Meriden Mag Autumn 2006 2005 The Meriden Festival has been a great success this year with many activities taking place. The generosity of the village was amazing – The Open Gardens raised £5,363.56 for Cancer Research UK,Alan Lole raised £1,775 for Macmillan Cancer Support with a Midsummer Draw, Meriden Primary School PTA raised over £2,000 for school funds at the Summer Fayre and the Megaride raised over £2,500 for Riders for Health. A really splendid effort. BEST WINDOW DISPLAY Meriden Parish Council invited businesses / shops in the Parish to enter a competition for the best window display depicting an event / life relative to Meriden, displayed 27 th / 29 th May. Margaret and Val, editors of the ‘Mag’ judged the competition. A cup was presented to the winner, ‘The Centre’, Heart of Outreach for their display by Margaret. The Parish also presented bouquets to Margaret and Val for judging the competition and the valuable time and effort they have freely given to The Meriden Art group producing the ‘Mag’, for the last five years. exhibition attracted many Thank you to everyone involved. visitors with displays by Meriden Floral Society The End of an Era It was 18 years ago that Jen Harrison started work at Meriden Library and during that time she has World’s Biggest Coffee Morning become one of the best known members of the Macmillan Coffee Morning Friday 29 th September community. th 10.30 –12 noon Jen retires on 17 August and we shall all miss At the Community Centre, her in so many different ways. Nothing is too Fairfield Rise much trouble for her and her vast knowledge of so many facts often makes her a first port of call Harvest Festivals for many members of the village when they need Sunday 24 th September 10.30am information. At the Methodist Church From my point of view she has been a wonderful Sunday October 1 st 10.30 am colleague and friend, we have shared many happy at St Laurence Church hours together giving us a wealth of memories. I know Jen has lots of plans for the future, hopefully these plans include finding more time Remembrance Sunday to read and therefore we shall see her regularly in the Library. Sunday November 12 th All the best Jen, for a full and happy retirement. 10.00am at the Methodist Church Marion Dodd 10.45am at the War Memorial VILLAGE DIARY DATE EVENT VENUE TIME CONTACT 3rd Sept Way Challenge Start Village Hall 6.00am Bob Carey 02476 455251 4th Sept W.I. Village Hall 7.30pm Mary Timms 522693 5th 12 th Chess Club Methodist Church 7.15pm Graeme Goodsir 521259 19 th 26th 6th Sept Meriden Sch Term starts Jacky Smith 522488 13 th Sept Readers Circle TBA 7.30pm Sue Fuller 522721 13 th Sept Parish Council Village Hall 7.30pm Mavis Edwards 522076 15 th Sept Firs Coffee Morning B.Common V. Hall 10.00am 01676 532537 20 th Sept W.I. Ladies Day Village Hall Mary Timms 522693 22 nd Sept CAMEO Harvest Community Centre Ellen 522534 Celebration 23 rd Sept Bible Talk Village Hall 7.00pm E. Brown 02476 415633 24 th Sept Harvest Festival Methodist Church 10.30am Jenny Dyer 533737 25 th Sept Parish Council meeting Village Hall 7.30pm Mavis Edwards 522076 28 th Sept Harvest Supper Methodist Church 7.00pm Maureen Gabbitas 522148 29 th Sept Worlds Biggest Coffee Community Centre 10.30am – Val & Pat 522867 Morning 12 noon 1st Oct Harvest Festival & meal St Laurence Church 10.30am Rev. M. Dawkins 522719 2nd Oct W.I Village Hall 7.30pm Mary Timms 522693 3rd 10 th 17 th Chess Club Methodist Church 7.20pm Graeme Goodsir 521259 24 th 31 st Oct 5th Oct Firs Cambridge Trip Frank Byrne 02476 713662 11 th Oct Parish Council Village Hall 7.30pm Mavis Edwards 522076 11 th Oct Readers Circle TBA 7.30pm Sue Fuller 522721 13 th Oct FIRS Coffee Morning B. Common V. Hall 10.00am 01676 532537 18 th Oct Flower Club Village Hall 7.30pm Sandra Jones 523 023 18 th Oct W.I. Tea & Natter Village Hall 2.00 – 4.00pm Mary Timms 522693 20 th Oct Inner Wheel Quiz Village Hall 7.30pm Val Martin 522 963 23 rd Oct Parish Council Village Hall 7.30pm Mavis Edwards 522076 23 – 27 Oct Meriden School Half Term Jacky Smith 522488 26 th Oct Halloween Charity Ball Heart of England 7.15pm 02476 639043 Events Centre 27th Oct CAMEO Community Centre 2.00pm Ellen 522534 28/29 Oct Art Exhibition Reading Room Jane Edwards 532 138 2nd Nov Supper Club Methodist Church 7.00pm Maureen Gabbitas 522148 7th 14 th 21 st Chess Club Methodist Church 7.15pm Graeme Goodsir 521259 28 th Nov 3rd Nov Anuk & Ayli H of E Social club Mary Warr 522160 5th Nov Bereavement Service St Laurence Church 4.00pm Rev M. Dawkins 522 719 6th Nov W.I. Village Hall 7.30pm Mary Timms 522693 6th Nov Deadline for Mag 522453 or 522963 8th Nov Readers Circle TBA 7.30pm Sue Fuller 522721 12 th Nov Remembrance Service Methodist Church 10.00am Jenny Dyer 533 737 15 th Nov W.I. Tea & Natter Village Hall 2.00 - 4.00pm Mary Timms 522693 15 th Nov Parish Council Village Hall 7.30pm Mavis Edwards 522076 17 th Nov FIRS Coffee morning B Common V Hall 10.00am 532537 19 th Nov Christmas Shoe Boxes St Laurence Church 10.30am Rev M Dawkins 522 719 20 th Nov Flower Club Village Hall 7.30pm Sandra Jones 523 023 24 th Nov Tree of Thought dedication The Green Alan Lole 522 138 24 th Nov CAMEO Community Centre 2.00pm Ellen 522534 27 th Nov Parish Council Village Hall 7.30pm Mavis Edwards 522076 "2007" is the Heart of England School's 50th Anniversary. We are planning a number of events throughout our Golden Anniversary Year, including a school reunion event. Former pupils are invited to register on: www.heart-england.solihull.sch.uk click on: "Alumni" Details of events will be send via email to all pupils registered. Look forward to seeing you all in 2007.

Melon and Grape Salad with Ginger, Honey and Lime Dressing 1 medium size melon 125g green grapes, halved and de-seeded Juice and zest of 1 lime 4tsps runny honey 1 tsp grated root ginger or ½ tsp ground ginger Fresh mint leaves to garnish Halve and de-seed melon and cut into bite size pieces Mix melon and grapes together Mix together honey, lime juice and zest and ginger. Drizzle over the fruit Garnish with mint and serve at once Letters Page Thank-you to all the The open Gardens Day was wonderful, the residents in The Croft who people were so generous in opening their generously gave to Kidney gardens, offering drinks and cakes, John, Research in July. The I think you’ve got competition, David at collection came to £30.64 Tanglewood is going to practise on his Ellen Watkins blackcurrant jam and scones! Good luck to you both. Thanks to the girls at the farm on the A452- Thank you to everybody who sent messages of you worked so hard. sympathy and support when Ian died in February. We couldn’t get over how hard everyone Your kindness means so much, I feel privileged to worked to keep your gardens so amazing have so many good friends. Donations in his memory and all so different. sent to Macmillan Cancer Support came to the Thank-you for a wonderful day. magnificent total of £768.00 A very special tribute. Vron Thank you for your generosity. Elizabeth Spencer and Family

U.F.Os and Flying Saucers So the flying saucer enigma is finally solved, after some 50 years of mystery. Under the freedom of Information Act the scientific answer has been released. The scientific definitive answer whilst in itself is quite amazing, it does in fact ring true. Charges of electricity can cause glowing plasma gas, which then become sculptured into aerodynamic shapes. Furthermore it is reported that Electro Magnetic Fields (EMFS) have been proved medically to cause responses in the temporal lobes of the brain. This, it is stated can cause extended memory retention, and repeat experience. Hence all of those people who went ‘flying with the saucers’ really did experience that effect. Maybe. I am truly amazed that Electromagnetic Earth Fields can control our brains. Surely this effect puts a complete world of thinking into life’s state. Is it for good, or is it for evil? Already the aerodynamics of flying saucers are being looked into for military purposes. The fact that plasma formed gas is flying saucers does explain to me why radar never picked them up, as of course the radar transmitted pulse would go straight through it and give no reflected pulse back. Those that were picked up on radar were usually flocks of birds. If EMFs actually do affect the brain where they appear possibly without always producing plasma, then how much of these fields control mankind’s evolution. My radar training makes me feel sure that this flying saucer enigma is in fact these electrically charged plasma gas. In fact during the last world war many RAF pilots experienced a glowing ball of pure light called St Elmo’s Fire, which travelled inside and sometimes alongside the bombers. No doubt a variant of this electrically charged plasma. What a coincidence we are now making plasma TV screens that have been searching for those flying saucers on radar which are themselves electrically charged plasma. One plasma searching for another plasma and nobody knew. There are many EMFs around the world both manmade and natural. I do know that the earth’s geography and climates cause evolution in mankind, so is it not possible that EMFs can also affect our life’s direction. At least EMFs will have caused us to think about making them i.e. flying saucers. With all of the latest scientific thinking with subatomic particles, gravity, plasmas and DNA we live in fantastic times. Perhaps we don’t have all the free will we thought we had. Any thoughts out there? Write to me at Fentham, Church Lane CV7 7HX Frank Mills - Clifton

The planned mobile phone mast opposite the Bulls Head Pub. If you take a stroll over there now you will see that Orange have craftily installed a fake hollow telegraph pole, which is just a support for the antenna that is just visible at the very top. Adjacent is their equipment cabinet. Don’t forget put your I wonder if this fake pole has fooled any dogs yet - It hasn't fooled clocks back one hour us ! on Sunday 29th October 2006 Stuart Hammond A tribute to Ian Spencer . I remember Ian and Elizabeth as a young couple when they first came to live in the village. We shared some happy times together, worshipping at St Laurence’s, and later in the local history group. Ian was always willing to do that little bit extra. I shall always be grateful to him for ringing our ancient tenor bell nine times for the burial of my father's ashes just as it had done marking each villager’s death until the Reformation.

However, to Ian goes the supreme accolade: he was responsible for a historian's dream come true! It was in the days when he cared for the church clock, regularly climbing the narrow staircase in the tower. One day he approached me in earnest manner, saying, "What can you tell me about Henry Williams, and the graffiti in the tower room?" I was puzzled and responded, "I didn't know there was any." “Oh yes,” he said, "and next to it is a drawing of a pig…. with a curly tail ." I was so flabbergasted, I could hardly answer him.

Amongst the archives at Stratford-upon-Avon’s Shakespeare Birthplace Trust is a valuable deposit of documents about Meriden dating from Tudor times. In them, I had discovered two letters written in 1585 by the Rev Henry Williams (1541-1604), vicar of Meriden from 1582 to 1589. I shall tell you the story revealed by these letters and how Ian’s amazing discovery added it in dramatically.

Queen Elizabeth 1 st ’s government sought to appoint well-educated parish clergy, preferably men who had been to university. It wanted to make a clean break from the old-fashioned homely sort of men like Williams's predecessor who did not deliver government policy! Williams of independent financial means had been to Oxford but greatest change of all perhaps was he was a married man, with children. It is obvious from the story he’d fallen foul of some of his parishioners.

We must imagine the Rev Williams, sitting in his study in the newly built vicarage almost opposite the church. He is writing a letter to the lawyer Arthur Gregory, who runs the village's legal affairs for the lord of the manor, the Earl of Derby, far away in Lancashire. Mr Gregory had borrowed £10.00 from the vicar, who wrote that when he returned from a business trip to London, for the Rev Williams was a worldly man; he would arrange terms, converting this into a long-term loan. Almost as a throwaway remark, he mentioned a case involving himself about to be presented before the Meriden Manor Court, which met in a building that stood next to the present Methodist Church. Edward Smith, he wrote, was a knave who out of spite had brought a case against him. Our Manor Court ruling, as in many villages, said that by May Day, ‘everyman shall yoke and ring his swine and so keep them yoked until harvest be ended and to remain all the year ringing, upon a 6 day warning upon pain of default 12 pence (5p)’: this to prevent damage to valuable crops. Smith and several other farmers, his friends we assume, claimed that Williams had ignored the rule so should be fined like any ordinary villager. It was a nuisance the vicar added, that the local Justices of the Peace had refused to deal with the case, saying it must be tried in Meriden, but never mind, he had his witnesses to prove his innocence and his wife, Joan would speak on his behalf in the court.

The second letter shows that matters had gone disastrously wrong for Mr Williams. He began by announcing to Gregory, that his trip to London had cost him £40.00,and the offer of a loan was withdrawn. He then lost his cool! He was astounded, that instead of believing him, Smith, lying on oath, has won the case helped by a known troublemaker, rich cattle dealer John Crowe, (who features in another story some years earlier!) William’s witnesses were dismissed out of hand yet his wife had produced the man who ringed the pigs with an exact date as well as a second man who provided the yokes. Other named villagers who could support his assertions were not allowed to testify. His wife had been publicly rebuked and told to be quiet when she persisted in speaking on his behalf in court. Smith and his cronies claimed Revd Williams should be fined for six pigs. He agreed that there was one pig breaching the rule, but it was disgraceful that these men should, ‘trample over me, false knaves without conscience, able to undo honest men’.

There can be little doubt the graffiti relates to this story but who had carved it and why? Ian true to type went up the tower with his camera, as I could not manage, taking several photos. I compared the carved signature with that on the letters and thought it might well be the work of Mr Williams himself. Was he making a statement that only one pig was involved despite his being fined for six? And if so for who was this defiance intended? Did the Vestry meet in the tower room so that each time the members sat there they’d be reminded of the true facts? We shall never know but I remain permanently indebted to Ian for his observation. Henry Williams took another richer living at Aston Parish church in 1589 but he sometimes revisited Meriden for I have found his signature as a witness on a later document. Doreen Agutter. Meriden Floral Society PHYSIOTHERAPY 18 MondayJuneMonday October16 £ th 7.30pm REFLEXOLOGY Floral Tonic by Joan Boothaway COMPLEMENTARY

th THERAPIES Monday 20 November 7.30pm Treatments for pain, stress, acute and Passionate about Flowers chronic conditions By Juddi Cripps Alison Stain M.C.S.P., S.R.P., I.T.E.C. The Therapy Centre Village Hall Meriden Balsall Villa For further information 287 Road Balsall Common Telephone Val Miller on 540380 Tel: 01676 521066 or Sandra Jones on 523023

Sophie’s Small Pet Holiday Home PILATES CLASS MERIDEN METHODIST CHURCH HALL 118 Road Meriden Tuesday evening 6.15pm – 7.15pm Are you going away and Classes run in don’t know where to put 6-week courses your small animal? Yes? Well I can help. 1 to 1 Pilates reformer equipment at Club Your pet/s will be housed in a comfortable hutch Motivation Hampton in Arden situated in a well-ventilated room Free trial session with this advertisement Proprietary pelletised pet food will be supplied For more details contact Sophie 01676 522405 Jo on 07952 473526

BROAD LANE VETERINARY SURGERY 2 255 BROAD LANE Appointments 9am-7.30pm Mon-Fri Open Surgeries: 8.30-9am 332 RADFORD ROAD KENILWORTH ROAD, BALSALL COMMON LOW COST VACCINATION SCHEME (including) FREE PUPPY PARTY ENTRY & FREE 5 MONTHS For the very best for your dog, CHECK UPS. FREE ADVICE BY APPT WITH OUR contact… 4 QUALIFIED NURSES Roy & Lesley Thompson, at IDENTICHIP VISA&MASTERCARD EASY PARKING Meriroyles 24hr EMERGENCY SERVICE FOR AN APPOINTMENT AT ANY OF THE 118 Fillongley Road, Meriden. ABOVE SURGERIES PLEASE RING Telephone 01676 522405 COVENTRY (024) 7646 4789 The 2006 ‘A Coventry Way’ 40 Mile Challenge – 3 rdrdrd September

On September 3 rd starting at 6 am from the village hall at Meriden the challenge is to follow the 40 mile countryside route that is known as ‘A Coventry Way’, returning to where you started in Meriden by 9pm. Each year up to 100 people take up our Challenge and complete the route, which is made up of rights of way following footpaths, bridleways with only the minimum of road section. From Meriden ACW makes its way to the dismantled railway track, a greenway that leads past Crackley. Crossing Kenilworth golf course ACW soon reaches the Stoneleigh Estate and villages beyond. Passing through , Ryton, and Bretford to reach . ACW crosses Smite Brook at Pedlar’s Bridge to pass along the tow path to reach Ansty. Leaving the waterway the route takes in the village of Barnacle before squeezing through to Astley, Breach Oak and Moor. From here it is virtually downhill all the Way via Meriden Shafts to return back to the village hall. There are seven official checkpoints – Kenilworth; Bubbenhall; Wolston; Brinklow; Bedworth; Breach Oak Lane; Corley Moor. A variety of people take part each year. There are the long distance walkers for which the event is one of many throughout their year and there are those who have been building up to walk the distance over the preceding weeks. We also encourage runners and relay teams. The runners start at 9am, with relay teams earlier or later depending on their aspiration. There are certificates for all, however the goal for solo finishers will have been having qualified to join the 40-miler club and wear with pride the precious 40-miler T-Shirt. Whilst the aim of event is simply for all to have a good day out in the countryside, there is the subject of ACW records – the fastest being of Coventry Godiva - Colin Kirkham who recorded the time of 5 hours 22 minutes in 1999 knocking 67 minutes off the efforts of Ralph Chaplin a year before. Leading woman is Coventry teacher, Anne Wade in 6 hours 55 minutes (2003). Sphinx AC hold the relay record at 4 hours 35 minutes (2003). There is also a record for ‘walking’ the route, which is held by Rick Medlock at 9 hours 39 minutes (1999). Several charity groups use the challenge as a walking relay. The G.U.T. group (the Digestive Tract Cancer Support Group) have completed the full 40 mile circuit as relay teams but with all legs starting at the same time (9:00amThe teams comprised of cancer sufferers and carers and the day provides them with a special challenge of their own. In 2004 Paul Watts, a blind road runner from Hertfordshire chose our challenge as a means to celebrate his 40 th birthday and completed along with his guide Syd Wheeler in 14 hours 18 minutes. No mean feat as there were* many stiles to negotiate. Why not put September 3 rd 2006 in your diary? You will find entry details on our website www.acoventryway.org.uk Or from Bob Carey 106 Oxendon Way, Halloween Charity Ball Coventry. CV3 2GR. 26 th October 2006 024 7645 5251 In aid of the Bob Brandon 11 Barons Croft, and Coventry. CV3 5GQ. 024 7650 5050. Northamptonshire Air Ambulance • Registered charity no.1098874 much effort is in hand to replace majority of the Live entertainment from The Elio Pace Band stiles along The Way with kissing gates. Venue : The Heart of England Events Centre Meriden Road, Chapel Green. Commencing : 7.15pm Champagne reception Three Course Dinner Casino, Auction and Raffle throughout the evening Dress code: Black Tie/Lounge Suit Brooms must be parked around the back! Tickets £50.00 (£45 for Air Ambulance supporter’s Club members) Contact Air Ambulance Office on 02476 639043 for Bookings www.wnaa.co.uk The U.K’s Leading Air Ambulance. Funded entirely by donations. Carriages at Midnight Tips from the Cop Shop For any advice or literature on Crime Prevention Phone Laura Russell or Cheryl Tyler On 0845 113 5000

Neighbourhood policing is a new style of policing that went “live” in Solihull on April 3 rd . This new style of policing allows police, partner agencies and the local community to work together to tackle crime and make local people feel safer. The aim of this new way of policing is to create neighbourhoods that are safe – and feel safe – for the people living within them. Neighbourhood policing means a team of Officers is still available 24 hours a day to respond to emergencies, but they work alongside new dedicated teams who are responsible for policing local neighbourhoods. To allow neighbourhood policing to take place, the borough of Solihull has been divided into three areas: north, south and east, each of which is headed by an Inspector. These areas have been further sub divided into ten neighbourhoods, each of which has a specific neighbourhood team. These teams will be made up of a sergeant and a number of police constables, special constables and police community support officers, (PCSOs), as well as members of partner agencies. Neighbourhood policing means you should know the name of your local sergeant and be able to contact them directly with the issues that matter to you. The team can then tackle the problems you believe are blighting your community. In the long term, we believe neighbourhood policing will make the police more accountable, visible and accessible to you. The Neighbourhood Sergeant for Meriden and Balsall Common is Mel King who can be contacted on 0845 113 5000 followed by the extension 7601 6271 or e-mail [email protected]

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Dionne Turpie School of Dance (Formerly known as Meriden Dance Studios) CLASSES IN BALLET, TAP AND MODERN Meriden Methodist Hall on Monday evenings from 4pm Coaching for Royal Academy, Imperial Society examinations and festival work For Details telephone 02476 394372 – Dionne Turpie Meriden Library The Green Meriden library Thursday advice surgeries 01676 522717 10.00am – 11.00am Open Monday 10.00am – 7.00pm A representative from Age Concern will be in Thursday 10.00am – 7.00pm attendance on September 21 st , October19th and Saturday 10.00am – 1.00pm November 16th

The Reading Mission has again proved very MERIDEN LIBRARY READERS' GROUP popular with children this summer. We are hoping that a record number of children will be From September we shall have a CHANGE OF receiving their medals in September. (The VENUE. Please ask for details at the Library. th In September we shall be talking about our favourite challenge finishes on September 9 ). holiday read. As always this is the month the new October - Gardens and Gardeners - fact or fiction. evening/daytime classes start, the prospectus November - South American novels. December - our usual Christmas meeting with seasonal are arriving now, so why not consider a new refreshments and cerebral challenges. interest? Alternatively for the over 50’s there Please come and join us on the 2nd Wednesday of the is an opportunity to have computer lessons with month at 7.30 pm. a tutor from Age Concern. Please ask in the Sue Fuller Please come and join us - 2nd Wednesday of the library for further details. month at 7.30 pm in the Library. You will be most There will be a display in September for Local welcome. Sue Fuller History Month, if you have any photos or Well after 18 years in Meriden Library I have appropriate memorabilia you would be prepared just retired. I would like to say a very sincere to lend to the library please, we would be thank-you to everyone who has come into the delighted to hear from you. library and helped make this time so enjoyable. I It is a month of change in the library, Jen goes can honestly say there is nowhere I would rather and we welcome Donna. Matt also leaves, to go have worked. to University and we give him our very best My biggest thanks go to Marion, it has been a wishes. joy to work with her. My very best wishes to you all BERRYFIELDS FARM SHOP Regards Jen Harrison

Berryfields Farm, Berkswell Road, Meriden CV7 7LB 01676 522155 Inner Wheel Club of Meriden Dry Cured Bacon th Gammon, Honey Roast and Breadcrumbed Hams Friday 20 October Fresh Succulent Pork Sausages 7.30pm Village Hall, Main Road Pork pies, Cooked Meats and Faggots Free Range Eggs Teams of four or six people Locally produced Lamb and Honey £5.00 per person to include refreshments, Fowlers Cheese and Berkswell Cheese Please bring your own drinks All proceeds to the Warwickshire and ***** For Christmas***** Northamptonshire Bronze Turkeys, Geese, Cockerels and Ducks Air Ambulance For more information or to register Opening times: - your team please ring We breed and rear all the Pork we sell and Tuesday – Valerie Martin 01676 522963 or we prepare and cook Saturday Celia Parker 01675 481443 everything ourselves. 8.00am- 5.30pm Meriden Nursery Toddler Group at Methodist Church Hall Main Road Florist Tuesdays 10,00-11.30am THE GREEN MAIN ROAD MERIDEN This is an informal, friendly group for adults 01676 522294 who care for young children and babies. Come and meet other parents and carers for a Flowers for chat, refreshments are provided for children and adults at a small cost of £1.50 per family. all occasions, Children can play safely in the hall or garden. birthdays, Each week there is a different craft activity anniversaries, and song time for the children Sarah Markham on 01676 521472 weddings and funerals 1st Meriden Guides Girls!! If you are 10-14yrs local and want to have lots of fun, Deliveries enjoy challenges and would like to make new friends then come along and We also stock join us. Meetings are at the greeting cards and Meriden Methodist Hall, Main Road, gift-wrappings Meriden Wednesday evenings during term time: 7.30pm-9pm Phone Hazel Matthews 01676 522862

Balsall Street Primary School 1957 This photograph has been given to us by Mrs June Reading on behalf of her sister Mrs Pat Jackson (nee Butler). It is of Viking House and is part of the set of four houses. Mrs Reading writes that it would be nice if someone out there has a photograph of the Roman, Saxon and Norman houses to complete the set. ARKELL CAR CARE CENTRE THE RADLEYS, SHELDON BIRMINGHAM B33 0QX PHONE 0121 742 1142

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Knowle TV & Video Aloe Vera- Direct Est 1990 For the VERY BEST in Aloe Vera Products. For an efficient local service We offer a range of products where we Phone 01676 535314 BEGIN with 100% Stabilised Aloe Vera . Look after the inner you with our Aloe Vera Drinks , the outer you with our Personal Care products , & look great with our top quality Cosmetics & Skin Care products . TV VCR AUDIO AND DVD All our products carry a 60-day Repairs - Installation – Service “satisfaction or your money back” guarantee! CCTV Call your LOCAL suppliers Gill & Spence 01676 534020 Design – Installation – Maintenance or visit www.aloevera-direct.com We are Independent distributors of Forever Living Products. Email: [email protected] Forever Living Products is a member of The Direct Selling Association. Meriden Surgery and Pharmacy News

BALSALL COMMON & MERIDEN GROUP PRACTICE Appointments at Meriden Surgery Old School house, Main Road, Meriden CV7 7NG Tel 522252 The surgery operates a 48-hour booking Surgery Hours system for an appointment with a Doctor at Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 8.30am to 6pm the Practice Wednesday 8.30am to 12.00 For example: if you ring on Tues at 10.00am we aim to offer an appointment Emergencies - when closed please telephone with a Doctor by Thursday 10.00am. 01676 532587 Some clinics may be able to be booked 2 Repeat Prescription Requests weeks in advance. We prefer these to be ordered using the list attached to your To book an appointment at the Meriden previous prescription. Surgery the following time scale applies: • Post to the surgery • Hand to the surgery • Fax 01676 523865 to the surgery Appointments Available from If necessary telephone requests will be taken between 10.00am and 12.30pm & 2.00pm-4.00pm Mon-Fri. Please quote your computer number. MONDAY AM THURSDAY 2.00pm 48 HOURS NOTICE MUST BE GIVEN FOR ALL PRESCRIPTION MONDAY PM FRIDAY 8.30am REQUESTS IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF ALL PATIENTS TO CHECK TUESDAY AM FRIDAY 2.00pm THAT PRESCRIPTIONS COLLECTED (EITHER FROM THE TUESDAY PM MONDAY 8.30am CHEMIST OR THE SURGERY) DETAIL THE MEDICATION ORIGINALLY REQUESTED. REFUNDS WILL NOT BE GIVEN BY WEDNESDAY AM MONDAY 2.00pm THE PRACTICE FOR MEDICATION DISPENSED BUT NOT WED PM CLOSED REQUIRED Home Visits : If patients are too ill to attend the surgery, or are THURSDAY AM TUESDAY 2.00pm housebound and need a doctor to visit them at home please THURSDAY PM WEDNESDAY 8.30am telephone the surgery BEFORE 10.00am . Comments : If you would like to make any comments, complaints or FRIDAY AM THURSDAY 8.30am suggestions concerning the surgery please contact Joanne Hope , FRIDAY PM THURSDAY 8.30am Practice manager on 01676 532213 or in writing to the surgery.

FLU TIME AGAIN The flu season will soon be upon us and the annual vaccination campaign will begin on September 30 th . Flu usually occurs most often in the winter months, usually peaking between December and March. The influenza virus, of which there are 3 types A, B, and C, causes influenza or flu. Flu is highly contagious and is transmitted from person to person by droplets of respiratory secretions (sneezing or coughing) It enters the body through the mucous membranes of the nose, mouth or eyes. After an incubation period of up to 4 days, there is a sudden onset of severe malaise (feeling unwell and tiredness) and exhaustion. Other symptoms of flu may include fever, chills, headache, sore throat, loss of appetite and dry cough, generalised aches and pains, most commonly in the back and legs. In children, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain may also occur. People most at risk of complications or even death from contracting the flu are recommended to have the influenza vaccine to protect them from the virus. The flu vaccine is recommended for • All people aged 65yrs and over • All people in high risk groups i.e. – • Diabetes • Coronary Heart disease • Respiratory conditions, Asthma, COPD, Bronchiectasis) • Chronic Renal Disease • Impaired immune systems The pneumonia vaccine is also now recommended for all people detailed above. Both vaccines can be safely given at the same time. Saturday morning clinics at Balsall Common surgery will start on 30 th September where we will carry out major vaccination sessions as well as daily short clinics at the surgeries. “Book your flu and pneumonia vaccine appointment from the beginning of September and make sure you are protected this year” CATHOLIC PARISH OF SACRED HEART PHYSIO MATTERS & ST TERESA

Serving: Coleshill, Curdworth, PHYSIOTHERAPHY Meriden, Marston, Maxstoke, Water ACUPUNCTURE Orton, Shustoke & Whitacre Heath KIRAN SHARMA MCSP, SRP Parish Priest: Fr Marcus Stock Tel: 01675 463939 Assistant: Fr Edgardo Dizon Tel: 01675 430325 CHARTERED AND STATE Address: 67, Coventry Road, Coleshill B46 3EA REGISTERED PHYSIOTHERAPIST TIMES OF MASS DURING THE YEAR *Weekday Mass times are sometimes subject to change A wide variety of techniques are used to treat Saturday 5.30pm Vigil Mass of Sunday Sunday 10.30am Sunday Mass Back and neck pain Sports injuries Monday-Friday 9.00am* Weekday Mass Sciatica Frozen Shoulder Tuesdays 9.15am Mass- St Edward’s School (Term time) Muscle sprains and Rehabilitation after Saturday 11.00am Weekday Mass strains arthritis surgery and stroke Headaches Greetings to all parishioners living in Meriden. If Respiratory stress etc you have not already registered your name and address with us, please do come along to Sunday Now Offering Sports Therapy and Mass and fill in one of our registration forms. Remedial Massage

Registered with all major insurance companies Clinic No: 01676 533106 First – class care for Fax No 01676 532106 Now Open Saturday mornings 8.30am- 12.30pm your car is closer than [email protected] www.physiomatters.com you think!… NOW AT OUR NEW ADDRESS For MOT, service, tyres & exhausts 3 Gipsy Lane Balsall Common CV7 7FW call: ACE GARAGE RADFORD In and out of hours emergency The Practice uses a GP co-operative Solidoc and 024 7659 7879 Deputising Service ( Medical Duty KENSINGTON GARAGE Service) for emergencies outside normal surgery EARLSDON hours. The co-operative has a Primary Care Centre based in the Fracture Clinic at Solihull Hospital. 024 7667 0054 West Midlands deputising service cover from 12.00 Courtesy car, collection & delivery options call midnight to 8.30am every day but Sunday. Solidoc Brendan McManus direct on: 07958 518924 cover all other out of hour emergencies 01676 532587

Lloyds Pharmacy 1 The Green, Meriden Tel /Fax 01676 522722

Mon – Fri 9am to 6pm Saturday 9am to 5pm Q. Why are married women heavier than single Sunday Closed women ? We operate a prescription collection service for the A. Single women come home, convenience of our customers. Prescriptions are collected from the Meriden Surgery once a day at see what’s in the fridge and go to bed. 8.30am. Please allow 24 hours before collecting Married women come home your medication from the pharmacy. see what’s in the bed and go to the fridge. CAMEO Garden Plant Supply Come and Meet Each Other at the Community th Centre on, the 4 Friday of the month at 2.00 WINTER FLOWERING PANSIES p.m. At our May meeting Dan Oliver the Director of “““Vivaldi”“ mixed and Youth for Christ in Coventry spoke about the separate colours worthwhile work he and other youth leaders are £1.50 per box of six doing to reach the young people of Coventry both on the streets of the city and in the schools. Our summer programme has included a visit to Price for size of your empty basket refilled Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens where a very 10” £12.00 12” £14.00 14” £16.00 knowledgeable guide helped make the visit most 16” £18.00 18” £20.00 interesting. We then enjoyed a very welcome cup of tea and a cake before returning on the bus Also available; half baskets & wall brackets kindly loaned to us by the Coleshill Stroke Club. At another meeting we shared our favourite poems New Baskets Supplied followed by a strawberry and cream tea! 10” £3.00 12” £3.50 14” £4.50 16” £5.00 The highlight of the summer has undoubtedly 18” £6.00 Wall Brackets £3.50 been our first ‘Holiday at Home’ at Berkswell. After coffee on arrival, participants enjoyed Holly Wreaths made to order for Christmas making very professional looking greetings cards £5.50 & £7.50 each whilst chatting to friends and then a member of Urns, Window Boxes & Containers also filled. Berkswell Church gave a talk about ‘Jesus the Man’. A delicious lunch followed and the only Lawrence Wood, 34 Grace Road complaint received was that the portions were too (Off Albert Road) large! After lunch several classes from Berkswell Millisons Wood, Meriden Junior School arrived to entertain us for half an hour with an excellent variety of songs. The Tel: 01676 522122 children were delightful and very talented. Mike Hare then joined us with his accordion to play a number of well-known tunes. We were fortunate Do you need a cleaner? in having warm but not exceptionally hot weather so ended the afternoon sitting out in the sunshine Do you want someone to do all those enjoying an ice cream and the occasional game of household jobs you haven’t got time for? quoits and bowls before returning home with a stick of rock! Everyone agreed that the day had Then call Jenny now on been very successful and we intend to hold 07901 530861 another one next year when we hope more people will join us. If you need information about our Domestic cleaning, Office cleaning meetings or a lift please telephone: Professional cleaning service Ellen 522534 or Peggy 522221 Forthcoming Meetings:- September 22 nd Harvest Celebration Ladies and Senior Citizens Speaker Ivy Arnold October 27 th “Looking back it Your hair styled in the comfort of your wasn’t so bad after all” – when we own home exchange stories about our past Ring CATHY employment. th 02476 405135 or November 24 Beyond the Frame mobile 07811049929 speaker Audrey Hobley talks on art. Local Farmers Markets September, October and November Swap Shop Solihull- High Street First Friday in the Month 9.00am-3.00pm A young Australian boy and his Father Coventry- Spon Street by St John's Church from the distant outback were in a shopping mall. They Second Thursday in the month 9.00am-2.00pm were amazed by almost everything that they saw, but especially by two shiny silver walls that could move Sutton Coldfield -The Parade apart and then slide back together again. The boy asked, Second Friday in the month 9.00am-3.00pm “What is this Father?” The Father responded, “Son, I have never seen anything like this in my life, I don’t Kenilworth - Abbey End by the clock tower know what it is.” While they were watching with Second Saturday in the month 9.00am-2.00pm amazement, a large old lady in a wheelchair moved up Shirley- Stratford Road by Aldi to the moving walls and pressed a button. The walls Third Thursday in the month 9.00am-2.00pm opened and the lady rolled between them into a small room. The walls closed and the boy and his father Warwick- Market Square watched the small circular numbers above the walls Third Friday in the month 10.00am-3.00pm light up sequentially. They continued to watch until it reached the last number and then the numbers began to Leamington Spa - Bottom of the Parade light in the reverse order. Finally the walls opened up Fourth Saturday in the month 9.00am-2.00pm again and a gorgeous 24-year-old blonde stepped out. The Father, not taking his eyes off the young woman Coleshill Church Hill said quietly to his son… “Go get your mother.” Fourth Friday in the Month 10.00 am-2.00pm

S&J Plastering Services

• Over skimming 1st Meriden Scout Group • Dry lining • At the Scout Hut on Monday Over boarding • evenings, during term time Rendering 6.15pm to 7.15pm - we have a • Stud walling Beaver Colony for boys and girls aged • Arches 6-8yrs. • All plastering requirements This September a Cub Pack will start for boys and girls aged 8-10yrs. If you are able to offer any help or Members of the Guild of Master you have children who would like to Craftsmen join: please contact – For a free quotation call Jo Mulcahy: 01676 522625 01676 523501 or Gerry Russell: 01676 522666 Mobile 07976 952004 Nova Dry Cleaners Friends in Retirement 180, Station Road, We are still thriving in Balsall Common with Balsall Common many members from Meriden. Activities include Art, Bowls, Bridge, Swimming, Rambling, Ambling, Patchwork, Tai Chi and monthly coffee mornings. A For all your dry cleaning and theatre group is now being considered. laundry requirements Dates for your diary: -  Dry cleaning Coffee mornings at the village Hall Balsall Common Friday September 15 th  Leather & suede Friday October 13 th  Laundry services Friday November 17 th  Alterations th Thursday 5 October  Shoe repairs Coach trip to Cambridge at a cost of £8.50  Curtains Names to Frank Byrne on 02476 713662  Quilts  Bedding New members are always made welcome to groups.  Wedding gowns The phone number to ring for further information is 01676 532537

It takes less time to do a thing right 01676 534444 than it does to explain why you did it wrong! S T O N E B R I D G E

GOLF & CONFERENCE CENTRE

FULL MEMBERSHIPS NOW AVAILABLE

FORTHCOMING EVENTS- BOOK NOW TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT

TRIBUTE NIGHT Visit our newly refurbished “The Bridge” Restaurant Now open Friday & Saturday evenings Fri. 6 th October – Red Mick as MICK HUCKNALL from SIMPLY RED for a full a la carte menu. All £11.95 per person, including finger buffet Also Three course Sunday lunch £14.95 BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL – THESE SELL OUT QUICKLY BOOKINGS ADVISABLE

ALL ENQUIRIES Stonebridge, Somers Road, Meriden, T: 01676 522442 F:01676 522447 MERIDEN PARISH COUNCIL The public and press are cordially invited to all meetings Your Parish Councillors are: in the Village Hall at 7.30pm An opportunity will be given for the public to speak. Clive Jones (Chairman), Bob Kipling (Vice Chairman), September 2006 13th Sub-Committee Meeting Jackie Eccleston, Graeme 25th Parish Council Meeting. Goodsir, Shirley Goodsir, Stan October 11th Sub-Committee Meeting 23rd Parish Council Meeting Grundy, Jane Isham and Nigel November 15th Sub-Committee Meeting Robinson. 27th Parish Council Meeting

Your Parish Council can be contacted: NEIGHBOURHOOD The Clerk to the Parish Council COORDINATOR: Mrs M Edwards Your Neighbourhood Coordinator 3 Thebes Close at Solihull MBC is . Millison’s Wood Susan East. Tel:0121 704 6435 Coventry e-mail CV5 9QW neighbourhoodmanagementarea3@ Tel/Fax: 01676 522076 solihull.gov.uk Email: [email protected] Website:Meridenpc.org.uk

NEIGHBOURHOOD COORDINATOR: Susan East was a Community Support Officer with the police and recently joined Solihull MBC. I took Susan on a site visit round Meriden, she appeared very proactive and keen to become involved.

RURAL NEIGHBOURHOOD POLICING A letter has been received from Peter Wilson, Neighbourhood Inspector, wishing to maximise officer patrol time with the use of pedal cycles. With each parish having dedicated officers he asks for the parish to support their local officers and sponsor two bikes at a total of £1600. The Parish draws up a budget for the year in January, so obviously the money is not available this financial year.

1ST MERIDEN SCOUTS A donation has been given to help the Scout Group with repairs of the Scout Hut to bring it up to the required standard. Offers of physical help were also given.

RECYCLING FACILITIES, BULLS HEAD, MAIN ROAD. You are probably aware by now that the Bulls Head / Brewery requested the removal of recycling facilities from the car park. The Parish Council heard from Solihull MBC on the day the first of the recycling banks was to be removed, Solihull have tried to persuade the Brewery to retain the well used central community facility but the Brewery wanted rid of them completely. RECYCLING FACILITIES ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT THE QUEENS HEAD CAR PARK.

PUBLIC RIGHTS OF WAY OFFICER, SOLIHULL MBC David Keaney, attended the last Parish Council Meeting, speaking on various issues. A ‘Public Rights of Way Improvement Plan’ is currently being developed for the Borough. This Plan when completed will guide how Solihull MBC manages and improves the public rights of way network for all over the next ten years. They are currently collecting information to help with the development of the plan and need to know your views to ensure it is right. A number of tailored questionnaires seeking the views of different groups and individuals have been prepared by the council and are now available. If you would like to receive a copy please contact David Keaney on 0121 704 6429 or visit the website at www.solihull.gov.uk . • Responsibilities of users in relation to rights of way. Use gates and stiles to cross fences, hedges and walls. • Follow the Country Code. • Leave livestock, crops and machinery alone. • Enjoy the countryside and respect its life and work. • Take your litter home. • Guard against all risk of fire. • Help to keep all water clean. • Leave all gates as found. • Protect wildlife, plants and trees. • Keep your dogs under close control. • Take special care on country roads. • Keep to public rights of way across farmland. • Make no unnecessary noise . For details of your local Rosemary Conley class (Meriden, Balsall Common, Solihull) Call 0121 705 7078 First class free with this voucher! All classes include weigh-in, talk & optional exercise www.rosemary-conley.co.uk

(membership £10 class fee £5)

Art Classes in the Village Hall will be starting back the first week in September. Thursdays 10.00am-12.00 noon and 1.00pm-3.00pm A few places available. Structured lessons with demonstrations and help on hand. There are also classes in Coleshill, Water Orton, Old Arley and a new evening class starting in the Meriden Village Hall is available for Tile Hill area. private parties etc. Contact Valerie Martin Contact Julie Hyde on 01676 523357 01676 522963 Rates are £9.00per hour for more details Queen’s Head Old road Meriden Monday night is music night, come along Elite Assistance Limited and join us, music starts 9.15pm approx HOME CARE SERVICES September 4th Backbeat th September 11 John Santee Care Assistants supplied on a regular or September 18 th Justine Claire September 25 th Keith Brett one off basis to assist with the full range of personal and domestic daily living tasks October 2nd Lizzie October 9th Cassie Mckay We are registered with the Commission for October 16 th Kellie Social Care, fully insured and only use fully October 23 rd Julie Christie vetted, professional, high quality staff. October 30 th TBA Call now to discuss your requirements or to th Pop in for November 6 Marade obtain a quote November 13 th Keith Brett good food November 20 th TBA and good Tel: 01676 530305 November 27 th Terry Fox company Domestic cleaning also undertaken Phone 01676 522256 for more information Email: [email protected] www.eliteassistance.co.uk P T TILERS

Wall Tiling Floor Tiling Plastering All work done by qualified tradesmen No hidden extras The price we quote is the price you pay Telephone 078141 91923 0121 770 7318 Paul Reams

Meriden Volunteers for Cancer Research UK

As you know the weather for our open gardens was so very hot, perhaps a little too hot!! But that didn’t put people off visiting and admiring the many different style gardens that were open for the day. In some gardens one could sit leisurely and enjoy afternoon tea or even a glass of wine! We had plant stalls, bric-a-brac and tombola. The open gardens were a huge success and a massive £5363.56 was raised. Many thanks to everyone who so kindly opened their gardens and all those who supported us. Our next event is the Black Country Night to be held at the Heart of England Social Club on November 3 rd , with Anuk & Ayli (a comic duo) and a professional singer. If you would like some tickets at £12 each to include a fish & chip supper please ring us.

Mary Warr 01676 522 160 Carol Lindeque 07811613905 THEIR NAME LIVETH FOR EVERMORE . This May, Meriden resident John Moorhouse accompanied Paul & Melanie Lee on a trip to the Somme to pay their respects to all who perished there during the First World War. Paul & Melanie are part of a military research group who have for the last 7 years specialised in recipients of the Victoria Cross, their main aim is to further the information on grave locations and they are also compiling a detailed list of memorials to the memory of all Victoria Cross recipients. Through John’s enthusiasm and organisation of the Remembrance Service, they decided to research the names inscribed upon the Meriden War Memorial and locate their final resting places and to date have located all but one of them. Over the next few issues of the Meriden Mag these men will be featured.

During this trip Paul, Melanie and John visited the Thiepval Memorial to the Missing of the Somme which records the names of over 73,000 men from across the Commonwealth who were killed and lost in action. Amongst them are two men from Meriden, Lieutenant Reginald Ernest Melly , son of Ernest Louis Melly, a solicitor and Florence Melly of Highbury Bank, Meriden. Lieutenant Melly served with The King’s (Liverpool) Regiment, 20 th Battalion and was killed on 30 th July 1916, aged 28. His name is recorded on Pier and Face 1D, 8B & 8C. As well, he is commemorated with a plaque in St Lawrence’s Church, Meriden. Private Louis Callow who served with the Hampshire Pioneers, 11 th Battalion is also recorded on the memorial on Pier & Face 7C & 7B. The son of John & Sarah Ann Callow, of Meriden, Private Callow died on 9 th September 1916, aged 19.

Not far from Thiepval lies the Pozières British Cemetery in Ovillers- La-Boissele where the last resting place of Private H J Massey was visited. Private Massey served with The Royal Warwickshire Regiment, 6 th Battalion and died on 18 th August 1916. In Achiet-le- Grand Communal Cemetery Extension, lies Captain Edgar Godfrey Izon who was attached to 14 th Battalion, The Royal Warwickshire Regiment. He was the son of William Izon and Mary Woollaston Izon of ‘Hillside’, Meriden. Captain Izon enlisted with the 2nd Battalion in 1907 and died on 27 th September 1918, aged 27.

The trip also included excursions into the Pas-de-Calais region, and at Hermies Hill British Cemetery lies Lance-Corporal Philip West of 2 nd / 4 th Battalion, The Hampshire Regiment. He was the son of Thomas and Mary West, of Waterfall Cottage, Meriden. Lance-Corporal West died on 12 th September 1918, aged 41.

Although not named on Meriden’s War Memorial Private George Henry Knight was born in Meriden. He enlisted into 11 th Battalion of The Royal Warwickshire Regiment in Coventry and lived in ‘Oak Yard’, Claybrooke Magna, Leicestershire. Son of George, a farm labourer, and Hannah Knight, he died on 11 th April 1917, aged 23 and lies in Tilloy British Cemetery, Tilloy-les-Mofflaines. He is named on Claybrooke’s War Memorial.

HELP SOLVE A MYSTERY: As previously mentioned all but one of those named have been located; A/B F Cheadle is recorded on the Meriden War Memorial as being killed in the Second World War but Paul & Melanie cannot find him listed as such. However, two F Cheadle’s are listed as casualties from the First World War; one had the rank of Acting Bombardier that possibly matches the A/B rank on the War Memorial. Does anyone have information on F Cheadle or indeed on any of those named on the memorial; they wish to further their research and would be most grateful to hear from anyone who has information, photos, etc. Paul & Melanie can be contacted via the Meriden Mag or alternatively, please contact John Moorhouse.

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning We will remember them. Laurence Binyon (1869-1943) from ‘For the Fallen’ 1914 A Message from Caroline Spelman MP

Sometimes the constituency name of Meriden can be rather confusing as it is both a village and a parliamentary constituency. However it does help to pinpoint its location, as a recent email I received indicated. I have been contacted by a resident of Meriden - in the USA. This year Meriden, Connecticut, USA celebrated its bicentenary and I was forwarded a special section of the local paper outlining the event. Indeed, I did send a message of congratulations for the bicentennial celebrations. I have now received further emails from Meriden, Conn., requesting to be put in touch with a group of “older people” in “my” Meriden, perhaps a retirement home or group of senior citizens who meet on a regular basis. My American correspondent wishes to contact such people for their reminiscences of living in Meriden, UK during World War II. It seems that the older folk of Meriden, Conn., have been reminiscing recently and have come to the conclusion that the war years were the best time of their lives. It seems that there were blackouts and rationing, but much less draconian than here in the UK. There was a sense of common cause felt by those living across the pond. My contact appreciates that it was probably quite different here, although I am sure the common cause still very much applied. Being located between the target cities of Coventry and Birmingham must have been quite frightening. If you and your friends do ever reminisce about your life in Meriden during the war years, then please do contact my constituency office on 01676 534359 or email [email protected] and I will put you in touch with Meriden, Conn., USA.

To contact Caroline or make an appointment for a surgery at Chelmsley Wood, Castle Bromwich or the Balsall Common Office, please contact Katy Steele at the following address Constituency Office 285 Kenilworth Road Balsall Common CV7 7EL Tel 01676 534359 Fax 01676535147 email [email protected] www.carolinespelman.com Caroline Spelman advice surgery dates Date Time Location Attenborrow Roofing Sat 2 nd Sept 9am – 10.30am Chelmsley Wood 11am – 12 noon Library Arden Hall Castle Bromwich Fri 15 th Sept 4.30pm – 6.00 pm Constituency Office 285 Kenilworth Road Balsall Common Fri 29 th Sept 9.30am – 11am St Barnabas Church Hall Registered with Solihull & Overgreen Drive, Birmingham Age Concern Kingshurst Solihull Trading Standards (Ship Shape) Sat 30 th Sept 9am – 10.30am Chelmsley Wood All Roofing Work 11am – 12 noon Library Felt, Tile or Slates Arden Hall Castle Bromwich PVCU Fascia & Guttering Sat 28 th Oct 9am – 10.30am Chelmsley Wood Small Building Work – Walls etc 11am – 12 noon Library Arden Hall Castle Contact Bromwich Fri 10 th Nov 4.30pm – 6.00 pm Constituency Office Robert Attenborrow 285 Kenilworth Road 0800 073 0294 Balsall Common mobile 0788 065 7381 Sat 25 th Nov 9am – 10.30am Chelmsley Wood 11am – 12 noon Library Local recommendations available Arden Hall Castle Bromwich MERIDEN MOTORCYCLE MEGARIDE 2006 The 2006 Megaride was a great success despite the lower attendance, probably due to a certain football match that day. Although we had fewer motorcyclists, more villagers came and seemed to enjoy themselves. We had good support from the Meriden branch of the Triumph Owners Club who won the prize for the largest group attending, they had fifteen bikes, beating the 1066 MCC from Birmingham by one! The motorcyclist travelling the greatest distance came from Fraserburgh, Aberdeenshire, a distance of over 560 miles! He travelled overnight and was returning on Sunday to be at work on Monday! The IFMR GB & Ireland, (Rotary’s motorcycle fellowship) also helped us, in addition to helping on the day, they donated £500. Warwickshire Constabulary provided four police motorcyclists to escort the ride-in, they did a great job controlling the traffic and keeping the bikes together. We had good press cover before the event in the Coventry Telegraph and various Motorcycle magazines, on the day a reporter from the Leamington Courier was present in Leamington and a reporter from The Classic Motorcycle magazine was at Meriden. The birds of prey display added a new dimension to the event and was very popular. The total raised for Riders for Health will exceed £2,500, which will contribute to the excellent work they are doing in Africa. The four Megarides held so far have raised over £20,000 for the various charities. Although numbers were down, the Megaride provided an opportunity for local people and organisations to work together for a good cause at the same time helping to put the centre of England, Meriden, on the map. Neville Riley, Megaride committee chairman, Rotary Club of Meriden

Meriden Tree of Thought - Midsummer Draw A letter from the Coventry Fundraising Manager for Macmillan Cancer Support I imagine that most of you will already be aware that the I am writing to ask if you would let your Draw raised £1775. There is no way of adequately thanking readers know how grateful we are for their those of you who supported the event and me, to raise support of the Meriden Tree of Thought's Mid additional funds for Macmillan Cancer Relief. It is worthy Summer Draw. The event which was of note that they have changed the name to Macmillan Cancer Support. organised by Alan Lole raised a magnificent I think you will all agree that the generosity of those who £1775.00 for Macmillan Cancer Support donated the excellent prizes was outstanding! helping local people and their families who are The statistics relating to cancer are truly alarming so, until affected by cancer. Alan has worked tirelessly a definitive cure is found, the work done by Macmillan is in his fundraising efforts and we are indebted priceless! Sadly, far too many of us are affected by this to him and those who have supported him. It dreadful illness, at some time, either directly or indirectly. is only thanks to Alan and your readers that we It is a possibility none of us choose to contemplate. are able to move a step closer to our vision of However, it is there and a fact of life which needs to be the very best cancer care for all. addressed. This means that your support is playing a vital Macmillan Cancer Support improves the lives role in providing the best possible quality of life to many of people affected by cancer. We are a source local people living with cancer. So well done and my heartfelt thanks to all those who of support: providing practical, medical, participated. emotional and financial support. We are a I have started preparations for the Tree and am aiming to force for change: listening to people affected have the dedication on Friday 24 th November, as the by cancer and working together for better children from Meriden School are not able to be there on 1 st cancer care. December. One in three of us will get cancer. 1.2 million I am hoping that, being a Friday, more people will be able of us are living with it. to attend, and ever hopeful that the weather would not be We are all affected by cancer. We can all help. unkind to us as it was last year! We are Macmillan. Alan Lole Your Safety Our Priority The West Midlands Fire Service is committed to delivering fire safety and fire prevention action and advice to the whole community within the West Midlands. As part of this we are currently talking to children in both Key Stages II & III in school and highlighting fire related aspects of citizenship with regards to ‘Deliberate Fire Setting’ and ‘Hoax Calls’. This is being done by firefighters on a rolling programme where we visit schools in Coventry and specifically target children aged 10 – 14. The visits highlight the whereabouts of Coventry’s Fire fighting resources, and the possible implications of needlessly calling out the Fire Service. We are also promoting the opportunity for people to have a FREE fire safety check of your home, carried out by firefighters from your local fire station. This assessment will look at all areas of accident and fire risk within your home. We will advise you on how to stay safe from fire, including kitchen hazards, candles, heaters, electric blankets and dangers from harmful substances. All our assessment visits are made by appointment only, and are pre-arranged with you. The firefighters calling will always be in uniform use an agreed password and show an ID card

At the end of the assessment all smoke alarms within the premise will be checked and replaced where necessary or a new ones fitted where the need arises totally free of charge. All the new detectors fitted with a 10-year life battery. If you have any queries regarding this article then please contact your local Fire Station on 0121 780 3619. Denis Murphy Community Fire Safety Officer Coventry Fire Safety Centre

State Registered Chiropodist Hair City Unisex Hair Salon Mrs C Booker SRCh, MChS Tel: 024 7646 6767 Home Visiting Practice only 38 Nickson Road Tile Hill (just off Gravel Hill near Tile Hill & 01676 534265 Hereward College) Coventry

How do our prices compare to R.J.KENNING your regular salon? Painter and Decorator All aspects of decorating undertaken Cut & Blow Dry £15 Interiors Wash & Blow Dry £10 Exteriors Foils from £20 Woodwork Full Head Colour £25 Papering Perms short £30 long £40 Painting (all-inclusive)

Free quotations available Reduced prices for Senior Citizens References available on request Tues, Wed & Thurs No job too big-No job too small Open Tuesday to Thursday 9.30am Established over 25 years – 5.00pm, Friday 9.30am – 7.00pm A reliable and friendly service Saturday 8.30pm – 3.00pm 02476 460754 Mob 07742 317532 Gardening in the “Information Age”

If you were born in the country in a culture, which saw every bit of land as a potential source of food or beauty – or even a source of income, you probably learned about gardening by a form of osmosis – it just sank in! When I was a teenager newspapers ran regular columns, usually written by well known gardeners like Fred Streeter or Percy Thrower, not to mention Adam the Gardener, who appeared in cartoon form in the Sunday Express and other papers. My father was a devoted fan of a gardener/writer by the name of A G Hellyer. Perhaps Percy Thrower was the first TV gardener and a string of them have followed up to today’s “crop” of Monty Don, Alan Titchmarsh, Rachel de Thame and others. If you want to know about gardening there are literally hundreds of books in garden centres and bookshops, TV and radio programmes (still the best pictures!) – but do they cover what you want and when you want to find it? Perhaps the easiest answer for those of IT bent is the internet. Search engines like Yahoo, Google, Ask and others open up a world of websites covering everything from the broad and general to the very specific and specialist – including where to get the seeds, plugs or whatever is appropriate and what to do with them. The old “Yellow Pages” adage “let your fingers do the walking” was never more appropriate. So what does the BBCs “How to be a gardener” ( www.bbc.co.uk/gardening ) say you should be doing this coming autumn? Early o Bring in tender plants under cover before the first frosts o Plant or move evergreens and conifers while the soil is still warm o Plant spring bedding such as wallflowers or polyanthus o Plant spring bulbs Mid o Tidy perennials, remove dead stems but leave seed-heads for birds to eat o Plant deciduous trees, shrubs and climbers o Lay new lawns if soil is not too wet o Batten down the hatches ensuring nothing can blow about and cause damage on windy nights Late o Plant shrubs, roses and hedging plants sold with bare roots o Clear up fallen leaves and compost them o Plant tulips and hyacinths o Move deciduous trees and shrubs once they have lost their leaves o Take hardwood cuttings from shrubs and roses All you need to work out now is when early, mid and late occur – you have to do some of the work yourself! OUTSIDE CATERING The Berkswell Annual Art Exhibition SPECIALISTS will be held on WDF Catering 28 and 29 October 2006 at Berkswell Reading Room Whether you are hosting a party at your Please contact Jane Edwards for own premises, or seeking to hire a great details on 01676 532138 venue, W.D.F Catering can help you with every aspect of your event.

*Weddings* * Engagement Parties* *Birthday Parties* *Christenings* *Dinner Parties* * Retirement Parties*

Please call for a Free Menu & Quote Wendy - 07974 910763 De Montfort House, Fillongley, Warks, CV7 8EZ Centre of England Community Church 01676 523050 Dates for the Diary Tues - Fri Centre Shop open 10.00am - 4.30pm Sunday worship Centre of England Community Church meets at "The Centre" The Green 11.00am & Thursday Fellowship 2.00-3.00pm

Psalm 23 “I am your good shepherd” My children, I am your shepherd, you will not want, I am making you lie down in a green pasture, so often I have to make you lie down in a green pasture. My children, I‘m leading you beside quiet waters that you can drink from, that will not overwhelm you, water that I provide for your refreshment, your life. I am guiding you on the right path, for the sake of my great name. Even though in the valley of deepest darkness, don’t be afraid, I am there with you, I’m not standing at the far end of the valley. I’m with you without a doubt. And while the sides of that valley are so steep, it’s so dark that you can’t see. Don’t be afraid. I am here. I am with you, my rod is in my hand to protect you, my staff is with me to tap out the way in the darkness, so you will not be lost, my rod and staff are in my hand to bring you encouragement. I will never leave you or forsake you. I prepare a table for you, even though your enemies are all about you. A table to satisfy you with all good things. I am anointing your head with oil, the place where there is often so much hurt, but I pour the oil upon you to take the soreness away, the oil upon you now. Your cup is overflowing, I tell you this, dear ones, there is absolutely no doubt, no question, that my goodness, and my loving kindness will cling to you all the days of your life, and know this, you and I will dwell together for ever and ever and for ever. I am your Shepherd, I am your Lord, I am your King, I am your God. Be of good cheer. I have overcome the world, be not afraid. I am with you Praise his wonderful name. This is the most well known psalm in the Bible, but a modern interpretation, it really blessed us when we first read it, so I hope it does the same for you.

Just a reminder “The Centre” shop is open 10.00am – 4.00pm Monday to Friday. We are also here to help where we are able. Please support our local shops, they have high overheads, may be a little more expensive but when they are gone they will not be replaced, and that would be very sad for the village & community life. Need a home visit – ring the above number, Weddings and funerals by arrangement Every blessing Rev John and Pam Yates

Meriden Knights Chess Club Meriden Knights Chess Club are having their inter- house competition at the moment with two adult prizes and one junior. Prizes kindly donated by Tom the Butchers, Meriden Fish and Chip Bar and our local Spar shop. Many thanks to them all for their support. The club will be open for the rest of the summer and hopefully will join the Coventry and District Chess League after a year’s absence. We charge £1.50 per session and welcome all ages and Opening Times: Sundays and Bank abilities at the Dawson Lounge on Tuesday evenings at Holidays 1st May to 1st October 7.15pm at Meriden Methodist Church. If you would 2.30pm to 6.00pm like to come along for an odd game but cannot come on Special Visits by arrangement a regular basis, feel free to join at any time. 01676 532138 For details phone Admission Free 01676 521259 Donations gratefully received Shirley and Graeme Disabled access limited to ground floor Goodsir The Farm Shop Heart of England MiBerkswell 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 facilities for all, including a large concert room www.farmsteadmeats.co.uk with live entertainment, lounge with the best For meats of outstanding quality & flavour view in the village, bar, games room, snooker • Selection of Superb Barbecue Meat room and beer garden with play area. • Licensed to sell Game • Real Home Cured Bacon We now have • Free Range Chickens Premiership • Famous Berkswell Ewes Milk Cheese Football on • Superb home made Sausages & Burgers Satellite • Home Deliveries television!!! Warwickshire’s only accredited traditional breeds butcher Listed as one of Rick Stein’s “Food Heroes” Room hire available for private functions Phil Tuckey Opening Hours Monday - Closed Heart of England Social Club “The Country Tuesday – Saturday Berkswell Road,Meriden Butcher” 9.00am – 5.00pm 01676 522430 Sunday 9.00am – 1.00pm

Meriden Women’s Institute Brailes Farm 522318

Meetings are held in the Village Hall on the Wilja Potatoes first Monday in the month at 7.30pm. Our speakers are varied and our outings are really enjoyable. Fresh cut turf, rockery stone Please contact Mary Timms 01676 522693 Topsoil and other garden materials Village delivery Monday September 4 th “India, Puskhar and the Taj Mahal”- Colour slides by John Wilson th BEECHWOOD Wednesday September 20 Ladies Day Arboricultural Experts nd Monday October 2 “The Story of the Mary ALL YOUR TREE NEEDS… Rose” by W.H. Davies Wednesday October 18 th Tea and Natter For free professional advice On your trees and shrubs 2.00 - 4.00pm call your local Arborist on

th 024 7640 2137 Monday November 6 Annual Meeting th Local Authority approved contractors Wednesday November 15 Tea and Natter ARB assoc risk assessment certified 2.00 - 4.00pm S Rotheram NDTM & Arb A flower arranging day is to be arranged. [email protected] www.beechwoodtrees.co.uk

All work is carried out to BS3998 and insured to £5 million THE THAI DELIGHT RESTAURANT EXOTIC THAI CUISINE

Cooked in the Traditional Thai Way Open five days a week – Tuesday to Saturday Food can be ordered between the following times Tuesday – Thursday 7pm till 10.00pm Friday – Saturday 7pm till 10.30pm Book to avoid disappointment Telephone 01676 522005 (10.00am until 10.30pm)

DEE HAS MOVED TO NEW NON-SMOKING RESTAURANT AT

MERIDEN HOTEL

MAIN ROAD

MERIDEN

Compromise is the art of Meriden Methodist Nursery Main Road dividing a cake in such a Pre-school education and care for children aged 2 to 5 way that everybody years. We offer flexible hours – Sessions or whole day: 8.30am – 4.00pm believes he got the Main Session 9.15 to 11.45am Cost £8.00 or biggest piece. 9.15-12.15pm Cost £9.60 Afternoon session 1.00 to 4.00 pm cost £9.60 Lunchtime supervision 12.15 to 1.00pm cost £3.00 Collection of children from Meriden, Berkswell and Fillongley school nurseries may be arranged 5 free sessions are available for the terms after the child’s IDYLLIC rd 3 birthday when not attending a school nursery GARDENS Vacancies available on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays For more details pay us a visit or call Mrs Russell 01676 522337 Registered with OFSTED Early Years & gained accreditation with Design and Construction The Pre- School Learning Quality Assurance Scheme

• Cultivated Turf & Lawns • Patios - Paths - Yorkstone Need your windows, • Block Paving - Drives Fascias, or guttering • Decking - Pergolas cleaned? • Fencing - Trellis Work Sparkling UPVC Frames • All Brickwork - Ponds and conservatories a speciality. • Garden Maintenance Free advice & estimates Also carpet cleaning Portfolio and references available Phone Paul Telephone: 0121 764 5872 01676 522 828 Mobile: 07979 064835 Mobile : 07976 205143 blitz Beauty Salon Telephone 01676 521100 Men and Women welcome

Monday closed, Tuesday 9-9, Wednesday 9-9, Thursday 9-9, Friday 9-5, Saturday 9-5, Sunday 10-2.

All aspects of Beauty Therapy to include; Manicures, Pedicures, Waxing, Eye treatment, Facials, Caci facials and body treatments,treatments, Back and body massages, Hopi Ear Candles, Reflexology, Gel Nail Extensions, Body Wraps, Hot Stone Massage, Spray Tanning and Vertical Sun bed. Monthly offers available, call for details or to go on our mailing list

9-11, Birmingham Road, Millisons Wood, near Meriden CV5 9AY

METHODIST After a lengthy gap, I suddenly find that I have three CHURCH baptisms coming up in my various churches. Funny how Minister you can wait for ages and then they all come along at Rev Jenny Dyer BA MTh once... It's always good to welcome a family and all their Tel 01676 533737 Phone to arrange Marriages friends to church to celebrate the birth of their baby, and Baptisms and Funerals the first milestone in the child's Christian journey. The baptism service is rich in symbolism. There is the water, a sign of being washed clean and of dying and Services rising with Christ. There is a candle, a sign of belonging Sunday morning 10.30am (Junior to Jesus, the Light of the World. And the baby is carried Church & crèche for children) round the church to meet the congregation, a sign that Sunday evening 6.30pm 3 rd Sunday in he or she has just become part of a new family, the family of the church. month Parents make three promises: to care for their child, to th Harvest festival Service Sunday 24 give their child an opportunity to learn about the September 10.30am Christian faith and to set before their child a Christian Harvest Supper Thursday 28 th example. For those who do not feel they can honestly make these promises, there is the alternative of a September 7.00pm thanksgiving service. In this, we thank God for the Supper Club Thursday 2 nd November child's birth and pray for him or her, but without the 7.00pm Speaker Mr Smith element of Christian initiation, and without the water. This leaves the child free to decide later whether he or Subject “Old Post Boxes” she wants to be baptised. (Numbers for Harvest Supper and If you would like to talk about a baptism for your child, Supper Clubs to Maureen Gabbitas or a thanksgiving service, give me a ring. 522148) Rev. Jenny Dyer 01676 533737 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 Lay Reader Peter Wright Tel 01676 522 414

Dates for your diary Sunday October 1 st Special Harvest Festival and Meal 10.30am Sunday November 5th Bereavement Service 4.00pm Sunday 19 th November Dedication of the Christmas Shoe Boxes 10.30am

I have been asked again and again to publicize the building problems of the church. The roof problems, as presented to English Heritage for the third successive year, at only half a million pounds! And there is more, but does it matter? What’s a building? When God came down to us and ‘housed’ Himself in human life He chose, as far as we know, a ramshackle stable, a lean-to behind a village inn. And this is significant because it represented exactly where He wanted to be in human life – in the ramshackle, the stuff that needed rebuilding. The whole of His life said that. He was a healer, a rebuilder. So what’s the point of restoring a stone building if we don’t restore human life? I am not sure there is any. Yes, I want to lead the worship of God – that loving interflow between us and God. I want to teach the Bible – spiritual cavemen need it! (Are we returning to that level spiritually? Maybe.) But restoring the building? We may be only kidding ourselves. What would Jesus do? Get Himself into trouble. Awaken immense hunger in some for ‘eternal life’ – God restored and directed life, and immense antagonism in others – who have got it ‘sorted’, like. Whatever, it is the ramshackle and unsanitary slums of our human hearts that He wants to come into, not ‘lovely, old, stone buildings.’ O yes, I know, I am meant to be plugging away for your pennies, but I am not that interested. Unless, unless, it is an almost child-like game centred around Jesus. Children know how to be happy around a good-un. The editor wants me to put our service times in – 1030am every Sunday and you are welcome but when you come you won’t find anything posh, we are just learners – Jesus’ word, disciples. Michael Dawkins

Bereavement Service Sunday November 5 th at 4.00pm

th Ex Urbe Concert in St. Laurence Church on 16 This service of thanksgiving for our loved July was a great success. Thank-you to the folk ones who have died will be held at St from Hampton in Arden again. The music was Laurence Church at 4.00 pm .If you would new to many of us – 25 voices singing English like to share in a simple and dignified songs without any instrumental accompaniment service to give thanks for their lives and but with remarkable skill. The tenor with the all they have meant to you, then you are pianist was also very pleasing and warmly invited to this service, Whether accomplished – mustn’t forget the young your loss was some time ago or recent - pianist, he was very able. I say ‘English’ – yes, or whether you normally go to church or the kind of unassertive but confident music not, don’t worry – you are very welcome which has the feeling of our onetime quiet because we have wanted to put on this selfhood, our kindly relationships, our service for you, your family and friends, landscape, our humour – a tolerance which indeed anyone of us who travel the long enjoys our country and each other. Then add the road of bereavement. We do look forward cakes and tea and we have had it all! Thank-you to seeing you. There will be tea and to Richard and Christine Cook for arranging it. refreshment afterwards. Meriden CE Primary School News

The end of the year brings many events, trips, visitors and extra opportunities to everyone here at school. We all enjoy the thought of the summer break after the rush- but by the time you read this, it will be the beginning of a new academic year!

Artsmark Silver Award Our MP, Caroline Spelman came to the end of year service at St Laurence church, to present us officially with this award. We are very proud, as it relates to the enormous number of opportunities children get to be creative, join choir, dance, have musical and other artistic experiences here at school. It represents a lot of extra work and commitment from the staff and children- so congratulations all round! Sports Day We were very lucky on the Sports Day morning with the beautiful weather - and it was lovely to see so many families and friends picnicking on the field afterwards. Congratulations to all in Oak House for winning the Sports day trophy – and to all the children for competing in a sporting way in our traditional events. Junior Performance: ‘Fleeced’ The story of Jason and his search for the Golden Fleece was another superb production performed at the end of term. It never ceases to amaze me the talent and confidence our pupils show! All the junior children took part, or helped by making and organising props, lights and so on. Well done to all of them for making it such an entertaining performance! PTA Summer Fayre I hope you all managed to attend the Summer Fayre, with its traditional theme. We love to see our village friends here at school! It was a very successful event, raising over £2000 for school, and we are ever grateful to the PTA members for organising another super day! Goodbyes- and Hellos! The Leavers’ Service on the last day of term was a reminder of some of the best memories year 6 children have of school. We are so proud of them with their confidence to face the world of Secondary school, well prepared we think to cope with its demands. We hope they don’t forget us, and continue to let us know how they are getting on in the future! We are saying farewell to a couple of members of staff. Mrs Foley will be leaving us to emigrate to Australia. We say a big thank you to her for all the hard work, enthusiasm and team spirit she has shown during her time here. We will miss her and wish good luck to her and her husband in their new adventure. Miss Cubitt-Smith is also leaving as her Maternity contract has finished, and she too will be off travelling later in the year. Although she has only been with us for twelve months, Miss Cubitt-Smith quickly became one of the team, and will be missed by everyone! We will be saying ‘hello’ to two new members of Staff. Mr Street, our new Deputy Head, and Mr Jennings, will be teaching in the juniors next year- welcome to both! Building improvements As is often the case, this summer holiday sees building improvements going on at school. The last of our old, insecure windows have been replaced, along with the rotten panels along two sides of the school. The exterior is being painted and the whole site looks much better because of it.

Finally I hope that all Meriden residents feel that school is at the heart of the village. We welcome any of you as helpers, whether in class to listen to children read, or help them learn to cook; as visitors to our events and concerts; or even as employees as Lunchtime Supervisors for instance. With exciting plans to make us a possible ‘Children’s Centre’ we would be able to offer a community room for you- for classes, for getting together with other parents, for accessing local services. Let’s hope we can make it happen! With best wishes from Jacky Smith Headteacher Meriden CE School STRAWBERRY BANK HOTEL & RESTAURANT MAIN ROAD MERIDEN COVENTRY CV7 7NF Telephone 01676 522 117 Fax 01676 523804 Email [email protected] www.strawberrybank.co.uk

Open: Tuesday – Friday 12 noon – last orders 1.45pm Monday – Saturday evening 6.30pm last orders 10.00pm Sunday lunch 12 noon – last orders 2.00pm 2 course lunch Tuesday – Friday £6.95 (starter & main course) Excluding December 3-course evening TDH menu Monday – Friday £16.95 Saturday evening £17.95 3 course Sunday lunch £14.95 Also A La Carte menu available except Sunday lunch We have 2 function rooms available for parties from 20 up to 200 Please feel free to call in and view We also offer excellent conference and wedding facilities With our lovely gardens as an added feature We now have our Christmas menus, telephone or call in to reception for details Please contact reception for information or booking or visit our web site

Congratulations to Mavis and Ken Also congratulations to Chris and Edwards on the birth of a grandson – Allan Copper on the birth of George Mark Robert on July 4 th ,a son to their first grandchild – Luke William on Juliet and Paul Edwards and a brother July 11 th , a son for Rachel and Adrian for Charlotte. Mitchell. Picture Framing Your local service for Needleworks – Paintings – Photos Prints – Coins Medals – or any 3D Lavender Hall Lane Berkswell Objects- Football Shirts or Trophies 01676 530 299 / 07949 119 436 Mirrors made for your Home. All work done on the premises. Cafe open to the public from 8.00am – 2.00pm daily 7 days a week Acanthus Gallery Serving hot and cold food 326 Kenilworth Road Specialising in an all day breakfast for £3.60! Balsall Common 5 fishing lakes in glorious countryside Tel: 01676 535792 Now selling a complete range of baits Next to Deeleys’ – Customer Car Park Gates open at 7.00am close at dusk Tuesday to Friday 10.00am to 5.00pm And Saturday 10.00am to 4.00pm And Finally Bulky waste collection Service A very big thank-you to everyone who has A collection and disposal service is available to contributed to the Mag this time. We have residents to collect up to 10 large items of had such a lot of interesting items and household waste such as beds, everyone has made the effort of furniture, cookers, fridges and freezers. remembering the deadline date. This is what Fridge/freezer (inc 9 items) - £25 Single item - £10.25 makes the Mag a success. If you have any Between two and five items - £15.90 news you wish to share please get in touch. Between six and 10 items - £21.00 Val and Margaret Phone Solihull Council on 0121 704 8000 English Sometimes I think all English speakers should Composting at Home be committed to an asylum for the verbally insane. Home composting is a good way to use your In what language do people recite at a play kitchen and garden waste to produce a free fertiliser for your garden. and play at a recital? Get a composter for your garden Have noses that run and feet that smell? for £6.00 by contacting How can a fat chance and a slim chance be Solihull Council the same? And finally why doesn’t Buick rhyme with Order Hotline - Blackwall Solihull Offer quick? 0845 130 6090

Reminder!! Deadline date for the winter issue BICKENHILL PUBLIC WASTE DISPOSAL SITE Monday November 6 th contact OPENING HOURS st st Val Martin 174 Main Road, Meriden 01676 522963 Winter 1 November – 31 March Monday – Friday 8.00am – 6.00pm [email protected] Saturday & Sunday 8.00am - 4.00pm Margaret Argyle 3 The Croft, Meriden 01676 522453 [email protected] Summer 1 st April – 31st October Treasurer: Adele Fox 16 James Dawson Drive, Meriden Monday – Friday 8.00am – 8.00pm Deliveries: Keith & Kath Nightingale 01676 522125 Saturday & Sunday 8.00am – 4.00pm Last admission 15 minutes before closing time Proof Reader: Lesley Rhodes

Useful Village Contact Numbers Meriden Primary School Mrs. J. Smith 01676 522488 MAG ADVERTISING RATES Meriden Library 01676 522717 Meriden Surgery 01676 522252 Eighth Page £8.50 Lloyds Chemist 01676 522722 Quarter Page £17.00 St. Laurence Church Rev.Michael Dawkins 01676 522719 Meriden Methodist Church Rev. Jenny Dyer 01676 533737 Half page £34.00 Centre Church Rev.John & Pam Yates 01676 523050 Small ads (sale or wanted) Parish Council Clive Jones (Chairman) 01676 522819 Parish Council Mavis Edwards (Clerk) 01676 522076 £3.00 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 01676 534359 We are unable to print anonymous Girl Guides Group Hazel Matthews 01676 522862 Letters or articles although we will Boy Scouts Group Gerry Russell 01676 522666 withhold name and address on Cricket Club Alan MacEvoy 01676 522444 request Rural Police Sector Sgt Melvin King 0121 712 6123