Someone must be missing this gorgeous cat. Image sent in by reader.
A reader has contacted me to say they’ve found the above puss in Aldridge, and would like to get it home to it’s rightful owner.
It’s clearly a rather delightful calico puss.
Hi Bob
It’s a huge ask, but I’m trying to find the owner of this cat.
It’s been at my mums for the past five days. Aldridge area.
Sadly, it has not been chipped.
It’s extremely friendly. I have put it out on Facebook and several lost and found sites. Any help much appreciated.
Kind regards.
If you recognise this cat, please do get in touch – you can comment here or mail me on BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com, and I’ll put you in touch with the finder.
Cheers all, let’s see if we can get calico cat home!
There’s loads to do, more boats than you could imagine, food, ale, entertainment and fun and games of all kinds – it’s fantastic thing to visit, and it’s free, to boot.
I shot the breeze with old mates, admired the narrowboats, stuffed my face and as usual, spent far too much on books and old maps.
My favourites, the Armitage Birds of Prey Centre were there with the rescue birds, and a local animal rescue (sorry, forget the name) had a rather wonderful skunk and a rather romantic pair of Bearded Dragons – but as ever, it was the characters who made it.
The festival continues Sunday (28th August 2016) from 10am until 6pm, and Bank Holiday Monday (29th August 2016) from 10am until 4pm. I can recommend the curry mutton.
Walsall Wood FC have a great reputation for entertaining football, and a keen, loyal and friendly bunch of supporters! Come join in the fun this Saturday and see some cracking football.
Saturday 27th August 2016
Walsall Wood v. Coleshill Town
Don’t break your Wood vows, be there, be faithful to your local heroes
The algae is a natural occurrence, but can be deadly for dogs and very unpleasant for humans. Photo taken 24th July 2016 at Chasewater, by me.
This is an important one for dog-walkers and users of Chasewater in general who may let dogs swim in the water – blue green algae has once more been found in the lake in the last few days after an earlier outbreak this year, and Staffordshire County Council yesterday (26th August 2016) issued a warning to park users.
While the naturally occurring algae is present, people are warned not to let their dogs swim in the water, and not to bathe there (although that’s never recommended) – signs have again been put up warning of the hazard.
Visitors to Chasewater are being advised not to take a dip or let their pets go in the water this Bank Holiday as a purely precautionary measure.
A small amount of suspected blue-green algae blooms have again appeared on the lake, and ecologists are asking people to follow advice on posters at the site while testing continues.
Blue-green algae is a common form of bacteria that occurs naturally in inland waters, estuaries and the sea. Blooms usually form in shallow water that is subject to strong sunlight, and are a blue/green colour.
If the blue-green blooms are swallowed, they can cause stomach upsets in humans and more serious illnesses in pets.
As the suspected algae blooms are only in small areas around the circumference of the lake, this means the sailing, water-skiing and Wakelake activities are unaffected.
County Councillor Gill Heath, Cabinet Member for the Environment said: “We have tested the water we suspect has blue-green algae blooms in it, but we won’t have these test results until sometime next week. Therefore, we think it’s best to let visitors to the site know we suspect its blue-green algae so they can take sensible precautions. It’s fairly common and tends to come and go itself, and we suspect the growth is likely just a natural result of the warmer weather we’ve had.
‘Chasewater is not a swimming lake and people shouldn’t be diving in for a swim at any time, but it does get popular on Bank Holidays when the weather is good. The algae will only cause upset if it is ingested, so we’re just advising people not to swim or let their pets swim in water where algae blooms obviously present.’
Chasewater rangers will continually be monitoring the situation, and signs will be taken down at the site once the all-clear is given.
Blue-green algae naturally occur in inland waters, estuaries and the sea. Blooms can form when their numbers become excessive.
There’s a wide range of blue-green algae (cyanobacteria). In fresh waters, they’re suspended within the water or attached to rocks and other surfaces. They include single- celled species and others whose cells are arranged in colonies and filaments. It’s difficult to see individual cells, colonies and filaments, but you usually can when they’re concentrated into clumps. These clumps can look like green flakes, greenish bundles or brownish dots.
Where high levels of phosphorus exist, and other requirements for growth are met – for example, adequate light, mixing, flow and temperature – then the numbers of blue- green algae can increase. Increased periods of growth are called blooms.
Blooms can have a negative effect on the appearance, quality and use of the water. It may become green, blue-green or greenish- brown and several species can produce musty, earthy or grassy odours. Blooms can also cause foaming on the shoreline – sometimes confused with sewage pollution.
During a bloom, the water also becomes less clear, blocking sunlight and stopping plants in the water from growing.
There’s nothing that can practically be done to counter this problem in the water, and caution is advised until the danger passes.
Blue-Green algae can be quite toxic to humans upon ingestion, and can be deadly to dogs. If your pet enjoys a swim, Chasewater should be avoided for the foreseeable future, and it’s definitely not good for human swimming (although it’s not for casual swimming at the best of times!)
If you suspect your dog has been made ill by algal poisoning, there’s a help guide here. for people concerned about wake boarding or other Chasewater based waterspouts, best contact the relevant club or operator for guidance.
There are lots of new ‘No swimming’ notices, but a few of the blue-green algae warning ones too. This one was on the life lifebelt post near the dam bridge and steps, a popular spot for dog swimming.
New Hall Mill is a splendid place, restored and run by wonderfully dedicated volunteers.
New Hall Mill near Sutton Coldfield is open again this Bank Holiday Monday (29th August 2016) and I can heartily recommend the place – It’s fascinating and I had a great time there on Spring Bank Holiday Monday 2015 – not enough people know about this wonderful building and the dedicated folk who look after it.
It’s free to enter too (although donations are welcomed). I should point out that dogs are not permitted (except assistance dogs), so probably best to leave Old Shep home…
Alan Dawson, Friend of the mill, wrote to tell me all about Sunday’s event:
Hi Bob,
The Friends of New Hall Mill are opening the mill to the public this coming Bank Holiday Monday (29th August 2016), a chance to see flour being produced from grain in the traditional way along with entertainment in the mill meadow
New Hall Water Mill is a fully restored 18th century mill which opens to the public on seven days each year. On open days the mill is operated by the Friends of the mill who produce flour and allow visitors to gain an insight into days past.
In addition, monthly changing events & displays will be undertaken in the mill meadow where you can go on a guided walk or enter our labyrinth, if so desired.
– Street Organ
– Austin 7 car club
– West Midlands Wood Turners
– Against the Grain Wood Artist
– Walsall Spinners
– Sutton Coldfield Trinity Quilters
– ‘Time to write’ (writing equipment & B’ham pen display)
– Helens’ Handmade Crafts
– Erdington Historical society
– Beekeeper
– Steam Models
– Snuffles Hedgehog rescue
– Handmade Dolls
There is an exhibition room & gift shop and a small tearoom selling cakes and beverages along with a garden shop where produce may be purchased from the millers garden.
Entrance to the mill and car parking is free, collection boxes for donations are positioned at various locations. Donations from visitors are most welcome as the mill depends upon these to assist towards the costs of maintaining and running the mill for your pleasure and enjoyment.
The times of opening are 10.00 – 16.00 and this year’s remaining open days are as follows –
Bank holiday Monday August 29th
Sunday September 11th
Access to the mill is off Wylde Green road, Sutton Coldfield, B76 1QU, some 200 metres from National cycle route 534.
Best regards,
Alan Dawson – A friend of New Hall mill.
This is certainly one worth visiting – please do pop along if you can. You can check out a gallery of my photos taken there last year below. I had a great time.
A bit of advance notice that next week, on Saturday 3rd September 2016, there will be a wonderful community street party at Brownhills Activity Centre (the old Annex) in Brownhills, just off the Miner Island, from 12 noon until 5pm.
There will be food, activities, stalls, bouncy castle and performances – it looks like it’s going to be a great afternoon for all the family.
The Avenues Community Association had this to say:
This is the Celebration Street Party for The Avenues Community Association Charity – Dreams In Action Team, for winning the Central Region of Britain has Spirit.
All are welcome. It is being held at the Brownhills Community Association Building (Old Annexe School) Chester Road, Brownhills. By The Tin man Island.
There will be stalls and entertainment for the children.
We anticipate a visit from the Mayor and Newspaper Coverage to promote our endeavour to become National champions of Britain Has Spirit.
Members of the team will be on hand to answer any questions you may have about the Dreams In Action Activity.
If you wish to have a stall please contact our facebook page for more information. If you are a community group who would like to perform please contact our facebook page
Pelsall’s canal events have always been brilliant.
Those who remember the excellent Pelsall Canal Festivals will be pleased to note that this weekend, there’s a similar three day festival taking place on the canals and common around Norton Junction in Pelsall, featuring over a hundred boats, stalls, displays, fun and entertainment for all the family.
The event is free to attend for those not on a boat, and runs for the whole three day weekend.
The annual IWA Festival of Water is coming to Pelsall North Common this weekend. Over 100 boats will be moored alongside the Common on the Wyrley and Essington Canal. There will be a huge range of attractions including classic cars, historic narrowboats, birds of prey, drive a digger, water zorbing, a ride-on steam train, live music, dance displays, hula hoop workshops and much more. Plus of course there will be opportunities for visitors to get afloat on board trip boats and canoes and you can shop the craft stalls and visit the artisans trading from their boats.
Lichfield and Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust will have our usual show stand – so come and say hi!
We’ve also agreed to supervise the public car parking on site and would love some extra help. If you could spare a couple of hours on Saturday, Sunday or Monday please get in touch. There is no money or ticketing involved, only directing drivers along the route to the parking area. Please email: volunteering@lhcrt.org.uk
There will be well over 100 boats in attendance, and plenty to see and do.
IWA Festival of Water 2016 comes to Pelsall Saturday 27th to Monday 29th August 2016
The annual Festival of Water is coming to Pelsall North Common, near Walsall over the August Bank Holiday Weekend. Over 100 boats will be moored alongside the Common on the Wyrley and Essington Canal and if you would like to join them book your boat in now for just £35 which includes all evening entertainment.
Campsite bookings are also available for £35 and pitches are open from Thursday 25th August from 2pm through to Tuesday 30th August at 12 noon.
Parking is free and so is entry on the day. There are a huge range of attractions including classic cars, historic narrowboats, birds of prey, drive a digger, water zorbing, a ride-on steam train, live music, dance displays, hula hoop workshops and much more. Plus of course there will be opportunities for visitors to get afloat on board trip boats and canoes and you can shop the craft stalls and visit the artisans trading from their boats.
There is plenty of food to choose from and of course a Beer Tent selling local real ales.
For more information please contact Ivor Caplan or phone 07778685764.
Reserve your spot
Complete the boat and campsite booking form now to make sure you are booked in and ready for the Festival.
A revenge win over the Badgers that puts us top of the table, albeit for only 24 hours as Quorn and Westfields can go above us if they win tonight’s easy looking home games.
Swanny went for experience, bringing in new signings Richard Huckfield, Lee Parsons and Nick Wright who opened his Wood goalscoring account with a 25 yard deflected effort on the stroke of half time.
Louis Harris is in contention for a starting place on Saturday here against Coleshill Town but the luckless Ashley Jackson is looking at three months out. We are at Sporting Khalsa on Monday as we try to score against them after failing to do so in four and a half hours last season.
A far more confident performance last night but the next two games are a real test of how good we are, watch this space, you know I’ll give an honest appraisal whether it’s good or bad.
It was good to see an old friend of the Wood there last night as Mick Roseblade put in a welcome appearance.
Walsall Wood 3 v 1 Brocton
Wood gained revenge for the opening day defeat by the Badgers, two goals by Joey Butlin in the first 15 minutes put Wood in the driving seat but they let the visitors back into the game before Nick Wright opened his goal account for Wood right on half time.
Wood started confidently, after only three minutes Lewis Taylor Boyce swung a cross into the centre of the box, a scramble developed, the ball falling eventually to Nick Wright to fire a first time effort high and wide. The first goal came on 12 minutes, Luke Adams marauding down the Wood right, his far post cross fired into the roof of the net by Joey Butlin. They combined again 3 minutes later, Adams again racing clear wide right crossing into the centre to find Butlin who calmly brought the ball down 10 yards out and under no pressure fired home past the exposed Aiden Stone in the Badgers goal.
Wood then retreated into their shell and on 25 minutes were nearly made to pay when visiting skipper Dan Lomas powered into the left of the Wood box, his vicious low cross shot well held by keeper Curtis Pond. On 34 minutes a ball over the top of the Wood defence saw Pond race from his area to kick clear from David Berks. It was Berks who reduced the deficit seven minutes later, Michael Williams crossed from wide on the right, the striker reading the ball perfectly to run past Wood defenders and tap the ball home.
Wood restored their two goal advantage right on the stroke of half time, a right wing corner was half cleared to Nick Wright 25 yards out, his thunderous first time effort deflecting off a defender and flying into the net.
Five minutes into the second half Butlin was fouled as he ran through right of centre, the free kick delivered beyond the left hand post, Richard Huckfields header back across goal going harmlessly wide.
On 59 minutes Jack Edwards raced through the Wood defence and from the right edge of the box hit a rising drive just too high.
Wood were content to keep the game low key but went to sleep on halfway after 70 minutes, Dominic Green intercepting a sloppy pass and racing for goal, Shawn Boothe saving Wood with a superb last ditch tackle.
The fright woke Wood up and a minute later substitute Corey Currithers cut in from the right before cleverly setting up Wright, he hit a rising drive that brought a brilliant full stretch save from Stone.
Close on time a Badgers left wing corner found its way to Lomas 25 yards out, his first time rising drive superbly saved by Pond at full stretch.
In the dying seconds a long ball forward was chased down by Currithers, Stone saved bravely at his feet but the ball ricocheted sideways to Currithers who ran on to fire into an empty net, the ball hitting the inside of the right hand post and staying out.
Wood two-nil
ahead after 15 minutes relaxed instead of pressing home their advantage and almost paid the price, but Nick Wrights deflected goal right on halftime settle their nerves and they comfortably held the Badgers in the second half.
It’s another banana skin at home on Saturday with Coleshill Town the visitors before Bank Holiday Monday sees them at the Aspray Arena against Sporting Khalsa.
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 Thursday evening (25th August 2016) there will be a public progress meeting for the Lichfield Waterworks Trust charity, formerly the Friends of Sandfields Pumping Station group.
The trust is now in negations with persimmon Home Ltd where we are working jointly to prepare and agree a licence for access to undertake a site investigation/assessment study that will last six months. We have asked that as part of the licence agreement, we will open Sandfields Pumping Station for 3 hours a week to allow supervised visits by member of the trust.
We see the issue of this licence as the first stage of an ongoing process to hand back Sandfields Pumping Station to the public, and a significant step towards protecting this unique piece of our industrial heritage.
The draft licence is now complete and has been returned to Persimmon Homes Ltd for their approval.
The trust is also very busy preparing a bid for a Resilient Heritage Grant. The Resilient Heritage Grant will enable the trust to commission a specialist engineering company to conduct a feasibility study on the 190 HP Cornish Beam Engine with a view of returning the engine to steam operation again.
The Resilient Heritage Grant will also be used to fund some training for members of the trust, so that we can allow access to the building to the public.
The trust is now looking for volunteer building supervisors to conduct organised visits to the pumping station. If you would like to become a building supervisor, please let us know. Full training will be given free of charge and we will issue a certificate of competence.
This is an incredibly exciting project, and we would like everyone to become a part of it, so please consider joining the Lichfield Waterworks Trust by clicking the membership link here.
Membership is free, but a small donation would always be very much appreciated. We have an enormous amount of expenditure coming up with the legal fees relating to the access licence, so any amount, however small, will be most welcome.
You can donate either at our online donation link here.
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.
The revamped of the Shire Oak was welcome, but sadly doesn’t seem to have been popular.
Surprising news has reached me that the Shire Oak Pub, landmark at the southern tip of Brownhills, has closed less than twelve months after an extensive refurbishment.
It’s not clear what’s happened at the once popular pub, but it’s been shut since yesterday (Monday, 22nd August 2016) and rumours suggest the pub has been handed back to the owners, Punch Taverns.
There had been some disquiet locally as the establishment, which reopened after a costly revamp in November 2015, had received middling reviews for food and service, and had met with some criticism.
Hopefully the pub will reopen soon with new management and a positive outlook for the future. I’ll post more information when I get it.
There’s currently a buzz in the local rail community and in some groups on Facebook about a 1968 cinefilm recently converted to digital and uploaded online by rail historian and blog regular, Ian Pell – it’s a remarkable, wonderful thing, and Ian has written a fascinating account of the film and line it covers especially for the blog, which I feature below.
The film is a recording by a young Trevor Cousens of something perhaps unthinkable today – a bunch of rail enthusiasts, that would later become the Chasewater Railway and associated society took a loco and navigated a derelict line as far as they could, around Chasewater and back, then off to Norton Canes.
The film itself features above, with stills inserted in the text and in a gallery at the end of Ian’s article. It’s like a voyage into history – those women by the line, the children, the puzzled householder – they step right out of time. Stunning stuff.
If you have anything to add, please do – either comment here of mail me: BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com.
finance Survey 1:25,000 1947 map of the Norton Pool area prior to 1949 closure of Conduit Colliery.
Conduit Colliery Mineral Line – 1968, A journey into the unknown.
The Mineral line between Conduit Colliery and the Conduit Colliery Sidings of the former Midland Railway was constructed around 1892-94 to connect the colliery with both the Midland line and also the Cannock Chase Colliery line (part of the original Cannock Chase and Wolverhampton Railway – CC&WR). The former formed a head-on junction with the line just after the 2 loop sidings known as the ‘Cannock Chase Sidings’. In 1862-67 the CC&W Railway had been constructed from Anglesea Sidings on the South Staffs LNW&R line as far as a junction with the Norton Branch of the LNW&R between Coppice Colliery No.6 siding and Conduit Junction. The CC&WR was intended to extend westwards to eventually join the Great Western Railway just north of Wolverhampton, but in reality this never came to fruition. The section of the CC&WR between the Conduit Colliery Sidings Junction and the Norton Branch was itself closed and removed in the 1870’s when the LNW&R fell out with the CC&WR. This meant that the LNW&R withdrew the use of their locomotives on the CC&WR leading to the Cannock Chase Colliery Company, which in effect owned the CC&WR, having to purchase their own locomotives to operate the system.
Approaching Norton East Road – there is track somewhere? Mowing in operation
In 1878 the Norton Branch Extension to East Cannock Junction was opened, which probably had some bearing on the CC&WR closure, but by 1882 the Midland had opened the Walsall Wood branch as far as the Cannock Chase Sidings to form their junction with the CC&WR line. This gave the Midland Railway a foot hold into the lucrative Cannock Chase Coalfield. On the 10th March 1895 traffic was sufficient that they introduced a signal cabin at the junction of the lines, calling it ‘Conduit Colliery Sidings Signal Box’. The box controlled new signals in both directions from both the CC&WR line and the Conduit Mineral line, onto the Midland Railway. The box was down graded when the passenger service between Aldridge and Brownhills Watling Street ceased in 1933 and when part of the down line was used for wagon storage.
‘Planet’ takes a break at the level crossing – children look on.
Meanwhile the LN&WR had completed their branch from Conduit New Sidings to Coppice Colliery at Five Ways, Heath Hayes. The Conduit Colliery No.3 (Jerome’s) headshunt to Conduit Junction on the Norton Branch was from that date was incorporated into the branch, becoming known as the ‘Five Ways Branch’.
The Mineral line also had 2 through sidings before it met the Midland Railway, and at the junction there was also 2 sidings built adjacent to the formation of the redundant section of the CC&WR. These formed a ‘Wharf’ and also acted as a ‘turn-back’ for traffic from the Mineral branch heading over the causeway towards Cannock Chase Colliery No.3 washery, the Colliery Workshop at ‘Wembley’, Chase Terrace and the CC&WR line to Anglesea Basin, the landsale site at Anglesea Sidings and the sidings and connection with the South Staffs line. In the 1880s this route often proved valuable as coal traffic to the south was route via Lichfield Trent Valley to Rugby and beyond.
Bewildered “local” approaches the “Leader” of the expedition.
This was the complex network of lines in the Norton Pool area which virtually remained untouched until the 1960’s. But that’s another story!
In 1966 a railway preservation centre was set up on the Midland Railway to the south of the Cannock Chase sidings. They were soon exploring the parameters of the network which remained available to them. As one of their adventures, the former Pitts rail ‘Planet’ 4wd locomotive was started up and traversed the line from its base at Brownhills West, over the causeway, to somewhere near where ‘Three Junction’ had existed (not far from the current ‘Chasewater Heath’ station). From here it retraced its steps back to Brownhills West before heading north again. However, this time instead of continuing towards the causeway, the points were set for the Mineral line and the train proceeded onto the mineral line. Trevor Cousens was an enthusiastic 17 year old with a cine camera. Hand holding his camera at the front of the vibrating ‘Planet’ he managed to film the proceedings. These were the days before ‘steady-cam’ but we have managed to record some snap shots of the journey as seen below. The adventure continued, over Norton East Road, where a previous expedition had been thwarted by the tarmac road surface. This time the party were ready and after removing several ‘trees’, pick axes were produced to ‘free’ the tracks over the road to the astonishment of the local populous. The party then continued to Brownhills Road where a similar procedure was carried out, which enabled the train to continue beyond the site of Conduit Colliery; the massive slag heap of its workings; to Conduit Junction. Here, the signal cabin’s shell remained with the point levers still intact. Unable to removed the padlock and unclip the points this was the end of the line. I’m sure if they had been able to change the points the film may have recorded the first arrival of a ‘Planet’ locomotive in Walsall Station!!
‘Locals’ discuss the effects of the locomotive’s fumes on their washing!
At this stage they retraced their steps back to Brownhills West, the mineral branch returning to its slumbers and eventual lifting shortly afterwards.
I must thank Trevor for his very kind gesture in making the film available, and permission to share it with us. Equally, a vote of thanks should also go to those with pick axes and shovels that enabled the ‘Planet’ to get as far as it did. I shudder to think how such a venture would be viewed today!?
Happy days and great memories.
Anyone know what happened to Planet?
The ‘Planet’ No.1 bone shaker after a repaint c.1970. This was the first locomotive to be used at the railway in 1966. The fate of this locomotive is still a bit of a mystery. Can anyone help?
Kindest regards
Ian
Pick axes clearing the lines – everyone is fascinated by these activities.
More work on the Brownhills Road crossing – the man on the left isn’t from Highways.
Is the girl waiting for the train to pass?
The party arrives at Conduit Junction signal cabin.
Earlier in the day the train had crossed the causeway on its way back to Brownhills West.
The agony and the ecstasy were felt this week in the Oak Park clubhouse, as Walsall Wood FC triumphed over Shawbury United away on Wednesday evening (17th August 2016), but were remarkably hammered by a resurgent Quorn yesterday afternoon (20th August 2016).
Bill Shaw caught both matches, and I run both reports here now. Sorry for not posting the Shawbury report in the week, but I just wasn’t able to get time.
Bill, as usual, doesn’t mince his words and his reports are below:
Hiya Bob,
Oh dear, this wasn’t very good, I’m not going to single anyone out, but when you sink to your knees, drop your head in your hands and you break your nose because you missed, you realise it isn’t your day.
We had lost Ashley Jackson and Louis Harris as they both picked up injuries at Shawbury on Wednesday night, Ash finding himself in plaster after chipping a bone in his left ankle. It certainly affected the balance of the side losing the two of them and we really struggled to make inroads into a well organised Quorn defence, but as their Chairman pointed out to me at the end, ‘It’s the first time we’ve beaten you in 7 attempts.’ So this was a game we didn’t expect to lose.
So we dust ourselves down and go again On Tuesday night, looking for revenge against Brocton for the opening day FA Cup defeat.
One swallow doesn’t make a Summer, by the same token one league defeat isn’t a disaster, so let’s stay positive and keep the faith.
Walsall Wood 0 v 3 Quorn
After two wins on the road Wood opened their home league programme with this horror show against a useful Quorn side who worked hard throughout and thoroughly deserved to go home with all three points against a misfiring Wood.
Quorn had the better of the opening exchanges and went ahead on 10 minutes, a left wing throw found Joe Hopewell who made the byeline, pulled the ball back across the box to find Reece Fyfe who scored with a low drive just inside the right hand post. It got worse two minutes later, the ball was delivered into the box, pinging around the area but Nathan Dale took charge and fired in a rising drive to put Quorn two nil ahead and firmly in the driving seat. Five minutes later Fyfe crossed from wide right to pick out Jevin Seaton, his first time ball back across the face of the box to set up Leavi Oshungbure to fire first time over.
Woods first chance came on 19 minutes, from a long clearance a weak defensive header was collected at pace by Karl Edwards who raced for goal, three defenders getting back to snuff out the danger. A minute later Edwards turned provider, cutting inside from wide left and finding Drew Aiton, he calmly stepped inside his marker but his low drive was bravely stopped by a last ditch defensive block.
On 34 minutes two Wood defenders stood looking at each other in the centre of the D, Fyfe raced through the middle of them to take the ball at pace and feed Dominic Brennan on the right of the box, he ran into the six yard box, keeper Conor McCarthy saving his low drive with his feet.
Wood’s reply was immediate, Lewis Taylor Boyce put clear wide left by Steven Hayles, he cut back inside and from the left edge of the box fired a rising drive over the far angle.
Four minutes into the second half a neat right wing move opened up the right of the Quorn defence, Aiton released Craig Deakin to race clear, he crossed into the box to find Joey Butlin whose volley was pushed away at full stretch by keeper Miljan Grubac. Eight minutes later Butlin put Aiton away wide left, his cross into the centre hit first time just too high by Sam Williams.
Back came the visitors when three minutes later Callum Thompson won the ball in the right corner, his near post cross found Liam Turner who under pressure finished weakly, McCarthy saving at the second attempt. Three minutes later Seaton got clear on the left, his ball inside collected at pace by Brennan, Hayles saving Wood with a superbly timed challenge.
Woods immediate reply saw Butlin release newcomer Nick Wright to race into the box to send a low drive just the wrong side of the left hand post. Then on 71 minutes a right wing free kick was met first time by Wright, loud hand ball appeals waved away as his goal bound effort was charged down. A minute later Butlin released Corey Currithers left of the box, his low near post cross deflecting behind for a corner off a desperate defender.
Quorn wrapped the game up on 88 minutes, with Thompson cutting inside from wide on the right, his vicious low cross deflecting off a defender and inside the near post to complete Woods miserable afternoon.
Three changes from their impressive performance against Shawbury on Wednesday night really changed the balance of the Wood side, Ashley Jackson finds himself in plaster after chipping a bone in his left ankle, a blow, as he’d started the season really well.
There’s no relief for Wood however as Brocton (shipping an alarming number of goals since beating Wood on the opening day) visit on Tuesday and then well fancied Coleshill Town are there on Saturday before Wood travel to Sporting Khalsa on Bank Holiday Monday.
Shawbury United, courtesy of Tims 92 football blog.
Hiya Bob,
Another win, this time with some lovely one touch football that should have brought more than just the two goals. Nevertheless it’s the best start of Swanny’s reign as Wood are one of four teams on six points from two games.
It’s three home games now, Quorn Saturday [review above – Bob], Brocton Tuesday followed by Coleshill Town on Saturday week.
Shawbury United 1 v 2 Walsall Wood
Wood kept their 100% record with an impressive performance against the Shropshire newcomers. They had to withstand a late barrage after ending the game with 10 men for the last 10 minutes after using all their substitutes and then losing Louis Harris getting injured.
It was an all action start for the visitors who had almost camped in the Shawbury half and it was no surprise when they went ahead in the 13th minute. A lovely one touch move on the right of the box ended with Joey Butlin releasing Drew Aiton to power in on goal before calmly hammering the ball past the advancing keeper Nick Ashley. It was virtually all Wood for the rest of the half with the newcomers with skipper Steven Faux prominent making the occasional foray forward. But it was Wood calling the shots, Craig Deakin twice firing over the bar. Ashley Jackson having a rasping low drive that was pushed away by Ashley and Ben Birch putting a far post header the wrong side of the post. The half-finished with Wood somehow only one goal ahead.
The second half started with Wood again in almost total control, on 51 minutes Aiton hit a rising drive from 25 yards that brought a great save from Ashley. Four minutes later Birch climbed highest at a right wing corner but powered a header wide. Four minutes later another intricate move carved open the home defence, Ashley this time pushing over a rising drive from Louis Harris. On 62 minutes Harry Harris delivered a central free kick into the box, Deakin cleverly flicked the ball on but just too far in front of Joey Butlin. Five minutes later a long ball forward was nodded down by Butlin to Harry Harris who was left thumping the ground in frustration as his goalbound effort was blocked. The home side put the Wood under a little pressure but an attack broke down and from a long ball forward into the home half under pressure a defender headed the ball back towards his keeper, Louis Harris chased the ball down reaching the ball just before keeper Ashley who made a brave block, with both players lying on the floor Harris swung a boot at the ball which bounced off the inside of the right hand post, Butlin beating a defender on the line to force the ball home in the 71st minute.
On 78 minutes from a left wing corner Paul McMullen powered a far post header back across the Wood goal and beyond the post.
Back came Wood to win a right wing corner five minutes later, a bout of head tennis ensued in the box ending with a diving header from Louis Harris pushed away by Ashley. Harris was injured shortly afterwards and left the field with Wood having used all their substitutes, now down to 10.
The home side pressed home their man advantage, but had no luck against a resolute Wood defence.
Two minutes into injury time a defensive mistake wide left saw Kieron Dovey race in along the byeline, pull the ball back across goal for Faux to score from close range.
Another injury stoppage saw the game go on until 9.50 but Wood held out to record a well-deserved victory.
Wood’s football at times was sublime bringing applause from the home supporters, but they shouldn’t have been holding on in the end. It’s now three home games in eight days as they look to consolidate on their best start in a long time.
Ogley Hay Girl School Nativity, Christmas 1957. Can you identify the girl fourth from right, back row please? A wonderful image from Kathleen Martin nee Schnabel.
As anyone who reads my other channels will know its been a hard week, and frankly, I’ve been too knackered to properly manage the blog – sorry for the lack of content over the last week and thanks for bearing with me.
Hopefully, normal service will be resumed soon, and in the meantime, I’m playing catchup again. So off we go…
In the last week, I’ve had the above wonderful image in from Kathleen Martin, whose maiden name was Scnabel. Kathleen is the shepherdess, front row left, and wonders if anyone knows the identity of the wee lass fourth from right, back row; she has names for all the others.
Kathleen wrote:
Hi Bob
Attached photo of Christmas play at Ogley Hay girls school 1957 have listed the names from left to right starting with the back row:
Pat Slatcher, Sandra Cooper, June Portsmouth, Pat Malpass, Angela Anthill, ??, Ann Scott, Sandra Kendall, Elizabeth Brookes
front row, Kathleen Schnabel, Mary Charles, Susan Watton, Sandra Harris, Janet Green, Yvonne Simpson, Sandra Hayward, Andrea Brownridge
Can anyone name the question marked girl on the back row?
Hope this photo is of interest
Thanks for a great blog Bob
Regards Kathleen Martin nee Schnabel.
Cheers Kathleen for the compliment, and this is indeed a lovely picture that’s sure to bring back memories for a lot of readers. Thanks so much for sharing it with us.
Securing a shed or outbuilding takes a little work but could well protect your stuff from thieves. Image by Ian Myatt.
It’s time, I’m very much afraid, to issue another warning – it seems local burglars are at is again – In the last few weeks there have been a number of break-ins to sheds and outbuildings in the Brownhills, Walsall Wood, Pelsall and High Heath areas in particular.
I’ve seen a few reports over the last few days warning of incidents – the one in Walsall Wood in the Coppice Road area took place in broad daylight .
Please ensure you lock all your outbuildings, and secure your premises as best you can. Don’t leave valuables on view in cars, and make sure anything that could be used in a burglary – ladders, garden tools etc. – is securely stowed away.
If you’re offered cheap tools, car stereo equipment or gardening kit, think hard about where it might have come from, and by all means grub the people flogging them into the rozzers – the stuff is probably nicked. Next time, it could be your stuff they take.
Anyone with information on the recent spate of thefts is urged to contact West Midlands Police by dialling 101 or you can speak to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Walsall Manor Hospital – surprisingly beautiful at night.
Another important appeal for readers of the blog – this request was posted by the Communication Team at Walsall Manor Hospital Tuesday (19th August 2016) and I’d like all locals to have a think about it, and if any of you can, please do help.
Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust is trying to find the family of a local man at the hospital.
Norman Smith, of Walsall, was born in the year of 1948 and previously worked in The Royal Navy.
Anyone related to Norman should contact Julie Venables at General Office, Walsall Manor Hospital on 01922 721172 ext 4637.
Thanks in advance. If anyone would prefer, email me in total confidence at BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot come and I’ll pass any messages on.
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 afternoon and see some cracking football.
Top contributor, commentor and all round good egg the young David Evans has been busy over the last few weeks organising a treat for local history buffs in Brownhills and the wider community – he’s been asked to do a couple of talks on the history of Walsall Wood.
The first of these takes place on Wednesday 7th September 2017 at 10:30am at The Well centre on Beacon Way in Walsall Wood. I believe it’s free (but it won’t be much if it isn’t) it’s be a fun, funny and informal talk about the history of Walsall Wood, which as most readers will know, David is somewhat of an expert on.
David is a Walsall Wood lad, and has written hundreds of thousands of words on the history of the village in which he grew up. He truly is an engaging, charming and fascinating man, and I commend this event to anyone interested in our local heritage.
I wish everyone involved well and look forward to news of David’s further talks coming soon!
Libby Warren with the new exhibition. Image from Walsall Local History Centre.
This is just a quick note to flag up a great exhibition starting this Saturday, 20th August 2016 at Walsall Local History Centre – it’s about local pubs and their history which is a recurring topic of huge interest to the local history community.
This looks like an excellent thing, and I comment it to anyone interested in the history of alehouses, inns and off licenses locally – which were often focal points of the community as well as places to drink and be merry.
How many folk realise, for instance, that inquests were regularly held at local pubs like the Black Cock and Horse and Jockey?
There is an excellent team at Walsall Local History Centre who provide a largely free service to everyone from serious family historians to muppets like me involved in the most bizarre bits of local history. This service is the jewel in Walsall’s cultural crown and we need to cherish and protect it.
New Exhibition Sheds Light On Pub History In Walsall Borough
Walsall Local History Centre, the archive and local studies service for the Walsall Metropolitan Borough, is launching its latest public exhibition this Saturday 20th August 2016 – its first dedicated to the ever-popular topic of historic public houses!
The new ‘PUBS GALORE!’ display, which has been set up in the exhibition area of the Centre in Essex Street, north Walsall, by staff member Libby Warren with the support of colleague Stuart Williams, combines an evocative and nostalgic mix of exhibition photographs, reproduced documents and historic data from the Centre, plus original objects from the collections of the former Walsall Museum, and offers something for everyone, from brewing enthusiast to local or family historian.
Libby Warren said ‘We hold a vast collection of archives relating to the pubs of Walsall and its Borough and we have endeavoured to display examples of some of the wonderful photographs and documents that we hold here at the centre.
‘Everybody gets excited when they discover that they have a pub landlord in their ancestry, and are always eager to discover more. The exhibition features over 100 photographs of pubs and their landlords, with documents dating back to 1663 as well as some artefacts which have been kindly loaned by Walsall Museums.’
The exhibition will run from this Saturday until 15th November 2016, and admission is free during normal Centre opening hours: Tuesday 10am – 4pm, Wednesday 10am – 7pm, Thursday 10am – 1pm, Saturday 10am – 1pm.
On-site car parking, including disabled, is available free of charge.
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 at 7:00pm on Monday 12th September 2016 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.
I’m advertising this one early so you can pop it in your diaries for the future – Malcolm Littler has been in touch and asked me to give the meeting an early plug as they could do with more embers and more public interest.
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.
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.
Are these derelict Nissen Huts the remains of a World War II prisoner of war camp? Many locals think they are. Imagery from Apple Maps.
I’ve had an enquiry in the last week or so from reader Graham Smith, who’s trying to track down lists of Italian Prisoners of War, often said to be billeted in a camp in north Walsall, thought by many to be near the aerodrome.
Do you have any information regarding the Italian prisoner of war camp in Walsall?
We think that my wife`s father spent some time there.
Thanks,
Graham Smith.
Now I must admit to knowing nothing about this, which is why I had nothing to add to the same question posted in March 2015, and it seems nobody else did, either.
We are trying to find my wife`s father, who was in a camp in Walsall. Her mother worked at Crabtrees and became friendly with a Italian from one of the camps with whom she became pregnant with my wife who was then adopted in 1946.
Is there a list of names of people who were in those camps around this time?
I’ve never seen such a list, but I’m no military or wartime historian. Can anyone help, please? Anything at all?
Since then, Graham has posted a couple of comments, and I’d point out to Graham that his question was flagged for an article this week, but like Andy, I do this as a hobby in my free time, and can’t provide fast responses, sorry. And sometimes, I just don’t know.
I try to help where I can.
My feeling is that with the large readership, if there was a clear answer, someone would have mentioned it by now; many old comments and topics get revisited, and this one is peculiar – I see lots of assertions online about particular buildings, but no hard evidence whatsoever, but then with wartime secrecy, would there be any? It’s a tough one for sure.
Anything you can offer at all is welcome: comment here please or mail me: BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com. Thanks.
Huts in Lynn Lane, Lynn, near Stonnall – now long gone – were said to be used to house Italian POWs during the war. From Susan Marie Ward’s blog post: ‘My mother, (far right) and her best friend Betty Green, (far left), lean out of the window of the Land Army Hostel in Lynn Lane, Shenstone – 1948’
Chasewater: Staffordshire County Council say the lake is now clear of blue-green algae.
Following several enquiries from readers who were concerned about the situation with blue-green algae bloom at Chasewater, today (15th August 2016) I’ve sought a statement from Staffordshire County Council who operate the park – and they say the problem is now passed and the water is safe for dogs.
It should be noted that Chasewater is never considered safe for swimming, and that when such events have been operated there in the past, they have had a great deal of additional safety provision.
On trying to ascertain the current situation, the first response I had was from one of the two official twitter accounts for Chasewater, which issued this abrupt tweet:
Ooh. Curt, much?
I expressed surprise that there had been no announcement of this on social media, and received this subsequent press statement from the council:
Hi Bob, please see the response below. Thanks, Niall
Gill Heath, Cabinet Member for Communities and the Environment at Staffordshire County Council said that the test results had come back confirming that it was blue and green algae in the water as suspected. Thankfully it has now all disappeared and is back to normal, and we have taken the signs down.
I thank Staffordshire County Council for making this clear, and would ask that they ensure important park news is actually broadcast via social media, where many folk look for it. The original issue was never mentioned on the park Facebook page and it seems strange that publicising such a hazard was left to rank amateurs like me.
Jack was also a great cyclist, storyteller and mate to a good many. I still think the civic elders should have given him the freemanship of Walsall – you can read my eulogy to Jack in this post here.
The reason I bring this up again is that I was recently sent scans of a wonderful book/promotional publication featuring Jack made by Walsall Housing Group a couple of years ago. Historian and author Clive Roberts knew Jack well, and kindly scanned the book which I’ve made into a PDF you can download here, or check out the gallery below.
The book was originally a free giveaway, celebrating the history of social housing in Walsall, and Jack’s status as a very longstanding tenant. There was also a video, which I’ve featured before – I’ve included that at the foot of the post for completeness too.
So please do enjoy this reminder of Jack, a great man and inspiration to all in the local history community. I know and feel personally the gap Jack has left, and how quiet the Local History Centre is without him.
My thanks to Clive for great scans and a reminder of a lost, but wonderful soul.
The staff of William Harrison Limited, Summer 1944. Far left, Derrick Arthur Dennis (Grove); third left Harold Thacker (he died recently); third right Dennis Littley. Seated: far left Barbara Brown (Conduit); second right Elizabeth ‘Betty’ Matthews, third right possibly a lady named Colleen. Image very generously supplied by Andy Dennis.
It’s handy when people date photos! Can anyone add to the names? Image kindly supplied by Andy Dennis.
This is a great image and I’m sure it’ll bring back some memories which readers can elaborate on and expand.
Andy wrote:
Hello Bob
Here is another bit of local memorabilia, this time related to the coal mine owner William Harrison.
The envelope says: ‘The Staff Of William Harrison Limited, Summer 1944’. The picture includes staff from both Wyrley Grove Colliery and Conduit Colliery at Norton Canes.
I can name only a few. Standing: far left, Derrick Arthur Dennis (Grove); third left Harold Thacker (he died recently); third right Dennis Littley. Seated: far left Barbara Brown (Conduit); second right Elizabeth ‘Betty’ Matthews, third right I think was a rather fun-loving lady named Colleen, who visited us a few times, but it would have been 35 and more years ago.
Can anybody fill any of the blanks?
Derrick & Barbara (aged 18 and 15 respectively) would become my parents. Betty would be maid of honour at their wedding.
For a time Harold Thacker worked out the odds for Marklew’s betting office, so Dad told me. I think this was at the bottom end of Brownhills High Street, round the back of the three storey building opposite farmfoods. I seem to have a very hazy recollection of a similar establishment on Ogley Road, somewhere between Great Charles Street and Vicarage Road. I am sure readers will set me right.
Dennis Littley lived at Knaves Castle.
Cheers
Andy
Thanks to Andy so continuing to record and investigate our history and if you can help, please do comment or mail me – BrownhillsBob at googlemail dot com.
“A right old tangle”, to quote today’s Touchline Sage
Deft passing and off the ball second-half running by both teams. Glorious
Tactile proximity test
Some delightful individual tussles and strong hard soccer were evident throughout this match.
The end of a super display of soccer by two determined teams. “Bostin’”
Tividale played in their bright yellow home strip today.
Determination in profile
Some fine long-range clearance shots to launch attacking moves were made by Tividale
Sporting challenges and fluid football characterised this match. Super to spectate
Well-hydrated spectators, seen here before the kick-off, being entertained by the strains of “its raining men” from over the Tannoy. Love Tividale and their welcome.
An excellent save by Tividale ‘keeper
Trap, turn and break away manoeuvre
No let up as Tividale work hard to score a goal
Tividale put early pressure on the Wood.
Tividale about to mount one of several strong challenges in the second half.
Acrobatic soccer
Second goal to the Wood. A loupine cry of “Come on the Wood” rang around the terraces.
Determination and endeavour
A first half attack by the Wood and Tividales keeper responds to the challenge.
Wood turn up the pressure as the first half was played
A beautifully prepared pitch and a real Black Country welcome greeted all the spectators
Images and captions kindly supplied by David Evans
Walsall Wood FC travelled yesterday afternoon (Saturday, 13th August 2016) to Tividale, and came home with a good win and three points under their belt.
Walsall Wood Football Club are a top local side with a big-hearted faithful who know how to have a great time supporting their lads, and welcome all comers to come enjoy great local soccer. The boys from The Wood have been at the heart of the local community for a century or more, so please do go check out a match or two if you’re curious.
Bill Shaw was there as ever, and submitted the following match report:
Hiya Bob,
It finally came right as Wood opened their League campaign with a comfortable enough victory over last season’s relegated side.
Ashley Jackson’s deflected shot gave Wood the lead on 52 minutes and an early Harry Harris contender for goal of the season put them in the driving seat six minutes later.
Tividale huffed and puffed but couldn’t break down a well organised defence, superbly marshalled by debutant keeper Curtis Pond.
Wood are due at Wem to play Shawbury United on Wednesday but a controversial FA Cup replay last Wednesday has to be sorted out by the FA so watch this space before you make the journey, the game could be off.
A winning start, more goals would have been good, but it’s three points and more importantly a clean sheet.
Tividale 0 v 2 Walsall Wood
Two Second half goals from Ashley Jackson and Harry Harris gave Wood a deserved victory over last seasons relegated side.
On five minutes Harry Harris raced into the box just right of centre, his fierce low drive deflected off a defender, completely wrong-footed home keeper Luke Kiskinians but bounced the wrong side of the left hand post. On 12 minutes Wood debutant keeper Curtis Pond launched a ball forward, a clever touch to the right by Drew Aiton set up Joey Butlin, his low drive bringing a great full length save from the home keeper. Dale soaked up Wood pressure then on 20 minutes a long ball out of defence found Liam Morris on the right of the box, he cut inside and his low drive was well saved by Pond.
Wood had the better of the rest of the half but couldn’t make the all important breakthrough.
A minute into the second half Pond delivered a long ball into the box, Butlin was first to the ball to flick a header over the advancing keeper who somehow pushed the ball wide, from the second of two corners Aiton fired a first time effort just too high.
On 52 minutes from a right wing Wood throw the ball was collected by Ashley Jackson, he stepped inside and from 40 yards out hit a screaming low drive just wide. From the goal kick Wood won the ball back wide right, Butlin’s ball inside was collected at pace by Jackson, he faded inside, took one touch before hitting a low drive that deflected off a defender and looped over the keeper and into the net. Just six minutes later Wood doubled their lead, and what a goal, Butlin was fouled just outside the left of the box, he rolled the free kick short to Harry Harris who thundered a rising drive inside the near post, giving the keeper no chance. Wood comfortably held the home sides attempts at getting back into the game and nearly made it three on 79 minutes when Jackson collected the ball right of the box, went through three tackles and his goalbound shot was half blocked giving the keeper an easy save.
A comfortable victory for Wood as they opened their league campaign with three points. They are at home on Saturday 20th with Quorn the visitors in a re-arranged League game, before entertaining Brocton on Tuesday 23rd.
Walsall Corporation was, of course, the Council. Image from Rocky Sprogs.
An interesting inquiry I’ve been meaning to share for a few days (but couldn’t find the email, mainly because it came in as a Facebook message – d’oh!) from mate of the blog and Pelsallian Rocky Sprogs about a medal he has that belonged to his father.
I’m looking for any info re the following photos of a medal.
I think it was presented to my father when he would have been 12, his name was Frederick George Rowley.
My mother says he was a keen swimmer, particularly in his youth. May also have been in a Water Polo team. Later on he was Captain of Walsall Rugby Club and President of Staffordshire Rugby Union for a 2 year term.
It is generally a honorary position based on service ( like Mayor).
Cheers
Rocky
This is a fascinating thing, and I wasn’t aware of Walsall Corporation having interdepartmental sports competitions. Your old man sounds like a fascinating character and it’s be interesting to see what the readers can find.
Cheers to Rocky for a great enquiry.
You know the drill – please do comment here or mail me – BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com.
Wonder what happened to inter-department sports, and how long they lasted? Image from Rocky Sprogs.
It’s free to enter too (although donations are welcomed). I should point out that dogs are not permitted (except assistance dogs), so probably best to leave Old Shep home…
Alan Dawson, Friend of the mill, wrote to tell me all about Sunday’s event:
Hi Bob,
The “Friends of New Hall Mill” are opening the mill to the public this coming Sunday August 14th, a chance to see flour being produced from grain in the traditional way along with entertainment in the mill meadow
New Hall Water Mill is a fully restored 18th century mill which opens to the public on seven days each year. On open days the mill is operated by the “Friends of the mill” who produce flour and allow visitors to gain an insight into days past.
In addition, monthly changing events & displays will be undertaken in the mill meadow where you can go on a guided walk or enter our labyrinth, if so desired.
Eclipse Falconry
Steam Models
Helens Handmade Crafts
Ink wells and Ink bottles
Birmingham Camera Obscura
Prince Charles and Diana memorablia
Tins and Sewing collectables
Bournville Bread Basket
Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens
Eco Sutton
There is an exhibition room & gift shop and a small tearoom selling cakes and beverages along with a garden shop where produce may be purchased from the millers garden.
Entrance to the mill and car parking is free, collection boxes for donations are positioned at various locations. Donations from visitors are most welcome as the mill depends upon these to assist towards the costs of maintaining and running the mill for your pleasure and enjoyment.
The times of opening are 10.00 – 16.00 and this year’s remaining open days are as follows –
Sunday August 14th
Bank holiday Monday August 29th
Sunday September 11th
Access to the mill is off Wylde Green road, Sutton Coldfield, B76 1QU, some 200 metres from National cycle route 534.
Best regards,
Alan Dawson – A friend of New Hall mill.
This is certainly one worth visiting – 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.
Diane Mansell and the gang from Brownhills Town Centre Partnership have made a cracking job of their Brownhills by the Sea event which is currently ongoing, and continues on right through until Saturday.
The young David Evans was there just as things got underway Yesterday and dent me the above collection off images. It’s not recorded if David made sandcastles or rolled his trousers up, but I bet he did!
From now until Saturday afternoon there will be stalls, free activities for the kids and all kinds of fun and games, with paddling at the canoe club on Saturday and Armitage Birds of Prey display.
You can find out more at the Brownhills Town Centre Partnership Facebook page.
Thanks for putting Barry & ‘H’ in touch with Dave Danks.
He will be attending Roger Mosedale’s funeral.
Could you please remind the folks on your website and Facebook members that Roger’s funeral is at 12 -45 pm this Friday (12th August 2016) at Streetly Crematorium.
Anyone who knew Roger is welcome.
Another Roger Mosedale recording has come to light. It’s an instrumental tune that Roger composed called ‘Comanche’.
It was only a home recording , recorded straight to cassette.
We are enclosing an mp3 of it. ( copyright: Midlands Songwriters )
Thanks again for the wonderful generosity in sharing Roger’s music, and I’m so glad you guys and David have got it together despite the sadness.
The full details of the funeral as posted by Rachel, Roger’s niece, I repeat below.
To all,
I am Rachel, Uncle ‘Dodges’ niece. The family would like to thank Colin Corbett for posting this memoriam and for all your lovely comments and thoughts. Bought tears to our eyes.
If any of you, and others you may know would like to attend his service it is being held on Friday 12th August at 12.45pm, Streetly Crematorium, West Chapel.
Sid, Roger’s lifelong friend, is conducting the service. The family have requested no flowers but any donations to be made to St Giles Hospice, Walsall, where he spent his last days.
You will be able to do this on the day.
Once again, thank you for all your lovely kind thoughts and memories.
As Uncle Dodge used to say to me, night and god bless to you all xx
My sincere condolences remain with Roger’s family, friends and all who knew and remembered him. Rarely have I seen this strong a reaction to such news on the blog; Roger was clearly a very special and well-loved man.
Thanks for all the shares, retweets and for keeping an eye out – the rather fetching chap yesterday who went missing from his owner Phyl has returned home, and Phyl would like to thank everyone for their help.
It also looks like the case found at Ogley Hay on Saturday is working it’s way home, too. It actually turns out to have a local performer’s outfit in, and it’s something they left following a gig on Saturday, so thanks to all involved in that one.
A mystery bag found by a very public-spirited blog reader. Do you recognise it? Image supplied by reader Paul Evans.
Reader Paul Evans has been in touch with a bit of an odd one: he found the above bag on the street last Saturday, just by National Tyre in Ogley Road/Chase Road, Brownhills – just at Co-op Corner.
Paul says it contains something that would be important to the owner, but bears no identification, and someone is very probably missing it.
I have Paul’s email address here so if anyone who recognises the bag would like to get in touch, comment here or mail me and I’ll hook you up – BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com.
Thanks to Paul for being so public spirited.
On a side note, Paul did the sensible thing – he tried to take it to the police station, to hand in as lost property, only to find that the station had shut. The small ways in which local services are missed, eh?
This handsome chap is missing from Clayhanger. Have you seen him, please?
This cat has now returned home – thanks everyone for your help – Bob
Hi folks – anyone in the Clayhanger, Brownhills or Walsall Wood area seen the above rather wonderful cat? He’s gone missing from Clayhanger and his owner Phyl his desperate to find him.
Puss went missing recently, and he’s rather timid so may make a sharp exit if approached.
Phyl wrote:
Hi Bob
Please could you put this picture of this much loved lost cat in Clayhanger on your website/Facebook page?
He is a male cat and very timid so may run if approached.
Please just call 07425 135864 if you see him.
He is a Maine coon long haired bkack and white male.
Thanks
Phyl
If’s you’ve seen this handsome fellow, please contact Phyl on the number above, commenting here or mailing me on BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com. Cheers.
It’s going to be a fun event, with a stage showcasing local acts and talent, sand pit, boating pool, inflatables, stalls, the Armitage Birds of Prey plus loads more! On each of the three days the fun starts at 10am and runs until 4pm – just right for those with kids off school and bored!
Diane Wrote:
Our first Brownhills By The Sea event kicks off on thursday through till Saturday and remember guys all the by The Sea equipment is FREE for the kiddies to enjoy, plus we have over 30 markets stalls in attendance everyday so please come and support your town
Exciting news – We currently have confirmed 27 stalls and attractions in attendance on Thursday, 31 on Friday and a whopping 45 stalls and attractions on Saturday so make sure you come down everyday and take full advantage of all the free childrens rides we have on offer.
It’s been a while coming, but this week WalsalL Wood’s new leisure centre opens to the public.
Just a note for anyone interested that Oak Park Active Living Centre – the new leisure centre in Walsall Wood – opens this Tuesday, 9th August 2016 as does the sister centre at Bloxwich.
Mike’s role in this will not be forgotten here, and although I may have ribbed the lad something wicked over the years, he remains an example to others of how young Councillors should operate – despite being bluer than Thatcher’s knickers. Respect.
For those after the details who may not have seen the promotional leaflets, you can peruse them in the gallery at the foot of this post – just click on the images for larger version.
Take a virtual tour around Bloxwich and Oak Park Active Living Centres in Walsall
Image from the Walsall Advertiser
WALSALL people excited for the two brand new leisure centres are being offered a chance to see a sneak peek of them ahead of their opening next week.
As part of the Active Living Centres Initiative a new web portal has been launched to provide residents with the latest on the programmes, prices, special offers and general information for Bloxwich and Oak Park centres.
The tour is available through accessing go.walsall.gov.uk/leisure/[At the time of publishing, some parts of the Walsall Council site are down for maintenance, please try later if link not working – Bob]
The online virtual tour through both centres provides 360 degree views of the insides of the buildings and the chance to virtually stroll around. Visitors are able to see each of the 25 metre swimming pools, teaching pools, six court sports halls, dance studios, changing rooms and cafes.
Councillor Julie Fitzpatrick, portfolio holder for community, leisure and culture, said: ‘This online virtual tour provides a unique chance to see just how amazing the new centres really are.
‘These new Active Living Centres show our commitment to improving health and fitness in Walsall and this is an extremely exciting time.’
The centres will open on Tuesday, August 9.
I for one will be giving the centre a go, and hope to get my upper body into better condition and tame the resplendent girth a bit. See you there?
As has been covered here before by Wendy Jones and Stuart Cowley, the Bluebirds featured in the 1970s Cliff Richard film ‘Take me High’ which was made in Birmingham. I won’t link to the film itself on YouTube as any copy posted is soon taken down, but the full thing is worth searching for, not just for the great shots of Birmingham, for for the full cheesiness of the 70s promotional film vehicle, a sadly lost art form.
Stuart Cowley, who kindly tipped me off about Lisa’s film, had this to say:
Just worth noting this link that has recently appeared on You tube, a compilation of clips of the Bluebirds when they were in the Cliff film in Birmingham back in 73 (released 74)
This has been put together by a Brownhills lass by the name of Lisa Ashby who, I understand, has had nothing to do with the bands over the years but took it on herself to put this together, so on behalf of everyone associated with the Bluebirds at the time I’d just like to say a big thank you.
Just for interest, my memories of the time were:
Audition at Birmingham on a Thursday in August 1973, following Saturday filming from 6 in the morning. All those associated with the filming were gathered in the Victoria square area by the Town Hall.
We did 6 runs of the street parade so that they could take various shots and if anyone is wondering what it was all about, we were part of a promotion for the opening of a new restaurant in the city according to the storyline.
We attended the premiere at the ABC Bristol street Birmingham and the film was released early 1974. I think in the States it was known as ‘Hot property’ over here it was ‘Take me high’.
I’m on the very last row of drummers, kerbside so got about 2 seconds of fame.
Below are links that Wendy Jones has put on You tube, these are behind the scene shots that her dad took at the time:
Thank you again to all involved for the memories.
Stuart Cowley
Please, if you have any memories of this time, or anything to add, you’re very welcome to – either comment here or mail me – BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com.
Thanks to Lisa for another beautiful piece of work, and to Wendy and Stuart for keeping memories of something special very much alive. This is true local history in action.
This was the first match of the 2016/17 season and I’m proud and honoured to welcome back the reporting dream team of Bill Shaw on the words and the young David Evans behind the camera.
Here’s to all at Walsall Wood Football Club – players, club and supporters alike – I and the blog community wish you all the very best for this season. For the good of the Wood!
And so to Brocton, where Bill Shaw caught all the action…
Hiya Bob,
Not the start we wanted as Wood exited from the FA Cup at the first hurdle for the second successive season. Going down to a late goal when everyone was talking about a Tuesday night replay at the Wood.
The first goal was well worked but the other 2 goals came from defensive errors.
The game was competitive throughout but rarely got above mediocrity.
Suspensions, injuries and holidays depleted the squad but it’s 2 testing away games at relegated Tividale on Saturday followed on Wednesday night the 17th with a visit to Shawbury United, last season’s West Midland League Champions.
So the season isn’t going to be easy to start with, games against Brocton, Coleshill Town and Sporting Khalsa to follow, points will be hard to come by in August, so keep the faith.
F.A. Cup Extra Preliminary Round Brocton 2 v 1 Walsall Wood
It was Brocton who went through to face Chasetown on August 20th.
An end to end competitive opening without either keeper being troubled. Then on 13 minutes Louis Harris won the ball in the centre, played a pass forward to find Karl Edwards left of the box, his far post cross fractionally too high for Harris who’d raced into the box but could only head wide.
Dan Lomas and Jack Edwards both made inroads into the left of the Wood box but were eventually repulsed. The Badgers broke the deadlock on 40 minutes when from a quick counter attack the ball was played forward to skipper Sean Kinsella who laid the ball off quickly to his right to find Edwards, who went on a diagonal run before hitting a sweet low drive into the bottom left hand corner of the net. It was nearly two when three minutes later Lomas crossed low from the left, Dominic Dell’s first time drive pushed away by keeper Conor McCarthy. Kinsella collecting the loose ball on the right of the box, making inroads along the byeline only to be crowded out.
The Badgers had the first chance of the second half when on 53 minutes Kinsella was strong on the right of the box before crossing beyond the far post, Lomas looping a header back across goal, McCarthy at full stretch tipping the ball over the top. It was Lomas again 15 minutes later capitalising on Kamikaze defending in the centre of the box that allowed him to fire in a snap shot that McCarthy saved at full stretch.
On 77 minutes a high ball forward for Wood saw the Badgers defence misread the bounce completely, allowing Harry Harris to race into the box, just left of centre before calmly sliding the ball past the advancing Calum Barrett in the home goal.
With just four minutes to go substitute Paul McMahon collected a ball into the box, with Wood defenders looking for an offside flag that never came, he ran on to give keeper McCarthy no chance, proving there is no substitute for experience.
The Badgers held out reasonably comfortably to move into the next round.
Wood are away at Tividale on Saturday and then travel up to Wem on Wednesday 17th to face newly promoted Shawbury United.
Another photo of Aldridge pop group The Sundowners – they are ( from left to right) Colin Corbet – Dave Danks – Barry Peacock and Roger Mosedale. Image kindly supplied by Jake Williams.
I continue to be surprised and charmed by the genuine outpouring of warmth and fond memory shown for Roger Mosedale, guitarist and Aldridge lad who sadly passed away recently.
I also received this wonderful mail from David Danks, who also fondly remembers Roger:
Hi Bob, I hope you are well.
I simply wanted to say a massive thank you for the great service you bring to us all via your blog.
You recently reported the hugely sad passing of Roger Mosedale who as you know was a great musician and played with the Sundowners group during the 60s and part of the 70s.
I played with this group in the early 60s and you will imagine my surprise when I was scrolling through your blog the other day to see a picture of the Sundowners and a picture of a 16 year old ‘me’ staring out from the screen.
I cannot tell you how sad I was reading about dear Roger but without your blog I would never have known and of course I knew and played with Roger at such an important time of my life. At least I was able to leave a message and as we both wrote poetry, I dedicated a poem of mine to this dear guy and through you, I now have details of all of the formal arrangements.
So thank you Bob, to learn of the loss of a precious old mate from years ago is not what anyone wants but to have never known would have been so very sad.
I recall with great fondness my times with the Sundowners.
Bless you for all you do.
My very kindest regards David Danks
Thank you David for your lovely words, and I’d just like to say it’s an honour to know I’ve made a small difference – even in such a sad matter, but if it wasn’t for the community of readers around the blog, and the help and material they generously give, I couldn’t do it. This is a community project and I’m indebted to you all.
Thank you.
On with the donations from Jake – for which I can’t thank him enough – if you have anything to add, please do – comment here or mail me. BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com. Cheers.
What a cracking image of the period, again generously supplied by Jake Williams.
Jake said:
During the “Sundowners” time together – the band also played as Dante And The Infernos – on this photo – Roger Mosedale is 4th from the left on the front row. By this time he had bought himself a Fender Stratocaster. The audience all gathered ’round for the photo. I wonder how many Aldridge people will spot themselves or their friends.
The sadly lost Les Haynes of Aldridge, a familiar face of the period. Image kindly supplied by Jake Williams.
Jake said:
I’m sure the guys and gals who were hanging out in Aldridge in the mid 60’s, will remember Les Haynes.
He lost his life in a motor cycle accident – (1966?)
He was great guy – always had a smile for everyone – He used to frequent the Elms pub – the British Legion Club and the Manor House Youth Club – as well as drinking tea in Jean Cooper’s cafe. This photo was taken on the Croft not long before he died.
My sincere condolences remain with Roger’s family, friends and all who knew and remembered him. Rarely have I seen this strong a reaction to such news on the blog; Roger was clearly a very special and well-loved man.
Also, Jake sent a link to this interesting track on YouTube:
Another little gem featuring Roger Mosedale playing guitar.
This short song was recorded as a tribute to William & Kate – and once again – Roger puts his ‘Hank Marvin’ touch to the guitar solo.
The walk takes place this Monday 8th August 2016 at 7:00pm, meeting at the Speakers Corner, at the Dam Street end of Minster Pool – and the best bit is it’s totally free!
Kate had this to say about the talk:
Hello Bob
We have a walk coming up on Monday 8th August that some of your readers might be interested in, and would be very welcome to join us on.
Lichfield in Twenty Buildings (and 16 stops!) is a summer evening’s stroll, led by local historian John Gallagher, discovering an assortment of the unexpected and overlooked properties of our treasured city.
Featuring places you might recognise, but may not know about, this idiosyncratic walk celebrates heritage as only Lichfield Discovered can, and each location has the distinction of having a history.
All welcome and no charge! Meet Speaker’s Corner at 7pm.
Cheers,
Kate Cardigan x
These events are increasing in popularity, and I can see why; this is a collection of dedicated but offbeat local history enthusiasts who really know how to make their subject engaging and entertaining. And it’s absolutely free to attend. What’s not to love?
There’s a great thing happening this Sunday (7th August 2016) when a bus service operated by classic vehicles will operate between Aston Manor Road Transport Museum in Aldridge, Chasewater Railway and the Museum of Cannock Chase.
Come and see historic road transport, historic railways and local mining and natural history, with a free bus between the sites. Our museum at Aldridge, then Chasewater Railway and the Museum of Cannock Chase will be linked by free buses – timetable details soon!
A great day!
Chasewater Railway will be having their Annual Charity Day and the Museum of Cannock Chase have their Summer Family Day, and we can take you to both of them! We’ll be open as normal as well, so you can have a good day out without having to drive around – just look out of the bus windows as the scenery passes!
All services operated by classic busses! Click for a larger version.
The Museum of Cannock Chase have this to say about their family day:
Join us for our annual Summer fun day – FREE entry. Face painting, art and craft activities, willow weaving, Punch & Judy shows, stalls and displays, pop up pottery workshop, special gallery openings, hot food available, picnic areas, free vintage bus rides, fun and games and more!
This Saturday evening (6th August 2016) there’s a change from the usual schedule with a disco – where DJ Ringo will be playing some great music from 8pm.
It’s free entry and there’s great ale, cider and a banging atmosphere, with a late bar until 1am..
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
The Railway Tavern in 1993 – was that really 20 years hence? It was always a nice looking pub and a landmark on the Lichfield Road. Image kindly supplied by Mike Leonard.
Walsall Wood lad, friend of the blog and noted local history author Clive Roberts has written to me this week, asking readers for help finding photos of some lost Brownhills pubs for his next book.
I’m putting together my latest book on Old Brownhills Public Houses. It will be in two parts, Part 1 covers 1sixteen pubs and there are about 83 pages.
I wonder if the readers of the blog can help me, I need some photos of four pubs in particular: the Railway Tavern on the Lihfield road; Queens Head Watling Street; Pear Tree Cottage near the Hednesford Road and the Lamb Inn that was on Watling Street.
Anyone kindly donating a photo will have need to own the copyright, and I will credit the photo to them.
If I use the photo I will supply them with a free copy of the book as well.
Many thanks and best wishes to you and the blog readers.
Clive L Roberts
Well, reader Mike Leonard donate the image above of the Railway Tavern and if he’s still tuned in perhaps he might allow Clive to get in touch, please?
I have an image of the Pear Tree, but only when it was derelict sadly.
I welcome any further images anyone would like share, so please do comment here or mail me – thanks. BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com.
The Railway Tavern was deceptively large. A few merry Brownhillians staggered over that threshold over the years! Image generously supplied by Mike Leonard.
This place is so useful, it really is brilliant. Image from the Craft Barn Facebook page.
That there Lucy Wood from the Saxon Hill Craft Barn shop at Chasewater Innovation Centre has written to let me know that they’re currently seeking businesses that may have waste materials they’d be able to supply to the project instead of throwing away, thus reducing refuse bills for the businesses concerned.
The Craft Barn sells material for craft purposes, by taking clean business waste – everything from wooden crates to fabric offcuts – and using them to make great crafting materials for the general public to browse and buy – and it’s all really cheap.
It really is an Aladdin’s Cave.
This is a fine project backed by the remarkable and wonderful Saxon Hill School in Lichfield, and I’m proud to support it, too. In the seemingly harsh and uncaring world we currently inhabit, it’s nice to see that these excellent people still give a damn.
Community Project needs support
A Community Project is appealing to the Commercial, Retail and Industrial sector for support.
We need donations – Can YOUR BUSINESS help?
Saxon Hill Craft Barn is a work based learning initiative run by Saxon Hill Academy in Lichfield, with recycling at heart. The craft store, based at Chasewater Park in Brownhills provides retail based work experience to pupils with disabilities and their associated learning difficulties
They work with companies that are looking to reduce their waste disposal bills and turn your clean business waste into low cost crafting supplies. taking many items from unwanted, unsaleable stock, store décor, packaging and other items that would otherwise end up in land fill.
The Barn offers this service for FREE; collections can be as frequent as infrequent as you like
Marketing Manager at The Saxon Hill Craft Barn, Lucy Wood said: ‘We constantly need businesses to donate unwanted items that would usually end up in the bin. We would like to hear from potential supporters, who would like to find out more about forging an on ongoing partnership with this life changing initiative from Saxon Hill Academy.’
The Craft Barn is open all year round; any interested parties should contact the Marketing Team via email on admin@saxonhillcraftbarn.co.uk more information about becoming a donator is available on our website www.saxonhillcraftbarn.co.uk.
Lucy Wood
Marketing and PR Manager – Saxon Hill Craft Barn In partnership with Saxon Hill Academy & Community Connect
Lucy and the Scrap Barn Team celebrate their first birthday a couple of years ago. Image from their Facebook page.
Side by Side is a project to counter prejudice against depression, and raise awareness of mental health issues in young people.
Pelsall Councillor Marco Longhi kindly tipped me off, and he asked Side by side sent me the following message:
Hi Bob
As part of NCS (the National Citizen Service), team Sabesan have set up Side By Side. We’re a non-profit awareness campaign ran by a group of 16 year olds who aim to spread knowledge of depression. We want to change stereotypes, raise awareness, spread positivity and offer support. Today (3rd August) we will be doing some street campaigning in Walsall along Park Street. We’ll be giving out free smiley face balloons, stickers, support leaflets and cards with helplines on them.
We have a range of interactive activities going on, including handpainting on a huge banner to show our success in talking to as many people as possible. We also have a ‘stick down a stereotype’ project where we ask members of the public to write down a stereotype people associate with depression.
Free hugs and friendly conversation is something we also aim to do during the day, along with taking plenty of photos for our social media. We would really appreciate people stopping for a few minutes to talk to us as we won’t be selling anything. For updates throughout the day, you can follow our instagram and twitter at sidebyside_ncs.
Thanks
Side by Side
The Side by Side team
It’s good to see local kids involved in such issues, and heightened awareness of them can only be a positive thing. My best wishes to all involved.
Don’t forget folks, if you have an event, fair talk or whatever going on and you’d like me to share it, please feel free to drop me a line: BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com.
Attempted burglary in Shire Oak – please be on your guard, folks. Imagery from Apple maps.
There’s been an attempted house burglary at Shire Oak in the last ten days – Debbie Etches from the Shire Oak group on Facebook posted the following message from West Midlands Police Partnerships Officer Kevin Pitt on Monday, 1st August 2016:
Hi All
Just a quick note to let you know that an attempted burglary has been reported in Shire Ridge, which occurred some time between 23 July and 31 July.
The crime report doesn’t state as much but I’d guess the occupants have been on holiday and returned to find damage to a window frame and patio door. No entry gained.
Please pass the word and ask for vigilance, especially around unoccupied homes.
Thanks very much.
Kevin
Thanks to Debbie and Kevin for keeping us all informed.
As West Midlands Police advise, lock up your house properly, don’t leave valuables on display or keys where they can easily be taken. It’s sad that we have to be like this, but it pays to be that little bit more careful.
The people doing this are more than likely doing it to raise cash from the proceeds of selling what they steal. If you know of anyone hawking around stuff that seems to be dubious, please grub them into the police – the stuff they’re flogging is probably nicked.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Walsall Police by dialling 101 or speak to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
The Charities Day is always great fun and a good way to find out what local groups are up to – as well as to enjoy fun and games for all the family, explore the working railway and Country Park it runs in.
The whole thing is staffed by helpful and friendly volunteers who are always ready to chat and talk about the railway and rolling stock.
At Brownhills west station there are also a lovely model railway, plus a couple of great vintage and collectible stalls. The railway itself has a shop selling books, rail models, toys and other merchandise.
Please do pop down if you haven’t already – Chasewater Railway really isn’t pushed enough; it’s wonderful.
You can check their website here – trains run this and every weekend from 11am to 4pm with the museum, cafes and stations open earlier.
Brian is by all accounts a genius and a gentleman to boot. Clive, who’s long been a biker and admirer of Brain, recently sent me the below scans of an article which appeared in the December 2006 issue of Classic Bike magazine, detailing a new bike with a rotary engine that Brian had built.
Since the video is in 2007, is it possibly the bike or a variant thereof detailed here?
I’ve machine-transcribed the text below for those who find reading the scan difficult.
Thanks to Clive for an otherwise bit of unnoticed and offbeat local history – and I hear Clive is working on another book about local pub history, which will be out in time for Christmas – I look forward to reading that.
If anyone knows what happened to Brian’s bike project, and what he is doing now, I’d love to know, and I’m sure readers would too. Please get in touch – comment here or mail me: BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com. Thanks.
White text on black? Ugh. I’ve transcribed below to save your eyes, but click for a larger version.
White text on black? Ugh. I’ve transcribed below to save your eyes, but click for a larger version.
Never give up on a dream
Norton’s winning rotary racers were outlawed by rule changes before engineer Brian Crighton had achance to create his ultimate version. 12 years later and the bike is ready for testing.
Forget new models from Yamaha, Honda and Suzuki, the surprise star of the NEC bike show, tucked away on the Dunlop tyres stand, was a stunning new Norton rotary race bike.
Built by engineer Brian Crighton and funded by Roy Richards of the National Motorcycle Museum, the NRV588 is no concept bike. The machine, bristling with high tech electronics, was completed just days before the show, but it runs and it’s ready to be tested. Until testing starts Crighton is tight-lipped about the bike’s prospects, but he is confident. “I predict 170bhp at ll,500rpm,” he says. “That’s not a high figure by modern standards but ease of handling can be more important than horsepower. With further development we could be competitive against Superbikes.”
Back in 1994 Brian Crighton was at the top of the game. The Duckhams Norton Wankels that he tuned and prepared dominated that year’s HEAT Supercup championship, with Ian Simpson winning the title and Phil Borley finishing third. And Brian had a new design on the drawing board for 1995.
Unfortunately that new design remained a dream for the next 12 years. Norton’s Shenstone factory had ceased production and had no hope of meeting Superbike racing homologation rules for 1995. The eerie sound of the flame-spitting Wankel racers, that had dominated British racing for five years, fell silent and Brian was out of a job.
In 2003 things looked up. National Motorcycle Museum owner Roy Richards, a lifelong Norton enthusiast, had bought every factory Rotary racer he could find. Who better than Brian Crighton, the man who had instigated the racer project in 1987, to get them back into trackworthy condition. And what about the 1995 bike?
“One day I showed Roy an article Motor Cycle News did on it in August 1994,” Brian says. “Roy said he’d fund me to build the new bike. And that we should race it.”
The new bike was finally unveiled at the NEC bike show in October. Both Crighton andRichards are understandably cagey about committing to a racing schedule for the untested bike. The prospect of a Norton competing in the Isle of Man on the 100th anniversary of the first TT (the first TT was won by a Norton) is something that every Norton enthusiast or TT race fan would want to see. And hear.
Brian runs a bike up at Mallory Park in 2007.
Roy Richards was bowled over when he first set eyes on the machine shortly before the show: “What a magnificent piece of work! When God made the mountains he had Norton in mind and we are now sitting on the very pinnacle.” he said.
It is a stunner. The colour scheme harks back to Norton’s glory days of the Thirties and Forties, but under the paint this is a modern racer. Some Nineties features remain, notably the Spondon aluminium frame. It still has a braced two-sided swingarm, but now controlled by one shock rather than two.
The twin rotor engine’s porting and 10:1 compression ratio are unchanged from 1994 but it is surrounded by new kit. The NRV’s key component is a programmable engine control unit (ECU) which coordinates various functions including fuel injection, ignition timing and throttle operation.
The 36mm injector intakes are under the bulge at the front of the fuel tank. Their butterfly throttles are turned by an electric motor, responding to signals the ‘fly by wire’ twistgrip sends to the ECU via a potentiometer worked by cables. An electric pump in the tank forces fuel to nozzles aimed directly into the intakes, while a ram air duct in the fairing nose supplies air.
Brian uses variable tract induction, seen on some production car engines and Yamaha’s 2007 YZF-R1. His hand-built system has telescopic intake tracts and a linear servo motor from a bank cash machine.
“The tracts shorten when the engine reaches 8000rpm to keep torque at a maximum all the way to 11,000rpm. Torque gives you acceleration without the need for high revs,” he explains.
The on-board ECU is an off-the-peg Omex unit. Readily programmed from a laptop, it runs GEMS software and links both with a 2D data-logging unit and an LED dash panel. ECU-governed ignition timing is referenced from a timing wheel on the engine mainshaft, the two plugs being fired by separate coils. Electric power comes from 12v metal hydride batteries, charged by a Yamaha R6 race kit generator.
The old Rotary’s exhaust extractor to draw cooling air through the engine is replaced by a more controllable electric fan in the outlet duct behind the seat. The main water-cooling system has an ECU-linked electric pump.
Primary drive is by belt, to a Yamaha based six-speed gearbox. A Kawasaki-sourced slipper clutch copes with engine braking effects.
Brian’s next tasks are dyno and track shakedown tests. Steve Spray, UK Fl champion on a Norton Rotary in 1989, has agreed to ride in track demos next year, but some serious racing is also planned. The Norton cannot meet production-based Superbike rules but could contest open 1000cc or 1300cc classes. At the Show, TT officials said they’d like to see the machine contest the 2007 Senior race. Wherever the Norton NRV588 does race, Brian believes it will put up a good show.
The age dynamic of a population can be very illuminating – A young Andy Dennis is clearly considering this whilst being held by his Nan, in a lovely image from his own blog.
Andy Dennis, a longstanding contributor and friend of the blog continues his painstaking analysis of the 1861 census results for Brownhills, this time looking at the age distribution of the population at the time of the census.
Andy has a great blog of his own, which I think is worth a read – you can go check it out here. Andy’s work is, as you would expect, extremely detailed, lovingly researched and packed with useful information – particularly for genealogists who’ll find Andy’s tips, views and methodology very helpful indeed.
There is a huge treasury of articles there which a well worth a read.
If you have anything to add, please do – this is fascinating research which I’m proud and honoured to publish. Comment here or mail me: BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com. Cheers.
Andy wrote:
Hello Bob
More from my exploration of the 1861 census. The two bar charts attached show how the population profile has shifted so that there are much more older people today. We all know this is because advances in healthcare, education, wealth, housing, environment, sanitation, welfare and workplace practice mean people live longer. In particular infant and child mortality are much reduced: for example, in England and Wales in 1851 (sadly no stats for 1861) the infant (0-4 years) mortality rate was approximately 65 per thousand live births (1) – in other words, more than 15% would die before their 5th birthday – and in 2010 was just 4.3 (2).
Brownhills in 1861, perhaps surprisingly, had a very young population. Image Kindly supplied by Andy Dennis.
What I had not previously appreciated were the numbers of infants and children in the general population, with a much lower proportion of people of working age (which mainly excluded women in 1861) compared to the 21st century.
In 2011, the spread was much more balanced, but in coming years is likely to skew towards the older end of the spectrum. Image kindly supplied by Andy Dennis.
The infant mortality rate in the UK, although still falling (3.8 in 2013)(2), remains considerably above more successful European states, such as Germany and Iceland, and is attributed to our much more unequal society. Disadvantaged parents are more likely to smoke and drink, including during pregnancy, and are more likely to have less healthy and secure lifestyles generally, all of which contribute to deaths of infants and young children (3).
1. Vision of Britain 2. ONS 3. BBC reporting on “Why Children Die”, a report by Dr Ingrid Wolfe of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Heath, 2014.
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