoar Park Shopping & Leisure Village We would like to thank all villagers who attended Ansley, Nuneaton the Merlin Singers concert in April. With your help Tel: 024 7639 9393 we raised the wonderful sum of £874 for Acorns Mob: 0797 123 8424 Children’s Hospice. Sadly all good things must come to an end and the Inner Wheel Club of Meriden will be closing in July. Hats, fascinators, headwear for all Thanks again to everyone in Meriden who has occasions --- hire or buy. Handmade supported us over the years at all our fund raising hats and headpieces made to order events. Val Martin Dear Editor, I have recently written to Meriden Parish council with some suggestions for making Meriden a safer and more attractive place to live. I would like to share my thoughts with other people to see if they share my views. Awareness in the Countryside Lighting – parts of Meriden are poorly lit – the footpaths
I am sure so many of you must have noticed, as you between Fillongley Road and Highfield, and Highfield and walk or drive in our beautiful countryside, that our Alspath Road (which are used by many elderly people). lovely trees, mostly oak and ash, are being disfigured The footpath beside the Greengrocers and Arden Close and by ivy creeping up the trunks and along the branches the area where the crossing lady stands for children to hiding their lovely bark and in a lot of cases taking access the school. over the entire tree. Crime happens in poorly lit places and if the shrubs around There is a lot of this to be seen around Meriden and the the footpaths were kept low this would prevent people surrounding district. hiding there. Our trees are being robbed of their beauty and majestic Although the tree on the roundabout and the Meriden Tree looks because they are clothed with heavy ivy. of Thought look beautiful at Christmas time with the This also makes the trees very vulnerable and open to Christmas lights, perhaps some of the businesses could gales. decorate their premises to make the village look more I feel we must act now to protect the identity of our festive. trees and see them once again in their true beauty. Our village green is a credit, it always looks well cared for I have been told that her Majesty the Queen has asked and beautiful, wouldn’t a few hanging baskets around the for the ivy to be cut off the trees on one of her estates. island into the Fillongley Road look attractive? Good for Her Majesty, we should all follow her lead. Hold a meeting on provisions for our youth, keep them We all need to do our utmost to address this serious busy and listen to their views, this will help everyone. problem it affects us all. Yours sincerely
Brenda Ingram W. Kelly 43, Alspath Road
Work continues to improve rights of way in Meriden and across the Borough
With summer nearly upon us, I hope that many of you will once again take advantage on the supposedly improving weather conditions, and explore the many varied public footpaths and bridleways that Solihull has to offer. The Council continues to work hard to try to improve these routes, and already in 2008 has been working with volunteer groups to install 6 kissing gates in place of stiles on routes in the Meriden area. The gates help to improve the accessibility of the network for users whilst ensuring that the farmers’ fields remain stock proof.
In January of this year, we released the first ever 'Solihull Rights of Way Improvement Plan'. The plan is intended to be a strategic document that will provide the means over a ten-year period for us, with your assistance, to identify and propose management strategies in order to improve public rights of way and access to the countryside. As part of the development of this plan, we have created a statement of actions, which sets out local priorities and actions that we propose to take to improve access within the borough. This statement of action has been formulated following extensive consultation with members of the public, network users and stakeholder organisations. If you are interested in rights of way and would like to have a look at the plan, a copy is available at Meriden Library or online at: http://www.solihull.gov.uk/transport/publicrightsofway_11763.htm One of the actions identified as part of this plan was to improve the bridleways which run through Meriden Shafts. This work is already underway with the steps taken to ensure that the routes are open and available throughout the year. We intend to follow this up in the next couple of months by improving the ground conditions at a number of points on the route where it suffers from waterlogged and boggy ground. I hope that you enjoy utilising the network throughout 2008 however if you do come across any problems or would like to discuss a rights of way issue, then please do not hesitate to to contact me at [email protected]
David Keaney - Walking and Rights of Way Officer, Solihull MBC MERIDEN’S WOMEN’S INSTITUTE 90 THTHTH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
On Monday 7 th April 2008 a splendid evening was enjoyed by fifty-five membersAfterwards together Pat Eyre with who guests has frombeen neighboringwith the time. Women’s Institutes at Meriden Village Hall. Five previous Presidents, Mrs. Val Edwards, Mrs. Grace Tuckey, Mrs. Susan Fuller, Mrs. Margaret Argyle, Mrs. Mary Timms and the present President Mrs Joan Russell were presented with flower button holes in recognition of their work for Meriden WI.
A display of old photographs, minute books and members’ crafts brought back happy memories. The painting, needlework and card making showed a variety of excellent, skilled talents. Everyone enjoyed the magician Paul Kybert who gave an amazing show before a delicious buffet was served by Nick James of ‘The Old Bakery’ Hampton. A named pencil was presented to all those present, as a memento of the occasion.
Afterwards Pat Eyre who has been with the Meriden WI for forty-five years and is our oldest serving member cut a beautiful cake, made by member, Mrs. Maureen Gabbitas
A toast of ‘thanks’ was made by Mrs. Joan Russell to all the previous Presidents, Committees and members who have kept Meriden WI working since 1918; on a variety of local and National issues, from supporting the local Poor Law Institute in the 1920’s to campaigning against the closure of Post Offices and hospitals at the present time.
MERIDEN METHODIST NURSERY 40 THTHTH
ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS
Meriden Methodist Nursery celebrated its 40 th anniversary on 18 th Established in 1968 April 2008 with afternoon parties for children past and present and Methodist Church Hall in the evening for workers past and present. It was lovely to hear 113, Main Road Meriden tales of how the nursery first started from Mary Warr, who indeed We offer children from 2-5 years of age started with Miss Margaret Dawson in 1968 and from many other ex-workers whose memories were both funny and endearing. We a caring, stimulating environment with had a photo display from over the 40 years and spent a great deal of experiences that are full of fun with our time trying to put names to faces who we had either worked with or qualified staff. taught in the past. I think everyone had a good time and here’s to Morning, afternoon or day sessions. the next 40 years! Marilyn Hamilton We can arrange collections from local nurseries. Your child is entitled to 5 free sessions per week for terms after their 3 rd birthday (until they attend school nursery or reception class). We are OFSTED Registered and accredited to Pre-school Learning Alliance QA Scheme To see how You and Your Child could benefit pay us a call on 07882705490 / 07882808821 01676 523472 NOW TAKING BOOKINGS FOR SEPTEMBER 2008
The Cricket season is here again, along with the rain! So, weather permitting we are looking forward to our firs t full term Quiz Night at Barkers Butts RFC, it’s the nearest thing we’ve had to cricket in the village for many years so please feel free to come along On Thursday 5 th June and support the players. 7.30pm at Queen’s Head Pub th The Coventry 20 Overs League commences on Thursday 8 Old Rd Meriden May with Meriden playing away to Banwait at Kenilworth Presented by your ever popular Wardens. A fixtures list is on display at the Queen’s Head and Quizmaster Barkers Butts RFC or call Mike for more information. The last cricket club quiz we held at the Queen’s Head in April was dedicated to the memory of David Haigh who passed a way Rick Wise recently after a short but brave battle with cancer and with a huge thank you to everyone who so generously supported us, Entry £1 per head (max 5 persons a team) we raised over £400 for Cancer Research. Thanks to Tom Jones, a member of the old Meriden Cricket Great raffle prizes Club, we have recently recovered a piece of treasured history. A cup which was presented annually to a Meriden player by the legendary R. E. S. Wyatt and dating back to the early 1930’s is now back with us. We hope to display it shortly. As ever, we welcome new blood, young and old, as players and Diane King Shield spectators, we look forward to seeing you. Mike Gallagher Chairman 07775567889 Six a Side Competition
Sunday 10 th August 12noon At Barker Butts RFC Pickford Grange Lane
Fun Day Come along and enjoy some fun cricket, Bank Holiday Sunday 24 th August support the players, enjoy a drink from the 1.00pm onwards bar and a bite to eat from the BBQ Back of the Queens Head Pub A great day out for everyone For more info phone This year we would like to make it Mike 07775567889 Terry 07970119142 BIGGER AND BETTER. We can only do this with your support Diary of Events 2008 Season We need • Reliable people for help before during and Every Tuesday 6pm nets practice behind the Queen’s after the event Head Meriden, we welcome all prospective players. • Charities & groups to organise stalls or Thursday June 5 th Quiz Night at the Queen’s Head, games etc Meriden 7.30pm. • Plenty of you to turn up on the day & have nd Sunday Cricket at Barkers Butts RFC, fun raising money for local charities and Sunday 22 June organisations 2pm onwards. Sunday 20th July Sunday Cricket at Barkers But ts RFC, Get your team together for the tug of War 2pm onwards. Competition Sunday 10 th August Diane King Memorial Trophy Six- a-Side Tournament at Barkers Butts RFC, 11am onwards. Pony rides, Tombola, Welly Wanging, Bouncy Castle, Sunday 24 th August Meriden Cricket Club Fun Day, Coconut Shy, BBQ and lots more Back of the Queen’s Head Pub, 1pm onwards.
Monday 25 th August Meriden Cricket Club Cricket Fun Contact Mike on 01676 521085 Day at Barkers Butts RFC 2pm E: [email protected] th th Visiting Tour at Tina on 07809 573313 E: [email protected] Saturday 6 – Sunday 7 September Bideford, Littleham & Westward Ho Cricket Club
The public and press are cordially invited to all meetings in the Village Hall at 7.30pm. An opportunity will be given for the public to speak. Look out for the Agenda, which is posted on the parish notice boards prior to the meeting.
June 2008 11 th Sub Committee Meeting 23 rd Parish Council Meeting NEIGHBOURHOOD CO-ORDINATOR July 2008 16 th Sub Committee Meeting SUSAN EAST TEL: 0121 704 6435 28 th Parish Council Meeting [email protected]
August 2008 6 th Sub Committee Meeting RURAL NEIGHBOURHOOD POLICE 18 th Parish Council Meeting WPC SHARON WILLIAMS TEL: 0845 113 5000 EXT 79286264 Should you wish to contact your Parish Council [email protected] please contact the Clerk:
Mrs J Hall 111 Fillongley Road Tel : 01676 522727 Meriden Email : [email protected] Coventry Website : meridenparishcouncil.org.uk CV7 7LW
Your Parish Councillors are: Rosie Weaver (Chair); Bob Kipling (Vice Chair); Graeme Goodsir; Shirley Goodsir; Marilyn Hamilton; Melanie Lee; Sarah Markham; Will Markham.
Your Parish Councillors’ photographs were in the last issue of the Meriden Mag. They are also at the Library and on the Website.
1) COMMUNITY SURGERIES PC Sharon Williams representing the West Midlands Police along with Susan East your Neighbourhood Coordinator from Solihull MBC will be available for you to discuss any issues at Meriden Library on Monday mornings from 10.00am – 12.00 noon on the following dates: 16 th June, 14 th July, 15 th September, 20 th October, 17 th November, 15 th December.
2) DOG FOULING
May we respectfully remind dog owners of the Solihull MBC Dog Control Order making it an offence for a person in charge of a dog within Solihull Borough to fail to remove dog faeces deposited by that dog for which they were responsible. There has been an increasing amount throughout the community especially along the verges adjacent to the school and even just outside the school gate. The following health risk information has been received from Meriden Surgery:
Animals including dogs are known to carry disease and parasites including a variety of zoonotic organisms capable of causing serious illness in people. Most often quoted is Toxocara canis, which can pose a significant risk to children. Dog owners should ensure that their dogs are regularly inoculated on the advice of a vetinary surgeon. If this were done and every dog owner treated their dogs regularly with a worming preparation and cleared up after it, diseases such as Toxocariasis, would be virtually eradicated. Toxocariasis most commonly effects children and can, in some cases, lead to blindness .
Please respect other residents especially the school children and clean up after your dogs. Bags can be obtained from Meriden Library.
3) PARISH COUNCIL AUDIT Notices will be posted end of May displaying Audit Date 21 st July with a summary of elector’s rights for Year End Accounts 2007/2008. 4) BRITAIN IN BLOOM – NATIONAL AND REGIONAL COMPETITIONS We are pleased to advise that Solihull MBC have been invited to enter the National Britain in Bloom competition for the first time this year. Our Green has been selected as one of the sites for judging for both the National and Regional Competitions. We would therefore ask that residents respect the grass on the Green and treat it as it should be treated.
5) BEST KEPT VILLAGE COMPETITION 2008 Meriden Parish has again entered the “Best Kept Village” competition and judging will take place in May.
6) UPDATE ON DEVELOPMENT AT MAXSTOKE LANE At the time of writing, the up to date position is that Bryant Homes who were selected by Solihull MBC as the preferred developers of the existing and new playing fields have withdrawn their tender offer due to a fall in the housing market. Further detailed information as to the decision is awaited. Updates will be posted on the Parish Council notice boards, the website ( www.meridenparishcouncil.org.uk ), the Library and The Centre.
7) FOOTBALL ACADEMY FOR CHILDREN Heart of England Alliance will be running a training camp at Maxstoke Lane playing fields starting on the 26 th July 2008 and hoping to run every Saturday morning throughout the summer holidays. They are offering top quality football coaching for children aged 5 to 14 of all abilities in a fun and safe environment. All staff are CRB checked and are First Aid trained. For more information and to register your interest please telephone Matthew Bamber on 07515 870041 or the Clerk on 522727.
8) MERIDEN PARISH APPRAISAL AND PLAN The Household Survey 2008 questionnaire has been distributed to all households in Meriden Parish by resident volunteers. We hope you have had the opportunity to complete it either through the on-line version or through the paper version. Please try to complete it by 31 st May at the latest. If for any reason you are unable to meet this deadline, let your volunteer collector know or phone Iain Roxburgh on 522496 and a special collection can be made up to 7 th June. Please visit http://meridenhousehold.esos-survey.co.uk to complete it on-line. If you prefer to complete the paper version you can give it to the collector or drop it off at the following collection points: • Meriden Library, Village Green • Meriden Surgery, Main Road • The Centre (Charity Shop), Village Green • Blitz Beauty Salon, Birmingham Road, Millison’s Wood Spare copies are also available at the above collection points. And don’t forget to enter the free prize draw . There are seven prizes on offer ranging from retail vouchers to family days out at the Meriden Archery Club and Drayton Manor Theme Park. The winners of the draw will be announced at the Heart of England Social Club on Tuesday 1 st July from 7:30pm. Please come along and meet the Appraisal Steering Group. The more questionnaires completed, the more Meriden Parish will be taken seriously by the public authorities and it will lead to us achieving Quality Parish status.
9) TENNIS COURTS Due to vandalism the tennis courts on Maxstoke Lane playing fields are locked. Keys can be obtained from the Spar and Clerk. However, this has not stopped glass bottles continually being thrown over the top of the fencing, smashing on the courts rendering them unusable. Two volunteers have kindly agreed to remove the glass on a weekly basis and the Parish Council would like to thank them. If you would also like to volunteer please contact the Clerk.
Local Election Results Councillor David Bell An interesting election with 90 candidates contesting 17 seats across the Borough. The Votes cast overall were 27,080 for the conservatives 4532 for labour 15,576 for the liberal democrats and 9567 votes for the green party, UKIP, the BNP etc. Councillor Dr Peter Lea returned for a further four-year term with the largest majority of the night capitalising on the 44 years that he has lived and worked in Meriden. Elsewhere there were upsets. In Blythe, Maggie Allen the deputy leader of the Libdems was defeated by Martin McCarthy (Con). Hugh Hendrey leader of the Labour party, and with 18 years service on the Council, was ousted by Mike Sheriden of the Green Party. In Kingshurst and Fordbridge another longstanding labour councillor, John Kimberley, was defeated by Debbie Evans (Con) and in Bickenhill long time campaigner and former Independent Jim Ryan was successful standing as a Conservative. The Conservatives move therefore from no overall control to being the largest party and the controlling group and the make up of the council is now as follows: Conservatives 26 - up 2. Labour 5 - down 2 BNP 1- no change Libdems 18 - no change. Greens 1 - up 1 Independents 0 - down 1
EXOTIC THAI
DEE HAS MOVED TO QUEENS HEAD PUB OLD ROAD MERIDEN
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OPEN 5 days a week Tuesday to Saturday Food can be ordered between the following times: Tuesday – Thursday 7.00pm till 10.00pm (closing) Friday – Saturday 7.00pm till 10.30pm (closing)
Book in advance to avoid disappointment
01676 523740 (6.00pm till 9.30pm)
The management reserves the right of admission
DR MICHAEL PLATTEN 1915 - 2008 ROY RICHARDS 1931 – 2008
Many long-standing residents of the village will be sad to Roy Richards was the Midlands’s hear of the recent death of Dr Michael Platten, aged 93, who businessman who founded the National was General Practitioner in the village for many years. Motorcycle Museum, the world’s largest He qualified as a doctor at Birmingham Medical School in collection of British motorcycles. 1942, following which he served in the R oyal Navy for the latter half of the war. He spent most of his wartime service Roy was born in 1931 and attended in destroyers, escorting Russian convoys in the icy seas of Bordesley Green Technical School. After the Baltic. leaving school at 14 he went into the After the war, in 1949, shortly after the inception of the building industry and eventually set up the National Health Service, he came to Strawber ry Bank in building firm of Richards & Wallington with Meriden, where he took over the practice from Dr English. partner Ray Wallington. Not only did he launch into the unstinting medical care of his patients “from Cradle to Grave” but he also became an active Being passionate about motorcycles all his and dedicated member of the community at large. He served life he decided in 1984 to open the National as a Parish Councillor and was a School Governor. He Motorcycle Museum to span the “60 founded The Meriden Old Peoples’ Welfare Association and Glorious Years” of motorcycling as a staunch Anglican, served for many years as Vicar’s manufacture in Britain. Warden at St. Laurence Church. In 2003 a fire destroyed 70% of the museum Dr Platten was a very conscientious and caring doctor and but Roy set to work with a dedicated team of afte r many years, it took a toll on his health, resulting in his helpers and the museum was rebuilt and re- retirement in 1972. However, his parting gesture to the opened in December 2004. community, in order to meet the needs of the growing number of residents, was to instigate the move of the surgery The Manor Hotel Meriden and the Windmill from Strawberry Bank to the Old School House, which is Village Hotel at Allesley are part of a trust still Meriden’s surgery today. for the museum’s future maintenance and In retirement, he first lived at Builth Wells and later moved survival. to Oxfordshire to be nearer his family. He died at a home Roy Richards lived in Catherine de Barnes, there in January of this year and three of his former partners he was married four times and is survived by were able to represent the practice and the community at his his wife Christine, a son and daughter and funeral. He leaves a daughter, Angela and a son, Michael. three stepchildren. His older son and his wife, Elizabeth, pre-deceased him.
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Mirror Image The Green Meriden 01676 523669
Come and visit our new friendly Salon in the Village • All Aspects of Beauty • Top fashion hair styles for ladies and gents • OAP days Tuesday & Wednesday
We will be closing at the end of July for several weeks for building work. But don’t PANIC!
Sharon, owner of Mirror Image can visit you at home, for all your hairdressing needs - call 07745188204
Also Melissa, our beautician will be doing home visits contact her on 07837655280
THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING US DURING THIS TIME
Opening times Monday Closed Thursday 9.00-5.30 Tuesday 9.00-5.30 Friday 9.00-7.00 Wednesday 9.00-7.00 Saturday 9.00-5.30
BALANCE HEALTH AND FITNESS
Brings SHAITSU to Meriden Like a dazzling jewelled tear, WHAT is Shiatsu? Dropping from the bright blue sky, An ancient form of treatment, working on the same You hear the pitter patter, principle as Acupuncture. The practitioner’s hands, Floating down from high. elbows, knees and feet are used to activate changes in life energy of the person rather than needles. It sways slowly swishing, WHAT CAN SHAITSU DO FOR YOU ? From the dull brown branch, It works to help the body self heal thereby Dropping on the floor strengthening and rejuvenating. Now it’s scared for sure. HOW DOES SHAITSU FEEL TO RECEIVE? The experience is very individual but we believe Like a flashing cracked light bulb. everyone agrees that it is a pleasure to receive and With a shaded shadow, crying as it falls, deeply relaxing. Like a crystal silver crown’s jewel,
Experience for yourself this safe and deeply Tickling our faces. effective therapy in the comfort of your own home or in a wonderfully peaceful setting at our local therapy room. For further details contact Ernie Boxall or Anne Brown on 01676 521393 or 07862 216833 Initial treatment offer, saving £5 By Emily Hancox (9) and Ellie Ryan (8)
Places to go and things to do this summer
Open gardens Whitacres and Shustoke Horticultural Society 60 th Annual Show 26 th July 2008 Blythe Hall, Shustoke
near Coleshill Sunday 15 th June Maxstoke Castle 11.00am-5.00pm Some rooms in house also open, home made teas. Main Marquee filled with displays of vegetables, Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens flowers and plants. Outside cattle, sheep and goats, Chester Road, Birmingham a tent full of rabbits, a dog show and 3 rings of phone for opening times 0121 74 9 4100 horse and pony classes. Schedules can be obtained from the website.
The Master’s Garden Lord Leycester Hospital Visit St Mary’s Warwick Guildhall open every day Bayley Lane 10.00am – 4.30pm Coventry
Open Sunday to
Marie Curie Hospice Gardens Thursday Warwick Road, Solihull 10.00am-4.00pm Saturday July 12 th 1.30pm-5.00pm home made Easter to teas. September 28 th
What’s on at the NEC Wednesday June 11-Sunday June 15 th Free admission BBC Gardener’s World Live & BBC Summer Festival and Summer Good food Show Coventry’s best kept mediaeval secret Friday July 24 th –Sunday July 27 th Located in the historic heart of Coventry, the Antiques for Everyone majestic rooms of the guildhall provide a Thursday August 14 th – Sunday August 17 th fascinating visitor experience for all a ges brought to Festival of Quilts life by knowledgeable guides.
Cycle the Coleshill Cycle Route This route is 33 miles in length and where possible, uses quiet country roads. It goes through Shustoke, Maxstoke, Meriden, Fillongley, Corley Moor, Astley, Ansley, Bentley Woods, Furnace End and Coleshill. Details and map of the route can be obtained by phoning Kingsbury Water Park 01827 872660 or obtained from North Warwickshire Council’s website. Parade Dry Cleaners Parade Dry Cleaners
180, Station Road, Balsall Common 20% off all
duvets 01676 534444 cleaned with this voucher For all your dry cleaning and laundry requirements
Dry cleaning Parade Dry Laundry services Cleaners Alterations Shoe repairs 4 items Curtains 10%cleaned off any for Quilts £14.99item Bedding with this Wedding gowns with this voucher voucher Branches Throughout the Midlands Head Office and Factory - Garretts Green 0121 786 1792 Suit counts as 2 items
Is celebrating 25 years of working with and for older people in the Metropolitan Borough of Solihull this year.
What we can do for you • Provide regular respite breaks for carers of older people with dementia and memory loss • Supply information & advice to older residents of the Borough and their relatives • Provide befriending and social support and carry out small domestic tasks • Provide small emergency hardship grants • Run 6 week computer taster sessions at Solihull libraries (including Meriden) • Run pop- in & social clubs • Run a face to face service selling a range of insurance and other products such as the very popular Aid-Call Emergency Response system Coming soon! • Healthy eating and fitness clubs What you can do for us • Donate your time by volunteering for a wide range of interesting activities • Donate your unwanted good quality clothes for sale in our charity shops • Donate money or leave a legacy in your will • Use www.easyfundraising.org.uk when you shop online and as your search engine – we get a donation from each sale. To find out more you can contact us by: writing to Age Concern Solihull, The Priory, Church Hill Rd, Solihull, B91 3 LF Telephone 0121 705 9128 insurance products 0121 7113849 Email [email protected] Registered Charity number Or visit our web site www.ageconcernsolihull.org 1055887
VILLAGE DIARY
DATE EVENT VENUE TIME CONTACT 2nd June W I Village Hall 7.30pm Joan Russell 01676 522 666 4th June Brownies’ sponsored event Methodist Hall 6.15pm Jane 01676 542 501 4th June Readers Circle 7.30pm Sue Fuller 01676 522 721 5th June Music evening Meriden School 6.00- 7.30pm Mrs J Smith 522 488 5th June Cricket Club Quiz Queens Head 7.30pm Mike 01676 521 085 6th June Circus School 4.00,5.30,7.00pm Mrs J Smith 522 488 8th June Megaride Playing Fields 11.45am onwards Neville Riley 01676 532 709 8th June 13, Solihull Open Gardens 0121 705 1059 20 th July 11 th June Parish Council Meeting Village Hall 7.30pm Julie Hall 01676 522 553 14 th June Festival Fair Village Green 10.30am Kevin Hunt 01676 523 050 15 th June Maxstoke Castle Open Gdns Maxstoke 11.00am-5.00pm 16 th June Police & Council Surgery Library 10.0am –12noon 01676 522 717 16 th June Flower Club Village Hall 7.30pm Sandra Jones 01676 523 023 16 th June Healthy week begins Meriden School Mrs J Smith 522 488 18 th June Fun Afternoon Methodist Nursery 1.00 – 4.00pm Marilyn 01676 523 472 20 th June Firs Coffee Morning Jubilee Centre 10.00am- 12 Angela Keedwell Balsall Common noon 01676 532 537 21 st June Much Ado About Nothing Fillongley Lodge 6.30pm John O’Brien 01676 541 409 22 nd June Kinwalsey Tree Service Kinwalsey Lane 4.00pm Rev. Jenny Dyer 533 737 22 nd June Cricket Barker Butts 2.00pm Mike 01676 521 085 23 rd June Parish Council Meeting Village Hall 7.30pm Julie Hall 01676 522 553 27 th June CAMEO holiday at home Ellen 01676 522 534 7th July W I Village Hall 7.30pm Joan Russell 01676 522 666 9th July Readers Circle 7.30pm Sue Fuller 01676 522 721 9th 10 th July School - Junior Production Meriden School Mrs J Smith 522 488 9th -16 th July Art Exhibition Coleshill Julie Hyde 01676 523 357 12 th July Reading challenge begins Library 01676 522 717 12 th July Midsummer Draw Library Alan Lole 01676 522 138 13 th July Sunday Lunch Turmeric Gold 1.00pm & 2.30pm Mary Warr 01676 522 160 14 th July Police & Council Surgery Library 10.00- 12 noon 01676 522 717 16 th July Parish Council Village Hall 7.30pm Julie Hall 01676 522 553 18 th July FIRS Coffee Morning Jubilee Centre 10.00am-12noon Angela Keedwell Balsall Common 01676 532 537 25 th July CAMEO Community Centre 2.00pm Ellen 01676 522 534 26 th July Whitacres & Shustoke Show Blythe Hall 26 th July Football Academy starts Playing fields Matthew Bamber 07515870041 28 th July Parish Council Village Hall Julie Hall 01676 522 553 31 st July National Blood Service H of E Club 1.30-3.30pm 0845 771 1711 4.30-7.30pm 4th August W I Village Hall 7.30 Joan Russell 01676 522 666 4th August ‘Meriden Mag’ deadline 6th August Parish Council Village Hall 7.30pm Julie Hall 01676 522 553 10 th August Fillongley Show Stonehouse Farm 9.00am Cheryl 02476 460287 10 th August 6 a Side Cricket Barker Butts 11.00am Mike 01676 521 085 13 th August Readers Circle 7.30pm Sue Fuller 01676 522 721 15 th August FIRS Coffee Morning Jubilee Centre 10.00am-12noon Angela Keedwell Balsall Common 01676 532 537 15 th August CAMEO Coach Trip Charlecote Ellen 01676 522 534 18 th August Parish Council Village Hall 7.30pm Julie Hall 01676 522 553 19 th August Activity 5-11 year olds Library 01676 522 717 24 th August Cricket Club Fun day Queens Head 1.00pm Mike 01676 521 085 25 th August Cricket Club Fun Day Barker Butts 2.00pm Mike 01676 521 085 31 st August Open Gardens Village 11.00am onwards Mary Warr 01676 522 160
This year’s draw will take place at Meriden Library on Saturday 12 th July at around noon. All proceeds to Mac millan Cancer support (Charity No 261017). Once again there is an excellent range of prizes to be won thanks to the generosity of businesses both local and further a field. Those to whom grateful thanks are owed are: The Bear Berkswell, Birmingham Hippodrome, Blitz, The Bulls Head, Corley Canine Pool, Hatton Country World, Heart of England Group, John Lewis Stores, The Manor Hotel, Marriott Forest of Arden, Meriden Fish and Chip Shop, Notcutts of Shirley, Meriden Spar Shop, Ron Potter, Stonebridge Golf Club, Stratford Racecourse and Warwick Castle. Unfortunately at the end of April I suffered another health scare, as a result of which I am not allowed to drive for a while. This is quite a setback when it comes to sales of tickets. Therefore can I PLEASE ask for volunteers to sell tickets, maybe at your places of work or in your immediate location? I truly would not choose to ask but I hope we can make the draw successful, not only to provide funds for such a deserving cause but also to justify the kindness of all who have provided the prizes! Tickets will be available from Meriden Tea Rooms, Spar, Mirror Image, Blitz, Lloyds Chemist, Stars Newsagents and Corley Canine Pool. My thanks to them for their support. Also to Norman Kimberley of Kimberley & Co accountants for the preparation of the Accounts yet again free of charge and to Jack Spencer who created the promotion signs for the draw. THOSE OF YOU WHO FEEL YOU CAN HELP PLEASE RING ME ON 522138. Sincerely, thank you so much & GOOD LUCK Alan Lole Organiser.
When contacting advertisers please mention The Meriden Mag
Reminder!! Deadline date for the autumn issue th Police Priority Setting Meeting Monday 4 August 2008 contact th Val Martin 174 Main Road, Meriden 01676 522963 Friday 27 June 2008 7.30pm [email protected] Balsall Common Village Hall Margaret Argyle 3 The Croft, Meriden 01676 522453 Police and council representatives will be at the meeting to help with [email protected] any queries members of the Treasurer: Adele Fox 16 James Dawson Drive, public may wish to raise Meriden
Deliveries: Keith & Kath Nightingale 01676 522125 Proof Reader: Claire Rose All are welcome Useful Village Contact Numbers Meriden Primary School Mrs. J. Smith 01676 522488 MAG ADVERTISING RATES Meriden Library 01676 522717 Eighth Page £8.50 Meriden Surgery 01676 522252 Quarter Page £17.00 Lloyds Chemist 01676 522722 St. Laurence Church Rev.Michael Dawkins 01676 522719 Half page £34.00 Meriden Methodist Church Rev. Jenny Dyer 01676 533737 Small ads (sale or wanted) Centre Church Rev. Kevin & Lyn Hunt 01676 523050 £3.00 Parish Council Julie Hall (Clerk) 01676 522553 Community Centre Warden Pat Delaney 01676 522867 Charity & Community “ “ “ Val Friend 01676 522867 information & events FREE Solihull M B C 0121 704 6000 Views expressed by the District Councillors Ken Allsopp 0121 782 2408 Contributors are not necessarily David Bell 01676 535211 Dr. Peter Lea 01676 532577 those of the Co-editors Member of Parliament Caroline Spelman 020 7219 4189 We are unable to print anonymous Boy Scouts Group Gerry Russell 01676 522666 Letters or articles although we will Cricket Club Mike Gallagher 01676 521085 withhold name and address on Post Office Sue Harper 01676 522230 request Rural Police Sector WPC Sharon Williams 0845 113 5000