Lichfield Waterworks Trust September 2019 public meeting takes place next Monday evening

Posted on September 3, 2019 by BrownhillsBob
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Sandfields Pumping Station – a great historic building with immense history and social significance – not just to Lichfield, but to the Black Country. Lichfield Discovered and local historian Dave Moore have saved this valuable asset for the community.

Sandfields Pumping Station champion and public historian extraordinaire Dave Moore has been in touch to let me know that this evening, Monday 9th September 2019 there will be the monthly Public Meeting of the Lichfield Waterworks Trust charity, formerly the Friends of Sandfields Pumping Station group.

The meeting is at the Bowling Green pub, Lichfield from 7:30pm and is of course open to anyone interested.

Dave wrote:

Lichfield Waterworks Trust September Newsletter

The next public meeting of Lichfield Waterworks Trust will take place on:  Monday 9th September 2019 at 7.30pm, in the rear meeting room of the
 
The Bowling Green
Friary Road
Lichfield
Staffordshire
WS13 6QJ
 
Tel: 01543 257344
 
The Bowling Green serves some great food and real ales.

Latest News

Important Note:

Throughout September Persimmon Home s Ltd will be completing some essential repairs to the building, therefore there will be no access until October 2019. We will post further updates.

Building Lease Update:

Following our submission of a set of revised Heads of Terms, we have received the following response from Persimmon Homes Ltd. on the 12 August:

‘We feel that we are still not in a position whereby we can commit to your requirements; and that a meeting would be better to thrash out the details.
 
‘Would you be available on 3rd or 4th September to come in and we can try reach a resolution to the HoT’s’

We are more than happy to meet, however in our opinion the most productive way forward would be to draw up a list of the items within the Heads of Terms that we can agree and a list of items that Persimmon cannot commit to.
 
We can then tick off as done agreed items and have an opportunity to first discuss and consider the implication of the outstanding items with the trustee team beforehand.
 
We have asked Persimmon Homes Ltd. twice for this information and are awaiting a response.

Important Note:

After the visit by Historic England on 16 Jan, the site has unfortunately been placed on the Heritage At Risk Register. This is indeed sad news to see that this magnificent piece of industrial heritage is now officially at risk of permanent loss.
 
The trust is committed to continue working with the owner, Persimmon Homes Ltd And has therefore submitted a five-point five-year plan which we feel is the best option in achieving a sustainable community reuse:

  1. Complete the essential repairs works as identified in the 2013 options appraisal.
  2. Bring the building into a condition that would make it safe and accessible to the public.
  3. Grant simple a lease and apply for a change of use and cover basic running costs for a five-year time   scale
  4. Allow the Trust to use the building as on an as is basis or meanwhile use to research and develop a sustainable end use that will benefit the community.
  5. Commit to a dowry to enable the Trust to apply for match funding. 

Tonight’s Talk

Tonight’s talk is a continuation of a previous talk by Ian Pell and his story of the South Staffordshire Railway called the “Lichfield Diamonds”. Tonight, Ian will be presenting:

‘Tales from Beyond’, an engaging talk that considers the South Staffs from Lichfield City to Wychnor Junction.

 

Events:

Lichfield Heritage Water Guided Walk
 September 14th and 15th 2019

The Lichfield Waterworks Trust will offer a joint experience with the Lichfield & Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust, that starts each day at 10:30 on Saturday and Sunday, September 14th and 15th, from Speakers Corner on Dam Street, with a walk along part of the line of the tunnel under Lichfield, that brought water to the pumping station at Sandfields, built to pump clean water to the Black Country during the Industrial Revolution, saving thousands from Cholera.

After a bit more than an hour’s walk, walkers will be able to stop and view the pumping station and then be guided back to Speakers Corners.

Walkers may also take an optional guided walk along the trails and towpaths of the nearby Fosseway Heath section of the Lichfield canal up to the restored Lock 18 (about 3/4 mile), and back, to be met by a Heritage free bus ride to take them to the restored Gallows Wharf on the canal near London Road, to see part of the Heritage Towpath Wall dating from 1797 on the adjacent Gallows Reach, recently exposed by the Canal Trust.

The bus will then take visitors back to the City Centre.

There is no charge but a donation would be much appreciated.

More details:
Lichfield Canals Restoration Trust

Details of the walk can be found here

From Speakers Corner in Lichfield City Centre:

Follow the line of the Hanch Tunnel to Sandfields Pumping Station

Take a look inside Sandfields pumping station 

The Lichfield canal passing Sandfields Pumping Station in 1924 

Walk up to Lock 18 at Fosseway Lane through the wetlands under construction at Fosseway Heath 

Travel by vintage bus to the restored Gallows Wharf, London Road.

Health and Safety:

We are really pleased to report that we have been working for yet another month where there have been no incidents relating to health and safety. This is now 20 moths of indecent fee working, so a very big thank you again to everyone for working safely and looking after your fellow volunteers.

Engine Team Report:

The cylinder teak cladding has been cleaned and lacquered & the copper retaining bands cleaned, at the engine house floor level. The cast iron cylinder pedestal casting (around the lower part of the cylinder) has been cleaned and a coat of linseed oil applied to the black paintwork. This part of the cylinder is now complete and the teak cladding & copper retaining bands around the top of the cylinder (on the middle floor) are now being cleaned.

The chequer plating on the engine house floor level (this is the floor level at which one enters the engine house from the outside), at the counterweight end of the beam, is currently being cleaned….

The complete report can be found on this link

Building Team Report:

The building team continue to make steady progress. The focus has been to improve the welfare facility’s on-site. The work on the one toilet to convert it to a washing area with a sink and drainer, improving the welfare facilities to benefit all visitors is almost complete.

The team have also freed up the sliding door and made it more secure and also made some improvements to the display area.

The electrical team are doing some sterling work on the electrical installation. There is now a temporary power supply to the building and the team have wired in power to the welfare facilities. This has bought a significant benefit for the teams on the Friday works teams and visitors.
 
We will be meeting representatives of Dudley college on Friday 6 Sep to discuss using Sandfields as a training facility for apprentice builders. The first item will be the commissioning of the power supply to the offices, toilets and kitchen.
 
The electrical team have also been removing redundant wiring. The existing wiring installation is now in such poor condition with the building being unoccupied since 2005 and with no power since 2012, that it is in the best interests to start afresh.

The pumping station grounds are looking splendid as if someone now cares. It would be a great opportunity to create a garden of the teams and visitors to enjoy.
 

Procurement Team Report:
 
The team has submitted a bid from a grant from the ScrewFix Foundation to fund materials to make improvement to the welfare facilities. The foundation meets in August and November, so hopefully they will look favourably on our application

Archive Team Report:
 
The archive and research team are continuing with their sterling work preserving and cataloguing the historic artefacts left on site. Lists of water quality documents, tables, customer complaints and numerous other documents have been carefully and skilfully sorted, catalogued and stored. Their efforts are now bearing fruit as the extraordinary story of clean water unfolds, waiting to be told.
 
“The heritage of the modern water industry is almost entirely absent despite its unarguable relevance to human development.”
 
J. Douet.

3D Walkthrough:

 

Dudley Technical College has been extremely kind in producing a 3D Walkthrough for the trust. This is an amazing piece of work that not only showcases the site, it also provides an opportunity to those who are unable to visit the site or climb the stairs.

Please click here to explore it.

History West Midlands – Podcast:

History West Midlands have produced a stunning podcast titled – Making Cholera History in the Black Country.
 
Presented by writer and broadcaster Graham Fisher and Directed by Andy Partington, featuring David Moore, the podcast gives a detailed history of both Sandfields pumping Station and the story of clean water.

Please click here to find out more about the podcast.

Donations:

We have no paid staff, therefore 100% of all money donated is spent on restoring this remarkable building or training the teams so that they can give everyone a better visitor experience.

With almost 3,000  volunteer working hours, (equates to more than two full time equivalents) and over £14,000 spent in cleaning equipment, materials and scaffold over the last two years, the teams have been remarkable busy.  Looking at the engine and the building now, as opposed to how it looked in 2016, the volunteers have made some remarkable progress.

We will also always invest in our people and we are planning further training days soon. All these costs soon mount up, so if you can donate, then please visit our donation page here.

Any amount is helpful, is well appreciated and will be carefully spent preserving our industrial past for our future generations, developing skills for our people and making our community a better place.

Please make cheques payable to; Lichfield Waterworks Trust, and send to our address:
 
22 Walsall Road
Lichfield
WS13 8AB
 
Membership:

We would like this opportunity to welcome a few new members.

Thank you for joining the Lichfield Waterworks Trust. We hope you will enjoy your membership and become part of a very exciting heritage project that will benefit the people, the place and the community.

It would really help us if we develop and grow our membership. If you are not already a member and would you like to be a part of one of the region’s most exciting heritage projects then please, join us now by filling in Membership Application Form by going to our membership page here. It is free to join and be a part of this incredibly exciting project.
 
Finally:
 
Please note, there will not be any workdays or visits in September 2019

Thank you everyone for your continued support and helping to make a difference in our community. We hold work days every Friday between 10:00 and 12:00am, please feel free to pop in a see us, we make everyone welcome and have free tea and coffee!

Do pop over to Dave Moore’s blog and check out the history of Sandfields Pumping Station, an almost forgotten gem – the group also has a Facebook page.

Dave is, of course, one of the leading lights of Lichfield Discovered, along with Kate ‘Cardigan’ Gomez from Lichfield Lore.

It’s great to see people like Dave encourage a better attitude to our historic buildings -please do attend if you’re able, it’s sure to be enlightening and educational.

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Gerald Reece’s world of lost pubs and watering holes…

Posted on September 1, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

Here’s yet another photo treat for folk who remember the 70s, 80s and 90s in Brownhills – David Evans met up with the wonderful Gerald Reece on his 80th birthday walk a couple of weeks ago and Gerald shared some rather wonderful photos for us to have a gander at.

This week it’s lost or changed pubs, clubs and restaurants with some of the most remarkable photos of lost ones locally I’ve ever seen.

I’m sure these will kick off discussion, so grab a beer or brew, sit down, and remember when Brownhills had way more pubs than one would have thought possible…

The Jollier Collier was on the corner of Pelsall Road and Coppice Side, and gave the canal bridge nearby its name. An oddly long, thin pub I suspect it had been terraced houses at one point. Image very generously supplied by Gerald Reece. Click for a larger version.

I know nothing about Castle Working Men’s Club. Was this Doody’s Club? It was of course in the Castle Street area but not sure where! Image very generously supplied by Gerald Reece. Click for a larger version.

The Railway Tavern was demolished for housing in the 90s I think. It was in Lichfield Road, and fondly remembered particularly for it’s discos. At one stage the lounge dining area was fitted out with booths in the style of railway carriages. Image very generously supplied by Gerald Reece. Click for a larger version.

The Jolly Collier from the air, suspect 1980s. Note the large house behind with the pool. An air photographer sold many homes and businesses aerial images door to door in the mid 80s after doing a flypast of the area. Image very generously supplied by Gerald Reece. Click for a larger version.

The Wheatsheaf, another popular pub was on the Ogley Road. A no-nonsense classic local boozer. Image very generously supplied by Gerald Reece. Click for a larger version.

The Waterside still exists today, but I’m unsure of it’s history. I think it may have been a Working Mens Club, I’m not sure. Anyone? Image very generously supplied by Gerald Reece. Click for a larger version.

The front of the Railway Tavern: painted I n white, black and red it was a nice looking pub. Image very generously supplied by Gerald Reece. Click for a larger version.

This is the best photo I’ve ever seen of the Top Club/Sportsman/Hunstman which was where Smithys Forge is today. It started out a WMC but it’s genesis was troubled and it soon became a pub. An oddly brutalist, ugly building it was a popular house. I remember washing hanging on a line on the balcony when I was a kid. Image very generously supplied by Gerald Reece. Click for a larger version.

I’ll be honest I have no idea which pub this is, but from the closeness of the windows I suspect it was inside The Sportsman. Image very generously supplied by Gerald Reece. Click for a larger version.

There were three clubs in Lichfield Road – Top, middle and bottom. Middleton House was the bottom. Only the Middle Club, Sankeys, survives. Image very generously supplied by Gerald Reece. Click for a larger version.

Now a nursing home, this distinctive building in Hednesford Road was previously a cafe loved by bikers called the Ponderosa, I don’t recall this building being a pub – but here it is in the late 1980s (from the cars outside) as a pub called Busters. Remarkable. Image very generously supplied by Gerald Reece. Click for a larger version.

Originally a service Station called a ‘Motrestrant’ Hoofbeats predated the very popular Terrace Restaurant. It remains today, but is vacant. Image very generously supplied by Gerald Reece. Click for a larger version.

The Terrace in the 80s before expansion. These were really the golden days of what was a hugely popular restaurant. Image very generously supplied by Gerald Reece. Click for a larger version.

The Old Anchor was demolished soon after the new one to the rear opened, in 1986. The original had a lot of character and is sadly missed. Image very generously supplied by Gerald Reece. Click for a larger version.

Chesters came to what is now a computer and vape shop in Brownhills High Street in the wine bar boom of the mid-80s. It never seemed particularly busy, but could well be seen as a sort of template for today’s micropubs. Image very generously supplied by Gerald Reece. Click for a larger version.

Chesters relaunched as Simply Blues, in reaction I guess to the band name Simply Red. It closed by the early nineties and the row of shops refurbished. Image very generously supplied by Gerald Reece. Click for a larger version.

What do you recall from this gallery? If you have any thoughts or questions, please do share them – comment here, find me on social media or mail me: BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com. Thanks.

I thank Gerald and David for this remarkable set – it really is most excellent and for me personally has stirred many memories.

The donor of these remarkable images, Gerald Reece is of course a talented and superlative local historian, indeed now resident in Devon, who wrote the seminal work ‘Brownhills – A walk into history’ upon which this blog stands.

Gerald and Cherry Reece: on whose shoulders all my work here stands. Image kindly supplied by David Evans.
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Bill Barnard: Club classic!

Posted on September 1, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

One subject I’m continually looking for information about (and haven’t turned up a great deal, if I’m perfectly honest which is a bit sad in a whole decade) is that of Friezland Lane Working Mens Club in Shire Oak. This club, closed and replaced by housing in the 1980s (I think) had been a very popular local institution in it’s day, like all the local clubs were – but just like all the others, there is actually very scant information available recording their history or life.

This is sad because Working Mens Clubs, political and ‘Non-pol’ clubs weren’t just drinking venues: Because they allowed families to enter, they had entertainment and sports focuses, many having darts, table sports or other teams. They organised day trips and holidays, fetes and fundraisers.

Yet so little remains to flag up their existence in the local history cannon.

So when reader Vikki Swain sent me a couple of photos to post here, I jumped at the chance to feature them.

Bill Barnard on the porch of Friezland Lane Working Mens Club. I don’t remember the club at all. It seems to be made from very light brick, and here seems like a fairly modern building. When was this version created? Image kindly supplied by Vikki Swain. Click for a larger version.

Vikki said:

Hi Bob

Hope you are well?  I came across these photos are of my grandad Bill Barnard. He was the secretary of Friezland Lane WMC.

I believe these were taken inside and outside x

Bill inside the club, seemingly playing a game. doesn’t look like Cribbage. Any ideas? Love the young girl, head on arms at the table. Image kindly supplied by Vikki Swain. Click for a larger version.

Thanks to Vikki for a couple of remarkable images which I hope will kick off a wider discussion. That’s certainly the first exterior shot of the club I’ve seen and that must surely bring back memories?

Also, who is in the second photo with Bill? I note the wee girl at the table! The gents in their shirts and ties, evidently a game going on. These must be familiar faces to regulars are one point.

Please folks, can you help here? What do you recall? Have you any material you can add?

Also, if any image whizz is watching that could retouch these images as a token of thanks to Vikki that would be lovely.

My thanks to Vikki Swain, and if you have anything to add, please do: Comment here, catch me on social media or mail me on BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com.

I include an earlier piece I featured on the club to set the scene:

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

Mr. F Breeden (left) retires from the post of Secretary to the Friezland Lane Working men’s Club in 1957, after 20 years of service. Image from the Walsall Observer.

Here’s a good one found by reader and local historian Clive Roberts, on the subject of Friezlane Lane Working Men’s Club, which I made an appeal for information about last week.

Clive found this image in some photos he’d taken of archived newspaper material. The date is 1957, and the source, the Walsall Observer. The quality isn’t brilliant, but the image cleaned up reasonably well.

Mr. W. Armitage, president of Friezland Lane Workingmen’s Club, Brownhills, presents Mr. F. Breeden (left) with a cheque for £50 on the occasion of his retirement as Secretary to the club. Mr. Breedon, who lives at 152, Lichfield Road, Walsall Wood, has been Secretary for 30 years.

On his right is Mr. J Hession, a Vice-President, and seated (left) is Mr. J Webster, the new Secretary.

If you can add anything, comment here or mail me: BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com. Cheers!

Friezland2

From a 1957 copy of the Walsall Observer. Cheers to Clive Roberts for fishing it out.

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Woodmen battle hard for draw with an unpliable Lye

Posted on September 1, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

a beautiful early autumn afternoon and the Wood welcome Lye, from the deep south of the Black Country , to Oak Park.
an arm tattoo to be admired, indeed.
The game is under way and the Wood launch the first attacking move
the first few minutes… Before the shock.
Shock horror. Its Lye who score the first goal, and within a handful of minutes play, too. Lofty number 11, who was set to exhibit his full palette of play in today’s match, scores a very odd goal from a bobbly corner kick. Ouch.
sporting, solid soccer as only the Black Country know, was on show today.
the Wood worked hard, they had to, to gain their equalising goal, shortly before half time.
celebration, and a measure of relief as Wood draw level at one goal each .
Lye’s number five, seen making his presence felt in this encounter. All the players knew he was there.
New season. New rules. A time of learning for some players, still, it seems.
Half time and time for some neck oil and a burger.
Second half and two fast players share a moment to be in close proximity before breaking away.
Captain Splendid . Brilliant, dependable. Nice boots, too.
Owed on cocker! Lye score a dramatic second goal. A thundering silence drops like a ton of coal among the home supporters. Ringing cheers and a clatter of dentures breaks out among the visiting supporters.
Lye are chuffed! The Wood are aghast.
Close marking. An example of. Not always a good idea.
Whale oil. Lye score anutherun to mekitte three.
Later in the second half. Substitution time. Fresh legs, lungs and a quick dash of courage. This has been a game played at full tilt.
Second half and the Wood break through a wall of blue to score their second goal. Smorlyekit
Time is running out and the Wood are keen to get on with the game.
Another goal ( ouf!) brings the Wood level. Seat -cushion clenching time for all the spectators
the match is nearly at an end. Spectators have seen excellent soccer and have been nourished and refreshed by the quality of football exhibited by both teams.
The ref blows for full time and tired players shake hands with their opponents and colleagues. A delightful, if nail-biting match to spectate. Fair result

Yesterday afternoon (Saturday 31st August 2019) Walsall Wood F.C. entertained Lye Town at Walsall Wood. A tense, nail-biting match full of drama that the young David Evans watched keenly to see the two teams draw in a six goal match that constantly entertained.

Before that though, it’s good to see Russell Smith back on the case with TheWood.TV – here is the latest video of the home clash against Haughmond FC a couple of weeks ago. Sit back and enjoy some really professional video media from The Daddy:

See more at TheWood.TV here

Walsall Wood F.C. 3 v 3 Lye Town F.C.
Saturday 31st August 2019

The beautifully manured green grass football field glinted in the afternoon sun, freshly watered by a fleeting shower and  the stiff goal nets glinted and swayed in the gentle breeze that tickled the corner flags. The ruler-straight white lines and the freshly decorated clubhouse all combined to bring a heart-warming sense of expectation and excitement for spectators, players and officials at Oak Park today.

It is always a pleasure to welcome Lye Town footballers and  their spectators, too. A friendly smile, a handshake and a glass of neck oil before the match and the spirit of local soccer shone brightly.

The match brought a shock early goal for Lye and a suddenly the Wood knew that a full ninety minutes’ endeavour and thrusting football was on the cards. Both sides showed the skills  that spectators are privileged to witness in most matches and certainly in every Lye-Walsall Wood match. Good, accurate passing and ball control by both teams, plus a variety of moves to launch attacking moves, to perform some brilliant tackling moves and turning, athletic leaping and heading of the ball, this match had everything.

It took the Wood most of the first half to gain that merciful goal to bring the scores level at one goal each.

Half time brought a much needed break for managers to consider the fruits of their  respective teams’ first half endeavours, and for spectators to compare notes, enjoy refreshment, and wonder how the second half would evolve. Lye had showed the Wood that they were no easy team to beat. The Wood needed to adapt and adopt if they were to win this match

The goalkeepers had been a delight to watch.

The second half brought its own suspense as Lye went ahead, two goals, then three goals to one. Surely the Wood could come back at least to draw level? A penalty awarded to Lye, a fine goal to Lye. Then, some deft and timely substitutions were made by the home team, to bring fresh legs and lungs. A full-on determination was now evident in both sides. Both teams wanted to win this match, of all matches.

There was very little untoward play by any player in this encounter. The officials were thus allowed to enjoy a game played by two sporting sides. Spectators appreciated the range of skills that this match encompassed and displayed.

The final result was a well deserved three goals to three goals draw and Lye will go home well pleased with their performance, despite the call of ‘Where am we?’ from their bench at one moment during the latter stages of the game.

My thanks to David for a great report – and for all those he selflessly writes and send to me after every match. They really are popular, and a credit to David and the club.

Walsall Wood have a reputation for being a great, community spirited group of people and these reports demonstrate that – it’s an honour and joy to feature them here.

For the good of the Wood!

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Fancy a music and family festival this afternoon? It’s Lock Stock in Willenhall and it’s on until 9pm!

Posted on September 1, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

There’s a great music and fun family festuval for this Sunday afternoon (1st September 2019) ruining into the evening just up the road at Willenhall Memorial Park.

With three stages and over 20 acts there’s something for everyone at Lock Stock 2019  – Including rock, soul, great local bands, tributes and more!

There’s a bar and food too – and it’s just £3 per person entry. It kicked off at 12 noon but runs right up to 9pm in the beautiful surroundings of Willenhall Memorial Park.

You can find out more at the event’s Facebook page here.

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Fancy finding out more about local wildlife? You can, this afternoon!

Posted on September 1, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

I note that since it’s a decent day it would be an excellent chance to nip up to Stubbers Green with the kids, grandkids of even just by yourself and chat to the Swan Patrol.

The Patrol are there this afternoon – and every Sunday from 1-3pm and have bird books, binoculars and a wealth of knowledge to share – so why not join them? There’s so much more local wildlife than people think!

The reserve is by the pools on Stubbers Green Road, between Aldridge and Shelfield.

Ann Lawrence of the Swan Patrol said:

Do you want to know more about nature and wildlife?

Stubbers Green Nature Reserve Aldridge
Swan Patrol every Sunday 1-3pm

Lollipops and stickers for children that bring good healthy bird foods. Sweet corn, lettuce, porridge oats, branflakes, cornflakes, vegetable peelings, bird seed.

We have binoculars and bird books available to use.


Donations welcome

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Why not catch some great footy today? Walsall Wood play Lye at Oak Park this afternoon

Posted on August 31, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

Untitled 9

Walsall Wood Football Club’s historic Oak Park ground: heart of the community. Imagery from Apple Maps.

Saturday  31st August 2019

The Wood entertain Lye town at Oak Park!

Come watch the lads at home this afternoon

Kick off is 3:00pm

Hopefully, a match report will follow…

For the Good of the Wood!

Check out Walsall Wood FC’s website here.

Oak Park Football Ground
Lichfield Road
Walsall Wood
West Midlands
WS9 9NP

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Why not Stay and Play – at Brownhills Community Centre this morning

Posted on August 31, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

If you’ve a child or children under 4 years of age, there is a great Stay and Play session running at Brownhills Community Centre in the heart of Brownhills this Saturday morning 31st August 2019 from 10-11:30am.

It costs just two quid per kid and includes fruit and a drink, so it’s great value and it’s run by those wonderful people at the Little Green Dragons Nursery, who are resident at the centre and are fully qualified nursery teachers.

There are games and toys and all manner of fun for the weans – and you get a break to boot.

 

Saturday 31st August 2019
POP…POP…POP….
Our messy tray will be outdoors this week. Following the children’s interests from last week we will be making gigantic bubbles! We will be using different sizes hoops to see who can make the biggest bubble of all!

Our creative table will be free flow with a variety of materials to use to make whatever you and your little ones wish…

Sandtray will be open and accessible as it is every week…

…Along with all our other areas of play within the nursery setting:

• home corner
• construction
• small world
• maths area
• cosy book/music area
• baby sensory area

See you all Saturday!

Fingers crossed the sun has her hat on ☀️☀️☀️ we will be outdoors also which is loved by all every single week!

10.00am-11.30am
£2 per child
Snack included
Feel free to invite your friends with children aged 0-4 years and share our events

This group is held at Little Green Dragons Day Nursery every Saturday morning …

The Community Centre is what my generation would know as ‘The Annexe’ – the old Central Boy’s School, now a bustling community resource. To find out more,  you can pop in or call them on 01543 452119.

The Community Association have lots of stuff going on, and loads of great facilities, right in the heart of Brownhills. I love what they’re about and all the great things they’re doing.

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Parkrun is now at Chasewater every Saturday morning!

Posted on August 30, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

I know we have a lot of running folk amongst the readership, and in the mass of volunteer, community organised stuff in recent years, one of the most impressive demonstrations of this has been the growth of the free, Saturday morning Parkrun phenomena, where volunteers and runners gather every Saturday in local parks for a run, totally free of charge.

The second Parkrun at Chasewater attracted more than 300 runners. Image from Susan Williams.

It’s not competitive – except against your own personal best – it’s properly marshalled and you have to register, but it’s a free, friendly thing that’s hugely popular and a stunning demonstration of community in action.

It’s suitable for runners of all experience levels and paces. Find out more at the event page here.

Having run for years now at Walsall Arboretum and Cannock Chase, we now have a 5km Parkrun at Chasewater that happens every Saturday (events in the park permitting) – and has been attracting over 300 runners already!

It’s on this Saturday (31st August 2019) at 9:00am and the organisers have this to say:

What is Chasewater parkrun?

It is a 5km run – it’s you against the clock.

When is it?

Every Saturday at 9:00am.

Where is it?

The event takes place at Chasewater Country Park, Pool Rd, Burntwood, Brownhills, WS8 7NL. See Course page for more details.

What does it cost to join in?

Nothing – it’s free! but please register before your first run. Only ever register with parkrun once. Don’t forget to bring a printed copy of your barcode (request a reminder). If you forget it, you won’t get a time.

How fast do I have to be?

We all run for our own enjoyment. Please come along and join in whatever your pace!

Chasewater parkrun needs you!

It is entirely organised by volunteers – email chasewaterhelpers@parkrun.com to help.

We’re friendly!

Every week we grab a post parkrun coffee in the South Shore café – please come and join us!

Please, if you go for a run this Saturday, drop me a line and let me know how you get on – this is a fascinating thing and it’s growth is really wonderful. Comment here or mail me – BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com.

Just walking to the start shows the large number of runners already making this a great event! Image from Susan Williams.

Posted in News | 1 Comment

Local lady to undertake skydive in aid of cancer charity

Posted on August 29, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

Click on the image to visit Kim’s JustGiving page where you can donate safely.

Local lady and old friend of the blog Kim Morris has been in touch to tell me that she’s undertaking a skydive for the Mesothelioma UK charity, which cares for folk suffering illness caused by asbestos.

This is a cause close to my heart and every week in the UK families are left bereft by the cancer caused mainly by industrial and occupational exposure to asbestos. Long after this awful material was banned the deadly legacy is still being felt.

Kim will be undertaking the skydive at the end of October and needs our support. As soon as I have a firm date I’ll add it to the post.

You can donate at Kim’s JustGiving page here – it’s safe and commission free.

Kim has set up a Justgiving page for donations –

Hey Bob!

As some of you know, and many don’t, my sister in law’s dad Alan has just been diagnosed with a rare and aggressive cancer known as Mesothelioma.
This type of cancer is caused by exposure to Asbestos. It is aggressive due to the time scale it takes to show symptoms, it normally takes approx 40-50 years to develop which is why when the signs begin to show it is too late.
I personally hadn’t heard of this type cancer before which is why I wish to make more people aware of it.
Due to the time frame of when asbestos was found to be dangerous, more and more people are becoming diagnosed over recent years.
I am doing a skydive, one of my big bucket list items. The jump will be taking place in Nottingham, I am currently awaiting dates of availability but will update you once finalised.
If I can reach my target of fundraising I will at least feel that I have given something back. If you could please please help me, I know my sister in law and all the family will be very grateful.

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Kim Morris

My thanks to Kim for the selfless and brave thing she’s doing. I wouldn’t have the courage. Respect!

I’ll keep you updated as to Kim’s progress.

Posted in Brownhills stuff, Clayhanger stuff, Events, Followups, Fun stuff to see and do, Local media, Local music, News, Reader enquiries, Shared media, Social Media, Spotted whilst browsing the web, Walsall community, Walsall Wood stuff | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Find Someone in Time – a great new book by a brilliant local author

Posted on August 28, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

Burntwood lad and old friend of the blog Stuart Cowley has been busy publishing his first book, which I’m really happy to see and very much looking forward to reading.

You’ll all know how important it is to me that local writing is promoted, and Stuart with his many, diverse contributions to the blog – from his memories of growing up at Chasewater, to his days in local radio and his involvement with local marching bands – has always been a writer with the talent to go much further than this blog, and I’m glad to see him doing so at last.

Stuart has written what looks to be a lovely and engaging historical novella which is already garnering rave reviews including a very favourable write up from the discerning David Evans, who never minces his words when it comes to book reviews!

You can buy a copy on Amazon by clicking here – it’s £3 on Kindle, £6 for a physical paperback and free with the Kindle Unlimited subscription thing.

The book cover and associated media have been a real collaborative effort between Stuart and a host of local talent and helpful historical folk Stuart co-opted from the online community – more of that in a subsequent post as that deserves a writeup all of it’s own!

Another old pal of the group, now resident in the US, Lisa Ashby has worked her video magic on the story and it’s really stunning – see the video below.

Stuart Cowley wrote:

Evening Bob,

I just thought it worth a mention that I’ve self-published a short novel called ‘Someone In Time’, a fictional story based around the true events of ‘Exercise Tiger’ In the Second World War.

In that exercise, many hundreds of American service personnel died on the beaches of Devon during what was a rehearsal for the actual D day landings.

It follows the lives of two friends from Columbus, Ohio, who join the Armoured division during the Second World War.

One makes it through the war, the other marries an English girl but is classed as ‘Missing in action’ following the exercise. His new bride also goes missing, just after the wedding.

There is speculation that they have turned their backs on everything and everybody to seek out a new life for themselves.  In present day Devon the truth of what really happened to the couple, all those years ago, eventually comes to light.

This was the second of two screenplays that I’ve attempted over the years since about 2001. The first being a chase comedy set in the late 70s. Encouragement I received from a UK Film council initiative at the time, inspired me to write this second project.

I soon learned that it’s all very well coming up with ideas but it’s difficult to know where to go with them when finished. The only hope you have of progressing with anything is if you have a spare 5 million or your name is Richard Curtis, or both. So over the years they’ve been in and out of the loft, sat at the BBC writers room, dead in the water.

Just before Christmas I heard a radio interview on an author who had been in the same position and had decided to turn a screenplay in to a novel and self-publish. He now does that full time and is very successful. So over the winter months, I thought I’d have a go at my second project.

It has to be said at this point that some words of praise from yourself about my writing quality on an article that I’d written for the blog also gave me the confidence to proceed. Amazing what a few words of encouragement will do. A lesson to be learned for everyone, I think.

The plan was to get it finished by the end of March…. here we are mid-July.

The idea for it stems back to 2002 when I saw a documentary on the Exercise in Devon and then after hearing a radio documentary called ‘Someone somewhere’ which was probably one of the best radio productions I’ve ever heard. It was about the true story of a girl who had gone missing on Beachy head. In that production there was a recurring verse that was evocative and I’ve tried to replicate that in the book.

The brief for writing a screenplay is to keep it tight, so on converting to novel there was a risk of upsetting the balance of the story if you try and pad out for padding out sake. So this isn’t a short story, it isn’t a full blown novel. It’s what’s known as a ‘Novella’.

Many of the people who have helped me frequent the BrownhillsBob blog and Facebook pages. So this is another example of what this platform is capable of achieving by bringing people together. So in that respect Bob and fellow admins, pat yourselves on the back for what you do!

You can buy your copy on Amazon – for Kindle or in paperback – by clicking here.

If you read it, hope you enjoy it then it will have been worthwhile putting the time in.

Cheers!
Stuart

I haven’t yet got my copy, but I’m really looking forward to reading this. My apologies to Stuart for the late article, too. Hope he’ll forgive me my tardiness.

If you have any questions or observations for Stuart, please do comment here, find me on social media or mail me: BrownhillsBob at  Googlemail dot com, and I’ll draw them to his attention.

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September 2019 Toy and Train Collectors Fair at Oak Park this Sunday

Posted on August 27, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

 

Here’s one I’ve been meaning to catch for a while, but always seem to miss somehow – the periodic Toy and Train Collectors Fair at Oak Park Leisure Centre, Walsall Wood.

This one runs this Sunday, 1st September 2019 from 10:30am until 3pm, and is just £1:80 entry for adults, £1:50 for OAPs and just a quid for the kids.

There will be over 80 stalls, with all manner of models, toy trains, toy cars and other collectibles, and there’s also a cafe on site.

The organisers said:

WALSALL WOOD TOY AND TRAIN COLLECTORS FAIR RETURNS TO WALSALL WOOD

Oak Park Active Living Centre, Walsall Wood – Sunday 1St September 2019

The popular Toy and Train Collectors Fair returns to Oak Park Active Living Centre, Coppice Road, Walsall Wood, WS9 9BH following the summer break on Sunday 1st September, 2019.

A great selection of toy cars, trains, buses, commercials alongside other collectibles, action figures, lego plus lots more at prices to suit everyone.  Bring along your unwanted toys – traders are always looking to buy.

The event is organised by Walsall Collectors Geoff and Linda Price.

The fair opens 10.30am – 3.00pm – Admission: Adults £1.80 – Children £1.00

Organisers advise visitors that extra car parking is available on the old site off the Lichfield Road.

For more details – 01922 643385

Geoff and Linda

Transtar Promotions

You can find out more at the website of the organisers, Transtar Promotions here or by calling them on 01922 643385.

The organisers would like visitors to note that although parking on the centre car park is likely to be quite busy, there is parking on the old Oak Park car park accesses from the side of the KFC restaurant.

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New Hall Mill – Step back in time to the 1940’s today!

Posted on August 26, 2019 by BrownhillsBob
P1040438 New Hall Mill is a splendid place, restored and run by wonderfully dedicated volunteers.

Theres a lovely thing to visit locally today, Bank Holiday Monday (26th August 2019), that’s close by, free and absolutely fascinating… It’s New Hall Mill’s 1940s event!

New Hall Mill is open again today for one of the last  open days of 2019. I can heartily recommend the place – it’s fascinating and I had a great time there on 2015 Spring Bank Holiday Monday – not enough people know about this wonderful building.

There’s also an appeal ongoing for people who may be interested to join the friends of New Hall Mill and help in all sorts of ways – the team need all kinds of expertise from guides to engineering types who may have time to spare. See the message at the foot of the post.

The open day is free to enter too (although donations are welcomed).

The Friends of Newhall Mill said:

Hello Bob

New Hall Mill – Step back in time to the 1940’s on Bank Holiday Monday 26th August

The Friends of New Hall Mill will be opening the water mill to the public on BH Monday 26th August for a 1940’s themed event. Imagine that we are in the grips of WW2, the blitz, the home guard, rationing, etc

Come along and see flour being produced from wheat in the traditional way, have a go on a hand operated quern as used in parts of the world today.

Robin and her team of Nippies will be serving cakes and beverages in Robins Rest tearoom. Our Dig for Victory campaign allows us to sell produce from the millers garden. Visit the 1940’s exhibition in the gift shop. Don’t forget to visit Auntie Wainwrights to find that something extra that you require without the need for your ration book..

For your entertainment, 1940’s music and a singer will be boosting morale in these trying times throughout the day.

Come along and see –

  • Mrs Mack’s Rationing
  • Peggy Skivvy’s Washday
  • The Royal Warwickshire Regiment Re-enactors
  • Life in the 1940’s display
  • Birmingham on the Home Front in WW2 (including The Home Guard and the Blitz) exhibition
  • Laurel & Hardy
  • Austin Seven Car Club
  • Vintage Alvis & period picnic display
  • Biros display (they originated in the 40’s)
  • Vintage radios with Sutton Radio Society

Also on the day some of our usual favourites –

  • Bournville Bread Basket
  • Maidens Fayre Jams
  • Facepainter
  • West Midlands Wood Turners
  • Snuffles Hedgehog Rescue
  • Sutton Coldfield Trinity Quilters
  • Walsall Spinners
  • The National Trust
  • Models Collection
  • Vintage Bikes

We welcome visitors attending in period dress to come and join us, however please note that ONLY British and Allied military uniformed personnel will be allowed on site. STRICTLY – No opposition forces.

P1040417 I totally geeked out over this wonderful place.

Entry to the site and Parking is free, donations are always welcome in order that we raise funds to maintain the buildings for all to see in the future.

Please note that we open at 10:00 and close at 16:00 with last entry onto site being at 15:45.

Only disability assistance dogs are allowed on site.

Access to the mill is off Wylde Green Road, Sutton Coldfield, B76 1QU some 200 metres from National Cycle Route 534.

Having seen what we do, could you be able to assist? In order to continue holding these events, we need additional membership to help out on Open Days and Work Days. It is not all about Flour production – We have ageing machinery to maintain, tea room staff are always welcome, there are openings in all areas. Have a chat with a volunteer on Open day.

Hoping to see you there, keep your head down

Alan Dawson – A friend of New Hall Mill.

More details can be found on their website – www.newhallmill.org.uk or their Facebook page here.

This is certainly a project worth visiting and supporting – please do pop along if you can.  You can check out a gallery of my photos taken there below. I had a great time.

Posted in cycling, Environment, Followups, Fun stuff to see and do, Interesting photos, Local Blogs, Local History, Local media, News, Reader enquiries, Shared media, Social Media, Spotted whilst browsing the web, Walsall community, Walsall Council | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

The Royal British Legion are here to help – but need our help too!

Posted on August 25, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

I have here an important message from the Brownhills Branch (and wider organisation, of course) of the Royal British Legion that old friend of the blog John Bird has asked me to share with you all.

Mr Brian Bennett and Mr John Bird, pictured at last summer’s Canal festival. Image kindly supplied by David Evans.

Mr Brian Bennett and Mr John Bird represent the British Legion at Brownhills Canalside Festival. Image kindly supplied by David Evans.

I owe an apology to John over this, he’s very much a respected elder of this parish, who clearly sent me this request a few weeks ago but I’ve only this morning found it lurking in Google’s spam folder. I know a bad workman always blames the tools but I wish Google would leave the spam filtering to me!

John Bird has periodically written clear, eloquent and concise letters to the local press – the ones that have always stuck in mind have been the ones relating to the development and plans for Brownhills High Street, and he’s written some brilliant stuff over the years including one recently that provoked much debate on the subject of Remembrance parade funding.

John Bird has asked me to post the following important matter:

Appeal by Royal British Legion

May I remind all ex-service personnel and their dependants, that the Royal British Legion is available for advice or assistance during times of need. This applies to aids adaptations both personal and around the home. This also includes white goods such as microwave ovens, refrigerators and the like.

Furthermore, if you are a resident in the Brownhills area and would like a home visit for a chat or just to reminisce about old times, how you won the war single handed, or wish to relieve any boredom then local ex-service members of the Brownhills Branch of the Royal British Legion will be    only too pleased to assist.

May I also advise that the membership of our branch is slightly in decline and almost down to single figures. This is due, mainly, to age, disability and the like. We do have one or two younger members but need a few more to secure the future of our branch.

By the way you do not have to be ex-service to join as civilians are currently amongst our membership and are valued members keeping the branch going. That, by the way, is the category that I am in.

For any advice, information or assistance, do not hesitate to contact me, John Bird, Brownhills Branch, Community Officer, at 01543 452238.

John Bird
Brownhills.

This is hugely important as we all know of veterans who are not having the best of times, but I also know how many of you support ex-forces causes like I do and would like to help. We don’t have the parades and collections without the Royal British Legion so this institution and it’s membership are hugely important to support our service folk and to continue the annual act of Remembrance.

Again, thanks to John for making an excellent, thoughtful point.

Posted in Brownhills stuff, Churches, Clayhanger stuff, Environment, Events, Interesting photos, Local Blogs, Local History, Local media, News, Reader enquiries, Shared media, Shared memories, Social Media, Walsall community, Walsall Council, Walsall Wood stuff | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Fancy finding out more about local wildlife? You can, this afternoon!

Posted on August 25, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

I note that since it’s a decent day it would be an excellent chance to nip up to Stubbers Green with the kids, grandkids of even just by yourself and chat to the Swan Patrol.

The Patrol are there this afternoon – and every Sunday from 1-3pm and have bird books, binoculars and a wealth of knowledge to share – so why not join them? There’s so much more local wildlife than people think!

The reserve is by the pools on Stubbers Green Road, between Aldridge and Shelfield.

Ann Lawrence of the Swan Patrol said:

Do you want to know more about nature and wildlife?

Stubbers Green Nature Reserve Aldridge
Swan Patrol every Sunday 1-3pm

Lollipops and stickers for children that bring good healthy bird foods. Sweet corn, lettuce, porridge oats, branflakes, cornflakes, vegetable peelings, bird seed.

We have binoculars and bird books available to use.


Donations welcome

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Changing times and changing places

Posted on August 24, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

Here’s yet another photo treat for folk who remember the 70s, 80s and 90s in Brownhills – David Evans met up with the wonderful Gerald Reece on his 80th birthday walk a couple of weeks ago and Gerald shared some rather wonderful photos for us to have a gander at.

I’m on reduced power this holiday having a rest so I thought this might make a good discussion point – there’s certainly much to get your teeth into here.

The church on Coppice Lane, Brownhills: I believe the clergyman was Jack Smith from Clayhanger. May 1983 – the building is now apartments. Image kindly donated by Gerald Reece via David Evans.

The church before conversion. Note that the smaller hall – the Sunday school – was demolished and is now a car park. May 1983. Image kindly donated by Gerald Reece via David Evans.

This is the shop that used to stand on the corner of Seeds Lane: You can see the bricked-up door and witness to a bigger shop window. I only knew it as a chip shop and I can remember sitting on the sill of the window inside as a little boy, waiting for chips. It’s now a garden. September 1986. Image kindly donated by Gerald Reece via David Evans.

The old Co-op stood where Farmfoods is today – the small shop added on was a butchers, I think. Upstairs were meeting rooms – battery the ‘Labour exchange’ – an early form of Job Centre. January 1987. Image kindly donated by Gerald Reece via David Evans.

The Tesco at the back of Ravens Court had previously been a Victor Value but changed around 1970 when Tesco bought the chain out. This store closed after Tesco bought Hillards and converted it into the store we have today. Tesco have never deliberately opened a store in Brownhills. February 1987/ Image kindly donated by Gerald Reece via David Evans.

Undated image showing what is now Tesco as Hillards, it’s original format. Note the ‘marina’ had walls then which was a really peculiar idea. Undated, 1987 or earlier. Image kindly donated by Gerald Reece via David Evans.

A good photo to prove Tesco took over Hillards, and also a good photo for period Ford lovers. Undated, but surely 1987. Image kindly donated by Gerald Reece via David Evans.

The old foundry and remains of Lindale House on Lindon Road where Chandlers Keep is today. Undated, but mid 1980s as the mound from landscaping Clayhanger Tip can be seen, left. Image kindly donated by Gerald Reece via David Evans.

See more about the foundry in this post.

Sadly undated image of St. Thomas Mission Church, which stood behind the short wall that still exists at the top of the parade opposite Watling Street School. It was demolished in the early 1970s. I think the Parade is off right so this shows the Parade/Watling Street junction without traffic lights. Undated. Image kindly donated by Gerald Reece via David Evans.

The ruins of Swingbridge Farm, Clayhanger – only just now being cleared of the rubble from the farm’s demolition. I’m guessing late 80s/early 90s for this undated one. Image kindly donated by Gerald Reece via David Evans.

The mid-80s removal of the remains of the railway bridge that crossed the Chester Road on the Common. The bridge deck had already long gone, but the foot tunnel and abutments remained. May 1983. Image kindly donated by Gerald Reece via David Evans.

You can see more of the above demolition here.

One of the Ogley Schools in Church Road. I shan’t invite derision by guessing which one. Undated. Image kindly donated by Gerald Reece via David Evans.

I’m fairly sure the demolition of this school is recorded here.

Demolition of the row including the Station Hotel – this would have been the taxi office. Undated. Image kindly donated by Gerald Reece via David Evans.

The full set of the demolition of the Station Hotel can be seen here.

A great shot of the legendary Taylors Cafe on the Pelsall Road. Never noticed the arch-topped door to the house, nor the huge upper front window before. Undated. Image kindly donated by Gerald Reece via David Evans.

It’s Savers today, but has been all kinds of things, including a Woolworths, Shoppers World and an indoor market. For a period early 90s Victor Value was a name revived for a chain of food discount stores. It failed as a chain. Also interesting is the sign advertising the BNRR enquiry on the lamp-post. Before computer typesetting, such posts from hand-lettered originals were common. Undated. Image kindly donated by Gerald Reece via David Evans.

The same store after the Shopping Mall (an indoor market) failed. Note Range Records left, and The Shoe Pricefighters, right. I’d say late 80s. Undated. Image kindly donated by Gerald Reece via David Evans.

What do you recall from this gallery? If you have any thoughts or questions, please do share them – comment here, find me on social media or mail me: BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com. Thanks.

I thank Gerald and David for this remarkable set – it really is most excellent and for me personally has stirred many memories.

The donor of these remarkable images, Gerald Reece is of course a talented and superlative local historian, indeed now resident in Devon, who wrote the seminal work ‘Brownhills – A walk into history’ upon which this blog stands.

Gerald and Cherry Reece: on whose shoulders all my work here stands. Image kindly supplied by David Evans.
Posted in Brownhills stuff, Environment, Followups, Fun stuff to see and do, Interesting photos, Local History, Local media, News, planning, Reader enquiries, Shared media | Tagged , , , , , | 15 Comments

Something wonderful for princesses and pirates alike this Summer Bank Holiday Monday!

Posted on August 23, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

What’s not to love, arrr?

Chasewater Railway – the little gem of a local preserved industrial railway is this Bank Holiday Monday (26th August 2019) staging a Princesses and Pirates Day, when the railway will be operating with steam trains and there will be fun, games, competitions, rides and other activities at Brownhills West Station.

There will be costume competitions too!

Chasewater Railway said:

Come along and join us for our summer Bank Holiday Monday  event  – Princesses and Pirates!

Why not come along dressed as your favorite character and meet our princesses and pirates. A day of fun, games and steam train rides at Chasewater Railway. Face painting, kiddie rides and sweets and treats. Just £6.95 per person.

Lots to do and our The Sidings Tea Room there is something for all the family at Chasewater Railway. See you there!

Chasewater Railway is a wonderful attraction with regular passenger services at weekends and during school holidays, featuring two excellent cafes and a fascinating museum that chronicles not just railway history, but that of our area and industry.

The whole thing is staffed by helpful and friendly volunteers who are always ready to chat and talk about the railway and rolling stock.

At Brownhills west station there are also a lovely model railway, plus a couple of great vintage and collectible stalls. The railway itself has a shop selling books, rail models, toys and other merchandise.

Please do pop down if you haven’t already – Chasewater Railway really isn’t pushed enough; it’s wonderful.

You can check their website here – trains run this and every weekend from 11am to 4pm with the museum, cafes and stations open earlier.

Posted in Brownhills stuff, Cannock Chase, Chasewater, Environment, Events, Fun stuff to see and do, Interesting photos, Local Blogs, Local History, Local media, News, Reader enquiries, Shared media, Shared memories, Social Media, Spotted whilst browsing the web | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Parkrun is now at Chasewater every Saturday morning!

Posted on August 23, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

I know we have a lot of running folk amongst the readership, and in the mass of volunteer, community organised stuff in recent years, one of the most impressive demonstrations of this has been the growth of the free, Saturday morning Parkrun phenomena, where volunteers and runners gather every Saturday in local parks for a run, totally free of charge.

The second Parkrun at Chasewater attracted more than 300 runners. Image from Susan Williams.

It’s not competitive – except against your own personal best – it’s properly marshalled and you have to register, but it’s a free, friendly thing that’s hugely popular and a stunning demonstration of community in action.

It’s suitable for runners of all experience levels and paces. Find out more at the event page here.

Having run for years now at Walsall Arboretum and Cannock Chase, we now have a 5km Parkrun at Chasewater that happens every Saturday (events in the park permitting) – and has been attracting over 300 runners already!

It’s on this Saturday (24th August 2019) at 9:00am and the organisers have this to say:

What is Chasewater parkrun?

It is a 5km run – it’s you against the clock.

When is it?

Every Saturday at 9:00am.

Where is it?

The event takes place at Chasewater Country Park, Pool Rd, Burntwood, Brownhills, WS8 7NL. See Course page for more details.

What does it cost to join in?

Nothing – it’s free! but please register before your first run. Only ever register with parkrun once. Don’t forget to bring a printed copy of your barcode (request a reminder). If you forget it, you won’t get a time.

How fast do I have to be?

We all run for our own enjoyment. Please come along and join in whatever your pace!

Chasewater parkrun needs you!

It is entirely organised by volunteers – email chasewaterhelpers@parkrun.com to help.

We’re friendly!

Every week we grab a post parkrun coffee in the South Shore café – please come and join us!

Please, if you go for a run this Saturday, drop me a line and let me know how you get on – this is a fascinating thing and it’s growth is really wonderful. Comment here or mail me – BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com.

Just walking to the start shows the large number of runners already making this a great event! Image from Susan Williams.

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New Hall Mill – Step back in time to the 1940’s on Bank Holiday Monday

Posted on August 22, 2019 by BrownhillsBob
P1040438 New Hall Mill is a splendid place, restored and run by wonderfully dedicated volunteers.

Theres a lovely thing to visit locally this Bank Holiday Monday (26th August 2019), that’s close by, free and absolutely fascinating… It’s New Hall Mill’s 1940s event!

New Hall Mill is open again on Monday for one of the last but one open days of 2019. I can heartily recommend the place – it’s fascinating and I had a great time there on 2015 Spring Bank Holiday Monday – not enough people know about this wonderful building.

There’s also an appeal ongoing for people who may be interested to join the friends of New Hall Mill and help in all sorts of ways – the team need all kinds of expertise from guides to engineering types who may have time to spare. See the message at the foot of the post.

The open day is free to enter too (although donations are welcomed).

The Friends of Newhall Mill said:

Hello Bob

New Hall Mill – Step back in time to the 1940’s on Bank Holiday Monday 26th August

The Friends of New Hall Mill will be opening the water mill to the public on BH Monday 26th August for a 1940’s themed event. Imagine that we are in the grips of WW2, the blitz, the home guard, rationing, etc

Come along and see flour being produced from wheat in the traditional way, have a go on a hand operated quern as used in parts of the world today.

Robin and her team of Nippies will be serving cakes and beverages in Robins Rest tearoom. Our Dig for Victory campaign allows us to sell produce from the millers garden. Visit the 1940’s exhibition in the gift shop. Don’t forget to visit Auntie Wainwrights to find that something extra that you require without the need for your ration book..

For your entertainment, 1940’s music and a singer will be boosting morale in these trying times throughout the day.

Come along and see –

  • Mrs Mack’s Rationing
  • Peggy Skivvy’s Washday
  • The Royal Warwickshire Regiment Re-enactors
  • Life in the 1940’s display
  • Birmingham on the Home Front in WW2 (including The Home Guard and the Blitz) exhibition
  • Laurel & Hardy
  • Austin Seven Car Club
  • Vintage Alvis & period picnic display
  • Biros display (they originated in the 40’s)
  • Vintage radios with Sutton Radio Society

Also on the day some of our usual favourites –

  • Bournville Bread Basket
  • Maidens Fayre Jams
  • Facepainter
  • West Midlands Wood Turners
  • Snuffles Hedgehog Rescue
  • Sutton Coldfield Trinity Quilters
  • Walsall Spinners
  • The National Trust
  • Models Collection
  • Vintage Bikes

We welcome visitors attending in period dress to come and join us, however please note that ONLY British and Allied military uniformed personnel will be allowed on site. STRICTLY – No opposition forces.

P1040417 I totally geeked out over this wonderful place.

Entry to the site and Parking is free, donations are always welcome in order that we raise funds to maintain the buildings for all to see in the future.

Please note that we open at 10:00 and close at 16:00 with last entry onto site being at 15:45.

Only disability assistance dogs are allowed on site.

Access to the mill is off Wylde Green Road, Sutton Coldfield, B76 1QU some 200 metres from National Cycle Route 534.

Having seen what we do, could you be able to assist? In order to continue holding these events, we need additional membership to help out on Open Days and Work Days. It is not all about Flour production – We have ageing machinery to maintain, tea room staff are always welcome, there are openings in all areas. Have a chat with a volunteer on Open day.

Hoping to see you there, keep your head down

Alan Dawson – A friend of New Hall Mill.

More details can be found on their website – www.newhallmill.org.uk or their Facebook page here.

This is certainly a project worth visiting and supporting – please do pop along if you can.  You can check out a gallery of my photos taken there below. I had a great time.

Posted in cycling, Environment, Followups, Fun stuff to see and do, Interesting photos, Local Blogs, Local History, Local media, News, Reader enquiries, Shared media, Social Media, Spotted whilst browsing the web, Walsall community, Walsall Council | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Walsall Wood’s Bank Holiday weekend music & fun festival starts Friday!

Posted on August 21, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

On the Summer Bank Holiday weekend event score, there’s a great music, fun, family and food festival planned right across the break from Friday 23rd to Sunday 25th August 2019 – and it’s all in aid of charities Livvy’s Smile and Pancreatic Cancer UK.

This looks like a great return to the well remembered Walsall Woodstock festivals of summers passed. I’m really looking forward to it.

It’s free to attend, and there are a host of great, feel good bands and acts in store – but also inflatables, streetfood, carboot market, craft fair, face painting, competitions and live DJs.

You can camp, too. 

It all takes place around the Horse and Jockey Pub at Lichfield Road, Walsall Wood and in the lovely field at the back. 

For more info you can visit the Horse and Jockey Facebook page here, the oganisrer’s Facebook page here or call the event hotline on 07399 547577.

See you there?

The Horse and Jockey in Walsall Wood is a great site for a festival. Imagery from Apple Maps.

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Three bogus caller incidents on Monday morning – warn your friends and relatives

Posted on August 21, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

I’m sad to report that there’s one or more bogus workmen operating locally again, preying on the elderly and vulnerable, with three incidents being reported on Monday morning, 19th August 2019 in Aldridge and Shelfield.

West Midlands Police said:

Aldridge and Shelfield Bogus Caller Alert

Please be on the alert for bogus callers who are preying on the elderly in the Aldridge and Shelfield areas.  Yesterday, Monday 19th August, three offences were reported in a short space of time.

The first report came from Westbrook Avenue, Aldridge, where at around 10am an unknown person called at the residence of an elderly person stating he had been sent to fix the fence and that it would cost £25 up front.  The money was handed over and the man, for whom we have no description, messed with the fence for a while before disappearing. 

The next report came from New Street, Shelfield, shortly after 10am.  A man claiming to be from the council stated he had been sent to clean the guttering and that it would cost £5.  The man, described as being white and having a small beard, was challenged for his ID.  He said he had forgotten it and made off.  No money was handed over.

The third has come from Windsor Grove, Shelfield, when at around 10.45am a man called stating that he had been sent to do the garden and that it would cost £40.  The money was handed over and he was allowed entry to the house and garden.  A little later the victim found that her purse, which contained cash, had gone from the kitchen table and the man had also disappeared.  The man is described as being white, in his mid thirties, having a goatee type beard and he spoke with a local accent.

All of these crimes have been perpetrated against people who are vulnerable due to their age and infirmity.  If you have relatives or neighbours who are vulnerable, please remind them to be wary about answering the door to unexpected callers.  Genuine callers will always make appointments before calling, will carry ID and never ask for cash up-front unless this has been previously agreed.  Remember: STOP, CHAIN and CHECK.

STOP – are you expecting anybody? Do they have an appointment?

CHAIN – secure the door bar or chain before opening the door.

CHECK – Ask for ID from the caller and double check.  Unsure?  Close the door.

If you know of someone who may have been approached by a bogus caller recently, but has not reported it, please encourage them to do so.  Every piece of information, however small, may help us catch these criminals and protect the most vulnerable.

If you have any information that may assist the police please contact us via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk between 8am to midnight, call 101 anytime or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, quoting crime reference number 20WS/197246H/19 (Windsor Grove), 20WS/197258U/19 (Westbrook Avenue) or log number 646 19/8/19 (New Street).

Please tell your relatives and neighbours about these scammers, and impress upon them how important it is not to be menaced into giving money for services  at the door, no matter how plausible the people demanding cash are. Genuine companies will always contact you by other means.

Scumbags preying on the elderly and vulnerable are lower than a snake’s knees.

Please,  if you have any further information relating to any such incident, or if you’ve witnessed something suspicious, please contact West Midlands Police by dialling 101 (999 in an emergency, obviously) or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Posted in Brownhills stuff, Clayhanger stuff, Environment, Events, Local media, News, Shared media, Social Media, Walsall community | Leave a comment

Supporting the Rainbow fun day event in Walsall Wood today!

Posted on August 19, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

Hey up folks there’s a Summer Fun Day happening today (20th August 2019) in aid of the wonderful Supporting the Rainbow autism support group at the Horse and Jockey pub, just opposite Barons Court in Walsall Wood from 12-4pm.

Everyone is welcome to this great fun event – there will be a bouncy castle, space hoppers, a massive play area, cakes, sweets, a tombola and raffle! There are also car boot sale pitches available for just a fiver…

All funds raised go to Supporting the Rainbow and helping them carry out their fine work. I hear there are some great prizes on the raffle, too: Fancy winning an amazon echo for just a £1? You could!

Supporting the Rainbow it currently having their summer break for school holidays, but have been organising special meet-ups during them: They will return to meeting weekly in Brownhills when the new term starts, and they’re a fantastic group that’s a real benefit to those living with or caring for loved ones who are on the spectrum.

Supporting the Rainbow is really growing in popularity – so why not pop along to see what it’s all about?

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Local micropub The Jiggers Whistle raises over £1000 for charity!

Posted on August 19, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

Old pal of the blog Helen José has been in touch to let me know about the wonderful and impressive achievement by local darters playing in the Jiggers Whistle Darts League, who’ve raised a whopping £1008 for Help for Heroes and West Midlands Air Ambulance charities in the last twelve months.

Image kindly supplied by Helen José.

Helen said:

The Jiggers Whistle in Brownhills had an in-house darts league that was started last year in memory of two well loved Brownhills gentlemen: Gordon Cooper and David ‘Wagsy’ Wagstaff.

We now have 34 players and we play for the Gordon Cooper memorial shield and the Wagsy memorial trophy remembering these two great Brownhills men.

Through our subscriptions and football cards taken in the pub we have raised between us a massive £1,008 in our first season!

We should raise even more going forward…

Yesterday we presented £504 to a representative from Help for Heroes and a cheque for the same amount has been sent to the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity.

We are all extremely proud at the amount of money we have raised and fantastic friendships have been built through a good ole fashioned game of darts.

The Jiggers Whistle is Brownhills very own micropub in Brownhills High Street situated in the old Starlight Photography/EE Jones store near the miner island, overseen by the Tin Mon himself!

Since opening in 2017 this lovely little pub has built up a great community and wonderful reputation for hospitality, a warm welcome and great ale.

Thanks to Helen and landlord Colin and all involved for achieving such a great result for charity! If you want to know more, pop into the pub (a great excuse if you need one!) or check out The Jiggers Whistle Facebook page here.

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Don’t forget: Lichfield and Hatherton’s huge 2019 Canal Heritage Gathering coming soon!

Posted on August 18, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

Lichfield and Hatherton Canal Restoration Trust are busy preparing for their Heritage Gathering call and vintage festival which is coming up over the weekend of 21-22nd September 2019, and takes place at their Huddlesford base, near Lichfield.

A wonderful day out in store for all! Image from Lichfield and Hatherton Canal Restoration Trust.

There will be boats, vintage and classic vehicles, stalls, food, displays and all the usual fun and games. This is a great show and previous years have been excellent, and well worth the visit.

I had a great time at the last of these biennial events in 2017, and I’m looking forward to this one immensely. You can see a gallery of images from 2017s event at the foot of this post.

All funds raised will help support the canal restoration project, whose volunteers are currently beavering away on the route of the lost line between Barracks Lane, Ogley Hay and The Boat restaurant, on the Lichfield Road at Summerhill, opening the route for walkers, as well as the more general restoration work to restore the old canal, particularly at Borrowcop on the A51 at Lichfield and near Fosseway between Lichfield and Wall.

If you’re into history, canals, vintage transport and craft, keep that weekend free!

The Lichfield and Hatherton Canal Restoration Trust said:

Weekend of Entertainment at Heritage Gathering

Huddlesford Heritage Gathering promises to be bigger and better than ever this year.

More than 6,000 people came to the biennial event in 2017 and with new attractions and the return of old favourites, this year’s Gathering, on September 21-22, really does have something for everyone.

Organised jointly by Lichfield and Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust and Lichfield Cruising Club, the Gathering features historic boats, floating traders, private boats and classic vehicles, with exhibitors and displays on the field.

With music, entertainment, food and bar all day, the Gathering, held at Lichfield Cruising Club, Huddlesford, Lichfield WS13 8PY, is open to visitors from 10am to 5pm on both days.

Entry is £5 with free parking.

The Gathering’s mini music festival includes the chance for aspiring dancers with the Reel Hot Ceilidh Peppers, playing lively barn dance and ceilidh music, and Beggars Oak, who perform clog and Morris dancing.

Talented 17-year-old Lichfield singer Amelia Harrison, Wildfire Folk and Lighthouse Company are among the other local musical acts on the main stage, while there is also a slot on Buskers Corner for amateur or professional performers hoping to impress the crowds.

The Saturday night evening entertainment will be provided by BBC Radio2 Young Folk Award nominees Granny’s Attic and a pig roast will be available before the music starts. Tickets priced £15 must be purchased separately for this event.

The fully booked classic car spaces include Lotus, Jaguar, Triumph and MG enthusiasts, while floating traders offer everything from cheese and chutneys to traditional narrowboat art.

There is still room for exhibitors and land traders, and the Gathering offers excellent sponsorship opportunities for potential corporate partners.

For more information, visit the event website by clicking here.

For more information about the restoration and trust generally, visit the Trust website here.

You can keep in touch with the Trust on Twitter as @LHCRT1, on Facebook or on their website.

 

Posted in Brownhills stuff, cycling, Environment, Fun stuff to see and do, Interesting photos, Local Blogs, Local History, Local media, News, planning, Reader enquiries, Shared media, Shared memories, Social Media, Spotted whilst browsing the web, Walsall community, Wildlife | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Woodmen fight hard to beat the ‘Mond

Posted on August 18, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

Souvenir programme to cherish. One of my favourite players to grace the Theatre of Dreams at the Wood, Craig Deakin.
Haughmond, in black and white, make their first appearance here and, like their supporting fans ,are given a warm welcome.
A beautiful, sunny afternoon, a welcome glass of amber nectar or two, a beefburger and chips, and a fine display of positive quality soccer to spectate. Love the Wood.
Early in the game and Haughmond show their talons as they launch a series of attacks on the Walsall Wood goal. Both sides mean business, then.
First goal, in the first half, to Haughmond, who are delighted. The Wood? Not so.
A few moments later, and the Wood come thundering back and score a superb goal, to equalise.
and the delight is shared by a home fan. Game on!
Still the first half, the Wood have conceded a goal, so they turn up the pressure as they strive to score a goal. Excellent soccer
Later in the first half and fans from both sides are caught up in the excitement of the match, and the beefburger vans prepares to feed hungry souls.
a high-energy game, payed to its full by eager and proficient sportsman in the right spirit in front of appreciative fans.
The second half brings refreshed and revitalised players to work hard to gain a valuable victory
an interesting tussle between two players of different stature and pace.
a well-played game of football; enjoyable to watch, too
soccer, played at full speed. Accurate, demanding, satisfying.
Second half and the Wood score another goal. The crowd erupts, of course
One of the Wood’s stars in action.
And another of the many stars of the Wood. Love the Wood!
nearly the end of the match and both teams are still playing hard and well.
The match ends and the Wood have won. This has been hard work for both sides who have produced some captivating moves, shown endeavour, made accurate passing and exhibited commitment.

Images and captions kindly supplied by the young David Evans

Walsall Wood FC continued their steady progress into the new season on Saturday 17th August 2019 with a hard fought win over Shrewsbury’s Haughmond FC at Oak Park – a good match and result welcomed by the faithful, disappointed by their away defeat to the same opponent the previous week.

David Evans was there, and sent the following match report.

He wrote:

Walsall Wood FC 3 v 2 Haughmond FC
Saturday 17th August 2019

Walsall Wood entertained and welcomed Haughmond on their first visit to Oak Park on a glorious sunlit summer’s afternoon.  A bright sky, dappled white clouds, a gentle refreshing breeze and beautiful lush green grass pitch all combined to create a  worthy stage  for the players.

The mouth-watering aroma of burgers and sausages being cooked and  the open door to tempting bar, all needs were being catered for as spectators threaded their way through the turnstile, bright-eyed and in varying degrees of discomfort, entrance tickets,  matchday programmes and teeth firmly clenched.

On the lush, green grass pitch today’s visiting team, who had made their way from Shrewsbury, performed their balletic   warm-up routine with military precision. As the home team performed theirs, the spectacle was strangely fascinating and spectators became increasingly caught up in the thrill of the game that would soon spring in to action on  the shrill blow of a whistle.

The teams played bright, accurate and delightful soccer and it was self-evident that both sides wanted the win, and for different reasons. Would this detract from the quality and sporting nature of today’s match? Not a bit of it. For this, and everything else, the game was a credit to all the players.

The encounter was characterised by accurate passing, well-worked out moves and manoeuvres by both sides, changes of pace, tactics, and the refreshing variety of skills shown today. The minutes fled by for the spectators : always a clear indication that quality and positive soccer is taking place on the pitch.

It was Haughmond who scored the first goal, to the delight of their players and fans. This spurred to the Wood to ratchet up the game a notch or two. This brought both end to end soccer and careful, measured play in equal measure.

The match officials performed their roles in a calm and proficient manner and were allowed to be relatively unobtrusive by the sporting nature of play by  both sides.

The half time break for the players, the cucumber sandwiches, cups of tea and pleasant conversation with their managers brought a different dimension to the second half of the game. A greater sense of urgency, fresh manoeuvres not employed in the first half, some substitutions at strategic moments, and this game sparkled and thrilled right to the moment when the Referee blew his whistle to signal the end of the match.

There was no petulance or dissent from any player, and this league match, which ended with a three goals to two win for the home side, was all the better for it.

David Evans

Thanks to David there – For The Good Of The Wood!

Walsall Wood Football Club are a top local side with a big-hearted faithful who know how to have a great time supporting their lads, and welcome all comers to come enjoy great local soccer.

The boys from The Wood have been at the heart of the local community for a century or more, so please do go check out a match or two if you’re curious.

Posted in Brownhills stuff, Environment, Events, Followups, Fun stuff to see and do, Local media, News, Reader enquiries, Shared media, Social Media, Walsall community, Walsall Wood stuff | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

There’s a great free live music event in Walsall Arboretum on now!

Posted on August 18, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

Right now Sunday 18th August 2019 at Walsall Arboretum Bandstand there’s a great live family show – Lakeside Live 19 – featuring great local musicians playing covers from 60s to the 90s plus great original feel good music to suit all tastes with food, drink and a bar also available.

The fun started at 12 noon and runs right through the afternoon until 6pm so plenty of time to get up there – and the best bit? It’s absolutely free to attend.

The organisers said:

Sean Flood and Doctor Teeth have a long history going back the Eighties with the popular Indie band “Cybernauts” playing many gigs across the country sharing the stage with Tim Burgess, Kelly Jones and others.

The current line up features Steve Tatman on lead guitar, Chris Smith on Saxophone, Ross “Harbinger” Davies on Bass and sometime Djembe player Q.

Playing original sixties inspired psychedelic pop and an eclectic mix of classic numbers from the sixties, seventies and eighties, from artists such as the Beatles, Doors, Who, Kinks, Hendrix, Slade, Bowie, Jam and the Stranglers. Focusing on powerful and melodic orchestrations the Doctor Teeth Band put on an amazing show for all audiences.

This year’s event builds on the success of three previous events at the Bandstand and features a number of supporting acts, including the fantastic Funk and Jazz sounds of Funk and Disorderly and other superb local acts.

The Arboretum Café will be providing a licenced bar and BBQ.

If you attend please feel free to share pictures and other media!

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Fancy finding out more about local wildlife? You can, this afternoon!

Posted on August 18, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

I note that since it’s a decent day it would be an excellent chance to nip up to Stubbers Green with the kids, grandkids of even just by yourself and chat to the Swan Patrol.

The Patrol are there this afternoon – and every Sunday from 1-3pm and have bird books, binoculars and a wealth of knowledge to share – so why not join them? There’s so much more local wildlife than people think!

The reserve is by the pools on Stubbers Green Road, between Aldridge and Shelfield.

Ann Lawrence of the Swan Patrol said:

Do you want to know more about nature and wildlife?

Stubbers Green Nature Reserve Aldridge
Swan Patrol every Sunday 1-3pm

Lollipops and stickers for children that bring good healthy bird foods. Sweet corn, lettuce, porridge oats, branflakes, cornflakes, vegetable peelings, bird seed.

We have binoculars and bird books available to use.


Donations welcome

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Lost and found local businesses: Which do you recall?

Posted on August 17, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

Here’s a treat for folk who remember the 80s and 90s in Brownhills – David Evans met up with the wonderful Gerald Reece on his 80th birthday walk last week and Gerald shared some rather wonderful photos for us to have a gander at.

Just for the hell of it I’m not going to say where they are (although a couple are, well, obvious to regular readers) but every one has brought back memories for me.

Image kindly supplied by Gerald Reece. Click for a larger version.

The above image is interesting: This building is no longer extant but I do recall it being this crazy mixture of colours.

Image kindly supplied by Gerald Reece. Click for a larger version.

I had completely forgotten Watsons Wines: They were a large local off licence chain, but I really don’t recall this shop: I certainly can’t place it in time. Any ideas?

Image kindly supplied by Gerald Reece. Click for a larger version.

Now this is interesting – from a time when shoe repairs were so ubiquitous a town the size of Brownhills could support two cobbler’s shops. Bothe were operated by characters, if I recall correctly.

Image kindly supplied by Gerald Reece. Click for a larger version.

This needs no introduction. What I do recall however, was in the 70s there used to be a large American car often parked under the large window. Does anyone else recall that?

Image kindly supplied by Gerald Reece. Click for a larger version.

This odd pair of shops – in one form or another – survive to this day and have held all kinds of businesses from secondhand shops to console games sales.

Image kindly supplied by Gerald Reece. Click for a larger version.

This is a real blast from the past. I’m sure I remember a wedding cake maker having this tiny shop at some point too. 

Image kindly supplied by Gerald Reece. Click for a larger version.

This image is brilliant, and captures the greengrocers I only half remembered that used to be Holmes, I think. The archway has now gone and I’m intrigued that back then Brownhills must have been party central as it seems to have been able to support two fancy dress shops…

What do you recall from this gallery? If you have any thoughts or questions, please do share them – comment here, find me on social media or mail me: BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com. Thanks.

I thank Gerald and David for this remarkable set – it really is most excellent and for me personally has stirred many memories.

The donor of these remarkable images, Gerald Reece is of course a talented and superlative local historian, indeed now resident in Devon, who wrote the seminal work ‘Brownhills – A walk into history’ upon which this blog stands.

Gerald and Cherry Reece: on whose shoulders all my work here stands. Image kindly supplied by David Evans.
Posted in Brownhills stuff, Environment, Followups, Fun stuff to see and do, Interesting photos, Local History, Local media, News, planning, Reader enquiries, Shared media | Tagged , , , , , | 12 Comments

Why not catch a great match at Oak Park this afternoon?

Posted on August 17, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

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Walsall Wood FC have a great reputation for entertaining football, and a keen, loyal and friendly bunch of supporters! Come join in the fun this Saturday and see some cracking football.

Today, Saturday 17th August 2019

The Wood are at home, entertaining Shrewsbury’s Haughmond FC: The Shropshire lads beat the Woodmen 3-2 at their home ground last week – can Wood triumph today?

Walsall Wood FC versus Haughmond FC

Kick off is 3:00pm

Hopefully, a match report will follow…

For the Good of the Wood! 

Oak Park, Lichfield Road, Walsall Wood. WS9 9NP.

Check out Walsall Wood FC’s website here.

 

Posted in Brownhills stuff, Environment, Events, Followups, Fun stuff to see and do, Local media, News, Reader enquiries, Shared media, Social Media, Walsall community, Walsall Wood stuff | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Why not Stay and Play – at Brownhills Community Centre this morning

Posted on August 16, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

If you’ve a child or children under 4 years of age, there is a great Stay and Play session running at Brownhills Community Centre in the heart of Brownhills this Saturday morning 17th August 2019 from 10-11:30am.

It costs just two quid per kid and includes fruit and a drink, so it’s great value and it’s run by those wonderful people at the Little Green Dragons Nursery, who are resident at the centre and are fully qualified nursery teachers.

There are games and toys and all manner of fun for the weans – and you get a break to boot.

This week we will have watermelon shaving foam in our messy play tray!

Our creative table will be dinosaur green Playdough 🦖🦕

Alongside all our other areas of play including the garden area, the book/music area, the home corner, the maths area, the baby sensory… and the small world play and construction. 

£2 per child (healthy snack included)
From 10.00-11.30am

Come along and join in the fun!

This group is for children aged 4years and under we can not have older children in group.

Thank you

Share share share tell all your friends about Brownhills Stay&Play

The Community Centre is what my generation would know as ‘The Annexe’ – the old Central Boy’s School, now a bustling community resource. To find out more,  you can pop in or call them on 01543 452119.

The Community Association have lots of stuff going on, and loads of great facilities, right in the heart of Brownhills. I love what they’re about and all the great things they’re doing.

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Parkrun is now at Chasewater every Saturday morning!

Posted on August 16, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

I know we have a lot of running folk amongst the readership, and in the mass of volunteer, community organised stuff in recent years, one of the most impressive demonstrations of this has been the growth of the free, Saturday morning Parkrun phenomena, where volunteers and runners gather every Saturday in local parks for a run, totally free of charge.

The second Parkrun at Chasewater attracted more than 300 runners. Image from Susan Williams.

It’s not competitive – except against your own personal best – it’s properly marshalled and you have to register, but it’s a free, friendly thing that’s hugely popular and a stunning demonstration of community in action.

It’s suitable for runners of all experience levels and paces. Find out more at the event page here.

Having run for years now at Walsall Arboretum and Cannock Chase, we now have a 5km Parkrun at Chasewater that happens every Saturday (events in the park permitting) – and has been attracting over 300 runners already!

It’s on this Saturday (17th August 2019) at 9:00am and the organisers have this to say:

What is Chasewater parkrun?

It is a 5km run – it’s you against the clock.

When is it?

Every Saturday at 9:00am.

Where is it?

The event takes place at Chasewater Country Park, Pool Rd, Burntwood, Brownhills, WS8 7NL. See Course page for more details.

What does it cost to join in?

Nothing – it’s free! but please register before your first run. Only ever register with parkrun once. Don’t forget to bring a printed copy of your barcode (request a reminder). If you forget it, you won’t get a time.

How fast do I have to be?

We all run for our own enjoyment. Please come along and join in whatever your pace!

Chasewater parkrun needs you!

It is entirely organised by volunteers – email chasewaterhelpers@parkrun.com to help.

We’re friendly!

Every week we grab a post parkrun coffee in the South Shore café – please come and join us!

Please, if you go for a run this Saturday, drop me a line and let me know how you get on – this is a fascinating thing and it’s growth is really wonderful. Comment here or mail me – BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com.

Just walking to the start shows the large number of runners already making this a great event! Image from Susan Williams.

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Are you ready for Walsall Wood’s Summer Bank Holiday music fun festival?

Posted on August 15, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

On the Summer Bank Holiday weekend event score, there’s a great music, fun, family and food festival planned right across the break from Friday 23rd to Sunday 25th August 2019 – and it’s all in aid of charities Livvy’s Smile and Pancreatic Cancer UK.

This looks like a great return to the well remembered Walsall Woodstock festivals of summers passed. I’m really looking forward to it.

It’s free to attend, and there are a host of great, feel good bands and acts in store – but also inflatables, streetfood, carboot market, craft fair, face painting, competitions and live DJs.

You can camp, too. 

It all takes place around the Horse and Jockey Pub at Lichfield Road, Walsall Wood and in the lovely field at the back. 

For more info you can visit the Horse and Jockey Facebook page here, the oganisrer’s Facebook page here or call the event hotline on 07399 547577.

See you there?

The Horse and Jockey in Walsall Wood is a great site for a festival. Imagery from Apple Maps.

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Up for some Boats, Beats and Bites this bank holiday weekend?

Posted on August 15, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

Since we’re getting close to August Bank Holiday weekend, the events for the last mid-year Bank Holiday of the year are coming in thick and fast – and the first of these is a very interesting looking food, music and watersport festival going on at Chase Watersports Club at Chasewater.

Boats, Beats and Bites takes place on Saturday, 24th August 2019 at Chase Watersports Centre at Chasewater and features craft stalls, bar, street food, DJs and speedboat rides.

The organisers said:

Boats, Beats & Bites is a street food and music event with added speedboats! Run by a collective of local people with a passion for bringing the best DJ’s and traders to the beautiful setting of Chasewater. Family and dog friendly!

It runs from 1pm until 10pm, and looks like real fun. The event is totally free to attend.

You can find out more on the Boats, Beats and Bites Facebook page.

 

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The Greatest Show comes to Brownhills this Thursday!

Posted on August 14, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

There’s an interesting looking fund day event happening this Thursday, 15th August 2019 at Millfield Primary School, Catshill, Brownhills from 11am until 2pm – and it’s totally free, with crafts, art, games, food and fun – and as it’s being organise by Walsall Housing Group, money and housing advice for the mums and dads too!

If you want to find out more you can at the Greatest Show Facebook page here.

Walsall Housing Group wrote:

We’re taking The Greatest Show on tour! 🎪

Following the success of this year’s whg Customer Open Day at whg Main Office, we’re taking #whgGreatestShow on the road throughout August.

All times 11am-2pm
▪️ Thursday, 15th August: Millfield Primary School, Brownhills
▪️ Thursday, 22nd August: whg The Workplace, Leamore
▪️ Thursday, 29th August: Darlaston Community Assoc. Sports & Social Club

🎯 Fun & Games
🎨 Arts & Crafts
🐖 Money Advice
ℹ️ Housing Help & Info
🧸 Kids Corner
😋 Food and refreshments available

Admission is free: just arrive on the day!

 

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Soultime – Northern Soul and Motown Disco with DJ Leekie and pals this Friday evening!

Posted on August 14, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

The inimitable soul DJ Leekie has been in touch to let me know that he’s DJing his regular Soultime event at Pelsall Community Centre next Friday evening, 16th August 2019 at Pelsall Community Centre, where he and a number of great soul pals will be fulfilling all your Northern Soul and Motown requirements.

I’ve yet to meet anyone who doesn’t like a bit of classic soul and Leekie is a great DJ for a wonderful night. A two-room event, it also features Roger Haywood, Rob Edgar, Alan Wigley, Adrian Kent, Steve Hill and of course, Leekie!

It’s just £5 a head (payable o the door) and kicks off at 8pm and runs until Midnight. What’s not to love?

That’s Pelsall Community Centre, Station Rd, Pelsall, Walsall WS3 4BQ. See you there?

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Supporting the Rainbow autism support group have a holiday catch up today!

Posted on August 13, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

Whilst the popular Supporting the Rainbow autism support group is having a well-deserved summer break from it’s usual venue at the Smithys Forge pub, the group are organising some special meet-ups you can bring your kids along to – the second of which is today at Brownhills Community Centre from 1:45 to 2:45pm today, Tuesday 13th August 2019.

There will be a making your own plant activity, and there will be a prize for the best one! What’s not to love?

Brownhills Community Centre is the former school located right on the Miner Island in Brownhills. Parking is at the rear, off Pelsall Road. You can’t miss it.

Supporting the Rainbow is really growing in popularity – so why not pop along to see what it’s all about?

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Gerald Reece and friends took another walk into history!

Posted on August 11, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

David Evans yesterday sent me this lovely gallery from Gerald Reece’s walk from Chasewater Railway yesterday morning (10th August 2019) – sadly the weather was atrocious and although I hoped to make it, I was unable to go and meet with my hero.

I had planned to walk with Gerald myself to celebrate his 80th birthday, and I’ll be writing to the man himself later to apologise and wish him well. 

It’s good to see some of Gerald’s old pals there and I’d like to thank Chasewater Railway and Godfrey Hucker for making them so welcome. I just love the Yoghurt shirt. For those puzzled about that, see this post.

For those wondering why I make a fuss about this fine man, Gerald Reece is the talented and superlative local historian, now resident in Devon, who wrote the seminal work ‘Brownhills – A walk into history’ upon which this blog stands.

Gerald did all his work by hand, in the days before the internet: This meant he spent long days in libraries, archives and record offices copying material by hand, and at no small cost. His photos were taken on film, not by digital means as we do so easily today. Gerald’s work was seminal, thorough and wonderful.

Anyone interested in our local history today will be aware of Gerald and just how much we owe to him; I wish him well and hope I can catch him one day soon.

Gerald and Cherry Reece: on whose shoulders all my work here stands. Image kindly supplied by David Evans.

 

 

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Lichfield Waterworks Trust August 2019 public meeting takes place Monday evening

Posted on August 11, 2019 by BrownhillsBob
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Sandfields Pumping Station – a great historic building with immense history and social significance – not just to Lichfield, but to the Black Country. Lichfield Discovered and local historian Dave Moore have saved this valuable asset for the community.

Sandfields Pumping Station champion and public historian extraordinaire Dave Moore has been in touch to let me know that this evening, Monday 12th August 2019 there will be the monthly Public Meeting of the Lichfield Waterworks Trust charity, formerly the Friends of Sandfields Pumping Station group.

The meeting is at the Bowling Green pub, Lichfield from 7:30pm and is of course open to anyone interested.

Dave wrote:

Lichfield Waterworks Trust August Newsletter

The next public meeting of Lichfield Waterworks Trust will take place on:  Monday 12th August 2019 at 7.30pm, in the rear meeting room of the:
 
The Bowling Green
Friary Road
Lichfield
Staffordshire
WS13 6QJ
 
Tel: 01543 257344
 
The Bowling Green serves some great food and real ales.

Latest News

Building Lease Update:

Persimmon have not offered a revised lease to the trust that unfortunately has given us no alternative to reject on the following grounds:
 
The main issue for the Trust is the limitation of Persimmon’s responsibilities for repairs, outgoings and insurance to 5 years, despite the following undertakings.

 The 4th schedule of the S106 agreement dated 24 Dec 2004 between Persimmon, LDC and others states that Persimmon will submit maintenance arrangements for Sandfields Pumping Station to the planning authority and thereafter maintain it.

 The Development Strategy Document which formed part of the planning documents for the residential planning permission headed Future Use of the Pumping Station said, ‘Persimmon will set up an adequately funded management company with trustees to maintain the property in perpetuity.’

Design Drawing AAA4729 which was submitted and approved as part of Planning Application 06/00763/FUL and listed building consent 06/00762/LBC included the words ‘Original pumping station basically renovated for weather resistance, security and safety, prior to being donated to a charitable trust.’

Persimmon therefore acknowledged responsibility in a number of documents for this now Grade ll* listed building in perpetuity, not for 5 years.  If you want to pass some of this responsibility onto LWT the Trust will require decades of financial support or a capital payment in lieu.
 
Turning now to the other amendments, with regard to the Term, and the repairs needed prior to the lease commencing, LWT would additionally need the following identified in the ‘Urgent and Essential Repairs’ document provided to the Staffordshire Historic Buildings Preservation Trust in the 2013 Options Appraisal:
 
1. Improve security at rear
2.Test and repair lightning conductor
3. Treat stanchions to 1960s building
4. Provide tanking to areas below ground level
5. Reseal concrete panels in the 1960s building
6. Reglaze with toughened or laminated glass
7. Carry out health and safety and access audit
8. Reposition metal staircase to provide safe head height
9. Improve access arrangements to roof
 
With regard to the Termination, we understand that you would like to have a Landlord’s break, but that would make it impossible for the Trust to seek external funding, as a guaranteed 35 year plus tenure is required by most funding bodies including the Heritage Lottery Fund.   

With regard to Outgoings, we suggest using the definition in the draft lease you sent the Trust in October, plus the annual inspections identified by our Quantity Surveyors, Greenwoods Project Management, for electrics, fire, lift ,crane, and lightning conductor.
 
With regard to Outgoings, Insurance and Repair, we find the 5 year limitation period as discussed above unacceptable, although we agree that the future repairs could be those requested by LDC/HE.
 
With regard to Consents, we accept your proposed amendment. 
 
This is not the end of the world, just another round of negotiations with the Persimmon.

Important Note:

After the visit by Historic England on 16 Jan, the site has unfortunately been placed on the Heritage At Risk Register.

This is indeed sad news to see that this magnificent piece of industrial heritage is now officially at risk of permanent loss.
 
The trust is committed to continue working with the owner, Persimmon Homes Ltd to find a sustainable solution that will bring this building and its historic contents aback into a community use.

Tonight’s Talk:

This month’s talk is by our very own Katy Shore-Kapsis and is all about Bee Keeping.
 
How the Victorians made key discoveries and developments which have led to current bee keeping practices.   Also, a look at what is involved in a typical year for a beekeeper.
 
We will be selling some honey on the night – with the profits going to Sandfields.
 
Honey will be on sale – £4.50 a jar, with a £2.50 donation of that going to Sandfields

 

 

Health and Safety

We are really pleased to report that we have been working for yet another month where there have been no incidents relating to health and safety. A very big thank you again to everyone for working safely and looking after your fellow volunteers.

Engine Team Report

The new tower scaffold has proved its worth, enabling the difficult to access parts of the cylinder lagging to be cleaned and lacquered, and the remaining brass banding to be cleaned. Good progress has been made and this task is nearing completion.

Work to clean the chequer plates on the middle floor has proceeded well. Whilst the work to examine the regulator valve on the valve chest, carry out repairs to the corroded valve spindle and reassemble the valve has been proceeding, the team have been cleaning the chequer plates around the valve gear on the engine house ground floor. To protect the cleaned plates – in an area which is subject to a lot of foot fall – temporary matting has been secured in place with taping. In the long term the intention is to use some form of matting such as coir matting, which would have been used to cover walkways when the station was in use.

Read more here: Progress notes from the engineering team.

 

Building Team Report

The building team continue to make steady progress. The focus has been to improve the welfare facilities onsite.
 
The work on the one toilet to convert it to a washing area with a sink and drainer is now completed and the team are focusing improving the office and remaining toilets and shower.
 
Electrical Supply
 
Great news, we now have a power supply. This is a significant step forward and has improved the working environment for all of the members and visitors.

3D Walkthrough

Dudley Technical College has been extremely kind in producing a 3D Walkthrough for the trust. This is an amazing piece of work that not only showcases the site, it also provides an opportunity to those who are unable to visit the site or climb the stairs.

Please click here to explore it.

History West Midlands – Podcast

History West Midlands have produced a stunning podcast titled – Making Cholera History in the Black Country.
 
Presented by writer and broadcaster Graham Fisher and Directed by Andy Partington, featuring David Moore, the podcast gives a detailed history of both Sandfields pumping Station and the story of clean water.

Please click here to find out more about the podcast.

Archive and Historical Research Team Report

The archive and research team are continuing with their sterling work preserving and cataloguing the historic artefacts left on site. Lists of water quality documents, tables, customer complaints and numerous other documents have been carefully and skilfully sorted, catalogued and stored. Their efforts are now bearing fruit as the extraordinary story of clean water unfolds, waiting to be told.
 
“The heritage of the modern water industry is almost entirely absent despite its unarguable relevance to human development.”
 
J. Douet

 

Donations

With over 2,500 volunteer working hours, (equates to more than two full time equivalents) and over £14,000 spent in cleaning equipment, materials and scaffold over the last two years. This month has seen quite a drain on our bank balance with invoices for the viability study and scaffolding landing on the desk. Looking at the engine now, as opposed to how it looked in 2016, the volunteers have made some remarkable progress.

We will also always invest in our people and we are planning further training days soon. All these costs soon mount up, so if you can donate, then please visit our donation page here.

Any amount is helpful, is well appreciated and will be carefully spent preserving our industrial past for our future generations, developing skills for our people and making our community a better place.

Please make cheques payable to; Lichfield Waterworks Trust, and send to our address:
 
22 Walsall Road
Lichfield
WS13 8AB
 
Membership

We would like this opportunity to welcome a few new members.

Thank you for joining the Lichfield Waterworks Trust. We hope you will enjoy your membership and become part of a very exciting heritage project that will benefit the people, the place and the community.

It would really help us if we develop and grow our membership. If you are not already a member and would you like to be a part of one of the region’s most exciting heritage projects then please, join us now by filling in Membership Application Form by going to our membership page here. It is free to join and be a part of this incredibly exciting project.
 
Finally
 
Thank you everyone for your continued support and helping to make a difference in our community. We hold work days every Friday between 10:00 and 12:00pm, please feel free to pop in a see us, we make everyone welcome and have free tea and coffee!

Do pop over to Dave Moore’s blog and check out the history of Sandfields Pumping Station, an almost forgotten gem – the group also has a Facebook page.

Dave is, of course, one of the leading lights of Lichfield Discovered, along with Kate ‘Cardigan’ Gomez from Lichfield Lore.

It’s great to see people like Dave encourage a better attitude to our historic buildings -please do attend if you’re able, it’s sure to be enlightening and educational.

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Chasewater Railway – 2019 Annual Charities Day this Sunday!

Posted on August 10, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

Always a great day out!

Chasewater Railway – the little gem of a local preserved industrial railway is this Sunday (11th August 2019) staging it’s Annual Charities Day, when the railway will be operating with steam trains, and there will be charity stalls and activities at Brownhills West Station.

The Charities Day is always great fun and a good way to find out what local groups are up to – as well as to enjoy fun and games for all the family, explore the working railway and Country Park it runs in.

Chasewater Railway said:

CHARITIES DAY SUNDAY 12th AUGUST UPDATE

We welcome our friends to this Sunday’s charities day!

Lots of charity stalls, steam train rides, museum, shops, model railways and our The Sidings Tea Room there is something for all the family at Chasewater Railway. See you there!

Chasewater Railway is a wonderful attraction with regular passenger services at weekends and during school holidays, featuring two excellent cafes and a fascinating museum that chronicles not just railway history, but that of our area and industry.

The whole thing is staffed by helpful and friendly volunteers who are always ready to chat and talk about the railway and rolling stock.

At Brownhills west station there are also a lovely model railway, plus a couple of great vintage and collectible stalls. The railway itself has a shop selling books, rail models, toys and other merchandise.

Please do pop down if you haven’t already – Chasewater Railway really isn’t pushed enough; it’s wonderful.

You can check their website here – trains run this and every weekend from 11am to 4pm with the museum, cafes and stations open earlier.

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Brownhills now has a fantastic independent coffee and cake shop!

Posted on August 10, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

Laura Tarburton mailed me over the last couple of days to tell me that she was starting a new venture right in the heart of Brownhills with baker extraordinare Tina Williams: Bean and Baked in the Community Centre on the Miner Island, open to the public every day of the week except Sunday and Monday.

This terrific looking coffee and cake stop opened on Thursday to a great reception, and I for one will be over there as soon as I can to sample the goodies on offer. People visiting so far have sent in great reviews which bode well for a great social and food space that will really become a focus for the community.

Laura wrote:

Bean and Baked is due to open in Brownhills on Thursday 8th August 2019. The Microbakery and coffee house will be located inside Brownhills Community Centre (the annex).

Local girls, Tina Williams and Laura Tarburton are eager to bring a new experience to the people of Brownhills and surrounding areas. Not only will baking take place daily from the premises, supplying fresh homemade cakes, bakes, brownies and savouries but a wide range of events will be hosted over the coming months, including pop up restaurants, jazz nights, gin tasting nights, board game clubs, acoustic nights and much more!

The coffee house will be serving outstanding coffee hand roasted in Shrewsbury and pulled using a beautiful vintage two lever coffee machine. The deli counter is freshly stocked daily with a wide range of homemade sausage rolls, quiches and salads. Other items on the menu include toasties, filled croissants and a brunch menu including smashed avocado on toast and buttery scrambled eggs on toast.

We are so excited to bring something special to Brownhills and can’t wait to welcome you!

Our opening times are;

Sunday and Monday – Closed for Baking
Tuesday – 9:30 to 7:30
Wednesday – 9:30 to 3:30
Thursday – 9:30 to 7:30
Friday – 9:30 to 3:30
Saturday – 10 to 3

My best wishes to Laura and Tina in this wonderful venture, and if you pop along why not drop me a line to let us know what you think? Comment here, find me on the Twitterbook or mail me on BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com.

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Woodmen away at Shrewsbury this afternoon!

Posted on August 10, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

It’s going to be an interesting game in this weather…. Image from Footballgroundmap

Today, Saturday 10th August 2019

The Wood are visiting the Sports Village, home of Shrewsbury’s Haughmond FC

Haughmond FC versus Walsall Wood FC

Kick off is 3:00pm

Hopefully, a match report will follow…

For the Good of the Wood! 

Shrewsbury Sports Village and Indoor Bowls Centre
Sundorne Road
Sundorne
Shrewsbury
Shropshire
SY1 4RQ

Check out Walsall Wood FC’s website here.

 

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Why not Stay and Play – at Brownhills Community Centre this morning

Posted on August 10, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

If you’ve a child or children under 4 years of age, there is a great Stay and Play session running at Brownhills Community Centre in the heart of Brownhills this Saturday morning 10th August 2019 from 10-11:30am.

It costs just two quid per kid and includes fruit and a drink, so it’s great value and it’s run by those wonderful people at the Little Green Dragons Nursery, who are resident at the centre and are fully qualified nursery teachers.

There are games and toys and all manner of fun for the weans – and you get a break to boot.

 

This week we will have cars and paints in our messy play tray

our creative table will be Playdough and dinosaurs 🦖

Alongside all our other areas of play including the garden area … The book/music area, the home corner, the maths area… The baby sensory area… and the small world play and construction area.

£2 per child (healthy snack included)
From 10.00-11.30am

Come along and join in the fun

This group is for children aged 4 years and under we can not have older children in group

Thank you

Share share share tell all your friend about Brownhills Stay & Play

The Community Centre is what my generation would know as ‘The Annexe’ – the old Central Boy’s School, now a bustling community resource. To find out more,  you can pop in or call them on 01543 452119.

The Community Association have lots of stuff going on, and loads of great facilities, right in the heart of Brownhills. I love what they’re about and all the great things they’re doing.

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Parkrun is now at Chasewater every Saturday morning!

Posted on August 10, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

I know we have a lot of running folk amongst the readership, and in the mass of volunteer, community organised stuff in recent years, one of the most impressive demonstrations of this has been the growth of the free, Saturday morning Parkrun phenomena, where volunteers and runners gather every Saturday in local parks for a run, totally free of charge.

The second Parkrun at Chasewater attracted more than 300 runners. Image from Susan Williams.

It’s not competitive – except against your own personal best – it’s properly marshalled and you have to register, but it’s a free, friendly thing that’s hugely popular and a stunning demonstration of community in action.

It’s suitable for runners of all experience levels and paces. Find out more at the event page here.

Having run for years now at Walsall Arboretum and Cannock Chase, we now have a 5km Parkrun at Chasewater that happens every Saturday (events in the park permitting) – and has been attracting over 300 runners already!

It’s on this Saturday (10th August 2019) at 9:00am and the organisers have this to say:

What is Chasewater parkrun?

It is a 5km run – it’s you against the clock.

When is it?

Every Saturday at 9:00am.

Where is it?

The event takes place at Chasewater Country Park, Pool Rd, Burntwood, Brownhills, WS8 7NL. See Course page for more details.

What does it cost to join in?

Nothing – it’s free! but please register before your first run. Only ever register with parkrun once. Don’t forget to bring a printed copy of your barcode (request a reminder). If you forget it, you won’t get a time.

How fast do I have to be?

We all run for our own enjoyment. Please come along and join in whatever your pace!

Chasewater parkrun needs you!

It is entirely organised by volunteers – email chasewaterhelpers@parkrun.com to help.

We’re friendly!

Every week we grab a post parkrun coffee in the South Shore café – please come and join us!

Please, if you go for a run this Saturday, drop me a line and let me know how you get on – this is a fascinating thing and it’s growth is really wonderful. Comment here or mail me – BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com.

Just walking to the start shows the large number of runners already making this a great event! Image from Susan Williams.

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Come down to Chasewater Day – a great family fun event this Saturday!

Posted on August 8, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

Just a quick heads up that this Saturday (10th August 2019) there’s Chasewater Day, a great family fun event at your favourite country park – the whole thing runs from 10am until 3pm, with all kinds of fun activities, stall, fairground rides and more.

It’s free to attend and there’s also a free shuttle bus operating for those in Heath Hayes, Norton Canes, Chase Terrace, Burntwood and Chasetown (details below).

Lichfield Live posted the following piece about Chasewater Day:

A local group is gearing up to host the first Chasewater Day.

Taking place between 10am and 3pm on 10th August, the event has been organised by the Chasewater Friends group.

It will be a chance for local people to learn more about the country park, with music, games, storytelling and crafts sessions on offer.

Members of the Chasewater Friends group

Members of the Chasewater Friends group

Secretary Susan Williams said she hoped to see plenty of families bringing picnics to enjoy a fun day out.

‘The friends all know what a fantastic place Chasewater is and we want to help spread the word,’ she said.

‘We are keeping our fingers crossed that the weather will be kind and hope that lifelong Chasewater lovers along with people visiting for the first time will join together in a great community event.’

A shuttle bus will be operating during the day to bring people to and from Heath Hayes, Norton Canes and through Burntwood to the pedestrian bridge over the Burntwood bypass at the end of Church Street.

New trustee, John Griffin, said: ‘Chasewater is such a fantastic place for local people to enjoy, take time out and get a bit of rest and relaxation.

‘For the more adventurous, Chasewater also has a whole range of sporting and other activities going on and Chasewater Day will give an opportunity for people to see just how much is on offer there.’

For more details about the shuttle bus visit the Chasewater Friends Facebook page.

This event is well worth a punt if you’re at a loose end – and there’s always the Chasewater Railway while you’re up there. I must say, the Cafe at the station does a cracking butty.

 

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Exploring the history of Rugeley’s lost hall

Posted on August 7, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

It’s always a pleasure to feature the work of other historians here and this has been a longstanding tradition since the very start of this blog over a decade age: Today, I’d like readers to welcome a new contributor to the Brownhills Blog community, Kim A. Osborn whose article below on a lost great house in Rugeley is fantastic stuff and hints at some terrific material to come.

1884 OS 1:10,000 mapping overland on modern Google Earth imagery to give the location of Hagley Hall. Click for a larger version. Image from the National Library of Scotland Archive.

Hagley Hall (not to be confused with it’s more famous namesake) has an interesting history and I must say I was utterly unaware of it at all. The inimitable Kate Cardigan from Lichfield Lore has covered the matter previously in her wonderful way, and apart from that there’s nothing much out there on a house that was only lost relatively recently.

I ‘d like to thank Kim for this, and my apologies for not publishing it sooner; it really is a terrific and beautifully researched piece of work. It reminds me very much of Stuart Cowley’s explorations of Hilton Park which remain popular.

If you have anything to add to the history here, please do – you can comment on this post, mail me on BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com or tap my shoulder on social media.

Kim Osborn wrote:

Hagley Hall, Rugeley

Hagley Hall was a large country house within Rugeley— or more accurately originally on the outskirts of Rugeley at the time of construction. Gone today, but still much remembered and celebrated, I’d like to give a little discourse on the history of the hall which was quite unique in ways from other such estates in Staffordshire, or indeed, the country.

1884 OS 1:10,000 mapping showing Hagley Hall. Click for a larger version. Image from the National Library of Scotland Archive.

The original Hagley Hall was situated upon the small ‘island’ that is now in the centre of Elmore Pool, within the towns park. ‘Hall’ may be a bold term, as the site is much smaller than what one many consider conventionally ‘a hall’.  The ‘island’ is a deliberate construction, as the brook was diverted at the time to form a moat around the hall which is the reason the pool exists in it’s current form. It is uncertain why the owners of the land chose to do this, or indeed if this was a later construction than the hall itself, but it is evident that it would be purely decorative in nature and would not be designed as any sort of serious defensive structure – the pond is neither deep enough or large enough to warrant such an explanation.

Records indicate the original ‘moated hall’ was constructed around 1392 by Thomas de Thomenhorn, at the time the Keeper of the Royal Forest of Cannock Chase. Indeed it is suggested he “felled over 100 oaks [within the] bishops chase of Cannock’ according to extracts of the Plea Rolls of Richard II. It was primary a timber framed construction that was so typical of the time and as such little evidence remains of the site other than brick footings and some foundation stonework. Due to the park’s current status, natural erosion, (and health and safety legislation) no significant archaeological survey has been done of the island. But, at the time of writing (Jul 2019) the island has recently has the vegetation cut back [in an effort to combat the goose invasion] and some of the afore mentioned brickwork is now clearly visible. More brickwork exists at the sides of the pool, evidencing the nature of the diverted stream, and is clearly visible in the summer when the water levels drop.

The pool, looking at the former hall site:

Image from Staffordshire County Archives.

However, the better known Hagley Hall was a later construction, located on a small rise some 300 yards to the west of the park. This rise now forms the north-eastern boundary of the playing fields on the other side of the Western Springs Road. The hall building itself [and some surrounding stable blocks etc.] is sadly now demolished but several fascinating structures still exist. Many of these are not accessible to the general public but can still be safely seen from the boundary fences.

[sources: ‘A History of the County of Stafford: Volume 5, East Cuttlestone Hundred’. Originally published by Victoria County History, London, 1959.]

[note: The Western Springs Road is a much later 20th C construction which bisected the lands into the ‘park’ and the ‘playing fields’ at that time, historically they were one and the same.]

The later hall was constructed by Sir Richard Weston in 1636, was extended several times – most extensively in 1752 by Sir Assheton Curzon and again in the 19th C by adding more structure to the east side. The former remodelling included the planting of the gardens and lands below the hall which are the primary above-ground evidence of the hall today. Also an ornamental bridge over the Rising Brook was constructed, which has been kept in good condition by the land owners to date despite recent vandalism. It was about this time the site became known as ‘Hagley Park’. In the more modern age, by extension, the playing fields and nearby high school [renamed later and then closed recently] adopted the same name and are commonly referred to as such today.

[sources: Research done by CCDC for the heritage trial, Historic England]

Steel engraving of the Hall circa 1831:

Image from Staffordshire County Archives.

The ornamental bridge:

Ornamental Bridge, Hagley Hall, Rugeley

Ornamental Bridge, Hagley Hall, RugeleyThis ornamental bridge was built in the 1790s for Assheton Curzon in the grounds of Hagley Hall, Rugeley. It spans the Rising Brook as it runs from Cannock Chase, through Hagley and Rugeley to the River …View Full Resource on Staffordshire Past Track

 

Apparently, parts of the hall were designed at this time by the much noted architect, James Wyatt. Sadly however I was not able at this time to cite such sources or find further evidence of such – existing sources have been disputed. On the west of the hill was an 18th Century stable block, later converted to cottages, as well as a cylindrical ice-house sunk into the hillside. Also several ranges of brick outbuildings with stone dressings and founding existed as part of the Hagley Farm which utilised much of the lower ground beyond the gardens, now the playing fields.

[sources: ‘A History of the County of Stafford: Volume 5, East Cuttlestone Hundred’. Originally published by Victoria County History, London, 1959.

A notable resident of the hall in the 19th Century was the Honourable Robert Curzon, a captain of the local volunteer regiment. During his tenure, the hall was used as their offices and the grounds were used for parades as well as open for the leisure of local residents. This link with local military would continue for some time – up to World war One when the hall was used as a centre for the Officers Training Corps. Later the hall came into the hands of the South Staffordshire Waterworks Company – in line with many other structures along the Rising Brook even up to the nearby hamlet of Slitting Mill to the north-west.

[sources: Alan Roderick Haig-Brown – the O.T.C and the great War, p 39]

A good image of the hall at about this time (1900 ish) can be found here:

Image from Staffordshire County Archives.

The Home Guard stationed at the hall:

Image from Staffordshire County Archives.

Image from Staffordshire County Archives.

It was during this time that the hall came to the most severe of neglect and the structure was deemed to be unsafe and unsound. Over a period of time, most notably in 1932, successive demolitions of parts of the hall left little of the original structure remaining by 1967—when ownership passed to the Town Council. Most of the impressive decorations of the hall, both internal and external were gone by this time, as were the extensions built in the 18th century. Plans available during the 1932 demolition show gabled wings at the rear which may have represented portions of the original 17thcentury house before the later remodelling.

[sources: In addition to the above, mainly local parish/town council records]

This remaining part saw various community uses for a time, housing the local ruby club and even as an arts centre, until the remaining surface buildings were demolished entirely in the eighties. The site is now developed for housing, the cul-de-sac road that would formerly been the main approach to the hall being named ‘Bank Top’.

A now sadly much reduced hall, shortly before final demolition:

Hagley Hall, Rugeley

Hagley Hall, RugeleyIn 1941, Hagley Hall was bought by Mr C.J. Whieldon, proprietor of the Green Bus Company, Rugeley. Due to the War effort, he could not occupy the Hall until the Military had exited the property in 1945. …View Full Resource on Staffordshire Past Track

As much of the hall, even neglected, was still extant within living memory, many accounts exist amongst long-time residents of the town about the hall. And due to the grand status of the hall in it’s time, many pictures and photographs exist on the Staffs Past Track website which clearly highlight what a loss to local history and architecture the demolition of the hall has been.

You may have noted that I referred several times to ‘surface’ buildings. This deliberate remark is due to a very specific curiosity of the hall site. Underneath the hall are a series of interconnecting passages and small rooms, often collectively known as ‘the catacombs’ [though strictly speaking they do not qualify such a moniker]. Local legend and tales vary wildly as to their purpose, as does indeed historical and archival descriptions of their construction and possible purpose. Dismissing the completely ridiculous suggestions still leaves many questions as to why these were built. Some have dismissed them as a folly. Some claim they served as war-time storage. But there is little ‘hard evidence’. While they are blocked off from access today due to safety and vandalism — a local team did get permission to enter by the local authorities and took many photos showing a fascinating range of architecture as well as the impressive size of the tunnel network. If this article proves interesting, I shall attempt a second about these tunnels alone.

Another interesting piece to mention is the aforementioned grounds. These have been subject to recent vandalism and the elderly owners of those ground have struggled to pay for repairs or maintenance. A local group has been set up to support those efforts and many seek to open them up to the public for future generations to enjoy.

[Disclaimer: I am not part of these groups and were not asked to promote them.]

Please note that at the time of writing (Jul 2019) that much of the usually publicly accessible site is off-limits due to the recent construction of flood defences under the playing fields.

An ideal visit would be in the autumn or winter months where a lack of vegetation allows clear views of the gardens and ‘catacomb’ entry portals from beyond the boundary fence.

The site itself is private land and in the writing of this article I do not wish to encourage trespassing upon these grounds.

Written by Kim A. Osborn in July 2019, using various local sources and texts. Authors have been cited where possible. Please feel free to redistribute but please leave original credit to the sources in the interests of those respective authors. Not to be published for profit. Copyright is held respectively by the content creators where appropriate. All sources were used with permission

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Woodmen leave Gresley grazed and beaten

Posted on August 6, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

The match ends as abruptly as it had started, and, to applause from all the spectators who have been treated to a fine display of meaningful soccer.
First goal coming up,to the Wood. A repost by the goalkeeper is hammered in to the net.
A penalty to the Wood and a superb save by Gresley goalkeeper brings applause from all the spectators. It was that kind of a game here today.
Half time and the beefburger van is busy. Makes a person hungry, and thirsty, does spectating soccer, you know.
first celebration time, beating my camera
Overture and beginners! The clubhouse and verdant grass look splendid to honour the start of the new soccer season.
The two captains, and last season team colleagues, shake hands.
aa final check by the referee and then, to a rousing cheer from all the spectators, the match gets under way as some stragglers stock up on beefburger and tea before taking their seats.
Gresley are keen to get on with the game….
later in the second half and the Wood make some substitutions..to good effect, but it is Gresley who are calling the shots in these later stages of the game. All credit to them.
Third goal to the Wood and it is not yet half time. Super football being played here today, by both sides
First half. Concentration as Gresley captain Sullivan observes, and takes in the strategy of the home side.
The Wood are flying high. How will Gresley respond? A goal by the visitors will surely bring them the spur they need.
First half and the second, quick fire rifle shot of a goal. Wood now two goals to nil in the lead,
Second half and an injured home goalkeeper is put to the test as Gresley turn up the heat.This is beginning to be a bit of a worry for the home supporters
Second half and a rejuvenated Gresley score their first goal as their supporters applaud. Understandable and appreciated by their team.
Second half and there, in the distance, Gresley score their well-deserved second goal as the Wood lose their composure. Ouch
a quick moment to take a group photo….Not a moment to waste…
Early moments in the game and its Gresley who are up to the challenge. This is going to be a cracker of a game
Second half and a fourth goal to the Wood. Will Gresley employ different tactics to claw back a goal?

Images and captions kindly supplied by the young David Evans

Walsall Wood FC kicked off the new season on Saturday 3rd August 2019 with a decisive win over Gresley FC at Oak Park – a good start that delighted the faithful.

David Evans was there, and sent the following match report.

He wrote:

Walsall Wood FC 4 v 2 Gresley FC
Saturday 3rd August 2019

Walsall Wood welcomed Gresley footballers and their  supporters to Oak Park to herald the beginning of the new season, a season which  promises to be one where the home side will have to work hard for every point they get.

A new season and a new team here at Oak Park. New rules and regulations have been brought in to this league’s games and all paid-up members,- players, clubs and match officials –  have the added dimension of a  sin bin and, perhaps, a greater issue of yellow and red cards, to illuminate and grace the occasion.

There has been discussion among the followers of the noble game, of course. How will match officials implement and measure the sharpened rules? How will players respond? Who will be the first to be offered a ten-minute sideline seat? How many sinners could there be? Will the character of the game be improved for players and especially for spectators?

A mighty extra weight of responsibility has been placed on the referees, here in the Midland League.

The match this afternoon was a super game to spectate. All the players displayed new season freshness and eagerness to score the first goal. Some in-play early positioning adjustments were made by both sides, some rapid acceptance of the sharpness of decisions, and the game soon settled down to a fluid display of accurate passing, long shots and well-practiced manoeuvres, especially from the home team. By the end of the first half  the Wood had scored  three well taken goals.

Half time brought a time for spectators to attend to their need for  vital hydration, and  to fill  empty tummies. It also gave the  team managers  the opportunity to serve their teams cups of tea and sandwiches, and engage in polite conversation in the privacy of the changing rooms.

The second half brought new tactics, mainly sporting, by the visitors and an increased sense of consternation by some home players, yet to adjust to the new game rules. Gresley took the game to the Wood and as the Wood seemed to be in some bafflement, they scored two goals, after the Wood had scored their fourth goal.

Understandable frustration, more an over enthusiasm by a few players in both teams, gave the match officials plenty to do  in this match.

Corners came by the bucketful today. Players gathered in  sporting proximity to each other and leapt for the sky again and again in this second half. Both goalkeepers performed well and up to standard as the tempo increased and the sharp rain fell to drench every player at one point.

The final score, a four goals to two win for the home side gives both managers plenty to consider, study and implement in the next games. This season has got off to a flying start and all those present, home and visiting supporters return  to their homes with a cracker of a  game to remember.

David Evans

Thanks to David there – For The Good Of The Wood!

Walsall Wood Football Club are a top local side with a big-hearted faithful who know how to have a great time supporting their lads, and welcome all comers to come enjoy great local soccer.

The boys from The Wood have been at the heart of the local community for a century or more, so please do go check out a match or two if you’re curious.

Posted in Brownhills stuff, Environment, Events, Followups, Fun stuff to see and do, Local media, News, Reader enquiries, Shared media, Social Media, Walsall community, Walsall Wood stuff | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Fancy finding out more about local wildlife? You can, this afternoon!

Posted on August 4, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

I note that since it’s Sunday it would be an excellent chance to nip up to Stubbers Green with the kids, grandkids of even just by yourself and chat to the Swan Patrol.

The Patrol are there this afternoon – and every Sunday from 1-3pm and have bird books, binoculars and a wealth of knowledge to share – so why not join them? There’s so much more local wildlife than people think!

The reserve is by the pools on Stubbers Green Road, between Aldridge and Shelfield.

Ann Lawrence of the Swan Patrol said:

Do you want to know more about nature and wildlife?

Stubbers Green Nature Reserve Aldridge
Swan Patrol every Sunday 1-3pm

Lollipops and stickers for children that bring good healthy bird foods. Sweet corn, lettuce, porridge oats, branflakes, cornflakes, vegetable peelings, bird seed.

We have binoculars and bird books available to use.


Donations welcome

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There’s a litter pick at Chasewater this morning!

Posted on August 4, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

There’s a community litter pick event taking place in Brownhills this morning (Sunday 4th August 2019) from 10am until 11:30am at Chasewater ‘beach’ being organised by Burntwood #LitterHeroes.

Chasewater beach is gorgeous – but even nicer without litter. Image from my 365days journal.

This event is being run by a local band of volunteers for the benefit of the community, so it’ll be a worthwhile event to get involved with and help improve the local environment.

Burntwood #LitterHeroes said:

We will meet at the beach at the Chasetown end of the dam. Please bring gloves, grabbers and bags if you have them!

We will be going ahead if it rains, (unless it is biblical monsoon weather or thunderstorms). I’ll post on our Facebook page here if we have to cancel.

See you on Sunday!

You can check out the event’s Facebook page here.

Previous local litter pick events have been a huge success, so let’s see if we can make this one even better!

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Who lived in a in a house like this, and where was it?

Posted on August 3, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

I won’t beat around the bush. I’m knackered and way behind with lots of online stuff like 365days – so quick posts here this weekend – but I have some fabulous quick queries you all can ponder over.

The first is this remarkable photo of a Brownhills cottage, now apparently lost.

A mystery Brownhills cottage. The photo isn’t ancient, and is high quality. Anyone recognise the building or house behind? Image kindly supplied by Gerald Reece via David Evans.

The image is from the wonderful Gerald Reece donations, and don’t forget the great man will be returning to Brownhills next week for a visit (you can join him on a walk – see details here).

David Evans said:

Hi Bob

As I was going through some of Gerald Reece’s amazing materials yesterday I came across this fine photo. I think it may have been taken by Gerald’s son some years ago.

I have no clue where it was, but it says demolished, Brownhills on the back. I wonder what stories and history this image may reveal?

kind regards
David

The only clue for me is the considerably better maintained building in the background. What and where is it?

My thanks to David and Gerald as ever for a great puzzle. If you can help, please do – comment here on the blog, on social media where you find me or via email: BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com. Cheers.

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Start the season with a great match at Oak Park this afternoon!

Posted on August 3, 2019 by BrownhillsBob

P1000426

Walsall Wood FC have a great reputation for entertaining football, and a keen, loyal and friendly bunch of supporters! Come join in the fun this Saturday and see some cracking football.

Today, Saturday 3rd August 2019

The Wood are at home, entertaining Gresley

Walsall Wood FC versus Gresley FC

Kick off is 3:00pm

Hopefully, a match report will follow…

For the Good of the Wood! 

Oak Park, Lichfield Road, Walsall Wood. WS9 9NP.

Check out Walsall Wood FC’s website here.

Posted in Brownhills stuff, Environment, Events, Followups, Fun stuff to see and do, Local media, News, Reader enquiries, Shared media, Social Media, Walsall community, Walsall Wood stuff | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment