Walsall Wood Under 18s: The pride of the community! Image supplied by Dylan Somel.
It gave me a great deal of pleasure to see that Walsall Wood Football Club Under 18s side managed by the wonderful Dylan Somel have continued the club’s winning season by bagging the Midland Youth League trophy for the 2017/18 season.
I, and of course everyone at the blog and the whole Wood faithful would like to congratulate the team and management for their fantastic performance and dogged determination in representing their community so wonderfully well. We’re all very prod on the lads and well done for a great season of entertaining and dramatic football.
Dylan sent the following report and message, aided I suspect in the reporting seat by old pal of the blog Simon Evans.
Dylan wrote:
Walsall Wood Under 18s played their last home game of the seasons last night (Thursday 10th May 2018) knowing that a win would seal the league title.
Tividale were the opponents, the same team who we faced last time out and managed to win 1-0. With a positive start from the Wood Boys, Ben Easthope scored to put the lads 1-0. Great solo goal coasting last defenders and slotting home.
Half time: Wood 1 v 0 Tividale
Second half saw the Wood boys score again through Declan Somel, this was after Dan Dytor aged 15 was substituted in goal at half time for the dazed John Newey, no risk would be taken after the goalkeeper took a clash to the head.
2-0 up with 20 minutes left.
Tividale then scored with 15 minutes to go to make it 2-1 and a nervy finish.
The Walsall Wood lads held on to claim the title and enjoy the presentation from the Midland Youth Football League President who also brought the Trophy with him.
We’d just like to say a massive THANK YOU to all those that have supported the Under 18s this year. Justin and George have been great. Tracey and Daz have been amazing and goalkeeping Coaches Myles and Corey
Just a heads up that there’s a Spring Craft and Vendor Fair fair planned this Saturday 12th May 2018 at Aldridge Community Centre, just by Anchor Meadow near the town centre.
It runs from 11am to 3pm and all the usual stuff will be there including stalls, crafts, refreshments and all manner of great stuff for all the family.
Could be just the thing if you’re looking for a nice event as the weather continues to improve…
There’s a splendid cinema event being staged staged a week from now on Saturday 19th May 2018 at the Lamp Arts Theatre in Brownhills Activity Centre, just on the Miner Island in the centre of Brownhills – there will be a showing of the popular film ‘The Greatest Showman’ – with a bit of a difference.
The showing will be a relaxed, singalong event, with drinks served at your table! There will even be subtitles for those… unsure of the words, so everyone can join in! What’s best is it’s just £4 a ticket, with £3 for concessions. It all kicks off at 6:30pm and tickets are selling out fast, so get in there!
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 great 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!
Aldridge Libray. Image from Libraries Task Force on Flickr.
I received notice of this great event from Walsall Police via the excellent WMNow service this morning, advertising a pop-up meet the police event this Saturday, 12th May 2018 at Aldridge Library from 10:00am until 11:00am where you can meet your local policing team and get help, crime prevention and public safety advice.
This is the police team responsible for Walsall Wood so could be a good chance for the Wood Massive to chat to their local rozzers.
The team will also be at Streetly Library later the same day from 11am until 12 noon.
I must say, it’s good to see the local police making efforts again to reach out to the public. Long overdue.
High on Morridge, this lamb was found trapped – but not hurt – in a cattle grid. Carefuly freed and handed back to his momma gently, the good deed for the day was done.
Day three of the good weather last weekend, Bank Holiday Monday saw me go for the first big ride of the summer – and it’s a journey I’ve done bits of before, but this time the other way around; starting by getting a train to Macclesfield, I traversed the Dane Valley, crossed The Roaches, hopped up to Morridge and came home via the Weaver Hills.
At the Weaver Hills, I undertook an odd little personal springtime ritual – I went to see a patch of red cowslips near Calton that I try to get to see every year, for no other reason than I love them, it’s one of the few places I know them to regularly grow.
It seems odd to have an emotional attachment to a clump of wild flowers growing in a hedgerow on the the Staffordshire Moorlands. But that’s just how I roll…
The route was Macclesfield – Macclesfield Forest – Bottom of the Oven – Wildboarclough – Wincle – Bearda – Swythamley – Roach Road – Hulme End – Morridge – Waterhouses – Calton – Ellastone – Uttoxeter – Buttermilk Hill – Marchington Cliff – Scropton – Tutbury – Anslow – Barton – Alrewas – Hanch – CHorley and home. All in, 107 miles.
It was blazingly hot, but the riding was good, although the views were misty and hazy. But it was a brilliant day.
Hopefully, the first of many this year. I waited so long for this.
New Hall Mill is open again next Sunday for their first open day of 2018, 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).
The Friends of Newhall Mill said:
New Hall Mill – 13th May, The First Open Day of 2018
The Friends of New Hall Mill will be opening the water mill to the public for the first time this year on Sunday 13th 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 Lichfield Lighthouse Company singing from 13:15 – 13:55 and 14:30 – 15:10.
In the cart shed The Sutton Coldfield Amateur Radio Society will be contacting other mills via radio, this being National Mills weekend.
In the meadows and grounds; we have a bumper collection of Displays & Demonstrations –
Turner collection of Steam Models
RSPB
Maidens Fayre
The Owen Motoring Club
Bournville Bread Basket
Vintage Bike Display
Trinity Photography Group
British Wood Carvers Association
Typewriter Display
Shaving Memorabilia Display
Smoking Memorabilia
Tins Display
Birmingham & The Black Country Wildlife Trust
The Beekeeper
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, kitchen 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.
Beware if you own a van in the Brownhills and Walsall Wood area. Imagery from Google Maps.
A quick warning to people with work vans and appeal to folk in Brownhills for information – the rash of vehicle break ins continues with another incident on Sunday night/Monday morning 7-8th May 2018 in Lindon Drive Brownhills.
My van was broken into last night (Sunday-Monday 6th-7th May 2018) on Lindon Drive, Brownhills.
Red generator and red hilti breaker taken any one hear of anyone selling please let me know.
This seems a fairly common break-in method with transits. Image posted on Facebook by Stu Thomas.
These scumbags have targeted someone trying to earn a living. It’s heartbreaking and my sympathies for the loss.
The people doing this are more than likely doing it to raise cash from the proceeds of selling what they steal. If you know of anyone hawking around gear 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.
A fantastic performance art project. Image from the Alarum Theatre Company.
There’s a free touring theatre show happening this evening and again in the coming week in our area and it’s rather fascinating, as the touring part of it is based on a canal boat and the theatre production being staged tells the story of women working the waterways of the Midlands during the war.
The Idle Women is a great story and the the whole production looks like a cracker. Performances by the Alarum Theatre Company are happening this evening (Wednesday 9th May 2018) at Yates Club and on on Saturday 12th May 2018 at Calf Heath Marina.
9 May 7:30pm Yates Sport & Social Club, Lime Lane, Norton
Kate Saffin has been in touch to tell me all about it and ask if anyone can make a Brownhills history connection here? I’d love to hear what readers have to say about that, and if you go to a show please do feel free to give us a review and some pics. You can comment on this post or mail me: BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com. Thanks.
Far from idle!
Dear Brownhills Bob,
I came across your website a few weeks ago and was fascinated to see so much about the Brownhills Colliery.
We are a waterways touring theatre company on our way to the Pelsall and Brownhills area with a show that shares the stories of the women who took on the working boats during the war. On this particular tour we are following the route worked throughout the war by Daphne March. Using her family’s boat, the Heather Bell, she carried flour from Worcester to Tipton and then coal from Cannock back to Worcester.
Idle Women of the Wartime Waterways is a double bill of theatre, poetry and music – a thoroughly researched and entertaining telling of the stories. As part of the show we aim to include stories local to the area. Our references for Brownhills are sparse but we know that two of her crew spent the nght on the drawing room floor at Mrs Arnott’s house in March 1941, having arrived to join her only to find she hadn’t yet arrived. I don’t know if you have ever come across Daphne and the Heather Bell but we would love to hear more if you have.
This looks like a fun and informative show. Image from the Alarum Theatre Company.
You can see more of our work via the links at the foot of the email.
Our remaining shows in the area are on Wednesday 9th at Yates Sports and Social Club at 7.30pm and Saturday 12th May at Calf Heath Marina, Shareshill also at 7:30pm. Hope you might be able to join us at one. And if you feel able to share what we are doing via your blog that would be wonderful.
A great institution that deserves our support. Image from Bloxwich Royal Naval Association.
You all know how important to me ex-servicemen’s clubs, Remembrance and care for those who’s seen military service is to me and this blog in general – it’s with that in mind that I’d like to draw reader’s attention to the following association for ex-naval folk who’d like to meet socially and socialise with people from a similar background.
Old friend of the blog Neil Harris from Pelsall wrote to tell me about Bloxwich Royal Naval Association, and ask if I’d give them a plug – something I’m happy to do.
Hi Bob.
I hope you’re well and enjoying this long sought after fine weather.
I need your help if I can be so cheeky.
My father in law is the president of the Bloxwich Royal Naval Association. They have been going for many years, but numbers are beginning to dwindle. They don’t need any money, just time and willing – and new members!
The club is open to everyone who served from Walsall borough. I think because it’s in Bloxwich people don’t know about it.
People may look for a Walsall RNA and there isn’t one! Once you have one in the district you can’t have another and Bloxwich got there first. I hope there’s a few ex seamen in the area who may be interested as it would be a great shame if they folded.
I’m happy to share this fine club and hope that some of the ex sailors here fancy going to check the Association out.
The Bloxwich Royal Naval Association meet each week at 12pm at Colebatches club in Leamore, Walsall (699 Bloxwich Rd, Walsall WS3 2BD). A social gathering that enables ex and current members of the forces to discuss life in the service, reminisce over old times and also talk about the future, and of course enjoy the odd tot or two!
Again, check out their Facebook page here, or if preferred, comment here or mail me and I’ll hook you cup with Neil. This really is a great thing and deserves our support.
Members are actively involved in fundraising. Image from Bloxwich Royal Naval Association.
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 Monday evening (14th May 2018) there will be the April 2018 Public Meeting of the Lichfield Waterworks Trust charity, formerly the Friends of Sandfields Pumping Station group – and there will be a rather wonderful guest speaker.
This month’s meeting will include a talk by Ian Pell.
Connections – South Staffordshire Railway
Part 1 examines the relationships of the men (and woman) who helped forge the railway and its bonds with other companies including South Staffs Water Co. It also looks at some of the buildings along the line.
Part 2 is entitled “Water, water” and this in turn looks at the part water has played in the life of the railway.
Events
Trustees Meeting
14 May 2018 5pm Bowling Green
Monthly Meeting
14 May 2018 7.30pm, Bowling Green
Talk by Ian Pell – Connections – South Staffordshire Railway
14 May 2018 8.30pm, Bowling Green
AIA Practical Weekend
7 – 8 April, Derbyshire Mining, Matlock Bath, 10am
Bower Procession
26 May 2018, 1000 to 1400
Health and Safety
We are really pleased to report that there have been no incidents relating to health and safety. A very big thank you to everyone for working safely.
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.
Do we have your correct details? We do our best to get things right, but occasionally something slips of the tray. Please let us know if we have your correct contact details, or you would like any additions or amendments.
Donations
We have incurred some considerable expenditure covering legal costs, insurance and training. We will always invest in our people, and we are planning further training days soon too. All these costs soon mount up, so if you can donate, then please visit our donation page here, any amount is helpful and well appreciated.
Please make cheques payable to; Lichfield Waterworks Trust, and send to our address:
22 Walsall Road
Lichfield
WS13 8AB
Finally
Thank you everyone for your continued support and helping to make a difference in your community.
We never share your data with anyone else, but we do like to have your details correct. If there are any errors or omissions, please let us know.
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.
Well, day two of the first big weekend of the summer saw me again, unsurprisingly out on my bike for a 55 miler over to Orton on the Hill and No Mans Heath.
Fishpond Wood near Stonnall is an absolute carpet of bluebells right now.
First of all, many of you mentioned that they ‘remembered the Bluebell Wood opposite Sam’s Cafe’ on the Chester Road near Stonnall mentioned in Saturday’s post here – the wood hasn’t actually gone, it still exists, and is absolutely gorgeous right now.
I stopped off at the wood – whose real name is Fishpond Wood – on my way out and all the bluebell photos in this set are from there. It’s easy to get to, just hop into the copse off the Chester Road footpath. Beware if you do go though, as it is private property, and there are a lot of hidden rabbit holes and brambles. But it is absolutely gorgeous in there right now.
I rode out Stonnall – Footherley – Watford Gap – Canwell – Hints – Hopwas – on the canal to Alvecote – Warton – Orton on the Hill – Austrey – No Mans Heath – Honey Hill – Clifton – Haunton – Harlaston and home via Whittington, Knowle and Wall.
Another great spring ride and I’m hoping for another today. Stay tuned!
A classic Brownhills view that won’t have changed much since this section of canal was built in the 1840s.
Well, spring has finally come and as befits a decent bank holiday weekend, I’m out and about on my bike, hence the lower than usual posting schedule.
Yesterday I went for a bimble out to one of my favourite bits of Staffordshire – first to Lichfield on an errand, then a gorgeous evening ride to Sittles, Whitemore Haye, Catton, Rosliston, Coton, Lullington, Clifton Campville, Haunton, Syerscote, Wigginton, Hopwas, Hints, Weeford, Shenstone and home.
It really is gorgeous out there folks – do get out and enjoy it while you can. I took this gallery for the armchair cyclists to peruse.
Just a tip to fellow explorers – Syerscote Lane between Haunton and Wigginton is again gated. It’s fine to ride, and the gate is clear to open, but watch out for it if you’re not expecting it.It was always gated as a kid and I’m glad to see it so again.
Thanks to old pal of the blog and roving reporter Vicky Devine for the heads-up to the above – if you’re in Brownhills this afternoon and looking for something for the kids there’s a bouncy castle at the Hussey Arms (Hungry Horse) up until 7pm with free entry.
The pub posted on Facebook:
We’ve lost the park but we’ve got the Bouncy Castle instead all over the Bank Holiday weekend to keep the little ones busy. No cost, no hastle, no worries.
A beautiful sunny afternoon and the ground looks superb. One hour before kick off
Second half; concentration
First half and Nuneaton threaten a break through the Wood defence. The game is hotting up
Just after kick off. The scene is colourful, and a sporting game was about to take place.
First half and Nuneaton turn up the pressure on the Wood.
The game ends. Handshakes all round and appreciation from the spectators. Nuneaton’s young players have played their hearts out and will have added to their soccer experience base today.
First half , and after some ragged play by both sides the contest settles down to accuracy and drive. Here we see how each Wood player required close monitoring by Nuneaton. Understandable
Second half and through the heavily congested Nuneaton goalmouth the Wood thread the ball through to score a deft goal.
Nuneaton score their first goal. A beauty of a goal, too. Applause all round.
Midway through the first half and the first goal, to the Wood.
As the Wood celebrate, Nuneaton discuss tactics. They played with good heart and spirit all through the match, gaining respect and appreciation from opponents and spectators alike.
Second half substitution time, and a mighty warrior leaves the ground to thunderous applause from spectators. Every player substituted received appreciative applause. It was one of those games . One to savour.
Second half and an unguarded moment for me as Nuneaton score a beautiful goal and then celebrate. Game on, indeed!
Tracking an incoming ball. Super concentration. Delightful to see such a wide range of skills on display this afternoon by the Men in Red.
Second half and not enough time to eat my hotdog before the Wood score two goals to bring the score to three goals to one. Meanwhile, in the play area saintly spectators show off their white bits.
First half and players position themselves for a throw in to the Wood
A goal for the history books. Brown, all on his own, threaded his way round opponents and past the stranded goalkeeper to score this goal. Bostin!
Nuneaton’s youthful goalkeeper gave an outstandingly courageous performance this afternoon, bringing frequent appreciative applause from all the spectators.
One of the players in action today . And how!
Second half and the Wood start one of their attacking moves.
Another goal to the Wood. Scored with the chest, I am told
Second half. Another goal? Offside, said the eagle-eyed linesman.
Captain Splendid offers a hand to congratulate Brown on his wonderful individual goal.
Early first half and both teams were already showing skill and determination.
Later in the first half and the heat is beginning to take its toll.
Nuneaton Griff played in yellow this afternoon
One of the Wood’s super skilful players in action, having just regained possession of the ball. Smashing skill.
The Men in Red
Brief moment to celebrate, then back to work. First half. How would Nuneaton respond?
Second half brief celebration moment in the glare and heat of the May sunshine.
Moment of celebration for Nuneaton after scoring their first goal.
Images and captions Kindly supplied by the young David Evans
It’s time for a mega football roundup, but bizarrely these three match reports cover just five days in a manic end of season for League Champions Walsall Wood FC, who have continued their winning streak through the last three home matches.
It really has been a great season for Walsall Wood, and unthinkable the year before. My congratulations to all at the club, you’ve done the whole community proud. Go for it lads. Just a few more games and you can put your feet up and look forward to an exciting new season!
David Evans sent in the following three match reports with pictures:
Walsall Wood 6 v 2 Nuneaton Griff Saturday 6th May 2018
The Wood showed their superior skill and class throughout this contest this afternoon. To their credit the youthful opponents tried their hardest and gained two good goals, which will encourage them as they look forward to next season.
With the final score of six goals to two, and the match now out of the way Walsall Wood now face the immediate prospect of having to play a cup final on Bank Holiday Monday before gaining a few days welcome and well-earned respite.
No, the league is not yet finished…
Second half, fourth goal to the Wood.
This was to be an interesting match, with the maturity of the Wood being challenged by the youthful zeal of their opponents. How would this pan out? Early, first half
Second half. With the Wood ‘s goalkeeper way off his line and Cadbury launch a long high shot over his head. Super goal, missed by me, too.
Late in the first half and Cadbury’s hard effort is rewarded with their first goal. A good goal, too.
Final part of the game. Penalty to the Wood and the crack shot leaves the poor Cadbury goalkeeper on his seat. Five goals to two now.
Celebration time number three as half time, and time for a cup of tea approach. Milk, No sugar.
A brief moment to celebrate and Cadbury are eager to get the game under way again.
Third goal to the Wood. First half
The match gets under way and the Cadbury goalkeeper watches intently
First half and the Wood Red Machine moves in to top gear. First goal to the Wood.
Celebration time number two. Team spirit.
The visitors played in white this evening. A lively contest was to unfold
First half and a near miss attack by Cadbury
Second half now, the light is failing and the referee has a word with two players . This done, and a lesson learnt, and the game resumes.
The league champions shield. Big, and heavy, too
Soccer. A contact sport
The joy of a superb season, nearly complete. Smile for the camera? Of course, kid.
A good attacking move by Cadbury brings the full attention of the Wood. Early, first half
Some interesting skills were on display this evening by both teams. Bostin’!
Every photo tells a story .
A pleasantly dry evening to watch a youthful Cadbury play against the seasoned Wood.
Second half, fourth goal and then an amazing goal was scored by Cadbury.
Second half ,blurred celebration by Cadbury. Wood still in shock. Ouch
Second goal to the Wood. Later in the first half. A well worked and executed goal, too
A momentary pause in the total fluid motion of the Red Machine to celebrate the first goal.
The final whistle. The Wood have won, but Cadbury have earned respect for their drive and endeavour throughout the whole game
Images and captions Kindly supplied by the young David Evans
Walsall Wood 5 v 2 Cadbury Athletic Thursday 3rd May 2018
This evening’s visitors, Cadbury Athletic, came to play against the experienced Walsall Wood team. It was interesting to see the youthful visitors play with spirit and some skill against the home team. To their credit Cadbury did exhibit some skilful soccer and fast running with the ball but yet again and again the difference in measured skill and drive became self evident as the Wood worked their way to a creditbale scoreline.
At half time the score was three goals to one in favour of the Wood. It could so easily have been five goals to nil even then. Some over exuberant final shots on goal by the Wood proved slightly wayward.
The second half brought greater endeavour by both sides with determined running, control and accurate passing bringing some frustration and immature reaction by Cadbury. But only briefly.
A long range over the goalkeeper’s head gave Cadbury a well deserved second goal . A penalty was awarded by the referee in the late moments of the game and the Wood won by five goals to two.
Three more league points to Walsall Wood in this amazing, and amazingly long season.
First half pressure by the Wood.
Deceptive light photo, First half and Warwick are on the offensive. A good sporting contest, this, by two battle-weary teams
It has been an amazing season, with the team working steadily and comprehensively toward these figures. With three league matches to play the Wood’s eventual points total could be eye- popping, especially as, now that Ilkeston have completed their 42 matches gaining their total of 95 points. Love non- league football? Yes, not half!
It has been a very long, tiring season for both teams, and yet, and yet…
One of the highlights of this as yet unfinished season, has been the high quality matchday programme. 28 pages, full colour, reports, amazing photos, statistics, etc. Worth a full mention.
Got there. First goal, of three, to Walsall Wood with the final score being 3 – 0
Walsall Wood FC and Racing Club Warwick meet again, this time at Oak Park ,in a quarter final PPLC match
Nearly insufficient light for my camera, and The Wood are fling high on the attack again. First half
Team celebration, in direct line with the Burger Van, with its delicious chips and hotdogs.
Wood’s player leaps high, frequently out-pacing opponents and officials like.
And still three league matches to play, plus this evening’s event
Last Saturday’s celebration tea party features in the programme, of course
Images and captions Kindly supplied by the young David Evans
Walsall Wood 3 v 0 Racing Club Warwick Tuesday 1st May 2018
The two teams met again this evening, this time to play the quarter final match in the PPLC competition. A spirited performance by both sides who have played so many games in the last few weeks, was played out in the falling light and temperature of an oddly intemperate May Day evening.
The play ebbed and flowed from end to end with fine displays of controlled measured soccer to delight the spectators sat sitting in the stand, or by the nearly complete new clubhouse.
At half time the score was one goal to nil in favour of Walsall Wood. The second half brought some deft substitutions and different tactics by both teams. The quality of play shone through and the determination by Sporting Warwick to score an equalising goal understandably brought its challenges and frustration. Two determined sides of sporting players in action.
One odd incident brought its own brief drama, but only served to give greater impetus and drive to the Wood whose ultimate eventual victory was well deserved.
Again, sporting and positive play through all the 90 minutes made the contest a memorable one and the game ended with all players shaking hands.
The odd square of cleared land is all that remains to show the cafe on the Chester Road at Shire Oak ever existed. Planning applications have come and gone, but the cafe was demolished and no developer has taken the site on. Imagery from Apple Maps.
There’s something come in a few weeks ago I think will make a good question for a Bank Holiday weekend, and it’s a subject I’ve been meaning to mention for years – the lost transport cafe on the Chester Road between Shire Oak Crossroads.
My generation called it ‘Greasy Lil’s’ although I think it was called the Shire Oak Cafe. I only went in once and remember it being a bit dingy, but busy. I believe it finally closed in the early 1990s.
Reader Phil asked:
Hi Bob
Do you remember the name of the now demolished diner/restaurant that was situated on the A452 near the quarry?
It was located on the Shire Oak nature reserve side in between Lichfield Road and Castlehill Road.
There’s a great spring Bank Holiday weekend fun day for adults and kids this Sunday (6th May 2018) at the Anchor Inn, just on the Anchor Bridge on the Chester Road between Shire Oak and Brownhills.
The organisers said:
Kids fun day at the Anchor.
£2 entry all money goes to charity.
Join us this bank holiday sunday for a BBQ, Bouncy Castle and various other activities.
We have,
Ping pong competition,
Pool competition,
Darts competition,
Bouncy castle
Soak the landlord where your kids get to chase me and soak me!
It gets better because our winners get a gallon of beer of their choice.
For the satnav folk, the address is: Chester Road, Brownhills WS8 6DP
Images of the Wood Under 18s in action Kindly supplied by Dylan Somel
Walsall Wood Under 18s Manager Dylan Somel has sent in some great reports from recent matches (I suspect the wonderful, dedicated hand of Simon Evans at work there) which have seen the youth team following in the footsteps of the seniors and topping the league – with just two matches to go, a win in their Monday away match at Feckenham will see them win their league.
I, and of course everyone at the blog and the whole Wood faithful are behind Dylan and the lads and I wish them all the very best of luck. Go thrash them, lads! You’re doing Walsall Wood proud.
Walsall Wood Under 18s play their penultimate game of the season on Bank Holiday Monday night (7th May 2018). It sees them face Feckenham away, knowing that a win would secure winning the league. A recent win against Tividale on Friday 4th May was their second win in three days after overcoming a tough Barnsley test at the ML Safety Stadium, Oak Park..
Walsall Wood Under 18s 2 v 1 Barnsley WMA
Wednesday 2nd May
A very nervy start again for the Walsall Wood 18s saw them go in at half time 1-0 down after missing a hatful of chances. Into the second, the Wood boys piled the pressure onto Barnsley’s defence who had defended brilliantly up until Ben Easthope scored from 35 yards to stick the ball into the Bill Shaw’s end goal.
What shortly followed was nothing short of madness, after a corner the ball dropped to Ben, again 20 yards out. It was another fine striker which found the top corner again.
Tividale 0 v WalsalL Wood Under 18s Friday 4th May 2018
The Wood boys finished the week Away at Tividale, The Beeches ground.
With a much better start from the Reds, Declan Somel was able to push one home jus before the half time whistle.
A tense second half saw the lads hold out for a 1-0 win. Resilient defending again and John Newey’s third clean sheet in 4 games.
Wrens Nest 0 v 4 Walsall Wood Under 18s
Monday 23rd April 2018
In what was tenative start from the Wood boys, Wrens Nest enjoyed a lot of the early play. The Wood were rewarded a goal from a set piece, Declan Somel with the shot, Marcel Bridgen-Insular with the two touch finish. One to set and to tuck away to score.
Within three minutes of the Second Half beginning, Marcel helped himself to another goal early on, damaging Wrens Nests chances of a comeback. Wrens Nest couldn’t force any play in the middle of the Park. Wood managed to take advantage of this with some great individual goals late on from Ben Easthope and Declan Somel to ensure the young Woodmen take all three points back to the Wood with them.
A good all round team performance and attitude shown.
Stafford Rangers 0 v 2 Walsall Wood Under 18s Thursday 19th April 2018
Game started with Walsall Wood and saw very few chances early on until Declan Somel hitting the cross bar 10 mins in. As the half went Wood grew more and more into the game. Marcel Bridges – causing all sorts of problems at the back for Rangers. In the 35th minute he was brought down in the area only for the referee to give a corner. However the Wood carried on, and were rewarded minutes before half time with a penalty Marcel brought down and Ben Easthope dispatched the penalty.
Stafford second half came out urgently looking for that equaliser. After a few early second half exchanges, with half hour left Marcel was put through on goal by Declan and he was able to finish the ball in the bottom right corner to see Wood two up with half an hour left. John Newey with a tremendous performance in goal which helped see the lads through a few nervy last minutes
Walsall Wood FC have a great community and some excellent teams – why not pop down and find out what they’re all about? For the good of The Wood!
Meet your local policing team this Saturday at our very own grey Lubyanka…
I received notice of this great event from Brownhills Policing Team via the excellent WMNow service yesterday, advertising a pop-up meet the police event this Saturday afternoon, 5th May 2018 at The Parkview Centre, Brownhills (right on the Miner Island) from 1pm until 3pm where you can meet your local policing team and get help, crime prevention and public safety advice.
I must say, it’s good to see the local police making such concerted efforts to reach out to the public.
Police pop up stall taking place on Saturday 5th May - 1.00pm til 3.00pm @ The Park View Centre, Brownhills. Come along and say hello. https://t.co/JYhPcJ9El0 - we will sign you up! Wish to join neighbourhood watch or become a NHW co-ordinator? Let us know. 👮🏻♂️👍🏼 pic.twitter.com/2i94L0JgmZ
— Brownhills, Pelsall, Shelfield and Rushall Police (@BrownhillsWMP) April 25, 2018
Walsall Council: a swing to the right, but it’s still complicated. There may be trouble ahead. Image from my 365days journal.
Well, it was an interesting night at the Walsall council election count last night (Thursday 3rd May 2018) that saw the general collapse of the UKIP vote and it’s return home to the Conservatives, and this was reflected locally with incumbent Brownhills Councillor Steve Craddock, who left UKIP became briefly independent, then stood for the Tories in Brownhills retaining his seat while his fellow ex-UKIP councillors in Walsall lost their seats to Tories.
Walsall Council remains hamstrung, though possibly less so than previously: Effectively, Labour lost two councillors and the Tories gained two (UKIP were always in support of the Tories) – but no overall control remains the state of play. The two independents – both councillors for Darlaston – and the Libdems will be coming under pressure. Expect deals to be done. Infografic from Walsall Council’s local election mini-site.
The council still has no overall control: The Conservatives have 30 seats, with Labour on 26, Liberal Democrats on 2 and Independents on 2. I forecast that Walsall political shenanigans will remain complicated for the foreseeable future.
Congratulations to the winners, commiserations to the losers. Councillor Gary Clare remains missing, presumed a misprint.
Thanks to Claire Gibbs for pointing this out – there will be the annual Rushall May Fayre this Bank Holiday Monday, 7th May 2018 at Rushall Playing Fields, Rowley Place, Rushall from 10:30am until 4pm.
There will be classic cars, live music, Morris dancing, a maypole dance, welly hanging, tug of war, birds of prey, all the usual stalls and games, inflatables, food and fairground rides.
What’s not to love? The weather looks set to be great, too. See you there?
So, it’s Thursday May 3rd 2018, a polling day in the UK when in our area you get to vote for one of your three local Councillors and for the next four years.
I think it’s important to vote – even if you’re totally disillusioned, go and spoil a ballot to send a message. Our democracy may not be perfect, but our forbears fought for it and we owe it to them to use it.
Whilst I have reservations about the system – we should take part.
If you’re a bit lost as to what all this is about, there’s a great explanation post over on Clayhanger’s Madwblog – non partisan, impartial, but clear and frank. I’m loving that blog – I do wish it posted more frequently. Such a strident, wonderful local voice.
It’s a lovely day – take a stroll up to your local station and exercise your democratic right. If you don’t have a polling card, you can still vote: go here to find your polling station.
The brilliant Madwblog explains who the polls are for, and why they’re happening. A great, non-political explanation. Click on the screenshot to read the whole post.
A fantastic performance art project. Image from the Alarum Theatre Company.
There’s a free touring theatre show happening this evening and again in the coming week in our area and it’s rather fascinating, as the touring part of it is based on a canal boat and the theatre production being staged tells the story of women working the waterways of the Midlands during the war.
The Idle Women is a great story and the the whole production looks like a cracker. Performances by the Alarum Theatre Company are happening this evening (Wednesday 2nd May 2018) at The Boat House in Rushall, and a week later in Bloxwich and Pelsall on the 8th May 2018. On the 9th and 12th May 2018 the production team get to Yates Club and Calf Heath Marina respectively.
2 May, 7:30pm The Boathouse Pub, Rushall
8 May 1:00pm Stan Ball Centre, Bloxwich
8 May 7:30pm The Fingerpost pub, Pelsall
9 May 7:30pm Yates Sport & Social Club, Lime Lane, Norton
Kate Saffin has been in touch to tell me all about it and ask if anyone can make a Brownhills history connection here? I’d love to hear what readers have to say about that, and if you go to a show please do feel free to give us a review and some pics. You can comment on this post or mail me: BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com. Thanks.
Far from idle!
Dear Brownhills Bob,
I came across your website a few weeks ago and was fascinated to see so much about the Brownhills Colliery.
We are a waterways touring theatre company on our way to the Pelsall and Brownhills area with a show that shares the stories of the women who took on the working boats during the war. On this particular tour we are following the route worked throughout the war by Daphne March. Using her family’s boat, the Heather Bell, she carried flour from Worcester to Tipton and then coal from Cannock back to Worcester.
Idle Women of the Wartime Waterways is a double bill of theatre, poetry and music – a thoroughly researched and entertaining telling of the stories. As part of the show we aim to include stories local to the area. Our references for Brownhills are sparse but we know that two of her crew spent the nght on the drawing room floor at Mrs Arnott’s house in March 1941, having arrived to join her only to find she hadn’t yet arrived. I don’t know if you have ever come across Daphne and the Heather Bell but we would love to hear more if you have.
This looks like a fun and informative show. Image from the Alarum Theatre Company.
You can see more of our work via the links at the foot of the email.
Our shows in the area are on Tuesday May 8th at the Fingerpost in Pelsall and on Wednesday 9th at Yates Sports and Social Club, both at 7.30pm and hope you might be able to join us at one. And if you feel able to share what we are doing via your blog that would be wonderful.
Chase Sailing Club are a busy and popular institution going back decades. Image from the Express & Star.
An interesting event is taking place next weekend, Bank holiday Monday 7th May 2018 at Chasewater, where the Chase Sailing Club (that’s the one on the north shore) will be holding their annual open day for people to come and check out what they do.
There will be sailing boat rides, safety boat rides, stand up paddle boarding, windsurfing, refreshments and other fun and games.
In the true tradition of the Hitchiker’s guide to the Galaxy, you’re advised to bring a towel.
The event runs from 10am until 3pm, so plenty of time to get up there,
The weather looks to be decent, so what’s not to love?
You can visit the Club’s website here – their address isThe Chase Sailing Club. Pool Lane, Chasetown, Walsall. WS7 3QY. Tel. 01543 686390
A great chance to find out about a great outdoor activity!
I went to Walsall Wood FC yesterday, Justin had asked if I could be there as they were having the League Trophy presented after the game.
Jonathan, one of the youth team managers met me when I first arrived and asked if I could do him a favour. He had spoken to Justin before organising a special trophy and shield in Bill’s honour to be awarded to a nominated young player for services to the club and community.
It is to be called the ‘Bill Shaw Award’ and he asked if I would present it at halftime, which I duly did with a few tears. Bill would have been humbled and honoured at the tribute.
It is a bittersweet weekend for me, yesterday was sad without him but a good day and it is 47 years today that I first met Bill. He was not the romantic sort of person, but he never forgot the day we met, my birthday or our wedding anniversary.
I have a date for scattering Bill’s ashes at the end dedicated to him too, it is 26th May 6.30/7.00 pm. Justin is organising food etc., and just needs to know who and how many would like to attend, I know a few people have asked about it as they couldn’t make the funeral.
Sorry, I forgot to add there will be a memory book there too if anyone would like to add any comments.
We still have 3 games left to play I believe, so keep supporting a great football club. F.T.G.O.T.W.
Regards,
Lynn. xx
Thanks to Lynn for the email, all the readers and fans will appreciate it very much. I miss Bill’s reports as we all do and nobody could ever do what he did with such dedication and passion. Bill was a true gentleman and will be sorely missed.
A trophy and award photo for the family and club album, indeed.
Today was a time to enjoy the present and rejoice as memories of individual player highlights came flashing to mind.
High octane, full strength soccer was played today as all the spectators soon realised.
Today’s comprehensive matchday programme
Nearly half time and incisive, skilful passing and reciprocal defensive pay by both teams keeps the scoreline clean.
Second half and first goal, to the Wood. There, in the distance.
Craig Deakin, brilliant as ever again today. Love local soccer
A guard of honour to welcome both teams and WWFC mascots on to the field. A very special day.
Early in the first half. No, but nearly a goal.
Before the match, a few minutes to greet visiting fans and match officials
The ravages of the terrible weather were felt everywhere, and yet, here the magic of the ground staff can be seen. Love the Wood.
Mrs Lynn Shaw graced the occasion by presenting awards .
The visitors, Paget Rangers,played in blue strip, on a beautiful green grass pitch, surrounded by lines of supporters in red.
The final whistle. Two super, sporting local teams have played their hearts out and the match ends with thunderous applause for all the players. A memorable day. But its not all over, not quite..
And then, a tear-jerking minute’s applause by everyone in the ground- Walsall Wood’s tribute to the memory of Bill Shaw. A fitting and very personal moment
A free kick, second half. The referee had very little to correct or reprimand today. Two good teams, playing with gusto and skill, often bringing applause by spectators. Both teams. Cracking football.
Half time and a special time for presentations in the Saints section.
Memorable half time special, with Lynn there to complete the day
Captain Splendid
Lynn Shaw presenting an award.
Late in the first half and the Wood work their way with determination toward the opponents goalmouth. Paget were to present formidable defence, though
Super display of concentration in this match.
A special commemorative double page collage of most of the Saints winning teams. Kindly offered for inclusion. At least another six teams need to have their photo special! An amazing programme.
The play facilities are complete and being put to good use. A Community Football Club, this.
Second half boot fashion display. Not noticed this before.
Very late in the second half and just time to roll the ball out.
Rejoice and be glad moment after scoring the first goal. Focus now.
Wood now leading by two goals, return , almost in step to their half.
Midway through the first half and some glorious fooball by both teams created a match to savour
Paget Rangers were harried and hustled by the Wood today, and responded well. The first goal was to be a long time coming.
Second goal to the Wood. Second half and need to change the camera battery, quick, now
Second half and some stand sitters have yet to return to their seats. Neck oil must not be spilled. Ever.
Paget Rangers, downcast, but only for a moment after the second goal. Come on Paget.
The stork’s nest.
Second half now and the Wood need to break through to score a goal, as do Paget. The pace quickened visibly by both teams after their cucumber sandwich and cup of tea with their managers.
The Wood’s own Red Arrows and their Squadron leader. Glorious . Nearly full time.
Celebration moment be Men in Red Late in the second half. The home supporters are in full, un-melodious voice, not lacking in volume. All the right notes, but not necessarily….
Later in the second half and Wood score their third goal. Score now WWFC 3, Paget Rangers 0
Images and captions Kindly supplied by David Evans.
Saturday (28th April 2018) saw Walsall Wood FC cement their position as league champions for the 2017-18 season of the MFL league by beating Sutton Coldfield’s Paget Rangers 3-0 at Oak Park, followed by the presentation of the Championship Shield, and event which at this point last season might have seemed fanciful.
David Evans was there to witness the match, punctuated at half time by Lynn Shaw, wife of the late, great Bill Shaw, presenting awards to the Saints team for their efforts this season, and also the new Bill Shaw award for service to the club – a very touching moment.
Russell Smith hasn’t yet posted footage from this match on The-Wood.TV, but he has posted the first half goals from the Ilkeston match on the previous Tuesday, 24th April 2018 which saw Walsall Wood defeated at home, 4-0, there only defeat do san this year. You can watch that footage here.
Dave Evans wrote:
Walsall Wood 3 v 0 Paget rangers 28th April 2018
Today the very full complement of spectators and supporters watched a fine display of controlled, accurate football by two sporting local teams whose determination and endeavour was a credit to all those who took part. Walsall Wood and Paget Rangers both took and lost possession of the ball in the first half as both sides exhibited the obvious need to win this match. Try as they may niehter side could effectively break through the opposing team’s resolute defence and the scoreline remained blank at half time.
With deft substitutions by both sides, and doubtless with sweet words of encouragement by the respective team managers over the half time cucumber sandwiches and Earl Grey tea from bone china cups, enjoyed in the privacy of the changing rooms, the teams emerged to continue this full speed encounter.
Eventually the Wood scored their first goal… a sweet gentle tap through a hole in the opponents’ defensive line. The reply by Paget was to be expected and they tried different tactics to outsmart the Wood. Delightful soccer. However, apart from one thunderous long-range shot on goal by Paget, which in other matches would surely have scored the rocket equalising goal, today it was not to be so.
Wood scored a second goal, employing one of their repertoire of tactics, and then a third.
Noticeable throughout this sporting encounter were the occasions when a player would offer a hand to help an opponent up from the lush, real grass, and the frequent brief handshakes, too. Love real soccer. Love local non-league soccer.
The game ended and all the spectators showed their appreciation . Applause for all the players.
Thanks to David for a great report and photos – for the good of The Wood!
Below is a gallery of images from the shield presentation for winning the league, again supplied by David.
Any road up, what I wanted to share was the fact that David has a great Flicker presence with some fascinating albums – including his large one on the pubs of Brownhills. I’ve grabbed some provocative ones to share here that will surely jerk some memories – may taken around the year 2000.
Chatting with Brownhills is launched – image supplied by Janet Grinnell.
Another one I’ve had in for a couple of weeks now and really need to share with you readers is this great new local history book for Brownhills and the surrounding area that’s come about as a community project based at Knaves Court, the extra care facility in Brownhills near the Anchor Bridge.
I still haven’t acquired a copy yet but it really does sound very good and I shall order one forthwith, and I’m glad to see work being done with the elderly hereabouts to capture their memories while we can. Such things are the lifeblood of local history and it’s great to see them preserved.
I wonder if you’d be able to help us spread the word about our new Brownhills book, ‘Chatting with Brownhills’? I know that local history and the community are two of your by-words and this should hopefully be of interest to you and your readers.
Over the last few months we’ve chatted to, and recorded the memories of, people from across the Brownhills area. Local churches, clubs, support groups have all taken part with us, as well as individuals (some well known to your readers, others who’ve never before been involved in anything like this). The idea was to recognise the immense value of individual memories when looking at local history, and see them as something to preserve and cherish.
The book hasn’t been set out as a history text book – from the word go it was never intended to be. Instead its focus is on the community that makes up Brownhills rather than its changing bricks and mortar. It’s been written as a conversation between all the wonderful people who agreed to take part, with the local history snippets as a brilliant bonus. Hopefully, for those who’ve never before thought about the history of their local area, this will inspire them to find out more.
I’m Janet, activities co-ordinator at Knaves Court, and I’ve edited the book on behalf of the residents there. Quite a few of them follow you regularly and it would be wonderful if you could help us get the word out and share our enthusiasm.
This photo from ‘Memories of Brownhills Past’ by Clarice Mayo & Geoff Harrington was taken during one of Clayhanger’s notorious floods.
It’s always good to hear from ex-residents of the area and their memories, and here’s a lovely one that cam in a couple of weeks ago from Bryan Fletcher all the way from the Isle of Man – Bryan’s a former Clayhanger lad.
It’s always sad to return and find the place you remember so fondly has changed, I guess but Clayhanger in recent decades has really changed for the better considering it’s polluted, isolated and flooded past. Sadly that meant many memories met with the bulldozer.
Thanks to Bryan for a lovely thing and if you can add to the recollections, please do comment here or mail me: BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com – thanks to Martin for a really interesting curiosity.
Martin wrote:
Greetings from the Isle of Man!
Hi there Bob.
I was nostalgically combing through memories of the Walsall Wood colliery where my Pop, (grandad ) was a collier.
What memories!
I was born in a miners cottage at 57, Clayhanger Lane in 1946. My Pop’s name was Samuel James Fletcher and my Nan was Dorcas, (nee Rickaus).
The Duttons House that stood on the canal between Catshill Junction and Clayhanger Bridge is subject to some pretty wild claims about subsidence. Image from ‘Memories of Old Brownhills’ by Clarice Mayo and Geof Harrington.
We used to walk from and to Walsall and from and to the doctors at Walsall wood. I re-call the Wheel pub by the pit, it was where we got off if we were lucky enough to get a bus. The number 11 was to the other end of the lane I think.
In our row were five more houses, the Billings, the Days, the Talbots, the Ecclestones and one other chap I can’t re-call. the next door fella used to tap on the back of the bogey’ole, (indoor coal cupboard), door and I thought he was a ghost.
There was an old tin chapel halfway along the lane and a railway bridge over it, by gum we had some fun on that bridge!
Adjacent to our row of houses was the two overseers house opposite and the gangers two houses at an angle up a little dirt track. Further down towards the village was a stream under a little Bridge with Howdels? shop just before the bridge. We loved messing about in the stream but as I got older the stream got dirtier and filthier until even kids wouldn’t play in it.
The Iron Bridge in the late 80s from David Hodgkinson. How well we remember it…
We would walk into Brownhills through the ‘Spot’ where the big ponds on the the other side of the road from I think sand extraction caused a lot of subsidence. We then went over the iron footbridge over the ‘cut’.
My Nan could never understand why ,’they’, wouldn’t let her take over a small house that had submerged it’s whole bottom floor. She reasoned she could live in the top floor!
If we walked the other way to the top of the lane and into Brownhills we saw the meandering canal and the massive china clay workings with their great Cat bulldozers looming over this little fella. Well I was then. (H and H) eat ya heart out. Finally we would end up by the railway station and then on to Poxons the butchers and of course the Co-Op, (was that number 70046)? hah.
I took my boys to see where I lived a good while back and, SHOCK, HORROR! None of it existed, all gone, disappeared. Just as though the little community I was born and raised in never existed, ever.I checked on Google, No, nothing. There was absolutely no sign whatever, no brick no old fence, nothing.
Right I’m going to cry into my cocoa now.
Just thought you might be interested in the ramblings of an old Clanger.
All the very best
Bryan F. (for Fletcher, of course)
Denham, Isle of Man
Clayhanger from the air, as Bryan would no doubt remember it, in an Aerofilms image supplied previously by Brian Stringer.
Today, out of the blue, David Evans sent me an image connected with Old Bill that I’ve never seen before to my knowledge. It shows a brass band in uniform, purportedly behind the Station Hotel, outside the Roberts Brewery in Brownhills which was the seat of the Roberts great empire. The photo is of course, featured above.
The image contains the ‘ghostly image’ perhaps, of William himself – or perhaps someone else – who moved as the shot was taken.
David wrote:
This amazing photo caught my attention in Brownhills library this morning. The legend says that it shows a local band. The legend mentions that there is a ghostly image with it of William Roberts, publican and important local man.
I wonder if readers can help to identify which band this is, and who the tuba player, wearing a bowler hat is. I wonder where the photo was taken?
Did William Roberts really take part in his boxing bouts in a ring behind his Station Hotel, or is this urban myth?
Thanks to the librarian for allowing me to take the photo and to send it for further research
kind regards
David
A man and his fixed wheel steed, not dissimilar to many fixie hipsters one might see in big cities today. Image originally supplied by the John Anslow.
Please, if you can help identify the band, exact location or anything else connected with this image or the Roberts history, please do get in touch – you can comment here or mail me: BrownhillsBob at googlemmil dot com. Thanks.
My gratitude as ever to David for his sharp eye and constant hard work in pursuit of our history.
I am terribly sad that William has not even a plaque in his honour in Brownhills, and before I shuffle off the mortal coil or finally lose my marbles, I’d really like one of the successes of this blog to be achieving some kind of memorial or civic recognition no matter how small, to the original Mr. Brownhills.
William Roberts himself. Image from ‘Brownhills: A walk into history’ by Gerald Reece.
Welcome to Walsall Wood, Paget Rangers! Image Kindly supplied by David Evans.
Today, Saturday 28th April 2018
Walsall Wood are at home
Walsall Wood FC v Paget Rangers
This looks to be a fun match, followed by the presentation of the league cup following The Wood’s win last weekend
There will be a real party atmosphere with inflatables, fun and games etc. so get down there!
Wood v @PagetRangers in the @TotalMotionMFL tomorrow 3pm ko and receive the championship shield after the game Great celebration for all involved who’ve contributed to our success It’s great to be back where we belong FTGOTW
Hey – if you’re looking out for stuff to do this coming Saturday (28th April 2018), look no further than Brownhills Community Centre (The old Central Boy’s School, or Annex to my generation), just off the Miner Island in Brownhills.
Happening there will be a Creative Arts Fayre, which runs from 11am until 4pm. The Community Association had this to say about the event:
We have 15 exhibitors coming to our Creative Arts Fayre at Brownhills Community Centre; only room for one or two more (01543 452119 for details). This Saturday, 28th – doors open to the public 11am, free entry and parking; lots to see and buy.
There will be lots of great stuff to see, do and get involved with, and while you’re there you can check out all the other interesting stuff Brownhills Community Association do – from IT classes to coffee mornings.
If you pop along, why not take some pictures and send them to me so I can pop them up on the blog?
Meet your local policing team this Saturday at our very own grey Lubyanka…
[Sorry folks this post originally contained an error: I had stated this was on Saturday 28th April: My apologies, it’s a week later on Saturday 5th May 2018. My idiot hat is on and I apologise for any confusion or inconvenience caused]
I received notice of this great event from Brownhills Policing Team via the excellent WMNow service yesterday, advertising a pop-up meet the police event this coming Saturday afternoon, 5th May 2018 at The Parkview Centre, Brownhills (right on the Miner Island) from 1pm until 3pm where you can meet your local policing team and get help, crime prevention and public safety advice.
I must say, it’s good to see the local police making such concerted efforts to reach out to the public.
Police pop up stall taking place on Saturday 5th May - 1.00pm til 3.00pm @ The Park View Centre, Brownhills. Come along and say hello. https://t.co/JYhPcJ9El0 - we will sign you up! Wish to join neighbourhood watch or become a NHW co-ordinator? Let us know. 👮🏻♂️👍🏼 pic.twitter.com/2i94L0JgmZ
— Brownhills, Pelsall, Shelfield and Rushall Police (@BrownhillsWMP) April 25, 2018
Thanks everyone for your help and concern – Joe Titley, who police were looking for as a missing person yesterday (Wednesday 26th April 2018) has been found.
They posted a simple message late yesterday afternoon:
Thanks for your help everyone, missing Joe Titley has been found.
My immense gratitude to everyone who looked out for Joe, shared posts and helped to publicise the search.
New Hall Mill is a splendid place, restored and run by wonderfully dedicated volunteers.
I’m glad to say that Alan Dawson, Friend of New Hall Mill and also of the blog has been in touch to ask if I’d continue to support the Mill’s activities this summer and of course, I’m delighted to do so.
New Hall Mill is a restored and working water mill just outside the centre of Sutton Coldfield that’s a historic and engineering gem that dedicated volunteers have spent many years restoring. Throughout the late spring and summer they have free open days where you can explore the building and grounds and find out how this marvel works – and there are also great stalls, activities and demonstrations at every event. There’s a great tearoom, too!
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. You can contact the Friends via Facebook or their website, links at the foot of the post.
The list of events and open days for 2018 is below, with the first being a little over two weeks away on Sunday, May 13th 2018:
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 in 2015. I had a great time.
Today, Tuesday 24th April 2018 the funeral of Mylee Billingham took place in Brownhills at St. James Church.
I speak for myself, my family and all the readers and friends of the blog in expressing my deepest condolences to Mylee’s family, friends and the community who have felt this most painful of losses so terribly deeply.
It’s a falsehood people. Come on. Image circulating on Facebook.
Right people – it’s not often I’m moved to do this sort of thing but there’s a hoax spreading rapidly via Facebook at the moment and it’s gained such legs that I’ve been inundated with email about it – McDonalds HAVE NOT announced they’re opening, or coming soon, to the site of the Rising Sun pub in Brownhills West.
Last week a photoshopped image – shown above – was posted on local facebook groups as a wind up. The banner is clearly false and the picture is not current – it was actually taken by Brownhills historian and old mate of the blog David Hodgkinson. You can see the original below.
David said:
It wasn’t me!
Thanks to everyone who pointed out that the Rising Sun McDonalds sign is a spoof – but that’s my original photo. First I wondered if I should feel violated and sue but very soon the ego took over and I just think ‘Coo! Someone has actually found a use for one of my photos’.
The Creative Commons I use includes rights to ‘Adapt — remix, transform, and build upon the material’. I need to find one that forbids use that is illegal, fraudulent or attempts to dupe the public!
Whilst I respect and admire the guile and cunning of the windup (and let’s face it I’m still getting angry emails about the wind farm on the common so I’m not above being a tosser in this regard myself) the volume of contact I’ve had over the weekend has led me to this post: McDonalds do not (nor do anyone else) have any current plans lodged with the council to do anything with the Rising Sun site and at this moment in time (23rd April 2018) this rumour is UTTERLY FALSE.
So please stop sending me the image and being all angry. Cheers.
I hope a use can be found for the site, and to be honest, I could see a Drive Through of some sort working there if the access can be sorted safely. But I think any such thing is a long way off.
I tried contacting Dick Turpin’s agent for comment, but he was unavailable, presumed hiding in a secret tunnel near Stonnall.
The original image, by David Hodgkinson from just after last year’s fire.
Thanks to old friend of the blog Brian Stringer, I can share the above gallery of photos of the day, including our MP Wendy Morton. Thanks to David Evans for sorting the photos out, after he was indisposed at short notice.
I think few people realise that Brownhills has a fine musical and choral history, and that George Fullelove led a prize-winning choral society that really were the toast of musical circles, every bit the match for the great Welsh ensembles of the day.
George passed away in 1956, and the Fullelove Memorial Shelter or Arbor was unveiled in April, 1959. This curious hexagonal shelter still stands today on the corner of The Parade and Chester Road and was intended, not as many think as a bus shelter, but as a resting and meeting place for people of the town where they could sit and chat in the dry and out of the wind.
The Fullelove Memorial Shelter, or as many of us know it, ‘The 50p piece’. Image Kindly supplied by David Evans.
Many generations – including my own – called this shelter ‘The 50p piece’ and loved it, spending hours there.
In the last 12 months, several organisations including Brownhills Local Committee and Walsall Council have come together to get the Fullelove Memorial Shelter restored, and for an information board to be erected nearby, and I must say, it’s looking very smart.
The two teams emerge. Warwick played in yellow shirts. A super contest was about to unfold.
A snap first goal to the Wood, in the first few minutes of the game
The Wood celebrate their first goal . How will Warwick respond?
Concentration. First half
Warwick on the attack. First half.
Sporting, proximity soccer in abundance this afternoon. A cracking match
Later in the first half and the Red Army move forward en masse.
First half and a fine long ball launches a Warwick probing attack.
Warwick score their first goal to equalise the score in the first half. Game on.
Celebration time for Warwick. First half
A rare moment as players wait for a throw in to be taken.
Three Warwick players take on one Wood player to defend their goalmouth. First half
No wasted moves, no wasted passes, no wasted throw-ins. Excellent football.
Only just off-side, but a correct decision.
Wood score their second goal, first half, slicing clean through Warwick defence
Celebration time, briefly, and then back to work.
Nearly half time and the pace is relentless, leaving supporters enthralled., and near the bar
After a halftime tea and sandwiches the teams emerge, revitalised, and within a blink of an eye the Wood score a goal. Excellent tea.
Testing time now for Warwick as the Wood lead three goals to one. But they are not done!
Excellent team play and excellent individual football skills on display this afternoon
Second half and another goal to the Wood who are on song!
Celebration time, second half. How can Warwick respond?
Second half and Warwick launch another attacking move. Spirit, determination, resolve. Super
Weaver of magic soccer.
Not just a throw-in, a WWFC throw-in.
This was a full-on game today, and understandably cramp had some effect on players
Lightning speed by both attacker and defender sent the crashing in to the plastic boards. The game stops abruptly and a worrying silence descends as both players receive treatment. They are fine, and all the spectators applaud. Ouf. Game on again, then.
Second half. Weaving, turning, twisting, Delightful to spectate.
Second half goal to Warwick, and a well taken goal, too.
Second half rapid movement
Second half and one of several sporting duels takes place.
Ouch. Later in the second half Warwick score a goal. Come on the Wood!
Second half celebration time for Warwick.
Float like a butterfly…….Wood break through. Second half
The suddenly, the passion, thrill, excitement ends as the referee blow his whistle. An excellent game of soccer has graced the ground today.
Justin Hodgin, WWFC Chairman waits to applaud and congratulate all the players as they leave the pitch,
A 22 carat moment. Sincere applause rings out to salute all the players and the officials.
To sustained applause Walsall Wood team manager and assistant manager leave, red eyed and as emotional as everyone else present today. Magic.
The red Army jump for sheer joy. And this, after playing their hearts out all through this game.
Every player receives a personal embrace from the Chairman. A moment to savour and remember
Photo of the season, and real champagne. Only the best, for the best!
Not a drop is wasted! Thanks to players of both teams for today’s excellent soccer , and to the Wood for winning a well-deserved title. FTGOTW
Images and captions Kindly supplied by the young David Evans
It’s time for a mega football roundup – the young David Evans, Simon, Russell and co have been very hard at work reporting on the bewildering and packed schedule of matches home and away for Walsall Wood in the last week – and yesterday (Saturday 21st April 2018) the Woodmen had real cause to celebrate when their 4-3 win over Racing Club Warwick meant they have won the league this season.
My congratulations to all at Walsall Wood FC and to the faithful who have really worked hard for this: I’m sure I speak for many in saying Bill Shaw would be very pleased indeed. I’m sure he’s got plenty to say up there about it! Bill, that one was for you.
That doesn’t mean the football is over this season, far from it: On Tuesday evening next (24th April 2018) there’s a very interesting match in prospect against Ilkeston Town, so stay tuned!
David Evans wrote:
Walsall Wood 4 v 3 Racing Club Warwick Saturday 21st April 2018
[Bob’s note: Confusingly, although played at Chasetown FC this was a home match, relocated due to the St. George’s event at Oak Park.]
An excellent sporting game of real soccer which thrilled and delighted fans of both teams. Plenty of super action with seven goals in total this afternoon.
This was a game to remember for a long time, not only because winning gave Walsall Wood the league championship with plenty of games to spare, but because the spirit and sporting nature exhibited throughout the encounter by both sides was a credit to all of the players, and especially their team managers.
Spectators also saw an excellent, top class referee and linesmen in action which made the afternoon complete.
Walsall Wood won four goals to three, but Sporting Warwick played some excellent attacking football too and the final whistle came with WWFC supporters and Warwick supporters holding their breath.
Obviously, we’re all made up about this and it’s been a spectacular season for The Wood, who despite the poor weather and a heavy subsequent schedule have done brilliantly well, particularly considering their form the season previously.
In other football news, club channel The-Wood.TV also posted this footage of the Sporting Khalsa – Walsall Wood match in the Walsall Senior Cup on Thursday evening, 19th April 2018, which The Wood won 2-1:
Finally, let’s not forget in our euphoria that Walsall Wood FC’s Oak Park is also home to Pelsall Villa, and they played at home on Tuesday: David sent in this report and pictures.
Early in the first half . Northfield on the attack.
Second half and an attacking move by Pelsall , there, in the distance
Second half and the game re-starts after Pelsall score their second goal to take the lead again.
Almost at the limit of the camera now. First half
Second half, and Northfield have scored the equalising goal. Game on.
The whistle is blown to end the match. Pelsall Villa have marked up a super well-deserved win, three goals to one, leaving Northfield surprised and somewhat perplexed. That’s non-league soccer, super to spectate and appreciate.
The teams line up before the start of the game. Pelsall Villa played in red and Black shirts
First half and the first goal to Pelsall
First half meaningful football being played out. Spirit and determination. Love it.
Images and captions Kindly supplied by the young David Evans
Pelsall Villa 3 v 1 Northfield Tuesday 17th April 2018
A super sporting game to spectate where Pelsall and Northfield enjoyed playing on the lush grass surface at Oak Park.
Pelsall played with spirit and determination in the face of opponents who enjoyed a higher position in the league. To their credit Pelsall played up to the level required and at half time were one goal to nil in the lead.
The second half was played at the same fast pace as the first half and Northfield gained the equalising goal. Pelsall then scored a second goal to take the lead, and then showed great composure and possession. They broke through the Northfield defence and in the final part of the game Pelsall scored their third goal to seal the match.
A very good win for Pelsall Villa.
Thanks to David, Simon and Russell for great reporting and remember, it’s all For The Good of The Wood. My congratulations once more to a great local team.
Walsall Arboretum is a wonderful venue for a St George’s Day parade!
With the good weather and St. George’s Day upon us, it’s great to see so many events coming up to celebrate – and I’m pleased to share this one in Walsall on Sunday, 22 April 2017, which is free and kicks off at 10:30am.
This is also a great chance to visit the Arboretum which looks spectacular in spring following the wonderful refurbishment over the last few years. It really is a local gem.
Rowena Moseley got in touch to tell me about it:
A fine thing indeed
There’s a St. George’s Day parade being held by the Scouts in Walsall Arboretum on Sunday 22nd April 2018. Parade starts at 10.30am. All are welcome!
Come along and show your support for Scouting and your Country!
If you have a St George’s event you’d like me to plug, do shout up!
My best wishes to all involved, and if you pop up and take some pictures or just want to tell us about it, please do – comment here or mail me: BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com. Thanks!
The party funs from 2pm until midnight, with last admissions 8pm, at Walsall Wood FC’s Oak Park clubhouse.
Live bands include Marquis Drive, Live Wire, Play Things, Not Quite Dead Yet and From the Archive, and there will be a bouncy castle and snack van.
Ian is a top bloke, passionate about St. George, Brownhills and raising money for the Remembrance day parades as well as Veterans Life Line. So please do support him and this great event.
Hey folks – please be on the lookout for this distinctive white Ford Transit nine seater minibus, stolen this afternoon (Friday, 20th April 2018) from Leighswood Avenue, Aldridge, registration no HK61GDH and bearing a private hire licence number plate 547 on vehicle.
The van belongs to old mate of the blog Barry Carpenter, and it’s his sole source of income. He hasn’t just lost his wheels, he’s lost his means of earning a living, too.
Anyone with information about this theft is urged to contact West Midlands Police by dialling 101 or speak to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Just a quick note to point this event out that’s happening this evening (Friday, 20th April 2018) over in Cheslyn Hay that friend of the blog Stephen Hill has let me know about.
It’s a great disco at Cheslyn Hay Working Men’s Club, starting at 7:00pm and running through the eying, It’s just £5 a ticket with buffet included, and you can pay at the door. Kids go in free!
it’s all in aid of the appeal for the sensory room for disabled kids at the Walsall Child Development Centre, so what’s not to love?
Sorry for the delayed ad, but better late than never…
I’m pleased to see that the expansion of online history resources continues apace, with lots of formerly quite restrictive services opening up with more sensible usage terms and conditions – one such archive is the British Library’s Aerofilms archive of aerial photography of Britain from 1919-1953.
Aerofilms, as the leader in such imagery for years, jealously guarded their work and getting hold of it has always been difficult and expensive – they did, after all, make commercial hay with the coffee table books of Britain from the Air for the last four decades.
Well, since launching the online digital image archive a few years ago with useful but low-resolution images, the curators have now opened high resolution versions to the public for free – you just create yourself an account and which is free and easy to do and away you go.
It’s free to use the images for noncommercial purposes and the terms of use – that you include a link to the source page – are very reasonable indeed.
I’ve included here high-res versions of popular local images for you to peruse. Click on them to zoom in – you’ll be amazed what you can find. I do believe that’s a clear view of The Mets and Pike Helve. And just look at the devastation wrought by mining on what is now Chasewater North Heath. The gasworks is particularly fascinating.
Let me know what you find – comment here or mail me – BrownhillsBob at googlemmil dot com.
EPW015098 ENGLAND (1926). The High Street and environs, Walsall Wood, from the south-west, 1926. This image has been produced from a copy-negative. Click for full size version. https://britainfromabove.org.uk/en/image/EPW015098
Vehicle theft in Shire Oak – be on your guard, folks. Image from Bing! Maps.
I see from the excellent WMNow service that there has been a worrying theft of a car from Wrekin View, Shire Oak in the early hours of Wednesday morning (18th April 2018) which has been taken without keys – the latest in a series of such events across the local area of late.
The reader said:
A Ford Fiesta has been stolen from Wrekin View, Brownhills. The ’65’ registration vehicle, which had been left locked up by it’s owner, was stolen some time between midnight and 7am Wednesday 18th April 2018. Broken glass was discovered on the driveway and the vehicle was stolen by unknown means. The owner still has the keys.
If you have any information that may assist the investigation please contact the police by dialling 101 and quoting crime reference number 20WS/85266L/18. Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Don’t forget you can secure your vehicle by using a good-quality steering wheel lock or similar physical security device. West Midlands Police have negotiated a 15% discount on Disklok products for WM Now users.
Please be vigilant, and I’d ask anyone with information to contact the Police, no matter how trivial you think it may be. It could, after all, be your motor next.
Anyone with information is urged to contact West Midlands Police by dialling 101 or speak to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Sorry folks – WordPress, the hosts of the blog have been having some technical issues in the last 24 hours so I’ve been unable to post but I’d like to draw your attention to a great quiz night taking place this Friday evening at Brownhills Community Centre.
It’s being hosted by the wonderful Followspot Productions and Shake Entertainment, and kicks off at 7:30pm. The quiz is designed to allow the use of smartphones so there can’t be any cheating!
There will be a bottle bar and it’s only £4 a person to enter. What’s not to love there?
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.
It’s all going on at Brownhills Community Centre. Image from Walsall Council.
Beware is you down a van in Shire Oak and the wider Brownhills area. Imagery from Google Maps.
A quick warning to people with vans and appeal to folk in Brownhills for information – On Monday night into Tuesday Morning (15-16th April 2018), there were at least two break-in into vans in the town; one in the Ogley Road area and another in Shire Oak.
There appear to have been three offenders in both cases, and the Ogley Road report suggests they may have been in a Burgundy coloured, medium sized van.
During the break in at Shire Oak they were disturbed and sped off. This would have been at around 1:30 to 2:00am.
These scumbags have targeted someone trying to earn a living. It’s heartbreaking and my sympathies for the loss.
The people doing this are more than likely doing it to raise cash from the proceeds of selling what they steal. If you know of anyone hawking around gear that seems to be dubious, please grub them into the police – the stuff they’re flogging is probably nicked.
Meanwhile, West Midlands Police have recovered the following tools in an unrelated seizure in Darlaston and are trying to find the owners. Check out the video and Facebook post embedded below.
Anyone with information is urged to contact West Midlands Police by dialling 101 or speak to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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