Why not pop down to Oak Park and catch some cracking footy?
Tuesday 18th July 2017
Walsall Wood entertain the Stafford lads in a pre-season friendly at Oak Park
Walsall Wood v Stafford Rangers
Don’t break your Wood vows, be there, be faithful to your local heroes
Note the slightly early 7:30pm kickoff
Please get behind your local club
For The Good Of The Wood!
Match report to follow!
A great community pub revived, rejuvenated and loved by drinkers local and distant. Archive picture from 365days.
It’s been six short years since Jane and Geoff Taylor took over The Swan pub on Pelsall Road, Brownhills, transforming it from a pub long closed and thought of as lost to an absolutely banging community real ale pub.
Well, I’m sad to say that this Sunday, Jane and Geoff finally retire and will hand over to new lessees Gary and Shannon. To mark the occasion there will be riotous Ukulele band Not Quite Dead Yet playing on Sunday afternoon – so why not pop in and give them your best wishes?
Laura Taylor wrote:
Hi Bob,
Hope you’re well. My parents are leaving the Swan Pub in Brownhills on Monday 24th July and they’re having a Ukulele band on the afternoon of Sunday 23rd.
The new owners are taking over and re-opening on Tuesday 25th (Shannon Roberts and Gary Wiggin). Just wondering if you could share on your blog?
Thanks
Laura Taylor
Jane posted on The Swan’s Facebook page:
On SUNDAY JULY 23rd we shall be CLOSING at 10pm. This will be Geoff and myself’s last shift so please come along and say Goodbye before we leave.
The pub will RE-OPEN on TUESDAY 25th at 4pm under the new Leaseholders (Gary & Shannon) ownership.
PLEASE give them your full support while they settle in.
I wish Jane and Geoff all the best – I’ve had many a good night in that pub under their stewardship and never regretted any of them (well, only the after effects…) – they really did achieve something I thought impossible, that of turning an empty building into a living, breathing hub of the community.
I’d also like to wish Shannon and Gary all the best for the future, too. Please do give them your support.
The Claridge store in Walsall Wood – image very kindly donated by Chris Smith.
Thos nice people from Claridge Electricals in Walsall Wood and Brownhills have been in touch to ask if I’d give their 60th Anniversary raffle a plug.
Claridges are a longstanding, well-respected local domestic white goods and entertainment sales and repair company with stores in Brownhills and Walsall Wood, this year celebrating sixty years of serving the local area for all their electrical needs.
It’s rare indeed to see an independent electrical sales shop that survives and thrives.
Tickets are just £2,50 each and can be purchased from either store, with the draw to take place on Friday, 29th September 2017.
60th ANNIVERSARY PRIZE DRAW
First Prize: Mini Range Cooker,
Second Prize: 32″ TV
Third Prize: 7″ Tablet
Fourth Prize: Dyson Vacuum
Fifth Prize: Microwave
Sixth Prize: Kettle & Toaster
Draw to take place on Friday 29th September 2017
43 High Street,
Walsall Wood,
Walsall.
West Midlands,
WS9 9LR.
Tel: 01543 373207
TICKETS: £2.50 EACH
Thanks and best wishes to all at Claridges and good luck! I could do with a new TV…
Modern day Catshill seems focused on the area of Sadler and Ogley Roads, but in earlier times seems to have extended some way up Shire Oak Hill. Image of the area on a snowy day in 2016 supplied by drone pilot Pete Hummings.
We’ve not been doing enough local history here lately, and I’m rectifying that forthwith a remarkable article from David Evans, whose research into what could well have been the first place of worship in Brownhills is stunning.
I thank David for this, and also a whole bunch of local and not so local collaborators, Sir Gerald of Reece, Peter ‘Pedro’ Cutler, Andy ‘Captain Wyrley’ Dennis and Keith Arblaster, amongst many others. Once more it’s a pleasure and an honour to be able to feature material of such a high quality on the blog.
Please, if you have anything to add – you’re welcome: either by commenting here, or mailing me – BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com. Cheers.
David Evans wrote:
The very first Primitive Methodist church, built 1811 in Tunstall, as a row of houses Image courtesy of myprimitivemethodists.org.uk
A Game of Cat and Mouse
Some while ago, when researching the Walsall Wood Ebenezer Primitive Methodist Church opening I was made very welcome in the Local history Centre in Walsall, and there I set about trawling through the index of the vast archives. One simple reference caught my eye, and this has led to a long, protracted game of cat and mouse.
The index showed that the minute book for the Lichfield Primitive Methodist Circuit for the mid 1800s was to be found in Lichfield Record Office. Walsall Wood Primitive Methodist Church, the first chapel, dated back to 1865 or thereabouts, so it would be useful to see this valuable record.
The Circuit Minute book is a small, thick tome and, unlike the Minute Book for Ebenezer, and is full of beautiful, clear pen and ink handwritten minutes. Reading through these minutes I noticed a reference to a chapel in ‘Catshill’… in later years, a reference to ‘Mr Green, dealing with the affairs for Brownhills’ and later still, a reference to ‘Brownhills’ chapel – and no more reference to ‘Catshill’.
So, had the chapel changed its name, or had the Catshill chapel closed?
Catshill is an area in modern day Brownhills, more or less around the junction of High Street and Ogley Road. But Catshill seems to have been its own discrete community, and seems to pre-date Brownhills as the settled town it has been for the last 150 years.
I turned to Gerald Reece’s wonderful history book, ‘Brownhills. A walk into History’ for help. Sure enough, his book does include his own pencil copies of old maps and plans of this area, Catshill, from as far back as 1797, where Catshill is shown, and much further away a ‘Brownhill’. Here I pay tribute to dear Gerald, for his book is the fruit of many years’ work where he sat in libraries and made hand-drawn pencil copies of documents, way before the time of the internet.
Sadly, no chapel is apparent – at least, not at first sight. More of this later. But a ‘Gospel Bank’ is named, opposite the Warreners Arms former pub in High Street, and set away from the road a little.
I contacted another researcher par excellence, Peter ‘Pedro’ Cutler, and asked if there were any other ‘Gospel Banks’ or was the name used here only. He could find no other Gospel Bank mentioned in newspaper archives but suggested it may be a phrase from antiquity.
Intriguing.
I consulted another local historian of note, Bill Mayo. Did he know of a ‘Gospel Bank’ near the Warreners? I described where I thought it may have been. Bill remembered that there had been a blacksmith’s forge there (1900s) Was there any significance in this? I do not know.
A phone call and discussion with Gerald followed after a while. I love conversing with Gerald. He is full of measured enthusiasm and often makes a simple point which clarifies, bless him. There had been a chapel, somewhere along the Ogley Road. It had been sold.
I turned to another friend for help. Andy Dennis has a fine academic perception, thoroughness and skill. Within a few hours he sent me his measured response. Perhaps the arrival of the railway through Brownhills, mid 1850s, brought commercial growth at the other end of the village, as well as an increase in population: two reasons for the need to move and build a larger chapel elsewhere, in the growing and developing Brownhills.
He also sent me some intriguing newspaper cuttings. In 1864 the former Catshill chapel was put up for sale, and the advertisement suggested the possibility of converting the former chapel into houses.
Staffordshire Advertiser, Saturday July 10th 1852. Click for a larger version.
So, what did this first chapel look like?
Gerald had suggested that at the time it was common for the Minister to live by the chapel. The press cutting certainly hints that may have been the case at Catshill. So I turned to a website, My Primitive Methodists, to learn that the Reverand Bourne (one of the two founders of Primitive Methodism) had built his first chapel near Stoke on Trent, I believe, as a row of houses so that if the movement failed, it could be easily re-used. As far as I am aware, no image remains of that little chapel at Catshill, but…
Not Brownhills, but Filkins chapel and house, built in 1850. Did Catshill chapel look like this? Image courtesy of myprimitivemethodists.org.uk
Is it possible to accurately locate the first Catshill chapel?
Gerald Reece’s map does show something, so small I could not make it out..in a triangular piece of land, along Ogley Road.
That triangle of land is indeed very interesting. Image from ‘Brownhills: A walk into History’ by Gerald Reece.
Andy Dennis, with his expert eye, located this piece of land at the junction of Ogley Road and Valley View. I took a close-up photo of that part of Gerald’s map. ‘Chapel’!
Andy Dennis of the wonderful Andrew’s Kindred blog helped with the above map segments identifying the probably location of the chapel off Ogley Road. Reproduced with the permission of the National Library of Scotland. Click for larger versions.
He said the following:
I think I might be able to put an, albeit speculative, slant on this from an Andrew’s Kindred perspective. 2x great grandfather Henry Dennis lived at Catshill from about 1852. His son, at least was a leading light in Park View. I wonder if the apparently reported conditions at Catshill had something to do with setting up Park View? Maybe it was just that the Deakins and Shinglers were on the Watling Street and found a place there? Or was it that Buckley and Dennis both came from NW Leicestershire? Or was it just that they were all miners who converged in Brownhills? Maybe there was a falling out? What about the role of women in the Wesleyan movement? This is something for to be developed when we get a chance.
There is some speculation about the origins of Catshill, which seems pretty ancient, but there seems to be no precise evidence.
Anyway, on the 1882 OS map the same triangular plot is shown as, probably residential development, which you refer to in your article. See attached.
You can see the same boundary on the 1901-1903 map. Where there are two years the first is when surveyed, the second in when published.
Boundaries tend to persist and you can still see that kink in the southern boundary on Google Earth!
Was the chapel sold off and converted?
Well, there number of dwellings does increase. In the 1841 census, 9 dwellings, (Staffs-Shenstone-Lichfield-district 19 using William Littley as focus name): 1851, now 15 dwellings, 1861 also 19 dwellings. Does the 1871 census show an increase in people and no increase in the number of dwellings? Interestingly in 1841 the principal occupation was ‘Miner’. Where were the coalmines in 1841?
Turning again to My Primitive Methodists I found this amazing article…
The Primitive Methodist magazine for February 1857 contains an account by John Lawley of the opening of Brownhills Mount Zion Primitive Methodist chapel. Brownhills possessed “some of the richest coal and iron mines in the kingdom”.
A small society was formed by Richard Ward around 1837 and a small chapel built. Over time a bigger chapel was needed and a plot of land 300 yards square was bought at 62s per yard from Mr Arblaster, an independent church member sympathetic to the cause. The building was undertaken by Mr Croft of Walsall and the foundation stone was laid on August 26th 1856 by JW Round with a sermon preached by J Lawley.
By October “the walls were raised and the roof on without the least accident having occurred”. Building did not take long in those days! A tea meeting was held in the chapel on October 6th; the Trustees anticipated 600 attending. In fact there were 750 “and some went unsupplied”.
The opening took place on November 16th and 23rd. Sermons were preached by WE Saunders of Tunstall and H Wheeler of Ludlow.
The completed building was 36′ x 30′ and 26′ from floor to ceiling. It had “a good orchestra behind the pulpit” and was intended to have a gallery in the future. The cost was £420 and of that £212 had been raised. Donors included “the ex-mayor of Walsall” and Mr Harrison.
The Brownhills Bob blog tells us that the chapel was replaced in 1895 by a further building in the High street. It was closed in 1964. In 2013, Kwik-fit accupied the site. Thee are pictures on the Brownhills Bob blog.
[I’m twitchy about the above article referencing me, but that’s irrational – it’s just making me think about citogenesis and this article, where I navel gaze about references – Bob]
This helps to confirm that there had been a small Primitive Methodist Community, which we can now locate in Catshill from 1837, that it’s chapel was smaller than 36 x 30 x 26, and that land for the larger replacement, along the High Street Brownhills had been bought from a Mr. Arblaster.
So I asked a friend, a Mr. Keith Arblaster, who lives in Walsall Wood, if he knew how big the local (i.e. from Pelsall Road area and towards Bullings Heath) farm was that his ancestors had owned in the early 1800s .
It stretched right up to the High Street in Brownhills. Two ancestors, Tom and Charles, were the farmers.
(Keith had previously fully researched his family tree some years ago, with access to the Church of the Latter Day Saints vast records and other sources ).
So now we have a replacement for the Catshill Church. It was called Mount Zion, right from its opening in 1856, and was situated on the High Street.
What did the first Mount Zion, in High Street Brownhills, look like?
Quite recently Silver Street Methodist Church in Brownhills celebrated the 50th anniversary of their present-day building, which replaced the High Street Mount Zion chapel. In a commemorative chapel opening booklet from 1967 there is an article, written by Mr. AH Craddock who was a Mount Zion chapel elder, which recalled the original Mount Zion chapel in High Street Brownhills, and it
being identical to the Primitive Methodist Chapel in Paradise Lane, Pelsall before being enlarged in the 1890s.
Now, there is a photograph of the Primitive Methodist Chapel in Paradise Lane, Pelsall.
Image courtesy of myprimitivemethodists.org.uk.
It, too, was demolished many years ago. Like many Primitive chapels, it was built to be functional. The downstairs was a Sunday Schoolroom, social meeting place and function room. A wooden staircase led to the upstairs chapel, and I remember that the small pulpit was obviously made for the (somewhat smaller) preachers of the day.
Oh yes, the chapel in Paradise Lane Pelsall, was near to Mouse Hill!
I would like to thank those kind gentlemen named in this article, and an anonymous friend, for their wonderful help.
David Evans
July 2017
We’ve previously featured the past days of the Legion in Brownhills when we helped locate the location (Lichfield Road) of this photo, which eventually turned up the plaque itself – now in the Parkview Centre! Image from the Bill Mayo collection.
I’m glad things seem to have… settled down a little in the last few days and we can get back to what we do best: Local history.
I’ve had a fascinating and very detailed enquiry come in from reader Emma Smith that I’m hoping some of the old blog hands and researchers can help with – I know that Brownhills still has a British Legion Branch (whose current appeal for the Remembrance Parade is very important) and I hope someone can hook up with them to perhaps light this enquiry up.
We featured the history of the local branch of the Legion some time ago with the story of the above photo and plaque, now with pride of place in the Parkview Centre after being found in a garage!
Thanks to Emma for a fascinating enquiry. If you can help, please do comment here or mail me: BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com.
Hi Bob
I’m not sure if anyone can help but its worth a shot.
My Grandmother is 93 and whilst doing my family tree I have been looking into my Great Grandfather Edward Tunstall previously of 165, Watling Street, Brownhills. He was a soldier in South Staffordshire Regiment surviving the Boar war and the Somme.
After leaving the Army he worked back at the colliery and also joining the Old Contemptibles and British Legion. My Grandmother remembers his time in the British Legion well as he was a Standard Bearer and was very proud of this position. She remembers every Sunday there would be a meeting which was held at the Headquarters which were at the time at The Wilkin Road Club (The Waterside) she said there used to be a huge photo of him in the club and several others dotted around.
I am basically wondering if there is still anyone around that remembers these pictures and if there is still a Brownhills British Legion that may have any records in relation to him.
When he died in 1949 he had a beautiful funeral thanks to the British Legion and my grandmother remembers them carrying his coffin through Brownhills draped in a flag. It would be great if I could find some information in relation to him as we have been unsuccessful in relation to Army records.
Years later my Grandmother’s in-laws Doris and Sidney Hewitt ran The Wilkin Road Club and remembers that the photos and the meetings were no longer held at the club.
Thank you in anticipation.
Emma Smith
This is a fantastic annual event with its roots in the Bandstand Marathons I really enjoyed a few years back…
Also on today, Sunday 16th July 2017 at Walsall Arboretum Bandstand will be a great live family show – the Chuckery Music Festival 2017 Bandstand Music Event – featuring great local bands and musicians to suit all tastes with food, drink and kids rides also available.
The fun starts at 12 noon and runs right through the afternoon – and the best bit? It’s absolutely free to attend.
You could easily combine this with the classic car event also on in the Arboretum for a terrific day of fun for all the family.
There are some great bands on, including one of my favourite local bands – The Martian Social Club – whose heritage lies in the late, great Ron’s Neighbours. Ask your dad.
If you attend please feel free to share pictures and other media!
Some great local acts.
Image from Steampics.I
If you’re into steam engines, old vehicles, amazing contraptions and mechanical jumble then there’s a great event on today between Barton under Needwood and Yoxall: Barton Gate Steam Rally.
There are all manner of steam vehicles and stationaries, from Mamod models to huge lorries; there are vintage cars, motorbikes, tractors and trucks; displays of falconry, animal charities and other fun stuff – plus a licensed bar and lots of great food.
Entry is £6 for adults, and accompanied kids get in free. It’s a lovely friendly event. Why not pop up there?
Barton Gate Charity Steam Rally
Steam Event, Sunday 16th July 2017
Contact info :
07815 917421
Needwood Rise Farm, Barton Gate, Barton under Needwood, Staffordshire, DE13 8AP
Email : info@bartonsteam.co.uk
Website : http://www.bartonsteam.co.uk/
Something For The Whole Family
Full Size Steam Engines and Miniature Steam, Commercial and Military Vehicles,
Vintage and Classic Cars,Vintage Motor Cycles and Cycles, Stationary Engines, Tractors,
Live Working Demonstrations, Auto Jumble,Trade Stalls, Craft Marquee,
Children’s Fairground Rides, Live Entertainment, Hot And Cold Food, Licensed Bar.
This really is quite a large invent in a beautiful rural setting. Image from Bartonsteam.
Hi everyone
Thanks to Kelly Allport for the news that Katie has been found safe and well. – wonderful news.
Thanks for all the shares, retweets and for taking a look out.
Thanks
Bob
Have you seen Katie? Images posted on Facebook by Kelly Allport.
An urgent appeal has come in from local lady Kelly Allport, whose friend’s daughter, Katie Henworth has not been seen since yesterday000 (Friday, 15th July 2017) – West Midlands Police are involved, and I’m asking all readers to keep a look out and if they know where Katie is, to please ask her to contact her parents.
Kelly Allport wrote:
Hi Bob
The daughter of a friend of mine Katie Henworth has been missing since yesterday, Friday 14th July 2017.
She didn’t return home last night and doesn’t have her phone with her.
Anyone who knows where she is please do get in touch.
The police have been informed and investigations are underway.
Please, please if any has seen or heard from Katie can you let me or her mom Sarah Henworth no as she is worried sick.
Please share this as widely as you can.
If you see Katie, or have any information at all, please can you call West Midlands Police on 101 or the Missing People charity on 116 000.
The car’s the star at the Arboretum this Sunday! Image from Classic Motorshows UK.
Friend of the blog and top local history author Clive Roberts has been in touch to let me know that there’s a Classic Car Show on at Walsall Arboretum this Sunday 16th July 2017.
It runs from 10am until 4pm, and adult entry is £6, and £3 for kids between 4-16. There will be a whole range of classic and vintage cars, plus lots of stalls, an auto jumble and entertainment too.
The event is run by Classic Motorshows UK and you can find out more at their website here.
The organisers have this to say about their Walsall event:
Classic Motor Show: Walsall Arboretum Extension, Broadway, Walsall, WS1 2QA
Set in the popular surroundings of Walsall Arboretum and now in its 27th year, the Walsall Classic Motor Show is a fantastic day out.
A great display of pre and post war classic plus some great commercial vehicles of yesteryear.
With up to 500 vehicles plus autojumble, trade stands and a packed interactive arena to keep you entertained all day.
Don’t forget to get the family around the arena at 12.30 for the famous decibel duel which even the big kid in you will enjoy.
Admission Fees:
Adults: £6
Children (4-16 years): £3
If you pop along and take some pics, why not share them here? BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com – cheers!
A treat for enthusiasts and casual spectators alike!
This Saturday and Sunday (15th and 16th July 2017) will be quite a special weekend for the local powerboat community as Chasewater hosts the PowerBoatGP 2017 Chasewater Grand Prix at our favourite reservoir and country park.
There are races both days, and the action commences at 10:00am and runs through to 5pm, and I believe it’s free to spectate – so why not pop up and take a look?
You can check out the PowerGP website here.
This all harks back to the golden age of powerboat racing at Chasewater and the 24 Hour races – which I’ve covered here before. It’s great to see this kind of thing return.
The organisers of the Chasewater Grand Prix, PowerGP had this to say:
Join us for 2 days of action packed racing as the Chasewater Watersports Centre hosts a round of the Powerboat GP RYA British Championships which will be held at Chasewater Country Park , Pool Road, Nr Brownhills, WS8 7NL
Classes Participating:
F2, GT15, GT30, F4, O/Hydro, T850, OSY400
Image from One For The Road’s Facebook page.
The folks from the Chase Inn at Newtown, Brownhills has been in touch to let me know that there’s live music on again at the popular Brownhills pub this evening (Saturday 15th July 2017), with popular rock act One For The Road live tonight from 9:00pm – and you’d be a fool to miss it!
The Chase Inn said:
Come and join us on Saturday the 15th of July for a good ol’ rock ‘n’ roll with the party starting at 7.30 followed by the brilliant boys from One For The Road!
We’re open all day folks so why not relax with us before the festivities of the evening.
Dub and Cat will be pouring your drinkies allllll the way to 1am!
Lets make this a night to remember!
You can check out the band’s Facebook page here.
Why not get down there? You’re guaranteed an excellent time…
For the satnav folk, the address is: 6 Watling Street, Newtown, Brownhills WS8 6JS
You can contact the pub on: 01543 899568 or visit their Facebook page.
The Chase Inn is a great local pub for music, entertainment and real ale! Image from the pub’s Facebook page.
Walsall Wood FC have a great reputation for entertaining football, and a keen, loyal and friendly bunch of supporters! Come join in the fun this Saturday and see some cracking sport.
Saturday 15th July 2017
The Wood are at home for their second pre-season friendly!
Walsall Wood FC versus Sutton Coldfield Town FC
Note the early kickoff at 12:30pm!
Hopefully, a match report will follow…
For the Good of the Wood!
Check out Walsall Wood FC’s website here
A new year and Cockfest evolves…
Long term readers will remember the annual music and fun festival that’s taken place on the smallholding just off the A5 at Newtown, Brownhills – formerly called Cockfest (because it took place on a chicken farm).
This year it’s seen some changes and is now called A5 live, and takes place from Friday 4th August to Sunday 6th August 2017, and tickets are now on sale.
Martin Payton, the organiser, had this to say:
Hi Bob
With only a few weeks to go until A5live 2017 attention is all on ticket sales and promotion, tickets are selling fast but we only can have 499 people on site so I would advise prior purchase of tickets to guarantee your admittance!
Do not miss out and forget it as its for Macmillan Cancer Support and will be a great local event.
The event will feature live music Friday, Saturday and Sunday and there will also be a classic/motorsport car display, custom bikes and scooters along with live mobile firing range, metal detecting walk, a falconry display as well as other things to be confirmed.
Line up for A5live 2017
Friday August 4th, start 6pm
- Arran page (acoustic music)
- Pollen (punk, jazz, hip hop)
- Big Wolf Band ( Blues rock)
- The live wire (britpop, ska,soul, 90s)
Saturday August 5th, Start 4pm
- Soul child (soul with blues twist)
- Ties unbroken (indie, 60s to present)
- Skyfoil (acoustic rock)
- White Tyger (classic rock/soft metal classics)
- Funk & disorderly (funky soul and blues)
Large bar and restaurant will cater for food and drink.
Tickets now on sale via PayPal – Friday evening £5, a Saturday day pass is £10, Sunday until close £5 and a weekend pass just £17.50.
For tickets, mail Kim on a5livefestival@hotmail.com
Email confirmation will be sent with unique ticket number for wristband
You can get also get tickets from the Chase Inn, call the hotline on 07487 770008 or contact the crew via the A5 Live Facebook page here.
I wish everyone the best for this and it’s always good to see money raised for MacMillan, one of my favourite charities.
Get your tickets soon before they sell out!
Images and details kindly supplied by reader Stephen.
Yesterday evening, Wednesday 12th July 2017, there was a serious incident in Walsall Wood High Street, in which a man suffered a head injury – Brigg Ford from West Midlands Police has just issued the following statement:
Walsall Police Inspector Jackie Nicholson, said: “We received a series of 999 calls just before 10pm on Wednesday (12 July) reporting a man having been attacked with a machete near the Boatmans Rest pub in Walsall Wood High Street.
“The victim, a 24-year-old man, suffered a gash to his head and has been treated in hospital; his condition is not life threatening. Enquiries are underway to identify the offender.
“It’s understood this was a targeted attack and linked to a fight at a carnival in Pelsall on Saturday (July 8) that led to the arrest of seven people on suspicion of violent disorder, plus five more from what’s believed to be a connected disorder in Bloxwich on 10 July.
“They have all been bailed pending further enquiries, and a vehicle has been seized for a forensic examination as part of the wider investigation.
“We will not tolerate outbursts of violence like this and will come down hard on those responsible; anyone linked to these disorders can expect to be arrested and put before the courts.
“I’d ask anyone with information about this incidents to contact my team in the Force CID Investigation Unit at Walsall police station on 101, or by calling the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.”
My thanks to Brigg, Gina Lycett and Inspector Sophie Worthington of the Brownhills Policing Team wfor their hep with this post.
I would ask that anyone with any information please contacts West Midlands Police on 101, any of the methods here or anonymously via Crimestoppers.
Please be considerate and consider the feelings of the victim’s family when commenting on social media. Whilst debate and discussion are to be expected, please be thoughtful and consider those involved when expressing views.
As soon as more information emerges, I’ll post it here.
Images and details kindly supplied by reader Stephen.
Yesterday evening, Wednesday 12th July 2017, there was a serious incident in Walsall Wood High Street, believed to have taken place outside the Boatman’s Rest pub which saw a heavy emergency services response, including an armed police unit and the West Midlands Police helicopter.
Details are sketchy at the moment, but I have lodged enquiries in with local police and as soon as I get and answer, I’ll share information here on the blog.
At the moment, it appears there was some kind of fight outside the pub, during which a man sustained a serious head injury from a bladed weapon.
The altercation is believed to have been related to one earlier in the day at Oak Road, Walsall Wood, and previous incidents over the weekend at Pelsall. This is unconfirmed, but I have good reason to believe this to be the case.
I realise information is scant at the moment, and the rumour mill is in overdrive but I would ask that readers are sensitive and considerate with discussion and speculation on social media.
More will be posted here as I have it.
Clayhanger Park. Imagery from Bing! Maps.
Late notice I know but there is a drop in session this afternoon )Wednesday, 12th July 2017) at Holy Trinity School in Clayhanger to discuss options for renovating and upgrading Clayhanger Park – anyone is welcome to come find out more and have their say – don’t worry if you miss this one, there’s another on Saturday afternoon (15th July 2017).
The sessions are organised by Walsall Council’s Clean and Green unit and the Friends of Clayhanger Park.
Hi friends of Clayhanger Park
Clean and Green with the Friends group are having two drop in sessions in Clayhanger where you can have your say on how the park is improved.
The first meeting At Holy Trinity School Wednesday 12th July 2017 3.30pm until 5,30pm.
The second meeting on the Saturday 15 July 2017 to be held on the park itself – that is Clayhanger Playing Fields, Church St rest 1pm until 5pm
Please come and have your say. We will be pleased to meet you.
You can check out the Friends of Clayhanger Park on Facebook here.
I’m interested in all local friends groups here on the blog, and regularly advertise meetings of the Friends of Brownhills Common – if your group is holding a meeting, why not drop me a line? BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com. Cheers.
Just a warning that there are road patching works today and tomorrow daytime (Wednesday 12th and Thursday 13th July 2017) between Miner Island and Co-op corner on Lichfield Road. Closure may be in place. Avoid if possible.
#Bus Daytime roadworks today and tomorrow ion Lichfield Road #Brownhills. Buses 10/10A diverted via The Parade and Watling Street.
— Transport for West Midlands (@TransportForWM) July 12, 2017
This is a quick post but very important – have you seen this lost Macaw that’s gone missing from Shelfield?
My blue and gold macaw still missing.
She has been seen opposite the Co-op and Vets4Pets at Spring Cottage in Shelfield which is where we lost sight of her.
Also spotted flying over the back gardens of Pelsall Lane yesterday evening, so she’s staying local! Please keep ears and eyes open and call my mom with any news whatever the time.
Last sighting in Burton Avenue around 7pm last night and flew up the field of Rushall JMI School which is quite close to home – no sight or sound this morning.
The reward has recently been increased.
If you see or hear her please call 07771890720 asap
£1000 reward for her safe return please share
This lady is absolutely desperate to get this beautiful creature back home – please help if you can. You can contact Angie via Facebook, here or by calling 07771 890720.
If you prefer you can comment here or mail me and I’ll pass any info on – BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com.
The chance to hear Bill Mayo speak is not to be missed!
Don’t forget that this Friday (14th July 2017) at the new Lamp Arts theatre venue within Brownhills Activity Centre, you have a chance to hear a remarkable local historian speak – you really need to get moving, as tickets are selling fast!
Bill Mayo, without whom our communal history and this blog would be very much the poorer, will be giving a fun and informal talk from 7:30pm about local history, with stories and anecdotes about old Brownhills, Walsall Wood and surrounds.
I’ve heard noted author Bill speak several times previously and he’s fun, entertaining and has a wonderful sense of humour. He doesn’t give too many talks these days, so this is a real coup for the Lamp Arts venue and an event not to be missed for blog readers.
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. Find out more here.
Tickets are just £3 including a brew and nibbles – so what’s not to love? You can get a ticket by calling 01543 452119 or popping into the Activity Centre. But do so soon, because this is sure to be a sellout!
Brownhills CommunityAssociation are proud to present
A Ride on the 23
An evening of nostalgia and memories from Brownhills and the surrounding area with photos and anecdotal stories
Friday 14th July 2017 from 7:30pm Tickets £3 (including tea/coffee & nibbles)
Contact the Box Office on 01543 452 119
Have you seen this Yamaha 125, stolen last Friday? It may have been sold on. Image supplied by Gavin Elson.
Also taken this weekend, the motorbike pictured above, which was stolen from Chasewater on Friday evening , 7th July 2017.
Reader Gavin Elon tells me the bike is a Yamaha 125, reg DZ65 DZO and was stolen from the South Shore car park at around 6pm.
The bike belongs to a young lad who worked hard to pay for it and is heartbroken.
If someone you know has just inexplicably tooled up on a new bike, check it out, please – after all, it might be your stuff they steal next.
Anyone with information about either of these incidents is urged to contact West Midlands Police by dialling 101 or speak to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
You can always mail me in confidence if you’d rather – BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com. Cheers.
Image posted on social media by Louise Heath.
We’ve had a spate of car and motorbike thefts over the past few days in the area, and I’ve got a couple coming up I’d like readers to particularly look out for – the first being this silver Mercedes ML270 4×4, registration the very distinctive 53VKG.
It was taken following a burglary at 2:15am on Sunday, 9th July 2017 at Cedar Avenue, Brownhills during which money and the keys to the car were stolen.
The vehicle is later believed to have been seen at Reedswood in Walsall an hour later at 3:15am, and possibly near the Ogley Club at 7:15am.
The owner is a disabled gentleman and the car is his lifeline.
Anyone with information about this awful incident is urged to contact West Midlands Police by dialling 101 or speak to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
You can contact Louise Heath, the daughter of the victim, directly on Facebook here.
You can always mail me in confidence if you’d rather – BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com. Cheers.
We all love the common, but its management has proven controversial. Why not pop along to the meeting and discuss the issues with the experts and other users?
Here’s one for people interested in the issues surrounding Brownhills Common – theres a meeting this Monday 10th July 2017 of the Freinds of Brownhills Common group at the Environmental Depot, 200 Pelsall Road, Brownhills – WS8 7EN – please meet in the reception by 7:00pm.
Brownhills Common needs a good active friends group and this is your opportunity to join in and have your say in shaping the future management of the open space we all love.
The meeting is also open to the general public who may not wish to join the friends group, but are encouraged to attend and hear what everyone has to say.
It’s important that we recognise what a valuable, fragile and important habitat Brownhills Common is, and why it requires careful and measured stewardship.
If you’ve only heard the alarmists, it’s a good opportunity to go out and meet, talk and listen to people who understand the issues and want to preserve the wildlife, and to help shape the future of Brownhills’ greatest asset.
Carnival 1989 – Miriam Downes, John Garfield, Sylvia Myatt, Cecil Matthews, Ruth Holden, Sindy Walker, Lisa Ashby (nee Downes), Susan Mallett
Earlier in the week, talented, longstanding contributor Lisa Ashby promised to send in some material about the entries of the B-CASS Disabled Centre into Brownhills Carnival in the late 80s and 90s – good to her word, Lisa has done just that and I can share them with you now.
Lisa of course sent in the wonderful footage of Reg Morris eating daffodils and also undertook the remarkable photo restoration for reader Janet I posted yesterday.
We have surprisingly little material relating to local carnivals – we have the early Pritchard footage of course, so wonderfully lit up by Great Grandfather of the blog Aer Reg Fullelove, and the stunning gallery by Peter Booth, but not much else.
This is a wonderful addition from Lisa, for which I’m very grateful indeed.
If you can add to it, or have any other material you’d like to share, I’d love to see it. Comment here or mail me: BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com. Thanks!
Lisa Ashby wrote:
Hi Bob,
I volunteered at the B-CASS Disabled Centre from it’s creation in September 1988 until it closed on July 4th 2016. During our early days we had several entries in the Brownhills Carnival.
Our first was in 1989 when the theme was The Circus. We made our own costumes and wigs which were cunningly crafted from a few pair of tights and wool. Unfortunately there were just 3 entries, 2 floats and us walking the whole route. I don’t know how our members managed it but they did.
!992: Carnival Mardi Gras Brownhills Style.
Our second entry (which I believe was 1992) was called Mardi Gras Brownhills Style. All the costumes and decorations we made by our members under the close supervision of my mum, Miriam Downes. We even made bright coloured wigs for some of the kids, which were salvaged from the 1989 carnival.
Newspaper clippings of the day, kindly supplied by Lisa Ashby. Click for larger versions.
Sometimes we stayed till late in the evening making flowers and assembling decorations to go on the float. My mum sat for hours at home cutting purple and white net which she sewed into flowers for the back drop that was attached to the back of the cab. We raided our members christmas decorations for tinsel and anything that would sparkle.
Carnival 1992 – David Capewell (pretending to be Animal from the Muppets), Sylvia Myatt, Me
My mum’s genius knew no bounds – she had us cut up egg boxes (the bits where the eggs sit) and we wrapped them in quality street wrappers to look like bells, which we hung every where on the float to catch the light. We managed to get an old rubbish bin which we spray painted and David Capewell sat behind it at the back of our float and pretended to play it. I can’t remember where we came, but a good time was had by all. I have included a couple of news paper clippings which show myself and Susan Capewell, the other showing Gary Capewell and Stephanie & Michelle McCabe.
Part 2 to follow shortly, all the best,
Lisa
Carnival 1992 – David Capewell, Sylvia Myatt, Kathy Price, Susan Capewell, John Garfield
Carnival 1992 – David Capewell, Miriam Downes, Sylvia Myatt
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 (1oth July 2017) there will be the July 2017 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:
The next public meeting of Lichfield Waterworks Trust will take place on:
Monday 10 July 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.
This is an incredibly exciting heritage project, so do come along and become involved, we make everyone welcome.
Agenda
Notes of the respective reports and meeting notes are in the link below
News
The work groups are continuing with their sterling work on the building and the engine.
A database of photos and objects is coming together quite nicely now. The team carefully removing objects found in cupboard and store rooms and carefully cleaning them in preparation for photographing recording and cataloguing.
Work cleaning the engine is showing some remarkable progress as a reward for a lot of hard and dirty work. We are always looking for more volunteers to help with this work. Onsite training and safety induction will be provided.
The grounds of the pumping station are looking better than ever. The grass is cut and the surrounding paving’s are clean and tidy. Many thanks to the kind efforts of the working parties.
The bid team are working hard to put together a grant application for a feasibility study and have now submitted a first draft. Real progress is now being made.
The aim and objective of this study is to develop and produce a sustainable business plan to demonstrate that as a trust we are capable of managing this site in a business-like manner that clearly outlines how we will deliver an ongoing programme of funding, maintenance and renovation of the site. We will also outline how we will make it accessible, preserve the heritage and give benefit to the community in perpetuity.
We have just commenced a Heritage Lottery Fund Resilient Heritage Grant application. Resilient Heritage is a grant that will help and support the trust in becoming more sustainable organisation, help us improve our skills in maintaining the heritage and support us with our community engagement.
Forthcoming Events
We at the Lichfield Waterworks Trust just love getting out into the community and doing events that share our story. As always, we need help to organise and run these events, so if you can help on any of the following events, please let us know.
Huddlesford Gathering
Huddlesford Gathering is on the weekend of 23/24 September, we have kindly been invited to have a stand and are therefore looking for volunteers to meet and greet visitors.
Can you help?
If you enjoy meeting people and can spare a couple of houses on either of these days, please get in touch.
Health and Safety
We know people have mixed views about Health and Safety, however we have a very clear view about our members. We think you are incredible and value the work you do; therefore, we want to keep you safe.
We have an amazing health and safety manager, Phil Bowers, who has a very practical no nonsense hands on approach to health and safety.
We like to keep things simple and want our members not to feel daunted by health and safety regulations. We will walk you though the process and give you practical hands on training at a pace set by you.
To date 20 people have received site induction. Those who wish to volunteer on site please let Phil know.
Membership
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.
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.
You can also do a direct bank transfer:
Bank Details:
HSBC Bank
Account Name: Lichfield Waterworks Trust
Sort Code: 40-28-18
Account Number: 02050722
or
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. Our data protection policy is here.
Do pop over to Dave Moore’s blog and check out the history of Sandfields Pumping Station, an almost forgotten gem – the group also has a Facebook page.
Dave is, of course, one of the leading lights of Lichfield Discovered, along with Kate ‘Cardigan’ Gomez from Lichfield Lore.
It’s great to see people like Dave encourage a better attitude to our historic buildings, rather than that which we seem to have here in Walsall, where we regard heritage architecture as merely ‘fuel’.
Please do attend if you’re able, it’s sure to be enlightening and educational.
One of the final diesel freight services to rumble through Brownhills on the 9th March 1984. Image by John Whitehouse, courtesy of Simon Swain.
Local rail buff Simon Swain last week sent in the above image of one of the last freight workings on the South Staffordshire Line through central Brownhills – and there was a large amount of interest in this remarkably evocative photo.
As I’ve come to expect, rail expert and contributor of a huge amount of material to the blog Ian Pell was reading, and as usual, he’s come forward with a wealth of information about the final freight usage of our doomed railway line, which I include below.
Huge thanks to Ian and Simon for fleshing out yet another piece of lost rail history here on the Brownhills Blog – if anyone else has anything to add, please feel free to comment here or mail me – BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com.
Working Timetable 1983-84 combined PP04, ft04, TN 16.05.83 16 May 1983 – 19 March 1984 – (13 May 1984)
Norton Junction (Closure Ryecroft Jc – Anglesea Sdgs 19.03.1984)
Click for a larger version – table courtesy of the wonderful Ian Pell.
Notes:-
Only through lines open until line closed as a through route 19th March 1984. Ryecroft Jc to Anglesea Sdgs section completely closed from 19th March 1984
Only Trip No. 44 works through to Lichfield Rom River, SX, as required, until line closed.
Rom River then served via Lichfield TV HL and Alrewas section. Charrington’s remained open for oil, served via Lichfield City and Alrewas.
Toton “Up” Yard closed as a hump yard in 1984, the “Down” Yard hump having closed in 1978.
The “Jane’s Railway Year, 4th edition”,1984 page 73 shows 47211 at Brownhills heading south on 9/3/84. The train is reported to be a “Scunthorpe to Severn Tunnel Junction” Speedlink working. From the WTTs the train is more likely to be 6M91 11.15 Scunthorpe to Bescot Storage Sidings, ABS which was a Speedlink working which was able to connect with the regular 6V80 21.00 Bescot to Severn Tunnel Junction Down Yard, ABS Speedlink working. From 3/10/83 the train ceased to call at Toton Old Bank sidings, instead using Toton West Yard. The remainder of its journey was un-affected. This train was used from Toton, in part, for residual MOD traffic to the Swansea area. (Remember the Nottingham to Swansea derailment at Brownhills). The Scunthorpe to Bescot working appears to have ceased by the time of the next WTT, May 1984, but 6V80 continued well into the late 1980’s. For example, it was working to East Usk Yard in 1988 after the closure of the yards at Severn Tunnel Junction (1985).
The last passenger working, excepting the CM&EE and Parcels workings, over the line was a northbound railtour – “The Vital Statistician” hauled by class “25”s 25035+25048 on 11/2/1984.
On 9/5/84 class “47” 47297 was photographed at Charrington’s shunting the ex. 6M65 05.55 Lindsay to Charrington’s loaded oil train.
Following on from David’s recent article “Lichfield line lament” (RE No. 254), and the attached tables, an air of caution should be added to the tables as these workings are derived from the Working Timetables (WTTs) of the time, and by this stage a considerable amount of the traffic either didn’t run when loadings were insufficient, or if they did, they were marked as “Z” workings, ie:- trains not working to their allocated paths. The “Z”s could also include additional “specials”. Usually, Speedlink workings (ABS) could be relied upon as they were part of a dedicated network of trunk services.
For a time after closure the line remained in-situ, with the hope that coal from the new Ryder’s Hayes opencast working would be taken out by rail; but this proved to be a vane hope and the tracks were removed in 1986.
What’s not to love?
I see from the events list that Aston Manor Road Transport Museum in Aldridge have their annual Open and Running Day this Sunday, 9th July2 2017 -It starts at 10:00am and should be just the thing for vintage transport fans, bus enthusiasts, petrol heads and big and little kids of all kinds.
Aston Manor Road Transport Museum events are always popular – and it’s only up the road in Aldridge. What’s not to love? Image from the AMRTM Facebook page.
There will be stalls and displays, free bus rides, vintage cars and all the usual goodies for all the family to enjoy.
Entry is a pocket pleasing £5 for adults, £2 for kids and just £13 for a family ticket.
There’s free bus service operating all day between various destinations and the museum in Shenstone Drive – see the timetable below.
While you’re there, you can check out all the great stuff in the collection, and talk to the volunteers, who’re doing a fine job.
This is sure to be a great event – please do pop along. The collection needs the support of the public to survive, and it really is a wonderful thing.
Why not check out the museum website or their Facebook group?
A variety of free services run throughout the day. Click for a larger version.
New Hall Mill is a splendid place, restored and run by wonderfully dedicated volunteers.
Apologies, this got a bit buried last week so I’m giving it another plug.
Theres a lovely thing to visit locally this Sunday (9th July 2017), that’s close by, free and absolutely fascinating…
New Hall Mill is open again on Sunday for the second open day of 2017. I can heartily recommend the place – it’s fascinating and I had a great time there on 2015 Spring Bank Holiday Monday – not enough people know about this wonderful building.
There’s also an appeal ongoing for people who may be interested to join the friends of New Hall Mill and help in all sorts of ways – the team need all kinds of expertise from guides to engineering types who may have time to spare. See the message at the door to the post.
The open day is free to enter too (although donations are welcomed).
The Friends of Newhall Mill said:
Bob
On Sunday July 9th – New Hall water mill will again be open to the public, 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.
Today’s entertainment will be supplied by Adrian on his 21 note street organ.
In the cart shed will be a display by The West Midlands Woodturners along with a Stained Glass Demonstration.
In the grounds there will be Displays & Demonstrations by –
- The Bee Keeper
- Bournville Bread Basket
- Trinity Photography
- Erdington Historical Society
- ECO Sutton
- Life in the 1940’s
- The Turner collection of Steam Models
- Maidens Fayre
- Helen’s Handmade Gifts
- Queen of Cups
- Face Painting
… and individuals will be displaying their various collections
I totally geeked out over this wonderful place.
A guided walk will take place at 11:15 (A guide to the trees of New Hall Mill) led by Jeff Gilbert. Mill walks last for approx 45 minutes.
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.
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 would welcome the experience of a carpenter, we have a hay cart part way through restoration. Tea Room staff are always welcome, there are openings in all areas. Have a chat with a volunteer on an Open day.
Hoping to see you there
Alan Dawson – A friend of New Hall Mill
More details can be found on their website – www.newhallmill.org.uk or their Facebook page here.
This is certainly a project worth visiting and supporting – please do pop along if you can. You can check out a gallery of my photos taken there last year below. I had a great time.
Original credit to poster ‘Kieran’, shared by Toni
Thanks to readers Lsoft Elad (sic) and Toni Jones, I can share the information that there was a road traffic collision in Brownhills High Street This afternoon (Saturday, 8th July 2017) – it appears that thankfully, nobody was seriously injured.
Emergency service were in attendance.
The collision, as photographed by Kieran and shared by Toni, appears to have taken place between a car and motorcycle outside the computer store on the northbound side.
My sympathies to those involved, and thanks to readers who helped with information.
A remarkable photo of a more… senior gentleman supplied by reader Janet.
Here’s something lovely I want to share with readers – long term followers of the blog will know of talented, longstanding contributor Lisa Ashby, who this week sent in the wonderful footage of Reg Morris eating daffodils – well, she has another string to her bow.
Reader Janet got in touch, asking if Lisa, who’s well known for restoring old photos, could wave her magic wand over the image of the gentleman above, as Lisa has made such a wonderful job of precious restorations.
The results are at the foot of this post and I think you’ll agree they’re a work of art!
Lisa has previously restored several old images used here to remarkable effect.
Lisa is available for commissions, and if anyone is interested I’d only be too happy to hook you up – just mail me: BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com.
Thanks to Lisa for being a true friend of the blog, and for all the hard work she does.
Lisa Ashby’s remarkable restorations.
Oh damn – only just spotted the 1:30pm kickoff – apologies to all for failing to spot this – but it’s only in Cheslyn hay so you could catch the second half…
Saturday 8th July the Wood travel to @WolvesSporting for a pre season friendly. Kick off is 1.30 at Cheslyn Hay high school.
— 𝐖𝐚𝐥𝐬𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐖𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐅𝐂 (@WalsallWoodFC) July 7, 2017
Alternatively follow Simon on Twitter who’s live tweeting the match – and he does a great job of it..
Good luck to the Wood!
A fine event on a wonderful afternoon!
Also running today until 4pm… sorry, playing catch up quickly while I have chance…
Join us for the popular Florette Festival Market featuring stalls, refreshments, live performances and much more. Taking place around the Cathedral Close and neighbouring streets the Festival Market day is a highlight of our annual calendar. The perfect place to spend a summer’s afternoon with fun for all the family.
Saturday 8 July 2017, 10am – 4pm.
Lichfield Cathedral
The Close – Lichfield
Events
Date: Saturday 8th July 2017 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Venue Name: Lichfield Cathedral
Venue: The Close – Lichfield
On now!
Just a quick headsup that over in the principality this afternoon is Pelsall Carnival – head for the common and the noise.
There will be entertainment, food, a fairground, stalls and all manner of fun for all the family.
If you’re not from Pelsall, passports not required but try to act naturally and take a pitchfork.
Any photos from the event welcome!
OK everyone thanks for all the shares etc. Lauren has apparently turned up safe and well.
Thanks for your help and vigilance!
Cheers,
Bob.
Image posted on Facebook by Tammy Louise Kinsey
Lauren was last seen at 7pm last night, Thursday 6th July 2017 when she left home to visit her Grandmother in Walsall Wood.
Tammy posted on Facebook:
MISSING please share
Lauren last seen around 7pm on way to her nans in Walsall Wood.
Last seen wearing army track suit with grey hoody.
Slim build around 5ft 6in tall. 15 years old.
If you see her please contact Amanda Lawrence or West Midlands Police as soon as possible.
If you see Lauren, or have any information at all, please can you call West Midlands Police on 101 or the Missing People charity on 116 000.
New Hall Mill is a splendid place, restored and run by wonderfully dedicated volunteers.
Theres a lovely thing to visit locally this Sunday (9th July 2017), that’s close by, free and absolutely fascinating…
New Hall Mill is open again on Sunday for the second open day of 2017. I can heartily recommend the place – it’s fascinating and I had a great time there on 2015 Spring Bank Holiday Monday – not enough people know about this wonderful building.
There’s also an appeal ongoing for people who may be interested to join the friends of New Hall Mill and help in all sorts of ways – the team need all kinds of expertise from guides to engineering types who may have time to spare. See the message at the door to the post.
The open day is free to enter too (although donations are welcomed).
The Friends of Newhall Mill said:
Bob
On Sunday July 9th – New Hall water mill will again be open to the public, 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.
Today’s entertainment will be supplied by Adrian on his 21 note street organ.
In the cart shed will be a display by The West Midlands Woodturners along with a Stained Glass Demonstration.
In the grounds there will be Displays & Demonstrations by –
- The Bee Keeper
- Bournville Bread Basket
- Trinity Photography
- Erdington Historical Society
- ECO Sutton
- Life in the 1940’s
- The Turner collection of Steam Models
- Maidens Fayre
- Helen’s Handmade Gifts
- Queen of Cups
- Face Painting
… and individuals will be displaying their various collections
I totally geeked out over this wonderful place.
A guided walk will take place at 11:15 (A guide to the trees of New Hall Mill) led by Jeff Gilbert. Mill walks last for approx 45 minutes.
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.
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 would welcome the experience of a carpenter, we have a hay cart part way through restoration. Tea Room staff are always welcome, there are openings in all areas. Have a chat with a volunteer on an Open day.
Hoping to see you there
Alan Dawson – A friend of New Hall Mill
More details can be found on their website – www.newhallmill.org.uk or their Facebook page here.
This is certainly a project worth visiting and supporting – please do pop along if you can. You can check out a gallery of my photos taken there last year below. I had a great time.
I wonder what a bunch of daffs tastes like? Reg didn’t seem to mind them! Still from a wonderful vide supplied by Lisa Ashby.
Over the years I’ve featured on the blog, and received a very warm response to anything connected with the late, great and absolutely legendary Brownhillian Reg Morris – a man noted for his community spirit, mischief, bravery and willingness to undertake any stunt or challenge, not matter how silly or difficult.
I can add to the previous material featured here with something rather wonderful and stunning sent in by old pal of the blog and photo restorer extraordinaire, Lisa Ashby – Reg eating daffodils for charity. This is incredible, and really does distil the spirit of a wonderful bloke.
Thanks to Lisa for putting in the hard work to get this uploaded and for all the other work she does in support of the blog; you can check out her amazing photo skills here and her video editing talent here.
If you have anything to add (and I’m sure you will have) do comment here or mail me: BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com.
I’ll let Lisa explain:
Hi Bob,
Here is a video of Reg Morris eating daffodils to raise money for the B-CASS Disabled Centre, which was filmed by Central News. The girl bringing the daffs in is Joanne Parr one of my class mates.
The B-CASS Disabled Centre was formed in 1988 and first met in an empty room at the Brownhills Community School. The name of the centre was taken from the two groups which helped to found it namely the Brownhills Community Association and the Social Services department – hence, B-C-A-S-S. In 1991 the centre outgrew the room at the comp and so we moved to the old pre-school playgroup building in Lindon Drive. In 2000, we were lucky enough to be awarded a millenium lottery grant to renovate the building. However, the roof started to leak and we had several burglaries and the place just wasn’t fit for use any more. We spent many happy years here, but in 2005 we made the difficult decision to move again to Silver Court.
Sadly our Secretary, my mum Miriam Downes passed away on May 17th 2016 and the decision was taken to close the centre. She was the driving force behind the group and it wouldn’t have felt right to continue with out her. On July 4th 2016, the B-CASS Disabled Centre closed its doors for the final time.
Mayor Bill Madeley opening the B-CASS centre. Image kindly supplied by Lisa Ashby.
The two photos I’ve sent are from the opening which show Mayor Bill Madeley opening the centre in September 1988 at Brownhills Comp and the second one Cllr Harry Parker, Dave Scott (from Social Services), my nan Ruth Holden (may be known to a few older viewers of your blog), cllr Geoff Edge and Mayor Bill Madeley.
Old hands will recognise some faces here – good to see Geoff Edge, a decent bloke, there too. Image kindly supplied by Lisa Ashby.
I have a few photos of the various floats we entered in to carnivals in the early 90’s to share with you at some point too if you’re interested.
All the best Bob, keep up the great work x
Lisa 😊
One of the final diesel freight services to rumble through Brownhills on the 9th March 1984. Image by John Whitehouse, courtesy of Simon Swain.
Local rail buff Simon Swain has been in touch with a remarkable image of Brownhills recording the very last days of the railway here – just before construction of the Miner Island in 1984.
Simon has previously sent some wonderful material to the blog, and this is no exception; previously he’s investigated the remnants of the lost Brownhills Railway Station and of the Grove Colliery. Simon’s work is always thoughtful and interesting, and here he raises related questions about the similarly lost Taylor’s Cafe, a gallery of which can be seen here.
Thanks to Simon for a great contribution and a remarkable photo – so what do you know? Comment here or mail me – BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com.
Simon Wrote:
Hi Bob,
A very good friend of mine sent me a link to this wonderful photograph taken by photographer John Whitehouse of the former South Staffordshire line through Brownhills on 9th March 1984, a mere 10 days before the line between Lichfield and Walsall closed as a through route.
In my relentless search for photos of the railway in Brownhills opening the attachment and coming across this nostalgic gem sent shivers down my spine.
The description with the photo is as follows:
The section of the South Staffordshire Railway between Walsall and Lichfield closed as a through route on 19th March 1984, with just a stub from Lichfield to Angelsey Sidings remaining to serve the Charrington’s Oil Depot. On 9th March 1984, ten days prior to closure, Class 47 No. 47211 rumbles through Brownhills heading a Scunthorpe – Severn Tunnel Junction freight, which was one of a handful of services which used the line right up to closure.
I posted the picture on a couple of Facebook groups and the overwhelming consensus was that it was a true gem. It did however spark a bit of a debate and this is where the wonderful people of Brownhills come in with their limitless knowledge. It has been suggested that Taylors Cafe was just off shot to the left of the photograph, whilst others have stated that Taylors was further along the Pelsall Road. Does anybody remember Taylors and do they know its exact location in relation to the Pelsall Road today.
Central Brownhills from the 1947 series 1:25,000 Ordnance Survey draft. Click for a larger version.
We have firmly established that the photo was taken from the bridge which led to the fields now occupied by the Watermead estate and that the single storey building was Kingdom Hall. I have attached an excerpt of the 1937-1961 OS map which clearly shows this bridge and would put it more or less opposite to the junction of Wallace Road and Pelsall Road where the new houses which are slightly set back from the road are.
The photograph also gives us a good view of the A452/A4124/B4155 junction before the construction of the tin man roundabout in the mid 1980’s.
This cropped section of the Lichfield District Council 1981 Aerial imagery shows Taylors Cafe (ringed) and the bridge that the photo was probably taken from, or near to.
If anybody has any further information that they would like to add or can help pin point the location of Taylors Cafe then I would love to hear from you. I will shortly be approaching my third anniversary of being a Brownhillian and I still cease to be amazed at the number of photos that emerge of the town in days gone by.
Best Wishes
Simon Swain
John Weston: Rest in peace. Image supplied by Dickie Weston.
Reader Dickie Weston has been in touch to ask if I’d inform raders that the funeral of his father, John Weston is to take place this afternoon Wednesday, 5th July 2017 at 3:00pm at Sandwell Valley Crematorium, just near the junction of the Newton Road and Forge Lane.
There will be a gathering afterwards at the Tiger pub, Yew Tree – all who knew John are welcome. I believe that’s the one in Walstead Road.
John was a long time resident of the Oakdene Estate in Chasetown.
I wish the Dickie, the Weston family and all of John’s friends my sincerest condolences and all the best for the future. I’ll be thinking of you.
James Brindley, victim of a senseless murder. Image supplied by West Midlands Police.
Following the shocking murer of James Brindley in Aldridge on the Friday evening of 23rd June 2017, police enquiries have proceeded apace, and yesterday Monday 3rd July 2017 they issued a new appeal for two men thought to be uninvolved witnesses to come forward.
It should be noted this is the full press release which has been unfortunately truncated on Facebook; that editing has led to incorrect assumptions over the nature of the appeal here and the cropping of a remarkable and heartfelt statement from James’ parents.
Whoever runs WMPs Facebook page really needs to take a look at that one.
Walsall police said:
New appeal for witnesses over Aldridge murder as victim’s family pay fresh tributes
03/07/2017
Detectives investigating the murder of James Brindley are appealing for two men who were in the area at the time to get in touch.
At around 11.45pm on Friday 23 June, two Asian men were seen leaving the Croft and entering Rookery Lane in the direction of the High Street in Aldridge.
The men were dressed smartly so may have been coming from a party, night out or celebration.
Detective Chief Inspector Chris Mallett, from force CID, said: “I can’t stress enough that we want to speak to these men as witnesses as we believe they may have seen something that could help with our investigation.
‘We do not believe they were involved but we do think they may have seen something that night and I would urge them to get in touch.’
Last week detectives appealed for two further men to come forward after they were seen arguing with James moments before the attack – enquiries are still ongoing to trace these individuals.
James’ family have also released a tribute to him: “The unnatural death of our most precious son James has hit us like a bolt out of the blue; we are reeling from the shock of the event itself and in utter disbelief and despair at his loss.
‘We are also feeling the unspeakable guilt, that we weren’t there at that dreadful moment, to defend him.
‘Following the attack, James wasn’t alone for long. Four heroic young men and their father rushed to help him, and stayed until the paramedics arrived on the scene; they worked tirelessly to save him, and when they had done everything humanly possible, we were able to go to him, and tell him how much we love him; but it wasn’t possible for us to hold him in our arms as his life passed away, or for him to know that his family was with him. We felt guilty seeing the sun rise on that next morning, and have every morning since.
‘Yet, amidst all the emotions we are feeling, there is hope. This hope is fed by everyone around us. The love of our family, our friends, Charlotte’s friends, and of course we are enormously uplifted by the outpouring of love from James’ friends, who have all written or spoken about experiences shared with him; their lifelong, happy memories, describing the positive effect that he has had on so many people’s lives. So many people!
Everyone, it appears, loves James; well, very nearly everyone.
‘The manner of James death has shattered the whole of Aldridge, and beyond, but we are feeling a mood of positivity rising from the community of Aldridge. There are acts of incredible generosity happening, directed at our family. “Thank you” doesn’t even begin to describe how energised that makes us feel. Thank you, a trillion times, from the very bottom of our hearts. We are strengthened by the care of the police, both on that dreadful night, and since; they have empathised in word and deed, far and above what could reasonably have been expected. Their professionalism fills us with hope for resolution.
‘We have decided to adopt one of James’ character traits, that of ‘wilfulness’. As a child, James wilfully ignored all our attempts to curb his appetite for climbing up anything that was close by, and for running off. With help, we are going to be wilful in the pursuit of moving forwards as a family, and creating a lasting legacy in James’ memory; one that will benefit the community of Aldridge, and maybe, even society at large. Nothing too ambitious then, just like James. Inspired by James, with love The Brindley family.’
Anyone with information are urged to contact DCI Mallett’s team on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111
The killing of James is a brutal and shocking murder and I’m sure readers will join with me in expressing my horror and sincerest condolences to his family and friends.
I would ask that anyone with any information please contacts West Midlands Police on 101, any of the methods here or anonymously via Crimestoppers.
Please be considerate and consider the feelings of the victim’s family when commenting on social media. Whilst debate and discussion are to be expected, please be thoughtful and consider those involved when expressing views.
We all love the common, but its management has proven controversial. Why not pop along to the meeting and discuss the issues with the experts and other users?
Here’s one for people interested in the issues surrounding Brownhills Common – theres a meeting next Monday 10th July 2017 of the Freinds of Brownhills Common group at the Environmental Depot, 200 Pelsall Road, Brownhills – WS8 7EN – please meet in the reception by 7:00pm.
Brownhills Common needs a good active friends group and this is your opportunity to join in and have your say in shaping the future management of the open space we all love.
The meeting is also open to the general public who may not wish to join the friends group, but are encouraged to attend and hear what everyone has to say.
It’s important that we recognise what a valuable, fragile and important habitat Brownhills Common is, and why it requires careful and measured stewardship.
If you’ve only heard the alarmists, it’s a good opportunity to go out and meet, talk and listen to people who understand the issues and want to preserve the wildlife, and to help shape the future of Brownhills’ greatest asset.
A family do at the rear of the Travellers Rest pub in Walsall Wood in 1942. Is Ben Wolverson, pictured, the man who gave his name to the local road? Image kindly supplied by Robert Fereday.
The subject of lost and fondly remembered pubs often crops up here, as pubs obviously are attached to meany warm community memories – and one particular lost house in Walsall Wood seems to attract many fond recollections and enquiries.
Thanks to the generosity of reader Robert Fereday, I can share the above image taken in what would have been the courtyard or rear of the Travellers Rest pub, that used to stand on the canalside at Walsall Wood.
Robert said:
Hello Bob,
I thought the attached pictures may be of interest to you.
The first picture was on was taken on the 6th June 1942 at my grandparents Jack and Elouisa’s wedding celebration. It was taken at the rear of the Travellers Rest pub. The gentleman pictured is named as Mr. Ben Wolverson.
The 2nd picture was apparently taken at the Walsall Wood School but I know little else except that my other grandmother and aunts were pictured in the crowd.
Regards,
Robert Fereday
We have of course covered the Travellers Rest extensively before, and this post from Graham Kenniston and others is worth a read for some great background.
The second picture is a bit of a mystery as I don’t recognise the rooflines from any of the Portman Collection of the same school, but I am wondering if this might be St. Johns. Anyone clarify?
Thanks to Robert for a couple of remarkable images with such wonderful background information. If anyone has anything to add, please do – either comment here or mail me: BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com. Cheers.
Apparently Walsall Wood School, but I have a feeling it may be St. Johns. Can you help? Image kindly supplied by Robert Fereday.
Were these quiet lanes once home to an American army encampment?
I’ve had another interesting enquiry in from Val Ainsworth, who last week sent in the lovely tale of her husband visiting the Station Hotel in Brownhills in the late 1940s – this time, she has a fascinating enquiry about a possible wartime American Army camp between North Birmingham and Brownhills.
Val writes that her friend recalls visiting a US encampment somewhere around the Streetly/Aldridge/Mill Green area around 1943, but other than the known camp at Pheasey, I’m at a bit of a loss.
Vague memories of military activities locally during the war aren’t unusual – there was the whole debate over tank testing at Shire Oak Quarry that was never really nailed fully and the phantom Italian POW camp near Aldridge Aerodrome.
I do recall someone mentioning military activity in the Little Aston/Mill Green/Stonnall area at some point, and although I’ve heard similar stories about other places before, I’m open minded and I’m sure readers can help.
If you have anything to add, please do: comment here or mail me: BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com. Cheers.
Val Ainsworth wrote:
Did these lanes once echo to the sounds of American accents? Imagery from Apple Maps.
WHERE WAS THIS CAMP ?
Around 1943 there was a substantial American Army field camp that had been set up, the location was somewhere off the Chester Road and possibly somewhere between Aldridge and Brownhills.
Witness to this claim comes from a young boy ( at that time ) who assisted in taking a message from a young lady living in Kingstanding to her American soldier boyfriend.
He tells the story:
Me and me mate collected the written message,took direction instructions, got on our bicycles and set off up the Chester Road (heading from Sutton Park towards Brownhills).
We cycled a fair way up the Chester Road before turning off into a country lane. At a point in the lane we arrived at the American Army camp.
We spoke to the Yank guards at the camp gates and explained our mission.
We were taken to meet up with the soldier to whom the message had been sent. He read the message and seemed to be pleased with the contents and then with the usual American Soldier generosity he asked us if we would like something to eat.
He took us to a large tent which was obviously their grub canteen.
Boy, did we have a great tuck in to some lovely Chicken pieces. We had a nice little chat with him and then it was time to begin our journey back to Kingstanding.
It had been a great adventure for us and something for us to remember always.
Disregarding the existing American army establishment that was already in place on the Pheasy Estare, Kingstanding…
Where was this other American field camp located?
Was it anywhere near the area of Brownhills? Any takers?
Have you seen this scooter? Image posted on Facebook by reader Josh.
I see local vehicle and bike thefts are continuing – please be on the lookout for a stolen moped W429 EON, similar to the one in the picture above, stolen from Brownhills yesterday evening.
Reader Josh tells me the bike was taken on Saturday evening at around 6:50pm, 1st July 2017 from outside Marios Fish Bar in Brownhills High Street.
If someone you know has just acquired a step-through, check it out, please – after all, it might be your stuff they steal next. You can contact the owner directly on 07711 116154.
Anyone with information is urged to contact West Midlands Police by dialling 101 or speak to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
You can always mail me in confidence if you’d rather – BrownhiullsBob at Googlemail dot com. Cheers.
What’s not to love?
Just a quick heads up that today, Sunday 2nd July 2017, there’s to be a Summer Fair and Dog Show at Chasewater – the whole thing runs from 10am until 4pm, with registration for the Dog Show taking place from 11am and the show itself at 2:30pm.
The fair features a variety of craft and food stalls for all to enjoy, so there will be plenty to see and do.
The dog show is just a quid per entry per class, and features categories we can all get behind – waggiest tail, most appealing eyes, most handsome, prettiest bitch (!), best junior handler etc.
This event is well worth a punt if you’re at a loose end – and there’s always the Chasewater Railway while you’re up there. I must say, the Cafe at the station does a cracking butty.
Reader Stephen sent this a few moments ago.
There seems to be an incident ongoing now (6:50pm, Saturday 1 July 2017) involving the fire service and police at Marklew Close, Shire Oak.
Anyone know what’s going on please?
Both Streets Corner and Shire Oak are busy junctions with congestion issues, as this archive picture shows.
Lots of people have recently been asking about the pavement markings recently painted so colourfully on the roads and pavements at Streets Corner, Walsall Wood and the Shire Oak junction in Brownhills – well, the answer is at hand, with details of junction improvement scheme just released by Walsall Council.
The plans and press release are included below for your perusal, and there will be two ‘drop in sessions’ where you can speak to the team responsible for the works and art your vies – these will be at:
The Shire Oak Pub
Tuesday 11th July 2017 from 2:30pm until 8pm
Walsall Wood Youth Centre at Streets Corner (off the old Oak Park site)
Tuesday 25th July 2017 from 2pm until 8pm
Obviously the devil will be in the detail, but much will rely on how the phasing of the signals works and just how intelligent they are: obviously there will be disruption as the works take place, but both junctions are in need of improvement and you can’t make an omelette without breaking eggs.
Shire Oak in particular suffers from poor signalling and visibility of signals. Yes, an old archive picture…
Anything that improves the woeful signal sighting at Shire Oak has to be a good thing in my opinion.
Work will begin at Shire Oak over the summer holidays and Streets Corner in September, with both set to be completed by February 2018. It’s going to be a fun winter in the Hills….
What do you think? Most importantly, tell the team concerned at A461@walsall.gov.uk or the consultation events, but views welcome here, too. Comment or mail me: BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com.
Walsall Council wrote:
The plan for improvements to Streets Corner, click for a larger version, or see the PDF link in the text. Image from Walsall Council.
A461 Lichfield Road – Junction Improvements Scheme
The A461 Lichfield Road is an arterial route, which runs in a north-easterly direction from Walsall town centre to the Borough boundary. It carries large volumes of traffic throughout the day which results in heavy congestion at peak times. The A461 junction improvement scheme seeks to address the issue of growing congestion and the lack of traffic capacity along this strategic route.
The scheme will target two locations – A461 Lichfield Road / B4152 Salter’s Road junction and A461 Lichfield Road / A452 Chester Road (Shire Oak) junction. Both will be widened to increase capacity, benefit from improved pedestrian facilities, and new traffic signals and communications technology installed to improve operation.
The junctions will be linked by an intelligent traffic signal system and controlled and monitored by the Urban Traffic Controller facility at the Black Country Urban Traffic Control Centre. The new traffic signal junction installed as part of the Oak Park leisure centre development will also be linked via the same intelligent system.
The first stage of the works for both junctions will be to divert the existing underground utility services. This is currently planned to start in the summer school holidays (2017) at Shire Oak and September 2017 at Salter’s Road.
Any planned disruption to utility services will be communicated in advance by the utility companies directly to their customers.
Both junctions are planned to be completed by February 2018
View plan of improvements at A461 Lichfield Road/Salter’s Road junction (pdf)
View plan of improvements at A461 Lichfield Road/A452 Chester Road (pdf)
For any further information please contact:
Donna Cattell
Senior Transport Planner
Email: A461@walsall.gov.uk
Phone: 01922 654659
Strategic Transportation – Economy & Environment Directorate
Zone 2J, 2nd Floor,
Civic Centre,
Walsall Council, Darwall Street,
Walsall WS1 1DG
The plan for improvements to Shire Oak, click for a larger version, or see the PDF link in the text. Image from Walsall Council.
A great local band on at a great local pub tonight!
The live music and good times at Chase Inn at Newtown, Brownhills continue – and this week there’s another great gig from brilliant rock band ‘Livewire’, starting 9:15pm.
Livewire are a covers band playing floor filling anthems from the 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, 00s!
Why not get down there? You’re guaranteed a great night…
For the satnav folk, the address is: 6 Watling Street, Newtown, Brownhills WS8 6JS
You can contact the pub on: 01543 899568 or visit their Facebook page.
Just walking’ the dog. Image from Walsall Police.
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, 1st July 2017 at Aldridge Shopping Centre from 11am 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 efforts again to reach out to the public. Long overdue.
Also, if you haven’t signed up for WMNow, please do – it’s free and you can select to receive alerts on all kinds of local issues. It’s a fine thing.
It’s back! Great to see the Burntwood Wakes Festival return!
Also running this Saturday, 1st July 2017 from 12-4pm is the annual Chase, or Burntwood Wakes festival at Burntwood Leisure Centre.
There will be food, activities for all ages, live bands, arena events, inflatables – all the usual fun stuff. It’s opened by Jason Jones, who was on The Voice, and there are shuttle buses from the local area. so why not get up there?
If you attend, why not send in some pictures?
Since Burntwood Town Council have made the program so hard to find on their bafflingly awful webshite, I include it in the gallery below – click any page to see a larger version. Did someone really get paid to produce that web presence?
I love a good car show! Image from Cars In The Park Facebook page.
There’s a really good classic and vintage car show on this weekend (thats Saturday and Sunday, 1st & 2nd July 2017) in Beacon Park, Lichfield as part of Festival Weekend – the annual Rotary Cars in the Park event.
For those missing the late, lamented Chasewater Transport Show, Cars in the Park is is a great alternative with loads of classic vehicles and stuff to do and see – and best of all, it’s free!
It runs from 8am-5pm Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd July 2017. If you pop down, why not send in some photos?
You can check out the Facebook event page here and the website here.
The organisers have this to say on their web page:
Dear Participant,
First of all, let me thank everybody that got involved in CITP 2016, we were so lucky with the weather, and what was really appreciated was the car club members and other non-Rotarians who gave up their time throughout the year, some camping from the Thursday afternoon and helping on the Friday with the set-up. As I have said in previous years the Rotary Club members are getting fewer and older and all the help we get from volunteers is really appreciated. If you want to volunteer please contact me via the contact section of the website. Remember that we don’t charge you to attend and all funds we raise go to charity, a total of over £250,000 since the event started some 20 years ago. Our thanks must also go the members of the Lichfield Round Table who helped us with marshalling and the Lichfield Round Table Football Club whose members help us with the website, bookings and the clearing up afterwards, and of course the Lions clubs that look after parking. We are also hoping this year to have more commercials along with military, PSV and motorcycles so if you own one of these vehicles please let us know, you will be very welcome.
In 2016 we had the Midlands Air Ambulance as our chosen charity collecting over the weekend and again our President has asked them to be our main charity for 2017, so please give generously. Last year they raised over £11,000 – let’s make it £20,000 this year to mark the 20th event. We are very fortunate that we have support from the Lichfield Mercury and associated newspapers, and from our Main Dealer friends without this there would be no show.
There will be no charge for single entries and no need to book just arrive on the day, please note you have to be onsite by 11 am as no admittance can be given to the main field after that time. Please also be aware we will not accept the loud playing of music from car audio systems or the revving of stationary car engines.
We are pleased to welcome Lichfield and Rugeley Lions clubs who this year are looking after the parking for us. There is a charge of £5.00 on the Saturday and £5.00 on the Sunday.
Image from Cars in the Park.
Catering will be similar to previous years and there will be security on the Friday and Saturday night. We thank Strongs Plastics for donating the cost of the sound system and this year on the Sunday we have displays from Staffordshire Fire and Rescue and Staffordshire Ambulance Service. Depending on operational needs we also may have a flypast from one of the Helicopters from Midlands Air Ambulance. We are also hoping for a display from a Spitfire, this is again subject to operational requirements and air traffic control on the day.
For those joining us as visitors on the Saturday and Sunday there is no charge for admittance but there is a charge for parking (we have to make a charge to cover the costs of the hire of the park and toilets, insurance etc.). There will be a separate Disabled Parking area please ask the marshals for directions.
Once again, we hope to have a large variety of stalls available over the weekend, there will be a Rotary stand at the event and if you are interested in joining us please feel free to come and have a chat.
The Rotary Club of Lichfield St Chad would like to thank all our sponsors for their help, and please remember everything raised goes to Charity, we don’t charge so please give freely to the collectors on the park and lets raise £20,000 for your Air Ambulance.
Ian Hodgson
Cars in the Park Chairman
The chance to hear Bill Mayo speak is not to be missed!
I’m giving loads of advance notice that next Friday week (14th July 2017) at the new Lamp Arts theatre venue within Brownhills Activity Centre, you have a chance to hear a remarkable local historian speak.
Bill Mayo, without whom our communal history and this blog would be very much the poorer, will be giving a fun and informal talk from 7:30pm about local history, with stories and anecdotes about old Brownhills, Walsall Wood and surrounds.
I’ve heard noted author Bill speak several times previously and he’s fun, entertaining and has a wonderful sense of humour. He doesn’t give too many talks these days, so this is a real coup for the Lamp Arts venue and an event not to be missed for blog readers.
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. Find out more here.
Tickets are just £3 including a brew and nibbles – so what’s not to love? You can get a ticket by calling 01543 452119 or popping into the Activity Centre. But do so soon, because this is sure to be a sellout!
Brownhills CommunityAssociation are proud to present
A Ride on the 23
An evening of nostalgia and memories from Brownhills and the surrounding area with photos and anecdotal stories
Friday 14th July 2017 from 7:30pm Tickets £3 (including tea/coffee & nibbles)
Contact the Box Office on 01543 452 119
#365daysofbiking Journal
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