It’s good to see the Moivation Hub in Walsall Wood going from strength to strength – this wonderful facility for those with learning disabilities or other special needs fills a real local gap in provision and provides a warm, safe and welcoming atmosphere for folk to socialise, learn and hang out.
This is a heads up to folk who may be interested that on this Saturday evening, 8th June 2019, they will be holding a disco night for adults (18+) with additional needs.
It’s just £2.50 per head, carers free. There’s a real gap locally for events like this and this is wonderful to see.
All this takes place at the Hub’s premises in the former Youth Club behind Walsall Wood Primary School at Streets Corner Walsall Wood – Call Suzanne Sant for more information on 07388 553615 or email her on santsuzanne@yahoo.com – you can also check out the Motivation Hub’s Facebook page here.
Just a heads up to let folk know that there’s a popular and regular autism support group meeting in Brownhills every Tuesday lunchtime from 1:30-2:30pm at the Smithy’s Forge pub, Lichfield Road, Brownhills, just off the Miner Island.
For parents, carers, etc. of children and adults with autism.
Weekly support group every Tuesday at the Smithys Forge, Brownhills 1:30-2:30 🌈
The group has been running for a few months now and is growing in popularity – so why not pop along to see what it’s all about?
Yesterday (Saturday 1st June 2019) I took the annual pilgrimage up the A515 to the annual Steam Party event at Klondyke Mill in Draycott in the Clay, home of the North Staffordshire and Cheshire Traction Engine Club – It’s an event I try to attend every year, either in the summer or the October.
(This article should have been up this morning, apologies: I’ve had an issue with the blog hosts which has now been resolved but has rendered me unable to post for most of the day – Bob).
It’s quintessentially British, it’s a feast for mechanical geeks, people watchers and vintage buffs of all stripes. I always have a whale of a time geeking out over the machines.
This year was made a little tricky to document as I set out completely accidentally without a camera at all. All of these images were from my phone – and it shows just how far camera tech in mobile phones has come on that these photos are actually pretty much OK. Sorry for the lack of fine detail…
I sooooo wanted a go on this…
There were traction engines in full steam driving around the yard, stationary engines, classic cars, tractors, land rovers and much more – it’s well worth a visit and the people are very friendly.
I had a really positive reaction the other day to local lad Ian Henderson’s drone video of Brownhills – well, he’s done another, this time of Chasewater at a similarly early time.
I’m a sucker for drone photography and this is a real belter of our favourite local country park and reservoir from the air.
My thanks to Ian – this really is a splendid piece of work – if you want to talk to him about the film or his work, you can catch him here on Facebook.
If there’s anything you spotted or you have a comment to make, feel free to comment on this post, mail me on BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com or tug my shirt on Social media.
Just a quick heads up that there’s a new Pilates class on at The Memorial Hall (Memo) in Brownhills this evening and every Saturday onwards.
It starts at 6:30pm and runs until 7:30pm, costing a fiver a pop – great value for an activity that keeps you fit, but gently, and can really help with flexibility and general mental wellbeing.
Why not give it a go and let me know how you go on? Comment here, mail me on BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com or tap my shoulder on social media…
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 1st June 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 1st June 2019
Ice cream Ice cream come and get your ice cream 🎵 ….. Our messy/sensory tray will be filled with cotton balls and sprinkles and cones to create your own ice creams 🍦🍦🍦🍦🍦🍦🍦🍦🍦
Our creative table will be painting 🖼
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 ….
Don’t forgot the outdoors area which is loved by all 🌈🌈🌈
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.
I know you lot really love a good boot sale and I’ve been alerted to the fact that there’s one going on tomorrow (1st June 2019) at the revitalised Horse and Jockey pub in Walsall Wood.
The Horse and Jockey has recently had a change of management and is getting very good reviews – particularly for food. You could pop in for a bite at the same time! Image from Trip Advisor.
You can get your wheels cleaned by the charity fundraisers from 10am (who are raising money for the excellent Naval Cadets of TS Vigo based in Clayhanger) and also buy a whole range of stuff you never realised you needed!
Car boot setup 10am, open from 12pm: free to buyers, traders £5 for cars and £10 for vans/trailers. Food and drink available, with a bouncy castle for the kids.
Just a headsup (I’ve only just noticed, sorry) to point out there’s a Big Bounce family fun event taking place at Coppy Nook Playing Field, Hospital Road, Burntwood this very afternoon, Friday 31st May 2019 from 1:30pm until 3:30pm.
It’s £7 per child with adults and babies free.
There will be rides, inflatables, slides, toddler zone and all kinds of supervised fun.
The organisers said:
Burntwood Big Bounce returns outside at Coppy Nook Playing fields this Whitsun School Holiday.
Morning & Afternoon Sessions bring Family inflatable fun for children of all ages. We have dedicated equipment for under 5’s + all the Big Slides, assault courses, Bouncy castles and games including the new Dash & Grab Hungry Hippos game, Human Wrecking Ball, Duck & Jump sweeper & loads more.
Just turn up & pay on entry we now accept card & cash payments. No reservations required on our outdoor events
This is really important with the deer currently preparing to nurture their young.
I need to alert readers if possible to the issue of the local deer population at the moment, many of whom will be giving birth or nurturing this season’s young – yesterday a concerned local came across a newly born fawn on Brownhills Common and was challenged by the mother.
They can be very aggressive in protection of their offspring.
The man who made the discovery was concerned for the health of the fawn and called rangers and the RSPCA – who judged that the fawn was fine and should be left alone.
If you are concerned for the health or other aspects of a deer, you can call the police on 101 who will contact the on call ranger for help. But fawns should be left – nature will take its course.
If there’s been a serious traffic collision, of course dial 999.
As the days move on to high summer, the females will be straying from their normal herd groupings and places to find quiet cover to give birth, and then they’ll be quite protective of their young.
A very long-range photo (hence the poor quality) showing heavily pregnant fallow deer on the Chase. They were skittish, and clearly easily spooked.
I know we all love these beautiful, majestic creatures and seeing them on the commons and green spaces hereabouts is always a treat – but at the moment, the ladies will be truculent and intolerant of dogs and nuisance.
If you’re in a place where there are likely to be deer, make sure your dog is on a lead, and keep your distance. This is true at any time especially at Chasewater where morons with out of control animals every year are responsible for scared deer and disturbed nesting birds – please don’t be like them; control your hounds please.
If you’re lucky you’ll see fawns as they become mobile and believe me, they have cute in bucketloads – but if you find one alone, heed the warning above; leave well alone and don’t touch because momma will be back!
These bathing beauties were spotted taking a dip in the canal near Chasewater back at this time in 2017 by good pal and top fellow blogger Linda Mason.
This is, however a great time of year to spot deer if you’re responsible, and who knows you may spot them bathing like Linda did above and Angela Morris recorded in 2016 when she created the following footage. My thanks to Angela for sharing it.
I think almost everyone hereabouts love the deer, and they are wonderful to watch. Please do, but do so responsible – and feel free to share any footage you create!
There’s a great sing-along half term showing of kid’s cult classic animated film Moana this Thursday afternoon (30th May 2019) in the cinema right at the heart of Brownhills: The Lamp, at Brownhills Community Centre.
It kicks off at 2.00pm and you can book tickets online. The audience are invited to sing along for a fun showing of a wonderful, feelgood film.
Brownhills Community Association wrote:
Half-term fun for all the family as our sing-along season continues with this popular Disney film.
Free popcorn and treats for the kids!
Synopsis
An adventurous teenager sails out on a daring mission to save her people. During her journey, Moana meets the once-mighty demigod Maui, who guides her in her quest to become a master way-finder. Together they sail across the open ocean on an action-packed voyage, encountering enormous monsters and impossible odds. Along the way, Moana fulfills the ancient quest of her ancestors and discovers the one thing she always sought: her own identity.
Doors open @ 1:30pm for 2:00pm showing
Tickets
£3.00
Call the Box Office between 9:00am and 5:00pm Monday to Friday on 01543 452 119 or order safely online
Tickets available online at the link below (no fees) or from 01453 452119.
If you haven’t yet visited The Lamp for a show, you really are missing out; it’s a wonderfully modern and intimate community theatre with a wonderful atmosphere operated by a lovely community of dedicated folk, located in the old Annex or Brownhills Central Boys School right there on the Miner Island in Brownhills. You can find out more here.
Please ring the crew on 01543 452 119 if you have any queries or need any help or email: info@thelamparts.co.uk.
There’s loads going on at the Activity Centre on the Miner Island in Brownhills!
Boy have I a lot of stuff to catch up with – with last weekend being the busiest event weekend of the summer and me taking a break for some long bike rides, I’ve neglected you guys on the blog. Sorry about that. Hopefully I can rectify that in coming days.
With that in mind I’ve had this gem in from reader Andy Shears, who was clearly a Clanger lad when this picture was posted in the local paper in 1967.
It appears to be a school bus protest:
November 20th 1967 – from the typeface looks like the Express and Star. Click for a larger version.
Andy said:
Hi Bob
Enclosed pic and clippings from 1967 Nov 20. Found this while going through some old paperwork in moms house. I was 9 at the time
Do we know who every kid was, or still is ?
I can supply a copy of the text if required
Cheers
Andy Shears
Now, I’m aware the issue of busses in Clayhnager was a vexed matter for many years – senior school age kids had to walk over The Spot to get to Brownhills or up either of the two roads into Clayhanger which weren’t pleasant back then, particularly in bad weather.
Clayhanger, to the best of my knowledge, didn’t get a bus at all until the Bloxwich circular minibus service started around 1987. This ended the almost siege-like isolation many of the village felt – with the place being so isolated it’s always been in a bit of a unique position.
Thank you Andy for an excellent contribution – and I would love to see the text so I can add it, and as he asks, I’d be fascinated to know who the kids – and the adult are. Some great placards too – I note Councillor Burt seems to be in support, but what’s the reference to Don Everall?
If you can help, please do: Comment here or mail me: Brownhillsbob at Googlemail dot com, or tug my sleeve on social media.
New Hall Mill is open again next Monday for the second open day of 2018. 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. Speak to any member of the friends group when you’re there.
The open day is free to enter too (although donations are welcomed).
The Friends of New Hall Mill said:
Bob
The Friends of New Hall Mill will be opening the water mill to the public for the Spring Bank Holiday Monday on 28th May. A bumper festival of events will be located in the meadows and mill yard. Come along and see flour being produced from wheat in the traditional way, have a go on a hand operated quern, experience live music and dancing or simply enjoy the tranquillity of the pathways alongside the mill pond and in the meadow. Something for all tastes awaits.
There is an exhibition room and small tearoom selling cakes and beverages along with a garden shop where produce may be purchased from the millers garden. Don’t forget to visit Auntie Wainwrights to find that bargain that you always wanted.
For your entertainment, returning by popular request, we have The U3A Swing Division playing Swing and Big Band Jazz between 11:00 – 11:45. This will be followed at 13:00 & 14:00 by Glorishears of Brummagem Morris Dancers.
In the cart shed will be a display of Large Steam Models
In the meadows and grounds; we have a bumper collection of Displays & Demonstrations –
Turner collection of Steam Models
Snuffles Hedgehog Rescue
Bournville Bread Basket
The National Trust
Walsall Hand Spinners
Vintage Bike Display
Helens Handmade Gifts
Face Painting
Ladybird Books Display
Women’s Hair Accessories Display
Smoking Memorabilia
16th Sutton Coldfield Scout Group
Birmingham & The Black Country Wildlife Trust
Milk Bottles & Churns Display
The Vintage Memory Store (vintage and retro toy collection)
Model Fairground
Gas Engine
The Beekeeper
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, kitchen staff are always welcome, there are openings in all areas. Have a chat with a volunteer on Open day.
Hoping to see you there
Alan Dawson – A friend of New Hall Mill.
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 last year below. I had a great time.
A lovely video post surfaced o Facebook yesterday from local drone pilot Ian Henderson, and while I’m busy doing the Bank Holiday Weekend thing, I thought I’d post it here for you to enjoy.
You all know I love drone photography and this is a lovely, beautifully edited segue of our town on a lovely early sunny morning.
My thanks to Ian – this really is a splendid piece of work – if you want to talk to him about the film or his work, you can catch him here on Facebook.
If there\s anything you spotted or you have a comment to make, feel free to comment on this post, mail me on BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com or tug my shirt on Social media.
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 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.
This Sunday 26th May, The Swan, Pelsall Road will be holding a Pool Match and raising funds for the Brownhills Christmas Tree Appeal – which is going great guns
It’s a 3pm start. Register prior to the Match to enter or just pop along and give your support.
On behalf of the Christmas Tree Appeal Committee Members, we thank The Swan and all those who have contributed, and continue to do so, for your generosity.
One that old pal of the blog and top soul man™ Dj Leekie asked me to point out for you this weekend: Staffs Fest Soul Weekender, and local two day music festival at Lower Drayton Farm near Penkridge – just up the road.
Staffs Fest takes place Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th May 2019, and is awash with great acts of every stripe – and is also a great, family-orientated festival that’s fun for all.
The organisers have this to say about it:
Staffs Fest is brought together by Stafford based LR Partnership, a popular annual music festival that has already made its mark on the UK music scene attracting local, regional and national musicians and audiences from all over the UK. The festival which celebrates its fifth year in 2019 is held at Lower Drayton Farm, Penkridge near Stafford ST19 5RE
Having used a single large performance stage in the first three years to host all acts, this year the Main stage caters for Rock, Blues, Britpop, Glam Rock, Folk and Soul lovers. In 2018 they introduced a second marquee which this year will house 22 Northern Soul DJs playing only vinyl. Staffs Fest 2019 will underline the growing success of the event with the introduction of a third marquee which will host Reggae Rockz 2019 production by Basil Gabbidon one of the founder members of Steel Pulse which will host a mixture of Reggae, Ska, Jazz, Funk and 2Tone. Headlining in the Reggae Rockz Marquee is KIOKO currently touring with UB40.
The festival is not one dimensional, in addition to the wide ranging live music on offer, there will be displays and workshops from local community groups including Bombay Jam, Balliamo Belly Dancers, Dance Fusion, Dance Nuvo and Stafford Salsa. There will be a range of food and drink vendors and retail stalls, clothing and ethnic outlets, whilst the beer marquee promises to never run out of beers and spirits throughout the weekend; all drinks will be at pub prices.
As befitting a family orientated music festival, provision is made for younger members with free access to Lower Drayton Fun Farm, which includes everything from animal feeding to adventure playground. As with previous years, LR Partnership are allowing all children under 16 free admission throughout the festival weekend and must be booked at same time a responsible adult. Camping is FREE with all tickets types weekend, evening only, day/evening. Not camping, you can come and go freely from the festival. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead at all times.
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 25th May 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 25th May 2019
DINOSAURS 🦖 💧🦕 🍃🦖💦 🦕 🍃🦖 🥦🦕
We will be down exploring our dinosaur swamp! With lots of different textures to explore 🍃🥦
Our creative table will be continuing with play dough as it was such a big hit last time! I’ll be adding different natural resources to explore.
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 ….
Don’t forgot the outdoors area which is loved by all 🌈🌈🌈
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.
I note Chasewater Railway have their 60th Anniversary Gala this spring Bank Holiday weekend (Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th May 2019), with loads of steam and diesel heritage traction and a busier running timetable than normal.
Timetable for this weekends gala can be seen below – click on any image to see a larger version.
Saturday & Sunday
Locos running are:
2842 Kent No2
2648 Dunlop No6
3211 Myfanwy
27876 North British
The Rail trolly trust will be showing off some of their collection in Brownhills yard with a chance to have a short ride on some of the vehicles in the yard.
The whole thing is staffed by helpful and friendly volunteers who are always ready to chat and talk about the railway and rolling stock.
Images Kindly supplied by Chasewater Railway
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.
Just a quick headsup to point out that this coming Sunday, 26th May 2019 there’s a deer awareness day at Chasewater, where you can speak to experts and find out more about the beautiful creatures we share our green spaces – and favourite country park – with.
A still capturing the moment a stag chases a group of females through the water at the local reservoir. Image snipped from a video captured by of Jochen Langbein.
The organisers said:
Sunday 26th May 2019, 10am – 4pm
Chasewater Deer Awareness Day
The Rangers and the British Deer Society are holding a Deer Awareness Day at Chasewater.
Come along and find out all about the Deer around Chasewater, and what are the dos and don’ts if you are lucky enough to see one.
The event is free admission, with children’s activities and loads of interactive information.
Parking at Chasewater is just £1 for 2 hours and £3 all day.
Red deer are now so populous that they are a common sight throughout or area – so this is a really good chance to find out more about these gentle but powerful and potentially dangerous animals.
If you pop up and check the event out, why not let me know how you.got on? Comment here, mail me on BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com or tug my sleeve on social media.
I include a lovely video here posted on Facebook earlier this year by Anna Marie Davies in which she recorded red deer bathing in the canal near Anglesey Wharf, just beyond the M6 Toll Bridge near Wharf Lane, Brownhills – right by Chasewater.
Thanks to Anna for a lovely film and a reminder that although we think of our town as being quite urban, we have a whole host of fascinating wildlife right here on our doorsteps.
New Hall Mill is open again next Monday for the second open day 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.
New Hall Mill is a splendid place, restored and run by wonderfully dedicated volunteers.
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. Speak to any member of the friends group when you’re there.
The open day is free to enter too (although donations are welcomed).
The Friends of New Hall Mill said:
Bob
New Hall Mill – 27th May 2019
The Friends of New Hall Mill will be opening the water mill to the public on Bank Holiday Monday 27th May. Come along and see flour being produced from wheat in the traditional way, have a go on a hand operated quern as still used in parts of the world today. Visit the gift shop, be entertained with Live music, see the many side stalls in the grounds and experience lovely walks alongside the streams and through the meadows.
There is an exhibition room and small tearoom selling cakes and beverages along with a garden shop where produce may be purchased from the millers garden. Don’t forget to visit Auntie Wainwrights to find that bargain that you always wanted.
For your entertainment, we have The 40’s Three, Easy listening music of the 30’s and 40’s throughout the day with breaks
There will be a guided walk at approx 2.00 pm around the mill and the grounds.
In the meadows and grounds; we have Displays & Demonstrations by –
Bournville Bread Basket
Woodland Craftsman and Pole Lathe Turner
Maidens Fayre Jams
Snuffles Hedgehog Rescue
The Beekeeper
Walsall Spinners
The Warwickshire Regiment in WW1 and an armchair guide to the battlefields
The Turner Model Collection
Laundry Irons display
“We had one of those” display
Vintage sewing display
Model Fairground
Face Painting
Vintage Bicycles display
Birmingham & The Black Country Wildlife Trust
Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens Trust
Fentham Cottage Products
Lichfield & Hatherton Canal Restoration Trust
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.
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 last year below. I had a great time.
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, 25th May 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 Gary Elcock, Brian & Baz, Chris Price, Sammo and of course, Leekie!
It’s just £5 a head 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?
Just a heads up to let folk know that there’s a popular and regular autism support group meeting in Brownhills every Tuesday lunchtime from 1:30-2:30pm at the Smithy’s Forge pub, Lichfield Road, Brownhills, just off the Miner Island.
For parents, carers, etc. of children and adults with autism.
Weekly support group every Tuesday at the Smithys Forge, Brownhills 1:30-2:30 🌈
The group has been running for a few months now and is growing in popularity – so why not pop along to see what it’s all about?
Chasewater Railway – the little gem of a local preserved industrial railway is this coming Bank Holiday Monday (27th May 2019) staging a Witches and Wizards 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 on every service too!
Chasewater Railway said:
New for 2019!
Come and join us on Bank holiday Monday 27th May for a day of magical fun!
Actors, Funfair, Face Painting, Balloons, Games, Sweet n Treats and lots more!
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.
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 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?
Do you want your children or grandchildren to learn about your local environment?
Swan Patrol volunteers at Stubbers Green Nature Reserve Aldridge Walsall are there every Sunday 1-3pm. Binoculars and bird books are available. Stickers for the children as a reward for bringing suitable foods for the birds. (sweet corn, peas, porridge oats, rice, lettuce, vegetable peelings…
I spent a happy couple of hours today (Saturday 18th May 2019) pottering around Brownhills Canalside Festival, which is also running on Sunday from 10am until 5pm. It’s a great do, and the folk of the Birmingham Canal Navigations Society have done us proud – and I must say the folk of Brownhills have been very appreciative too.
Boater dogs are the best. I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again.
Since Brian Stringer and the previous team decided to call a halt in 2016, going out on a high, fans of the event have been hoping someone might take this mammoth gig on, and the BCNS really have covered the gap excellently.
A huge number of boats, plenty of stalls, food and stuff to browse – plus the ever popular canoe and boat rides for the kids young and old.
How wonderful to see so many boats in Brownhills! Image kindly supplied by David Evans.
The boat owners were all friendly and happy to talk bout their pride and joy, whatever shape or form they came in, and the selection of dogs – boater and otherwise – was brilliant, too.
David Evans also popped along and sent some photos to go with mine in a huge gallery for all those who couldn’t make it, and my thanks to David – and of course to the boaters, stallholders and general public who came out too – the only thing that could have been nicer was if the sun had come out!
Remember, the Brownhills Canalside Festival 2019 is running Sunday, too!
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 18th May 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 18th May 2019
We will exploring the wishy washy water tray with some cars and bubbles! 🚘 🚙
Our creative table will be playdough ! Rolling, squeezing, bashing, creating playdough creations 😍
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!
Don’t forgot the outdoors area which is loved by all 🌈🌈🌈
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.
Well, it’s here: The 2019 Brownhills Canal Festival – this year taken over by the Birmingham Canal Navigations Society making it a whole weekend event – kicks off this evening (Friday 17th May) and runs until Sunday (19th May).
On Friday evening the 17th, there will be Black Country entertainment from the wonderful Billy Spakemon and pals.
On Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm 5pm here will be trade boats and stalls at the canalside, plus other entertainment and a bar at the Community Centre on the Miner Island (The old Annex, or Central Boys School).
Beware if you own a van in the Brownhills and Walsall Wood area. Imagery from Google Maps.
A warning to people with work and delivery vans comes to me from West Midlands Police – there has been an increase in key theft from vehicles left for short periods while their drivers are busy, the keys and personal details taken later being used to burgle the house of the driver.
This is a warning to drivers, particularly of vans and commercial vehicles.
West Midlands Police said:
Recently, we have noticed a number of thefts from vans, particularly of house keys. The thieves have been able to use documentation found inside the vehicle or other means to then locate the home address of the victim and use the keys to gain access. Property, including cars, then been stolen.
Whatever your job, be it a trades person or delivery driver, resist the temptation to leave your house keys in your vehicle when you’re at work. Though it may be less convenient, keeping them on you, or nearby, will greatly reduce the risk of your home being burgled and your property stolen.
Though this type of crime is still rare, by being aware and taking simple precautions you can reduce the risk.
Also take care with cars – make sure they’re locked and don’t leave valuables in them as word is local criminals appear to be targeting those, too.
These scumbags are targeting people trying to earn a living. It’s heartbreaking and my sympathies to the victims for the loss.
The people doing this are more than likely doing it to raise cash from the proceeds of selling what they steal. They can only do that if there’s a market for what they’re flogging.
Please, please, please don’t buy hooky gear. Look at any Facebook selling group and you’ll find people selling tools about which they clearly have no idea of purpose or value.
If you know of anyone hawking around stuff for sale that seems to be dubious, please grub them into the police – the stuff they’re flogging is probably nicked.
Anyone with information is urged to contact West Midlands Police by dialling 101 or speak to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
The aftermath of the collision in Walsall Wood. Image posted on Facebook by Barbara Parkinson.
As many of you will know, there was a road traffic collision in Walsall Wood High Street yesterday afternoon, Thursday 16th May 2019 when a car hit a bus rear the Drunken Duck pub.
Thankfully, nobody appears to have been seriously hurt in the incident which saw the arrest of a 37 year old man.
Police investigating the incident have posted the statement below. This statement is markedly different from circulating rumour at the time, and I would ask readers and those on social media to reflect on that.
West Midlands Police said:
A man has been arrested after a car collided with a bus on Walsall Wood High Street at around 1.30pm today (Thursday 16 May 2019).
The car had earlier been pursued by police in the Bosty Lane area because it had failed to stop for police this morning. It was not being pursued at the time of the collision.
A 37-year-old man was arrested and a number of passengers on the bus were checked over by paramedics at the scene.
Regards
Craig Hughes| Communications Officer
Corporate Communications | West Midlands Police
Enquiries continue and anyone with information is urged to contact West Midlands Police via Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk between 8am − midnight, or call 101 anytime.
The Boatman’s Rest, Walsall Wood – always a good pint. Image posted on Flickr by Tim Jenkinson.
Here’s a quick plug for something I missed due to it landing in my spam folder, but which I think will be interest to many readers here – little did I realise, but the local Humanist group regularly meet at the Boatmans Rest pub, Walsall Wood High Street.
Old pal of the blog, Charles Street let me know about the group and meeting schedule – and the fact that’s it’s completely free to attend.
If you’re interested in philosophy, the nature of what we believe and accept, this could be a great evening with like minded people.
Charles said:
Hi Bob
I wonder if you’d be kind enough to give a mention to our Humanist group on your blog?
I’m a member of Humanists UK, and also a member of the local Humanist group (LWASS – Lichfield Walsall and South Staffs) Humanists – we hold a meeting every quarter for those interested in Humanism, Atheism, Secularism and related subject areas.
We meet on the 3rd Wednesday every quarter – January April July and October at 7:45pm-ish until 9:45pm-ish for those interested in Humanism and related matters.
The next meeting will be on Wednesday July 17, 2019 – venue: The Boatmans Rest, 20 High Street, Walsall Wood, Walsall, West Midlands WS9 9LP.
At the moment there are around a dozen of us that meet up and have a general chat about Humanism – we’re looking for new people to come and add to the discussion.
P.S. there is no membership fee – anyone that’s interested just come and join in. We have a diverse range of members, and from all colours of the political spectrum. – If you’re interested come and say hello – we are really nice people!!
If you pop along to the next meeting in July, please drop me the word and tell me how you got on – the Humanists have a whole bunch of stuff going on and their website above is worth a look: I’ve always been a big fan of Birmingham Sceptics in the Pub who post some very interesting, thought provoking stuff on social media.
Tell me more: Comment here, mail me on BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com or tug my coat on the antisocial media.
I see that there’s a mothers and children litter pick event going on in Clayhanger this Sunday morning (Sunday 19th May 2019) from 10:00am until 12 noon and all are welcome – kit and gloves provided!
Meet up on the Clayhanger Co-op car park.
This is being run by local community volunteers The Friends of Clayhanger Park with the support of Walsall Council for the benefit of the community, so it’ll be a worthwhile event to get involved with and help improve the local environment!
Never one to sit back and let life pass her by, that there Kate Cardigan from the wonderful Lichfield Lore is involved with the excellent Lichfield Repair Cafe project – which continues it’s regular residency this coming Saturday afternoon (Saturday 18th May 2019) at Curborough Community Centre, Lichfield from 2pm until 5pm.
Kate, who’s more usually known for her excellent work with Lichfield local history group, Lichfield Discovered and other projects, started a community initiative to help people repair, recycle and put back to good use things that my be broken or need some love.
This looks like a great way to have fun, meet up with other like minded folk and also learn some new skills.
If you’re unsure where to find Curborough Community Centere, check out their contact page here, and the address for twatnav wranglers is 37, Reynolds Close, Lichfield Ws13 7NY.
I’ll let Kate explain:
Hello!
The Lichfield Repair & Share cafe meets again at Curborough Community Centre on Saturday 18th May 2019 between 2pm and 5pm. As a way of reducing waste whilst learning new skills, we have a team of volunteer repairers on hand to show people how to try and mend their broken or damaged items, rather than throw them away.
Bring your broken household items along to see if our team of volunteer repairs can help you fix them! As well as the repairs, we’ll also be running two fab free workshops – how to grow your own veg & making a fabric flower brooch. Or just pop in for a chat & a brew! All welcome, no charge but voluntary donations welcome 🙂
Volunteers from the centre will be running a cafe with hot and cold drinks and cakes. Whilst there is no charge, voluntary donations are appreciated!
We will be planting up a community raised bed outside the centre if people bring any spare plants they have, and also doing a litter pick.
The cafe will be taking place at Curborough on the 3rd Saturday of every month and we are always looking for more people to get involved whether they want to offer their skills as a repairer or run a workshop. To find our more information, or to volunteer, please email lichfieldshare@gmail.com, join the group’s Facebook page Lichfield Repair Café or follow us on Twitter @lichfieldshare.
Just a heads up to let folk know that there’s a popular and regular autism support group meeting in Brownhills every Tuesday lunchtime from 1:30-2:30pm at the Smithy’s Forge pub, Lichfield Road, Brownhills, just off the Miner Island.
For parents, carers, etc. of children and adults with autism.
Weekly support group every Tuesday at the Smithys Forge, Brownhills 1:30-2:30 🌈
The group has been running for a few months now and is growing in popularity – so why not pop along to see what it’s all about?
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 13th May 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 May Newsletter
The next public meeting of Lichfield Waterworks Trust will take place on:
Monday 13 May 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.
The trusts had a meeting with Persimmon homes in March. The meeting was open, honest and frank. The trustees then met to develop a five-point five-year plan that they believe would give this magnificent piece of industrial heritage a fighting chance of a sustainable future. In view of the building being on the Heritage at Risk Register, the Trust has held a further meeting with the owners and asked them to:
Complete the essential repairs works as identified in the 2013 options appraisal.
Bring the building into a condition that would make it safe and accessible to the public.
Grant simple a lease and apply for a change of use and cover basic running costs for a five-year time scale
Allow the Trust to use the building as on an as is basis to develop an end use.
Commit to a dowry to enable the Trust to apply for match funding.
The owners responded to this plan in an encouragingly positive way therefore we welcome this improved working relationship and wish to continue with a productive dialogue that will be of mutual benefit to both parties.
We see April as another month of significant progress, we would like to thank everyone for their ongoing support.
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
Following on from last months talk from Alan Taman, a researcher based at Birmingham City University, Cholera, Burgers and Blame: The politics and psychology of health inequality we would like to continue with the theme of health benefits from engineering.
Our very own Alan Hill, who is a member of our extraordinary engineering team will be presenting a talk entitled:
Water as a Mechanical Agent – the many forms of water power
Water is arguably the single most useful and valuable substance known to man. We drink it, bath in it and, since the earliest times, have used it to transport goods & people, and produce power – all of which are as important today as they have always been. This talk will look at ways in which water has been harnessed to produce power and some of the unusual uses to which it has been applied.
Alan is a retired manufacturing systems consultant, who has worked both in the UK and overseas. At the end of his career he worked for Warwick Manufacturing Group at Warwick University.
Born at Barrow-in-Furness a shipbuilding town in south Cumbria, from a young age he was brought up in a coal mining village near Barnsley, South Yorkshire but has lived in Birmingham for the last 45 years.
Alans talks are always interesting and innovating, this is certainly one not to miss.
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 Engine Team are continuing to make steady but continual progress. The majority of the cleaning on the valve gear has been completed, but there are still a number of “difficult to reach” parts of the engine, at the cylinder-end, which will need scaffolding in order to access them for cleaning.
Work continues cleaning and lacquering the teak cladding on the ground floor level of the cylinder, the upper part of which may also be difficult to complete without scaffolding. The teak cladding and banding on the middle floor can be cleaned and lacquered once chequer plate cleaning, on this floor, has been completed.
The building team continue to make steady progress. The focus has been to improve the welfare facility’s onsite
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.
Electrical Supply
Work continues in preparing the wring system for the new power supply.
Mains cables have now been installed, with the remaining connections still to be made. Contractors surveyors and engineers have been on-site to assess the final connection works. There are some issues relating to how and where the entry point is located for the connection that require further clarification. Our engineers have a clear plan on how this could be made to work safely.
Hopefully, electrical power will be available soon.
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
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.
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!
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.
Today, I complete that set with some images taken the same day, but of the fairground and fun in Holland Park later that day.
The funfair usually arrived in Holland Park the week before the carnival, and gradually set up, running from the Thursday evening until the Saturday, and was always a huge draw for local kids and adults alike.
I feel sure there must be loads of people you folk will recognise here – and people must recognise the Carnival Queen and her attendants. Interestingly, nobody seems to have recognised them yet.
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.
Gerald and Cherry Reece: on whose shoulders all my work here stands. Image kindly supplied by David Evans.
I note that since it’s a decent day (or at least it seems that way after the grimness of the yesterday) 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 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?
Do you want your children or grandchildren to learn about your local environment?
Swan Patrol volunteers at Stubbers Green Nature Reserve Aldridge Walsall are there every Sunday 1-3pm. Binoculars and bird books are available. Stickers for the children as a reward for bringing suitable foods for the birds. (sweet corn, peas, porridge oats, rice, lettuce, vegetable peelings…
New Hall Mill is open again next Sunday for their first open day of 2019, for National Mills Weekend. 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.
It’s free to enter too (although donations are welcomed).
New Hall Mill is a splendid place, restored and run by wonderfully dedicated volunteers.
The Friends of New Hall Mill said:
New Hall Mill – Sunday 12th May 2019
The Friends of New Hall Mill will be opening the water mill to the public on Sunday 12th May 2019, partaking in National Mills weekend. Come along and see flour being produced from wheat in the traditional way, have a go on a hand operated quern as still used in parts of the world today. Visit the gift shop, be entertained with Live music, see the many side stalls in the grounds and experience lovely walks alongside the streams and through the meadows.
There is an exhibition room and small tearoom selling cakes and beverages along with a garden shop where produce may be purchased from the millers garden. Don’t forget to visit Auntie Wainwrights to find that bargain that you always wanted.
For your entertainment, we have The Sutton Coldfield Community Choir at 12 noon and Adrian will be playing his Street Organ in the mill yard.
Walks – During the morning, there will be a conducted bird walk around the site, time TBA on the day. At 14:00, there will be a conducted walk around the buildings on the site.
In the cart shed and at the top of the car park – The Sutton Coldfield Amateur Radio Society will be attempting to link up with as many other mills as possible, this being National Mills weekend.
In the meadows and grounds; we have Displays & Demonstrations by –
The Wildlife Trust
ECO Sutton
Face Painting
The Beekeeper
Sutton Coldfield Fuchsia Society
Birmingham Astronomical Society
Maidens Fayre Jams
A collection of tins
Models collection
RSPB
Bournville Bread Basket
Trinity Photography Group
George VI display
Bluebell Photo Studio
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.
I totally geeked out over this wonderful place.
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.
This is certainly one worth visiting – please do pop along if you can. You can check out a gallery of my photos taken there in 2015 below. I had a great time.
This is your one week countdown for the 2019 Brownhills Canal Festival, which this year has been taken over by the Birmingham Canal Navigations Society who are planning to make it a whole weekend event – taking place all next weekend, 17-19th May 2019 and it looks like a real belter of a do – it runs from Friday Evening and from 10am until 5pm over the Saturday and Sunday.
There will be trade boats and stalls at the canalside, and other entertainment and a bar at the Community Centre on the Miner Island (The old Annex, or Central Boys School).
On Friday evening the 17th, there will be Black Country entertainment from the wonderful Billy Spakemon and pals.
It’s good to see the Moivation Hub in Walsall Wood going from strength to strength – this wonderful facility for those with learning disabilities or other special needs fills a real local gap in provision and provides a warm, safe and welcoming atmosphere for folk to socialise, learn and hang out.
This is a heads up to folk who may be interested that on this evening, Saturday 11th May 2019, they will be holding a disco night for adults (18+) with additional needs.
It’s just £3.50 per head, including a drink and a snack. There’s a real gap locally for events like this and this is wonderful to see.
All this takes place at the Hub’s premises in the former Youth Club behind Walsall Wood Primary School at Streets Corner Walsall Wood – Call Suzanne Sant for more information on 07388 553615 or email her on santsuzanne@yahoo.com – you can also check out the Motivation Hub’s Facebook page here.
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 11th May 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.
BROWNHILLS STAY & PLAY Saturday 11th May 2019
We will returning to the wonderfully messy gloop & powder paint messy play tray 🎨
Our creative table will be painting paint paint! Let’s see what creative masterpieces we can make and display in our nursery.
…Along with all our other areas of play within the nursery setting
See you all Saturday!
Don’t forgot the outdoors area which is loved by all 🌈🌈🌈
This group is held at Little Green Dragons Day Nursery every Saturday morning …
10.00-11.30 £2 per child Healthy Snack included
Feel free to invite your friends with children aged 0-4 years and share our events 👍🏼
Add our Facebook Page – 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.
New Hall Mill is open again next Sunday for their first open day of 2019, for National Mills Weekend. 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.
It’s free to enter too (although donations are welcomed).
New Hall Mill is a splendid place, restored and run by wonderfully dedicated volunteers.
The Friends of New Hall Mill said:
New Hall Mill – Sunday 12th May 2019
The Friends of New Hall Mill will be opening the water mill to the public on Sunday 12th May 2019, partaking in National Mills weekend. Come along and see flour being produced from wheat in the traditional way, have a go on a hand operated quern as still used in parts of the world today. Visit the gift shop, be entertained with Live music, see the many side stalls in the grounds and experience lovely walks alongside the streams and through the meadows.
There is an exhibition room and small tearoom selling cakes and beverages along with a garden shop where produce may be purchased from the millers garden. Don’t forget to visit Auntie Wainwrights to find that bargain that you always wanted.
For your entertainment, we have The Sutton Coldfield Community Choir at 12 noon and Adrian will be playing his Street Organ in the mill yard.
Walks – During the morning, there will be a conducted bird walk around the site, time TBA on the day. At 14:00, there will be a conducted walk around the buildings on the site.
In the cart shed and at the top of the car park – The Sutton Coldfield Amateur Radio Society will be attempting to link up with as many other mills as possible, this being National Mills weekend.
In the meadows and grounds; we have Displays & Demonstrations by –
The Wildlife Trust
ECO Sutton
Face Painting
The Beekeeper
Sutton Coldfield Fuchsia Society
Birmingham Astronomical Society
Maidens Fayre Jams
A collection of tins
Models collection
RSPB
Bournville Bread Basket
Trinity Photography Group
George VI display
Bluebell Photo Studio
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.
I totally geeked out over this wonderful place.
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.
This is certainly one worth visiting – please do pop along if you can. You can check out a gallery of my photos taken there in 2015 below. I had a great time.
Following the success of her last event, local mum Claire Mason is again staging something rather lovely at Chasewater this Sunday (12th May 2019) that people with kids (or looking after them!) can get involved with to socialise and have fun.
Chasewater is always fun and you never know who you’ll meet – like this lovely lady.
Claire has noticed that it can be quite isolating being a parent with young kids and wants to organise informal play and meeting groups at local parks and attractions, and after the success of her first event last month, is staging the second event and inviting you to join her this Sunday, 12th May 2019 at Chasewater, where you can meet by the cafe at 11:00am.
There’s no fixed plan, but Claire wants it to be organic and see what folk attending would like to do. That could be feeding the birds, playing ball games and sports, having a picnic or whatever suggestions come up.
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, 12th May 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:
TOY AND TRAIN COLLECTORS FAIR RETURNS TO WALSALL WOOD
Oak Park Active Living Centre, Walsall Wood – Sunday 12th May, 2019
Toy and Model Collectors. The popular Toy and Train Collectors Fair returns to the Oak Park Active Living Centre, Coppice Road, Walsall wood, WS9 9BH on Sunday 12thMay 2019.
The fair offers a great selection of toy cars, trains, buses, commercials, alongside lego figures, books, jigsaws plus lots of other collectable toys, old and new.
If you have any unwanted models to sell bring them along, dealers are always looking to buy.
The fair opens 10.30am – 3.00pm – Admission: Adults £1.80 – Children £1.00
Organisers Geoff and Linda Price from Walsall advise visitors that extra car parking is available on the old site off the Lichfield Road.
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.
Just a heads up to let folk know that there’s a popular and regular autism support group meeting in Brownhills every Tuesday lunchtime from 1:30-2:30pm at the Smithy’s Forge pub, Lichfield Road, Brownhills, just off the Miner Island.
For parents, carers, etc. of children and adults with autism.
Weekly support group every Tuesday at the Smithys Forge, Brownhills 1:30-2:30 🌈
The group has been running for a few months now and is growing in popularity – so why not pop along to see what it’s all about?
I’m pleased and delighted to have been contacted once more by top local photographer and friend of the blog Peter Booth, who this time has sent me some images from his father’s collection of Chasewater and Brownhills on a bank holiday in 1966. These are some astounding images.
Taken looking up the High Street from about where Morris stands today. Nice one for vintage vehicle buffs. Image generously supplied by Peter Booth. Click for a larger version.
Im interested that the carnival seems to be happening at Chasewater. Anyone got the full story? Image generously supplied by Peter Booth. Click for a larger version.
Looking up the A5 Watling Street in the direction of Muckley Corner, from outside the Prince of Wales pub. Image generously supplied by Peter Booth, who’s actually the wee lad in the picture! Click for a larger version.
Someone must recognise these people. And what about the extra from Reservoir Dogs in the shades, stage left? Image generously supplied by Peter Booth. Click for a larger version.
It’s worth remembering that Peter’s dad was working with conventional film, not digital.
Hello Bob
Found these images while looking through some of my Dads old slides taken in 1966 – shows how bad the bank holiday traffic used to be through Brownhills, along the A5 and through the High Street.
The one on the A5 looks like it’s taken from by the Prince of Wales (the little one on that photo is me being dragged along by my Mom and my Auntie) and the other on the bridge looking down the High Street.
Also a few of Chasewater, could have been taken the same day I’m not sure – it certainly shows how popular it was back in the 60s by the sheer amount of people there.
Regards Peter Booth
Yes, Chasewater paddling pool in the day. I remember it like this. The main reason being it was close, and free, or next to free. Love the dude with the pipe. Image generously supplied by Peter Booth. Click for a larger version.
Peter said:
That’s the castle that still stands today! Image generously supplied by Peter Booth. Click for a larger version.
Again, my thanks and gratitude to Peter, it’s a pleasure and an honour to feature material of this quality here. We have had so many fine donations from Peter I must surely owe him a beer or eight now!
Of course, this part of the dam is much unchanged today – but what strikes me is how treeless the landscape was then. Whatever happened to frogmen? Image generously supplied by Peter Booth. Click for a larger version.
Some great clothes in this – and hats. The wee lad in the mustard cards and tie – I bet he’s still about… Image generously supplied by Peter Booth. Click for a larger version.
If readers have anything to add, please do comment here, tug my sleeve on social media or mail me: Brownhillsbob at Googlemail dot com. Thanks.
I thought I’d continue sharing the hugely popular 80s archive images today and the real treat from the immense Gerald Reece collection this weekend consists of this set from Gerald’s collection but actually taken by his son, Gary for a local authority project in 1988.
This gallery shows the setting out and the progress of the Brownhills Carnival procession in 1988 which I believe left from the Maybrook Industrial Estate and headed to Holland Park. Not sure of the exact route.
I feel sure there must be loads of people you folk will recognise here – and people must recognise the cCarnival Queen and her attendants. The fashions are so late 80s!
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.
Gerald and Cherry Reece: on whose shoulders all my work here stands. Image kindly supplied by David Evans.
I note that since it’s a decent day (or at least it seems that way after the grimness of the yesterday) 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 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?
Do you want your children or grandchildren to learn about your local environment?
Swan Patrol volunteers at Stubbers Green Nature Reserve Aldridge Walsall are there every Sunday 1-3pm. Binoculars and bird books are available. Stickers for the children as a reward for bringing suitable foods for the birds. (sweet corn, peas, porridge oats, rice, lettuce, vegetable peelings…
Thanks to Claire Gibbs for pointing this out – there will be the annual Rushall May Fayre this Bank Holiday Monday, 6th May 2019 at Rushall Playing Fields, Rowley Place, Rushall from 10:00am until 4pm.
There will be classic cars, live music, fun dog parade, may pole dancing, birds of prey, all the usual stalls and games, inflatables, food and fairground rides. And cake. There’s always cake.
The organisers said:
Rushall May Fayre
Bank Holiday Monday
Rushall Playing Fields 10am onwards.
Crowning of the May Queen and Princess
Classic Car Show
Guide Dogs
Cake Stall
Rushall Scouts and Girlguides Tombola
Pluck a Duck
Bric a Brac
St Giles Hospice
Small dog rescue
Falconry
Lichfield Hatherton Canal
Jewellery
Homemade Gifts
T-Shirts-mugs
Face painting
Air ambulance pod
Wood Turning
Usborne Books
Fun dog parade
Rushall Brownies Maypole Dancing
What’s not to love? The weather looks set to be decent too. See you there?
However, having had the situation explained to me patiently by Chris Booth, I issued a hasty correction and today, can now share the Roy Craddock set of photos recording the construction of Brownhills Silver Street Methodist Church, which have been generously shared by Steve Craddock with Peter who has carefully and expertly restored them.
My thanks to all involved in this – Peter and Chris Booth, and Steve Craddock and his dad, Roy. My humblest apologies to all involved for any embarrassment I may have caused with my clumsy eagerness and thanks for your generosity of time, spirit and patience.
Bit by bit we record history, but not always by the simplest route…
This set are more documentary in nature than the Fred Booth set, and show Roy Craddock to have been a photographer with a different talent to that of Fred Booth.
Whereas Fred’s images seem to have magically captured snapshots of life and community in progress, these are more focused on technical aspects – the silhouettes before the huge window; the organ installers; the pews and that genuinely astounding shot of people working on them. That motorbike is a stunner, too.
Both sets compliment each other beautifully, I feel.
The Craddock family were very much involved with the creation of this church – Roy Craddock was the Secretary of the Church Trustees at the time.
The church was built in 1967 to replace the and combine Mount Zion and the Wesleyan in Brownhills High Street which were lost to redevelopment and it has to be said, old age; latterly, the remarkable building whose design hasn’t dated at all has accepted congregations from other churches and chapels in Brownhills like Park View, Brownhills West and Coppice Side.
Thanks to Peter Booth and Steve Craddock for sharing a remarkable piece of local history.
As ever, if any members of the Church would care to drop me an email I’m happy to advertise your community events. Just drop me a line.
If you have any memories of the new Silver Street Church – or indeed, the ones it superseded – please do comment or drop me an email. BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com.
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 4th May 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.
BROWNHILLS STAY&PLAY Saturday 4th May 2019
SAND PLAY MESSY TRAY 🏖🏖🏖
This week we will be ……. EXPLORING SAND IN OUR MESSY TRAY ☀️🏖☀️🏖☀️🏖☀️🏖☀️🏖☀️🏖☀️🏖☀️🏖
Our creative table will have a range of resources so you and your little ones can use their imaginations and create whatever marvellous masterpieces they wish ✂️🖍🖌✏️
Don’t forget our outdoors area which is always enjoyed by the little ones 🌞 with the usual bikes and scooters 🛴 and some of our garden maths games and large activity climbing frames and slides
…Along with all our other areas of play within the nursery setting.
See you all Saturday!
10.00-11.30 £2 per child Healthy 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 within Brownhills Community Centre every Saturday morning.
Add our Facebook Page – 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.
One that old pal of the blog and top soul man™ Dj Leekie asked me to point out for you this weekend: Staffs Fest Soul Weekender, and local two day music festival at Lower Drayton Farm near Penkridge – just up the road.
I see that there’s a mothers and children litter pick event going on in Clayhanger this Sunday morning (Sunday 19th May 2019) from 10:00am until 12 noon and all are welcome – kit and gloves provided!
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