the bridge - february 2011

TheBRIDGEFebruary2011

Community News

VIEW FROMTHE REDTHORNE - Chapter 9

Bring BackThe Bewdley Cherry FairAt a talk organised by the BewdleyTransition Group on afreezing night in December, John Isles of Uncllys Farm and theWyre Forest Community LandTrust told us of the cherry or-chards ofWyre Forest - orchards he is trying to revive.

As he, Dr Cedric Quayle of Bowcastle Farm andWade Muggleton, the County Council’sCountryside Officer described the history, several people at the meeting began chipping intheir own stories of the old cherry harvest and the tons of scarlet fruit that was loaded ontotrains at Bewdley Station each summer.

As they talked, a vivid picture of yet another important facet of Bewdley’s rich history un-folded. How many people, I wonder know thatWaterloo Road, Early River Place and EltonRoad in Hales Park are named after cherry varieties from the orchards that stood there -countering the apple varieties of Bramley, Russett and Laxton on street names across theCleobury Road?

The inspirational moment, though, was an old photo of Load Street with cherry stalls lined upin front of St Anne’s Church. Apparently, this market could reach such a proportion that Be-wdley became impassable.There was even a court case in which the police tried to sue thefarmers for obstruction but were defeated when Bewdley’s charter was invoked.

As people contributed more and more to the discussion it seemed clear that, despite therebeing few cherry orchards left and allowing for the variable nature of the crop, it was worth atry reviving the cherry fair next summer.

All those present loved the idea. Perhaps we could re-enact the famous court battle, sellcherries and cherry produce in Load Street (jams, sauces, liqueurs, cakes), let people bringtheir own cherries to the museum to have the variety identified, have a cherry Queen and aparade.All we need is plenty of frost this winter to set the trees for a good crop. Lookingfrom my eyrie across the glistening rooftops this morning, I reckon we could be lucky.

Neville Farmer

Free computer courses provehighly popular

In the last issue of the Bridge, there was an insertfor free computer courses being provided by theWyre Academy, the training division of TDM,Bewdley’s specialist IT company. Demand has beenvery high, but there are still some free placesavailable. Ring Derek,Tom or Ellie on 01299405719 or email: [email protected] for moredetails.

TheWyre Academy is now offering IT Apprenticeships - more details are given inside.

As I sit here in my garden basking in the warm sunshine… No, not really.This month, as so often, I write my next month’s editorial on the sameday that the new Bridge is delivered. Every time I think,“Why didn’t Imention the ice? Or say how good the Christmas Lights day had been?Then I remember that those things were still in the future as I wrote myeditorial. I was glad I got the cold weather right, though of course I’d noidea how bad it was going to get. We have some photos this month toremind us of our dreadful December with its fearful low temperatures.

So I thought I’d start this month on a cheery note hoping it’ll come true. I ‘mprobably going to regret mentioning the sun, but I’m sure I’m not the only one who founddelivering the magazine hard work last month.

Talking of battling to deliver the Bridge, quite a few people this month have had anote from me in their January magazine. We’ve had a number of deliverers who for verygood reasons have had to drop out. If you were one of the people who had a note, I do hopeyou’ll consider helping out with a few magazines. It’s your community magazine and can onlyexist with the aid of volunteers. I’m really hoping for some people who can pop into church,pick up a handful of copies and put them through their neighbours’ doors. The Bridge teamwill put it together – can you help deliver it? The number to ring is Paul Mann (anothervolunteer!) on 01299 400794.

Who knows? You may be delivering the magazine in your shorts!

The Bridge is the community voice of Bewdley. It isdelivered free monthly to more than 4,600 homes

Editorial

Sharing your news with usIf you want to share your news and photographs or advertise your company.

Advertising

Photographs

Copy

News

Visit us at www.bewdleybridge.org.uk

Cover photograph : Gary Mayner

[email protected]

[email protected] (Tel 01299 820457)

[email protected]

Typed and clearly hand written material can also be left in The Bridgebox in the porch of St Anne’s Church.

DeliveryIf you can help deliver please email [email protected] mostly take out less than 50 magazines. Reserve list is also useful.

Printed byA&G Printing Co Ltd [email protected]

DAYTOURS (SS = £15 SUPER SAVERS)

HOLIDAYS 201114 Feb VALUE & VALENTINE – TORQUAY 5 days £1257 Mar SIDMOUTH 5 days £2653 Apr MOTHERING SUNDAY IN CLEVEDON 2 days £8518 Apr EASTBOURNE 5 days £24528 Apr ROYAL WEDDING Bank Holiday in NORTH DEVON 4 days £20519 Jun ST AGNES & ATLANTIC COAST 7 days £4407 Aug SCARBOROUGH & HEARTBEAT COUNTRY 7 days £390

Plus many more destinations

PICKING UPWITHINWALKINGDISTANCE OF YOUR HOME

Tel 01299 402989 To Book /For Brochure(46 Sandbourne Drive, Bewdley, DY12 1BN)Or visit www.phillipstravel.co.uk or Bewdley Tourist Information

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Leisure Home Garden Living Specialist Services

The Old Town HallWyre Hill, Bewdley DY12 2UE

Tel 01299 409 465Website

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medieval Grade 2 listedFamily Run Bed & Breakfast4 star rated by Visit Britain

Accommodation for All – with easy accessground floor room

Babies & Children Welcomehigh chair/cot/nappy changing mat

availableAll Rooms en suite complete with Wi-Fi, T.V.

Hospitality tray & hair dryerIron facilities available upon request

Spacious guest lounge with T.V. and boardgames & Internet access

Take time to relax in our tranquilorchard gardenSadly no pets

HorseHorseRidingRidingLessonsLessons

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Call Adele 07799 761932

Sat 19 Feb Oxford – City of dreaming spires Sat 19 Mar Ely Cathedral & Cambridge

Thu 24 Feb Nantwich & Chester Tue 22 Mar Melton Mowbray Market (SS)

Sat 26 Feb York Sat 26 Mar Windsor or Hampton Court

Sat 5 Mar MuchWenlock & Ludlow Sun 17 Apr Peak District National Park

Sun 13 Mar Welsh Spring Lambs Sun 24 Apr PennineTour & Bronte Country

SEVERNSIDESCHOOL OF DANCING

ballet :: tap :: modernGreek :: Acrobatic danceAge range : 3yrs - teenagers

Classes held at St George Hall,Bewdley

New pupils welcomeFirst lesson is free

then payment is weekly for firsthalf-term and after that by the half-term

Enquiries to PrincipalMrs Joyce Campbell (BTDA)

Bewdley 400633Regd teacher with the

Council for Dance Education and Training

Rachel Greenwoodhas a few spaces for lessons inviolin, viola (or piano to Grade 5).She has adjudicated at many festivalsand several of her students havegained success at a national level.

All ages welcome.

Tel : 01299 402513

Home TuitionExperienced Physics and MathsTeacher

(KS3,KS4,AS/A2)

to

Students 9 – Adult

R.Fitter M.Sc 01299 409460


Tipplers

The Specialist Off LicenceDraught Real Ales, Ciders and

Fruit WinesA wide selection of Special

Bottled BeersOther Specialities

Party Service Drinks on Sale or Return“If we don’t stock the drink you“thirst” for, we will endeavour to

obtain it for you”

70 Load Street, BewdleyTel : 01299 402254

BEWDLEYRING CRAFT CLUB

Wednesday evenings 8:00pm to 9:30pmTraining for the show ring. AtWribbenhall

Parish Rooms (next to the church)

For more information call:Nicky 01299 878962Jackie 01562 748264All breeds welcome

AccommodationTo rent year-roundPria da Luz, Portugal.

“Pig in the middle” Sleeps 4Casa-da-Pria Sleeps 6Casa Cluny Sleeps 6 with pools andgarden and Maid serviceContact Jinny Harman, villa managementTel: 00351-282-789801 Fax 00-351-282-788307Email: Jinny [email protected]


Local but GlobalWithin Ramada Hotel and ResortBewdley: 01299 400130E:[email protected]:K4674

We are an independent travel agencythat offers:� First class customer service� Full financial protection

(ABTA/ATOL)� 24 hour mobile telephone service� Ticket delivery� A team that has travelled worldwide,

including ski experts, cruise experts.

� Tailor made itineraries� Flight only� Accommodation only/hotels/

villas/chalets etc…� Specialised tours/holidays/activities� Short breaks UK/Europe� Airport hotels/airport carparking/

airport lounge� Holiday insurance

For any travel enquires please give us a call on:Tel:01299 400130 Email:[email protected]

Pop in and meet the team…….we make great coffee!Ruth, Polly, Idania or Julie.

The River and RailTraditional Country Inn with

Log Fire and Real AleBar Snacks and Hearty Seasonal Meals

served All Day Every Day.Two Meals for £12 12-6pm Mon-Fri

Table d’Hote 2 or 3 Course& Chef’s Specials from 6pm

Full Sunday Roast and aWarmWelcome

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Community News

2 Dance workshops for under 5'sRiverside Children’s Centre everyWednesday Sarah Gormley 01299 409169

5 Bewdley Concert Band, Bewdley PrimarySchool, Stourport Road. 10.30 - 12.30. Moredetails [email protected]

7 A chance to Dance RockVillage Hall 55+.10 – 11pm & 11.15am – 12.15pm. Bothsessions are £2.50 per person.

10 Bewdley CitizensAdvice BureauSt George’s Hall. Appointments only 9.30 -12.30pm.Appointments can be booked bycalling in the office or by ringing 01562 60194.www.adviceguide.org.uk

12 Who let the Dads Out Dads andToddlersplay group. Bewdley Baptist Church, High St.,9.30 - 11.30am. www.bewdley.baptist.org.ukJumble SaleWribbenhall CommunityCentre, 10am to 12pmBewdley Concert Band Details as above

13 Family Forest School Experience10.00am Advanced booking 01299 250 513http://www.bishopswoodcentre.org.uk

14 A chance to Dance RockVillage Hall 55+.Details as above.

16 Bewdley CitizensAdvice BureauSt George’s Hall. Details as aboveThe Holy LandToday 19:30 Heather Flackand Lynne Fox. Bewdley Baptist Church.

17 Bewdley CitizensAdvice BureauSt George’s Hall. Details as above

20 Bewdley CitizensAdvice BureauSt George’s Hall. Details as aboveBewdley and District HorticulturalSociety - 19:40 AGM and talk. 7.40p.m. for7.50p.m.Wribbenhall Community Centre,Shaw Hedge Road

23 Bewdley CitizensAdvice BureauSt George’s Hall. Details as aboveHistoric LandAssociations 19:30 BewdleyCivic Society. Riverside [email protected]

25 & 26 Free Hedgelaying Course09:30 All tools are provided and noexperience is required.Email [email protected] see the articles in the Bridge

for other events.

wwhhaatt’’ssoooonnnnFebruary

Send your mum a message in the Bridge

Mothering Sunday April 3rd

Would you like to send amessage to your mum?

Let us have details by March 10th and for£5 you can appear on our special page inthe April Bridge.

For more details email:[email protected]

Bewdley Library

A Change is as Good as a RestSome of you will already have seen noticesdotted around the library, informing you of ashort period of closure this month for theinstallation of a self service unit.

These units are now commonplace inlibraries and have drawn mixed reactions.Some people love them (oh yes they do)although many are wary. This is a very humanreaction to anything new; think of all thethings we’ve been suspicious of in the pastthat we don’t like to do without now - cars,televisions, mobile phones, the list goes on.

Don’t worry about renewal dates or returns;we’ll make sure the closed period is wellcovered for anything issued beforehand.

When we re-open the lovely staff will be onhand to help you get to grips with the newsystem, so you’ll still have the human touch.

Talking of which – whoever put a copy of theKarma Sutra in our Cookery section a fewweeks ago is to be congratulated on aninspired and original idea.

No machine would ever think that one up.Kay Sanderson


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Services February

A warm welcomefrom Bewdley Baptist

Church.

Please see details of our ChristmasServices in the centre colour page.

Our main focus of worship is on Sundays at10am, where there is a relaxed style with livelymusic, all ages come together and we hear God'sword for today through the Bible.

Sunday evening at 6.30pm we have a shorter,more reflective service.

Weekly Events

Our church runs a number of regular eventsduring the week:

� Noah’s Ark - for parents and toddlers.

� Womens’ Own - an afternoon meeting forladies.

� Art Group - a quiet place to paint and draw.

� Who Let The Dads Out - second Saturday of the month for dads and toddlers

� Youth Activities

We also run a monthly Senior Citizens' Lunchand Men’s Group.

Like to know more?

Contact the ministers, John Rhodes or SimonHarry, at the church office (403267) or visitwww.bewdley.baptist.org.uk

Bewdley Baptist Church

61 High Street

Bewdley

St Anne’s BewdleySunday worship at 9.30am

Worship lasts for about an hour.Music is usually a mix of contemporary

and traditional.Children and young people will often meetin their own groups and join with adults

later on.

Wednesdays at 10.15amMorning worship

Booking a weddingat Ribbesford or St Anne’s – drop in at St

Anne’s on a Tuesday evening, 7-8pm

Thinking about baptismcome to our 9.30am Sunday service and

we’ll talk together over coffee

Our website is: www.bewdleyparish.org.uk

St Leonard’sRibbesford

Sunday worship: 11.15am

• On the first Sunday each month we have aservice of Holy Communion.

• On the other Sundays we have Matins –from the Book of Common Prayer.

• Church is usually open in daylight hours forprayer, peace & quiet.

www.bewdleyparish.org.uk

Keith James is the minister of the Church.Contact him on 01299 402275 (office) or Diane Taylor, the Churchwarden, on

01299 403983.

You are very welcome. However you come. Why ever you come.

We hope you will come again.


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01299 404435 or 07899 726707

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Domestic OvenCleaning ServiceCOOKERS, OVENS, HOBS, EXTRACTORS and MICROWAVES

T. 01562 66532M. 07966 270348

Religious Society ofFriends (Quakers)

Bewdley Quaker Meeting House, LowerPark. Meeting for worship every

Sunday 10.30-11.30am.

Everyone is welcome.

For further information, phone the Clerk on 01562 755844

Services February

Services for February6th Feb 8.00am Holy Communion

- Book of Commom Prayer

9.30am Family Service

February 13th, 20th and 27th MorningService at 9.30am

If you would like your wedding to be at AllSaints', go along to St. Anne's on a Tuesdayevening between 6.30 and 8.00pm and see Sueto talk about dates.

To have a baptism at All Saints', come along toone of our Sunday morning services and talkto the vicar or a churchwarden over a cup ofcoffee after the service.

Holy FamilyCatholic Church

High Street. Sunday Mass at 8am

Tuesday and Thursday at 10 am (preceded by morning prayer)

Holidays of Obligation 12 noon.

RIVERSIDE CHURCHbuilding life building hope

Dog Lane BewdleyA Church for all the family

Every Sunday @ 9:30am & 11:15amChildren & Youth meet in St George Hall

at 11:15 onlyCome and join us

Talented Live Band & Relevant PowerfulMessages from the bible.

church office: 01299 405535www.riversideelim.com

An Elim Pentecostal Church

MMeetthhooddiisstt CChhuurrcchhHigh Street

Services at 10.30 every SundayWe extend a warm welcome toeveryone to join us for any of theseservices.It is with great sadness that we havehad to say goodbye to our oldestmember – 97 year old Phyllis Dallowaywho had been an active member of ourchurch for nearly 70 years. She passedaway peacefully on December 24th.The Knit and Natter group received avery generous donation from theBewdley Carnival Committee forwhich we are very grateful. This willenable to group to carry on knitting forcharitable causes for the foreseeablefuture.This year’s Women’s World Day ofPrayer will be held at our church onFriday March 4th at 2pm. The servicehas been prepared by the Women ofChile.

All Saints Wribbenhall

Sunday worship:11.15am on the second and fourth

Sundays each month

St Andrew's is found in Button Oak,Shropshire, 3 miles north of Bewdley on

the B4194 to Kinlet.

www.bewdleyparish.org.uk

Keith James is the minister of the Church.Contact him on 01299 402275 (office)

St Andrew’s BewdleyThe Chapel in the woods


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Community News

IT opportunities for young people There is good news for young people who are interested in acareer in IT and for organisations who want to haveemployees with the very latest IT skills. TDM, the Bewdleybased IT company, has been selected to provide Governmentfunded training services for organisations who take on ITapprentices. The cost of training apprentices who are aged 16to 18 is completely free and and up to 50% contribution for19+ year old employed adults.

“No matter what sector, an IT apprentice provides a host ofbenefits to any organisation” said Derrin Kent, managing director ofTDM. “Apprenticeships allow companies to train and develop youngpeople to match their company's needs and make a realcontribution to their business. Apprentices receive specialist ITtraining while assisting with the organisation’s day-to-day workloadand bring in the new skills they acquire.”

Apprentices can be existing employees, recruited directly or throughTDM’s database. They will obtain a City and Guilds qualification (equivalent to two A levels)plus two industry recognised qualifications.

The scheme is being operated through the Wyre Academy, which is the specialist trainingdivision within TDM. The IT Apprenticeship scheme is open to all types and sizes ofcompanies, including businesses, IT organisations, schools and the education sector

More details of how the scheme works and the benefits for young people and Wyre Forest organisations can be obtained by contacting TDM on 01299 405719

Monday Mornings Project

All Saints & Wribbenhall To-GetherAll Saints Church, Kidderminster Road, Wribbenhall, Bewdley DY12 1DQ

Open every Monday - 10 - 12.30p.m..Come and savour an atmosphere of tranquillity each Monday of our lovely historic church

and churchyard. Light a candle in memory of a loved one or Just come in for some quiet time in church

Have your books and old pictures valued for free by Ivor who has 40 years experience inthis field

Also on third and fourth Mondays in the month Viv will be on hand to offer advice onSign Language –What it is and how you can learn it.

Also a Nearly new book sale every second Monday in the month Five for £1 togetherwith cards, DVD, Videos jigsaw

But most of all enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and a friendly chat at no chargeMore details ring Barbara on 07891 040 202 7a.m.-7p.m.

ALL DOMESTIC PLUMBINGBATHROOMS AND KITCHENS INSTALLED

RADIATORS MOVED OR REPLACED

NO CALL-OUT CHARGE NO JOB TOO SMALLCALL MIKE ON 07885292881

ROGER CARTERQUALITY CARPET FITTER

For a friendly experienced service call01299 405319 or 07890426479

All your carpet requirements catered for withfree estimates

Bewdley Roofing

SlatingTiling, Guttering

Chimneys re-pointedFlat roofs

Contact : 07830 352187


JEM GROVESPainter & Decorator

Dulux select decorator

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Home 01562 637609

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Gas Heating & PlumbingInstallation, Servicing &

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Natural Gas, LPG & OilCall Mark on

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• New SKY contacts & upgrades

• Digital aerials

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Bridge Advert May 09:Layout 1 05/05/2009 14:09 Page 1

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Call Mandy

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Chores help in your home andbusiness!

Community News

Volunteers wantedMentor Link is a local children’s charity dedicated to supporting young people in schools byproviding them with a volunteer mentor. The mentors listen to and support the youngpeople with the aim of creating a more positive attitude towards learning.

Over our eight year history they have many success stories; as one parent writes, “I wouldlike to thank you and your team at Mentor Link for all your time, support and patience youhave shown H over the last year. It has been a valuable outlet for her, coping with friendshipissues as well as the separation of myself and her dad. H has coped fantastically through avery tough year and I’m extremely proud of her and I’ve no doubt Mentor Link helped herachieve this. ”

They urgently need volunteer mentors for new schools in the Wyre Forest area and alsovolunteers for their shop in Stourport. The charity shop urgently needs volunteers toprocess, price and sell stock (bric a brac, clothes, books etc). Both voluntary roles offer aflexible and friendly approach to volunteering and supporting local children in yourcommunity. For further details please contact

Volunteer mentoring - Claire Quinn 07973572768 [email protected]

Charity shop volunteers - Katrina Stephenson – 01299 823537

THE MEANING OFLIFE IS .fill in the blanks on an

Alpha CourseWhat is AlphaThe Alpha course is an opportunity foranyone to explore the Christian Faith.It’s relaxed, low key, friendly and fun. It’sa place where people can come and askquestions, delve into issues and look foranswers together.

Alpha is a place where no question istoo simple or too hostile

Who is alpha forAlpha is for everyone, especially :-

� Those wanting to investigateChristianity

� New Christians

� Newcomers to the church

� Those who want top brush up on thebasics

CostThere is no charge for the Alphacourse.

Upcoming courseBewdley Baptist Church is running twocourses starting at the end of February.Both are on a Monday at :-

� 12.00-2.00pm

� In the evening at 8.00pm.

Like to know more?Why not have a chat with Simon orJohn in the church office .

Bewdley Baptist Church61 High StreetBewdley

Tel : (01299) 403267Email : [email protected]

Web : www.bewdleybaptist.org.uk

Kitchen & Bathroom Design & Fitting by M & JDesigned to fit your needs. We take care

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A Professional, Reliable Service You Can TrustDoors, architrave, skirting, kitchens, flooring, maintenance and general building work

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AKS SECURITYLOCKSMITH & SECURITY SPECIALIST

For all your security solutions24/7 call out emergency locksmithParking posts & bollards fitted

Locks fitted to insurance standards BS3621Intruder alarms

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For a free quote, call Bob on :

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Tel: 01746 861764Mob: 07754 529274


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TheFinishingTouch

6 GreenbankBewdleyWorcestershireDY12 2JFTel no : 00001111222299999999 444400003333222299997777

Just in2 Carpets & Rugs Just in2 Carpets & Rugs • GREAT choice of top name CARPETS & VINYLS• Professional PLANNERS & FITTERS• FREE no obligation measuring & quotes• Rugs & Runners with the WOW factor• FREE delivery on Rugs & Remnants• WOOD FLOORS now supplied and fitted• "Flotex" retailer• Local Family run business

CCoommee && FFeeeell tthhee DDiiffffeerreenncceeDog Lane, Bewdley

TEL: Alison or Justin 404014 or 07767 206 433www.justin2carpetsrugs.co.uk

Community News

Riverside Little Fishes

welcomes parents, carers and their children

on Thursdays during term time.9:30am to 11:00am

£1 per parent/carer + child then 50p perperson thereafter

Tea and coffee provided with toast andsquash at 10:15am for the little ones!

at Riverside Church,Dog Lane, Bewdley,

DY12 2EF01299 405535

Little Fishes provides a warm, friendly and non-judgemental environment for all carers, parents

and children.

Saturday, 12th February, 2011

Massive Jumble Sale10.00 to 12.00.

Wribbenhall Community Centre, ShawHedge Road, Bewdley.

Anything left is being donated to Kemp Hospice Distribution Centre.

If you would like to donate anything, ringDiane on 402670 or Olwen on 400608.

Bewdley and DistrictHorticultural Society

Wednesday, 2nd March “Bewdley Long Ago”By Heather Flack

one of our local popular speakers. This isone not to be missed and is open to

everyone7.40p.m. for 7.50p.m. Wribbenhall

Community Centre£1.50 free refreshments

Bewdley Civic SocietyHistoric Land Associations in

KidderminsterNigel Gilbert

Kidderminster Civic Society

February 23rd 7.30pmRiverside Church Dog Lane

£1.00 non members welcome

Bewdley/Wribbenhall Ladies’ Luncheon Club

In December we welcomed the GrahamMorris Magic Show, following a very goodChristmas lunch. On 23rd February Ann and Tony Benbowwill give us a talk on “Monologues”. All ladies are welcome to attend at the Ra-mada Hotel. Please ring 400363 to book a place or forfurther details

Bewdley Townswomen'sGuild

In December the Guild enjoyed a bring andshare Christmas party, with lovely food,quizzes and humorous poetry readings.During the month 3 members attended afederation drama day in Stourbridge.

There was a Christmas meal in January atthe Brasserie in Kidderminister.

The next meeting will be on 22nd Februaryat 7.30pm at Wribbenhall CommunityCentre when Mrs Helen Heeley will give atalk entitled 'Leap into Spring with flowers'.

New members and visitors are alwayswelcome

For more information phone 401235


Ray EvansPainter & DecoratorInterior & Exterior Decorating

References availableReliable High Quality Service

No Job too SmallTel: 01299 269187

Mob: 07971 937620

Carpet, Rugs, & UpholsteryCleaning Inc Leather

N.C.C.A Trained & fully insuredFor a free no obligation quotation

& personal attention call

Rathbone Cleaning01299 878082

www.rathbonecleaning.co.uk

DCG Property Maintenance� Residential & Industrial� Home Improvements� Kitchen & Bathroom Fitting� Guttering, Fascia & Soffits Fitting� Decking

For QuotationsTel : 01299 400246 or 07591 653083

The deadline for the

March Issue of the

Bridge is the

10th February

Community News

The Old Town Hall

Lois and John Hopkins had dreamt ofrunning a Bed and Breakfast right from thestart on their honeymoon in Bewdley buthad to wait another 40 years before thatdream was realised. They fell in love withThe Old Town Hall on Wyre Hill and fiveyears ago bravely crossed the SpaghettiJunction into Worcester.

Starting up a small business from scratchwas a leap in the dark for them. All theinternal alterations and putting in theadditional plumbing was completed underthe watchful eye of the ConservationOfficer.

It was hard juggling DIY with commuting towork in Birmingham and generally settlinginto their new environment but great fun.

With the help of friends and family thedocuments needed by their accountant, taxman, prospective guests and the advertiserswere compiled. Sitting nervously at thefirst vetting from Visit Britain they were

amazed to learn they had beeb awarded 4stars.

So was it worth all the hard work? Loisand John say a heartly YES. Year on yeartheir guest numbers have increased. Peoplecome to Bewdley from far and near and formany reasons. Australians and Kiwis walkthe Worcester Way, Norwegians ride theSVR on the autumn steam event, Swissfamilies visit friends whilst the Germans ‘doculture’.

They meet people from all over the BritishIsles and find that although they are thehosts they are entertained by their guests’stories.

Their communal breakfast table leaves noroom for shyness. Everyone is introducedto their neighbour and soon the room isfull of chatter and laughter.

“Bewdley is a beautiful town and easy topromote. As front line advocates the shopkeepers and Tourist Information Centre areambassadors for its friendly andhelpfulness.” said Lois. “The local museumis in the top 10 attractions with a venuethat educates and engages everyone – free.The diverse selection of ‘eateries’ offermany pubs and restaurants to recommendto our guests. They stroll down the‘religious quarter’ informed that The LittlePack Horse is on the left past the C. of E.,RC, Methodist and Baptist Church. If theyfind the Quaker Meeting House they knowthey’ve gone too far!”

Kidderminster BeekeepersAssociation

Pam Collier will give a talk and demonstration on making soapsand creams from bee products on Thursday 24th February,7.30pm, at the Baptist Church, Franche Road, Kidderminster.

Anyone interested in bees/beekeeping will be very welcome.For more information ring 01299 825578


PETE WALLRubbish Removal and Recycling

Garage, Garden, Household and CommercialPlastic, Cardboard, Glass, Wood, Metal recycled

also Compost Heaps removedTree pruning and hedge trimming

Fully InsuredValue for money

01299 40547707956 172825

Waste Carriers License BUS/722860


Judy Knight is a Pershore-trained, professional

garden designer who has created and built

many gardens, from initial consultation

through to full project management,

with her own team of skilled landscapers

Does your garden needa fresh approach?

T: 07971 59 58 50E: [email protected]

www.judyknight.co.uk

Consultation • Design • Landscaping • Planting

t r a n s f o r m i n g o u t d o o r l i v i n g

We currently have full timevacancies for experiencedclimbers and groundstaff.

We carry out a range of workincluding utilities / electricity line

clearance, private households,councils and local authorities.

UA units an advantage but not

essential. We offer competitive rates

for experienced people.

For more information please callSteve or Anna on 01584 881 526

Garden Supplies Direct

AA RRaannggee ooff QQuuaalliittyy CCeerraammiicc PPoottss

Call: Paul on 01562 741820 Mob: 0770 434 6506

Fast & Friendly Service

A.Bowers Multi Purpose 60ltr 3 bags £12.00 Levington Multi Purpose 50ltr 2 bags £10.50 Farmyard Manure 50ltr £4.25 (3 bags £12.00)

Quality products delivered to your door..

£2 delivery - Orders £20+ Delivered Free!


STEVE WHEELERTREE MAINTENANCE Ltd

STREATFIELD LANDSCAPESAll aspects of landscape construction undertaken.

Scaled design / working plans provided. 25 years experience,work of the highest quality.

01299 403909 / 07968 411919

GREENWARDSGARDEN SERVICES

- Base Laying- Garden maintenance

For all your gardening needs

call Richard on 01299 409148

Simon Powell Garden ServicesGarden Design-Survey-Plan-Build

Patio, Path & Turf LayingGarden Maintenance, Hedge Trimming

Fencing, Garden Tidyups01299 402399 07733108465

[email protected]

GGrreeeenn LLeeaaffLANDSCAPES & DESIGN

Kevin Hayes N.C.H.(Pershore)

Planting Plans Pergolas

Pruning Water features

Patios Walls and fencesPhone: 01299 400465Mob :07866 964427

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The Big FreezeWoody and Gary capture images of the Big Freeze

Gary’s Highlights of 2010

� Carnival June

� Beales Corner December

� French Market August

Gary’s Highlights of 2010

� Beales Corner December

� Raft Race May

�DiscoverBewdleyMay

�SVR 40’sweekend

July

�BewdleyFestival

October

�RowingRegattaJuly

Community News

Too Good to be True?If it seems to be too good to be true itprobably is. We have learned to be wary ofpromises of high rates of return oninvestments but installing a solar PV systemcould be one exception. Solar PV (photovoltaic) panels generate electricity usingenergy from sunlight. Light rather than heatis needed so the panels still make electricityon cold or cloudy days. Typical domesticinstallations could cost from £5,000 to£15,000 (for 1kW to 4kW peak systems).For systems linked to the national grid,savings come from 3 sources: 0.413p Feedin Tariff (FIT) for every unit generated(whether you use it or not), a further 11p(or whatever you pay) saved for every unitthat you use yourself, and 3p per unit forelectricity fed back into the national grid(most electricity companies estimate thatthis will be 50% of what you generate). A reputable installer will use a standardised

assessment procedure to give you a moredetailed idea of potential savings. Generallyspeaking the larger the system, the morecost effective it is (our 3.2 kW system givesabout 9% return pa on cost).Before considering “free schemes” whereinstallers meet the cost and thehomeowner gets “free electricity” considerwhether you might be better off paying thefull cost (even with a loan if needed) asotherwise the installer would be keepingthe bulk of the potential income. To benefit from the FIT your installer mustbe Micro-generation Certification Scheme(MCS) accredited: contact viawww.microgenerationcertification.org or on0207 090 1082 for a list. Start you searchwith local installers.For more information contact e.g. the

Energy Saving Trust atwww.energysavingtrust.org.uk or on

0800 512 012

February in the VegetableGarden.

Perhaps in these straitened times weshould consider growing more of our owngarden produce. We know that Februarycan be colder than both of the previousmonths so making a start on growingvegetables can be an uncertain move but ifthe ground is not frozen or water loggedfinish the winter digging and improve soilconditioning with rotted manure andcompost. If there is crop, such as cabbages,cauliflowers and sprouts left now is thetime to harvest them and prepare theground afresh. Out door plantings can bemade, weather permitting for broad beans,garlic, Jerusalem artichokes, shallot sets andturnips. Other work can be started on fruit treesand bushes, grape vines and rhubarb. Ofcourse many other seeds can be started in

the greenhouse,then developedseedlings will beready for plantingout in the spring.Serious gardenershedge their betsby having a dualapproach withboth indoor and outdoor plantings. Beststarted indoors are leeks, lettuces, onions,peas, radishes etc. Other jobs for February, weatherpermitting are digging, turning compostheaps, spreading both compost and manureon the garden, chitting potatoes, winterpruning of fruit trees, and cutting backautumn fruiting raspberry canes. If all elsefails and the weather continues likeDecember retire to the house and firesideand wait for better conditions.Stuart Williams


U N I Q U E

L A N D S C A P E S L T D

CONSTRUCTION •• DESIGN • PROJECT MANAGEMENT CONSULTATION •• ASSOCIATED SERVICES

Unique Landscapes are an innovative and dynamic landscape company with over 20-years horticultural experience, an extensive portfolio and several RHS & RWS medals. We design and construct bespoke gardens, from simple outline plan to full design, specification and construction details.

Our work includes top quality private and commercial projects, traditional properties, hillside and roof-top gardens and contemporary gardens as well as specialist water features, pools and lakes. Over the years we have built an enviable reputation for providing a first class and professional landscaping service.

For a free no-obligation site visit/quotation, please contact Shaun on:

Mobile: 0777 88 44 878 Tel. 01584 831733

Email: [email protected] www.uniquelandscapes.co.uk

Soul EssenceBeauty & Holistic Therapie

s

• Professional Beauty & Mobile Service• Organic Facials• Waxing – Pedicures – OPI Manicures -• Eyebrow & Eyelash Treatments.• Massage – Reflexology – Hot Stone Therapy• St Tropez Self Tanning

* EXCITING NEWS *

One-2-One YOGA

TUITIONLisa Johnson BTEC DIPLOMA. BABTAC. IIHHT.

Tel: 01299 409190M:07813 776263

Bridge Ad Mar 10:Quarter page.dat 09/03/2010 13:22 Page 1

Break the Diet Habit – for Life!

Struggling to manage your weight?Forever dieting without long-term

success?Want to feel healthier, happier and more

vibrant?Then quit dieting and sign up today forthe UK’s newest and most innovative

weight-loss class.Now running in Bewdley and

Kidderminster - led personally by localexpert Chantal Denny-Harrow (WeightManagement Coach / Mentor andpublished author - as seen on Sky

TV & BBC).To find out more and to register for thisrefreshing, effective approach to weight

loss please:call: 01299 405 336 or 07904 720 044

or email:[email protected]


BROADLEAF FORESTRY LTD

- Woodland management.- Tree pruning/felling/planting.- Tree surveys and reports.- Deer management.

For a free quote please contactWill Brown 07738 017 133

We hold public liability insurance.

Kate Wheeler BSc (hons), MChS.Health Professions Council Registered Chiropodist/Podiatrist

Home Visiting Service operating inYOUR AREA.

A Clinic located in Highley Pharmacy, HighleyI assess and manage people of all

ages and can manage:� Routine foot care� Nail cutting service� Corn and callous (hard skin) removal/

management� In-growing/fungal toe nails� Cracked skin� Diabetic foot care� Verruca’s� Foot health checks� Foot care and foot wear advice

Please contact Kate 078691 39998or Highley Pharmacy for an appointment

within the clinic: (01746) 861 255Registered with the Health Professions Council andmember of the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists

Jackie DonkinBsc, mBANT, NTCC, CNHC

Nutritional TherapistThrough the use of individually compiled dietaryprogrammes, Nutritional Therapy aims to ad-dress and alleviate health concerns. It encom-passes the belief that ‘our food is our medicine

and our medicine is our food’. Nutritional Therapy can effectively relieve condi-tions including chronic fatigue, energy loss, in-somnia, depression, backache, skin complaints,asthma, and headaches. It is also beneficial forthose with no specific illness, but who want tomaintain a state of optimum health, or lose

weight.

For more information on the benefits ofNutritional Therapy please view my website

at www.jackiedonkin.co.uk,or phone me on 07879 640569.Change your diet …. change

your lifeWorking in conjunction with

Adam & Eve’s Day Spa, in Bewdley

It’s Wedding SeasonRainbow MaidsBridesmaid Dress Hire.

300 Dresses to choose from.Favours from 95p for Weddings

and Communions

Maggies Flowers By DesignFor : Weddings, Birthdays, Funerals, all occasions.City & Guild, ICSF Qualified

25 years experience

Phone for appointment for friendly, helpfuladvice. Plenty of car parking space.

Where to find usUnit 1, Blackmanstitich, Long Bank

Bewdley DY12 2QWTurn left at top of Bewdley by-pass to find us in front of Wharton Golf Course

Flower Power BewdleyQualified Professional Florist

30 Load StreetBewdleyDY12 2AS

Tel : 01299 409036Mob: 07817 615555

[email protected]

Community News

Surely this year can’t be as wet as lastyear! I am booking tickets for the 8pmperformance of Twelfth Night for ThursdayJuly 7th 2011, so if you would like ticketsplease sign in St Anne’s Narthex or con-tact me on 01299402199.I book the best seats and hope they willcost no more than £25 each. I book onMarch 1st.

Susan Price

Ludlow Open Air Theatre

The Outdoor ShopPaul and Juliehave always beenan active family.As well aswalking in lovelyBewdleycountryside theyhave owned ateam of Huskiesand organisedhusky racing inthe forest, andalso domountain biking and climbing.

When Paul was made redundant, likeanyone else in this position they had tothink pretty hard what they wanted to do.They decided to turn it into anopportunity and following a familytradition go into outdoor retailing.Because of their huskies, they went forWolfskin products with their doggypawprint logo.

Next they had to find premises. That wasa long hard job and as many will have seenthey have already moved once! That’sbecause they needed more space, andnow they are much better placed. Nowthere is somewhere to put the bikes andtheir equipment as well as all the hikingand skiing things.

They have just had their first birthday anda lot has happened. Now Paul hasanother job so that they have taken onmore help in the shop. The dreadfulweather just before Christmas broughtmany people into their shop forcoldweather clothes and extra Christmaspresents. “We have been cheered by allthe support we have had from Bewdleypeople.” said Paul. “Now we’re lookingforward to plenty more birthdays!”

Hello from Cassidy.Well I’ve loved all this snow.Mum’s been calling meher little snow plough. I love eating snow!My latest news is that Ihave a crush now! He’sa bit older than me and aRottweiler but I love him!His mummy Jane worksin town too and we havebeen out walking a fewtimes. I dance aroundand we play. Then when I’m too tired hesits next to me while I have a rest. He’svery protective.Sadly I lost one of my cat siblings thisChristmas. I’m still looking for her, but Iam not missing all the scratched noses Iused to get when I poked her when shewas asleep!Here’s looking forward to a fun filledspring!Lots of love Cassidy


Have you been diagnosed withdementia or are you caring forsomeone with dementia?

Alzheimer’s Society can support you withadvice, information and emotional support.

To find out more about how we can helpcontact:

Wyre Forest Branch

83 New Road, Kidderminster, DY10 1AE

[email protected]

01562 823800

Or alternatively call the National DementiaHelpline

0845 300 0336

www.alzheimers.org.ukRegistered charity no. 296654

Park Lane ChildcareYour child’s home from home

Ofsted Registered Childminder

12 years experience

Call Stephanie Borrow

Tel: 01299 404126 Mob: 07708 282545

YOGA 4 THE TERRIFIED!

BEGINNERS YOGA CLASSES

Get Toned & Fit Come to Stef’s gentle Dru yoga classes

ALL AGES, ABILITIES & SIZES WELCOME

VENUESWed-12.00-1.30 Wribbenhall Community

Centre, Shaw Hedge Road, Bewdley.Thurs-7.00-8.30 Wharton Park Golf Club,

Top of Bypass, Bewdley.£7.00 per Session

No need to book just come along.

Stef: 07706736400 or 01299 402912email:[email protected]

Stef also runs ART 4 The Terrified Art Classes-ring forcourse details. 6 week beginners Watercolour Course.


Promotional offer at an Outstanding Nursery

Does your childneed help withMaths or English?

First Class Learning helps children of allages and abili+es gain confidence tosucceed in their studies.

Individualised, flexible programmes meetrequirements of the Na.onal Curriculum.

Contact Andrew & Sara Wisdom for moreinforma.on:

01562 68039 / 07969674026

[email protected]

Children learning to succeed…

www.firstclasslearning.co.uk

Pre-school and PlaygroupWribbenhall Community Centre,

Shaw Hedge RoadBewdley DY12 1EU

For all new starters between January 2011 and July 2011For every 15 hours attended per week

Get an extra 3 hours freeOffer open to all new children aged between 2 and 5 years, including those who receive

15 hours free funding from the Nursery Educational Funding scheme. Subject to session availability

Opening hours Monday and Friday 8.15 – 5.00pm

Tuesday and Thursday 8.15 – 1.15pm

For more information contact Sharon on 07837 295698£3.00 per hour

Introductory OfferReceive £5.00 off any treatment over £15.00

NEWIMAGEN

ew

BeautyRoom

Open@

25

Years Experience

Monday - Closed

Wednesday - 1:30-9:00pm

Friday - 9:00-5:30pm

Tuesday - 9:00-5:00pm

Thursday - 9:00 - 5:30pm

Saturday - 8:00-3:00pm

Spa Therapy Room @ New Image

Tel: 07910 281973

For Quality Hair Design at Competitive Prices31 Queensway • Wribbenhall • Bewdley • DY12 1ET

T E L : 0 1 2 9 9 4 0 0 5 3 3Introducing Amy - Specialising in Men’s Hairdressing andColouring Services - 10% off these services Tue - Wed - Thu


Qualified Professional Mobile Hairdresser

Professional reliable service in thecomfort of your own home.

Discounts for senior citizens.Please call Bev on 07805129249

PODIATRIST/CHIROPODIST(EX-NHS)

HEALTH PROFESSIONS COUNCIL REGISTEREDMark Foster BsC (Hons 1st Class – Podiatry)

MChs Retention No: CH14729� Home visiting Chiropody Service – Discounts

for couples/groups� Surgical Treatment for Ingrowing Toenails

Available� Biomechnanical Examination and Treatment in-

cluding :Plaster Casting

Bespoke Orthotic ManufactureJoint mobilisation/manipulation also available

H: 01299 266186 M: 07941 138957

St. Anne’s C of E Primary School, Wyre Hill, Bewdley DY12 2UQ Telephone: 07964096764 www.communitycornerpreschool.co.uk

Open Monday to Friday, 9.00a.m. to 3.00p.m., during school term time. Children accepted from 2½ years to 5 years. Funded places offered for 3 & 4 year olds.

Exceptionally highly qualified & experienced staff. Judged Ofsted “Outstanding” June 2008 & January 2009

For further enquiries or to arrange a visit to see our fantastic indoor & outdoor facilities please call the above number.

Community News

Dear Bridge,After dipping into my copy of 'BirdsBritannica' (Mark Cocker, Richard Mabey)one evening I was intrigued to read about aconnection between white-tailed eagles,other name sea eagles, and our very ownneck of the woods. There are only two types of eagles thatinhabit these isles, the sea eagle and thegolden eagle. The golden eagle prefersupland habitats, but the white-tailed eaglewas once a bird that would breed inwoodland areas, especially if they were bymajor rivers. From research into place names, there isevidence to suggest that white-tailed eagleswere once living in this area, the village nameof Areley being derived from the old Englishname for 'eagle wood'. Obviously this was all a very long time ago,and white-tailed eagles have had to bereintroduced into this country from Norwayand are slowly restablishing themselves. Butwhat a thought, might it be that one day awild eagle could be soaring in the sky abovethe river Severn. Teresa Kiteley

An AnniversaryAs this New Year comes in, we see manywonders have come with it. New drugs havebeen discovered, that may be able to help orcure fatal diseases. There is new technologyto help us with our daily lives and newdiscoveries every day. All these things are acause for celebration.Another cause for celebration is that 30years ago, Hornbeam House was built.Within Hornbeam are a number of wellappointed flats. They are managed extremelywell by Debbie and other very able warderswho made it their duty to visit all residentsevery day. They made sure we are well andshort of nothing.Those people who chose to make Hornbeamtheir home in the latter part of their livesmay also find new friends and activities. Weare in fact a league of friends, who try to helpone another where possible. Many of us havefound new interests and indeed, a new leaseof life! We all know we are safe and cared forand that help is close at hand if needed.Yes, I am glad to be here and part of thiswonderful New Year!Dudley Farnol Benton

Tails of a Veterinary Practice –life at Riverside Vets as seen by

Gavin the practicecat.Now that February isapproaching, I have beenthinking about whom to senda valentine to. As many of youwill have heard I spent my

Christmas with three lovely lady cats at thehouse of Jayne; one of my humans. Thefabulous felines in question are named Dilys,Mary and Doris. Of them all I think Dilys ismy favourite friend, but I don’t want to upsetthe others and Mary is very beautiful. I

wonder if it would be greedy to send allthree a little something.

Don’t say anything, but I am also planning togive some extra cuddles to my humans at thevets. They have all been very good so far thisyear and I am being given my cuddles ondemand as is only right and proper for a cat.Hopefully they will keep it up all year.

I did hear mention the other day that I mightbe due my annual vaccination to keep mehealthy. I’m hoping if I’m good I might get anextra treat on that day; fish is my favourite ifany of my humans ask.

Got to go now as it’s time for my afternoonsnooze. Gavin

LLeetttteerrss ttoo tthhee EEddiittoorr

Community News

Bewdley Tennis ClubBewdley Tennis Club has appointed a newHead Coach.

The club, one of the oldest in the county,has appointed Geoff Barrie who joinsBewdley from Halesowen where for eightyears he has run a busy andcomprehensive programme.

Members and non members are invited tocome along to one of two Meet andGreet sessions, and have a cuppa and achat about tennis with Geoff who will behappy to explain what he will have onoffer for juniors and adults of all standardsincluding absolute beginners.

Nearly all the existing members playthroughout the Winter(snow permitting!)thanks to quick draining courts andfloodlights, so there is no closed season InBewdley!

Geoff will be at the club SaturdayFebruary 12th 2 - 5pm and Sunday 13th

12.30 - 3.30pm.

Men of Rock prepare forPound The Bounds

This local walk, in the most beautiful ofWorcestershire countryside, has re–established an ancient tradition of Beatingthe Bounds that used to be performedannually to remind locals of their parishboundary. The updated version ‘Pound theBounds’ has introduced a range of walks sothat everyone, whatever their walking ability,can participate. Experienced walkers cantackle the entire parish boundary of 25 miles,with other walks of 18 miles, 12 miles, 6miles (guided and independent) and even a 3mile treasure trail for the youngsters.Please join us and help raise funds for thelocal village hall. Registration is £5 or £2.50for under 14’s payable on the day.Registration and sponsorship forms fromwww.rockvillagehall.co.uk Date Sunday 1st MayTime Registration point open from 08.00to 20.00. Guided walk leaves at 11amLocation Rock Cross Inn, Rock, NrKidderminster, Worcestershire. DY14 9SDHenk Buzink on 01299 832496 or email:[email protected]

Women's Section RoyalBritish Legion

Meet at The Black Boy Hotel, Bewdley. For more information telephone Hazel01299 403800 or Anne on 01299 402204

Citzens Advice Bureau

From January Wyre Forest CAB changedchanging their opening times and also theway in which clients can access theservice.

To improve the service all people wantinghelp will be offered an appointment andwe will no longer be operating a drop inservice. Appointments will be available ateach of their offices and can be bookedby calling in when they are staffed or bycalling 01562 60194.

Telephone advice will be available onTuesdays and Wednesdays all day. Therewill be at least two people answering thetelephone so more people will be able toaccess telephone advice.


Wyre Forest McTimoney Chiropractic and Integrated Health Clinic (est. 1997)

Chiropractors: Jane McKenzie-Riley D.C. M.M.C.A Philip Elliot B.Sc. Hon (Chiro) M.M.C.A Mark Sammons D.C. M.M.C.A Delia Oliver B.Sc. Hon (Chiro) M.M.C.A Brian Ford B.S.c Hon (Chiro) M.M.C.A

Initial Appointment approx 90 mins - Consultation approx 1HourChiropractic Treatment approx 30mins.

Free (30 min) Chiropractic Spine Checks are available, if you are unsure as towhether Chiropractic could help you.

Also available:Physiotherapy and Acupuncture, Alexandra Cooper Sports Injury/Remedial Massage,Stefan SternkopfKinesiology, Sandra Aitkin Bowen, Sandra Aitkin Energy Field Healing,Sandra AitkinHomeopathy,Linette Tatton-Brown Reikin, Julie HoughtonZero Balancing, Julie HoughtonThere is limited Clinic Room space currently available, for qualified Practitioners/Therapists.

PLEASE CALL 01562 60823 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION AND APPOINTMENTS

Easy Parking Evening appointments availableOur phone is also answered evenings and weekends.

BURGAGE LODGE, 184 Franche Road, Kidderminster, DY11 5ADwww.mc-ih.com

Are you fed up with your backrestricting you doing the things

you want to do?Do you want your Back pain

assessed and treated by an Ex- Premier LeaguePhysiotherapist?

Here’s the answer, have your back complaint assessed by

JOHN PRYCEBsc (Hons) MCSP HPC

Call John or Becky Midlands Physiotherapy

5 Mason RoadKidderminsterWorcestershire

0845 120 6368 or 07966 153022

Community News

The Holy Land Today

Journey with us in the footsteps of Jesus to modern dayIsrael and Palestine.An illustrated talk

by Heather Flack and Lynne Fox.Bewdley Baptist Church.

Wednesday 16 February 2011 at 7.30 pm. Refreshments available.

FuneralsKenneth Ward - service at StourbridgeCrematoriumIrene Hadley - service at StourbridgeCrematoriumDennis William Cooper - service at StourbridgeCrematorium

You can help makeBewdley a thrivingmarket town

Have you retail experience or interested inthe development of local markets and linkingwith local suppliers? Then, if so, you couldhelp make Bewdley and the surroundingareas thrive.

Bewdley Development Trust has a number ofnew ideas on the economic sustainability inand around our town. That’s where youcould play a vital role.

Like to know more?

If you have interest or experience in theseareas and would like to help and have input,then why not have an informal chat withPeter Miller on 01299 405516.

Alternatively Peter can email you moreinformation - his email address [email protected]

Working to make

Bewdley a great

place to live, work

and visit.

The Veg Must GetThrough!

Do you remember the awful drivingconditions in December’s Great Freeze?While the rest of Bewdley was fightingtheir way through the traffic at that time, Ididn’t have that problem.

You see, I leave Bewdley at 2.30am to getto Birmingham for about 3.00am and inspite of having to drive very carefully I wasdriving on empty roads, apart from theodd gritting lorry. That makes a lot ofdifference!

Surprisingly there wasn’t much difficulty inobtaining my supplies for the shop.

Fish supplies were the main problem. Thefishermen were catching the fish inScotland but the roads were impassableso they couldn’t get their catch to market.

Many of my vegetables come fromOmbersley. The farmer had dug most ofhis root vegetables and put them in store,so I could get plenty of carrots, parsnipsand beetroot. Sprouts were mostly allright, but there had been three acres ofcauliflowers lost to the arctictemperatures.

So when you all came down to my shopfor your veg, you now know that a lot ofeffort had gone into making sure Bewdleygot its 5-a-day!

Tony, Bewdley Farm Shop


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The BridgeThe community magazine for

Bewdley

When you want to know What’s On orneed the services of local dependablecompanies - then there is only one placeto turn to - The Bridge.

Produced and delivered entirely byvolunteers, The Bridge providesexceptional value-for-money to ouradvertisers.

So if you want to promote your businessor share your news with others - then letus know.Editorial [email protected]@bewdleybridge.org.uk (Tel 01299 820457)

Community News

Free guided walks along our footpaths andbridleways taking 2-3 hours, off the roads andinto the countryside.

The next walk will be on

Sunday 13 February 2011 10am -12.30pm

From Eymore Wood, Trimpley PicnicCar ParkOS reference 778793

Everyone Welcome

For our full program visit www.rockvillagehall.co.uk

Or ring Alan on 01299 832840

ROCKPATHFINDERS

VAT is a mystery toone in five

Lack of awareness over VAT and the New Year debt hangover .

Almost a fifth of the population don’t knowwhat VAT stands for, letalone understand how tobudget for the new VATrise, according to asurvey conducted bynational charity CitizensAdvice.

The VAT rate increasedto 20 per cent on NewYear’s Day but, alarmingly,before it came into forceone in eight people were not aware that therate of VAT was set to rise. Nearly a fifthof people surveyed could not identify thecurrent rate of VAT.

“This January could be worse than most forthose who are not planning ahead as the 20per cent VAT increase will put morepressure on budgets and could increase thepain of any debt hangover” says the CitizensAdvice Bureau. “At this time of year weurge people to consider their spending

carefully. If you have got into difficulties, getadvice as soon as you can from your localCitizens Advice Bureau - the advice is free ,non judgemental and completely confidential(see contact details below).

Luckily more than half of us say that they dobudget for December and January to make

sure they don’toverspend.

The savviest budgetersare younger than peoplemight think with thoseaged 24-35 the mostlikely age group to keepon top of their Yuletideand New Year spend.

However, it is womenwho will be worrying

about their cash more than their malecounterparts, 44 % of whom claim they willnot be cutting back at all.

Wyre Forest Citizens Advice Bureau21 – 23 New Rd Kidderminster DY10 1AF

For Telephone advice/ information Every Tuesday & Wednesday 10am – 4pm

call 01562 823953OR to make an appointment at either

Kidderminster, Bewdley or Stourport to seean advisor : call : 01562 60194

marion evans solicitors67 High Street,BEWDLEYDY12 2DJ


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Community News

TOWN COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON 4th JANUARY 2011Town Council BudgetThe Town Council agreed its budget for the next financial year and in so doing set the levelof Council Tax that will be levied upon householders. The Council has managed to control itsspending so as to come within budget of late and therefore mindful of the current economicclimate, Councillors felt that it was only fair that there should be no increase in Council Taxfor services provided by the Town Council in the coming year. At present the charge for anaverage Band D household is £21.52 and that figure will therefore remain unchanged forwhat is the second year in succession. Police ConsultationCouncillors have a very good working relationship with Sgt Chris Aimes and his LocalPolicing Team in Bewdley and appreciate the work they do. However, the Police Authority stillhave regular consultation events to discuss police priorities and therefore it was agreed thattwo Councillors should attend such a meeting at the Police HQ at Hindlip.Blackstone Meadows Riverside ParkCouncillors welcomed news from the County Council’s Countryside Service that theyintended to make improvements to the car park at the Riverside Park (on the west side ofthe river accessed from the “switchback” road) and to upgrade the footpath link intoBewdley town centre. Work on this project should be completed very soon.St George’s HallAt the meeting of the Council’s Planning Committee, it was agreed to support proposals forredevelopment of St George’s Hall. This will involve the demolition of the 1970s extensionopposite the Library and its replacement by a building of similar size but using space muchmore efficiently. The main hall will also be substantially refurbished and include a café and somake it more attractive to users and community groups. Access to Bewdley from Wribbenhall in times of floodCouncillors discussed the lack of any provision by way of a raised walkway to enablepedestrians from Wribbenhall to access the bridge into Bewdley should the river rise abovethe 5 metre flood mark making the journey along Beales Corner otherwise impassable. Theyagreed that representations should be made to the County and District Councils and to theEnvironment Agency.

TOWN COUNCIL NEWS

Future Town Council meetings held at The Guildhall are: Future Town Council meetings held at The Guildhall on Mondays (except where indicated)at 7.30pm are: 7th February, 7th March, 4th April and 3rd May (Tuesday). The Annual Town Meeting (of the electorate) will take place on Monday 18th April Minutes of Town Council and Planning Committee Meetings are on the Notice Boardsoutside the Mayor’s Parlour, in the Guildhall Entrance and Load Street Car Park. They arealso available at the Library and at the Town Clerk’s Office and on the Town Council’s pageof www.bewdley.org.uk

TOWN COUNCIL NEWS IS PRODUCED AND PUBLISHED BY BEWDLEY TOWN COUNCIL


Each tipi is furnished to provide comfort camping with an assortment of futons and camping beds, chairs and tables, rugs and throws. Also supplied are gas cooking stove, pans,crockery, cutlery and cold box. Each tipi has its own picnic table and external fire pit withcooking frame for that all important campfire and the larger ones also have a chimney forthose extra cosy evenings.

Tipis are available to hire throughout most of the year.

So if you fancy a romantic weekend under the stars, an outdoor adventure with the familyor somewhere for friends or relatives to stay, please get in touch!

Hopleys Family CampingCleobury RoadBewdley DY12 2QL

Tel: 01299 402173 or 07973135909www.wyreforesttipis.com

“An Amazing Camping Experience”Roaring campfires and the great outdoors

combined with the cosiness of authentic nativeAmerican Tipis.


Professionalism in Print

• Bespoke Business Stationery • Flyers • Leaflets • Posters• Newsletters • Catalogues• Postcards • Greeting Cards etc.From a business card to a full catalogue, our in-house design facility has it covered and ourhigh quality, short run digital print service isavailable on a variety of papers & boards

AND IF YOU NEED IT IN A HURRY - WE OFTEN GIVE A 24 HOUR TURN AROUND

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Community News

Too Good to be True?If it seems to be too good to be true itprobably is. We have learned to be wary ofpromises of high rates of return oninvestments but installing a solar PV systemcould be one exception. Solar PV (photovoltaic) panels generate electricity usingenergy from sunlight. Light rather than heatis needed so the panels still make electricityon cold or cloudy days. Typical domesticinstallations could cost from £5,000 to£15,000 (for 1kW to 4kW peak systems).For systems linked to the national grid,savings come from 3 sources: 0.413p Feedin Tariff (FIT) for every unit generated(whether you use it or not), a further 11p(or whatever you pay) saved for every unitthat you use yourself, and 3p per unit forelectricity fed back into the national grid(most electricity companies estimate thatthis will be 50% of what you generate). A reputable installer will use a standardised

assessment procedure to give you a moredetailed idea of potential savings. Generallyspeaking the larger the system, the morecost effective it is (our 3.2 kW system givesabout 9% return pa on cost).Before considering “free schemes” whereinstallers meet the cost and thehomeowner gets “free electricity” considerwhether you might be better off paying thefull cost (even with a loan if needed) asotherwise the installer would be keepingthe bulk of the potential income. To benefit from the FIT your installer mustbe Micro-generation Certification Scheme(MCS) accredited: contact viawww.microgenerationcertification.org or on0207 090 1082 for a list. Start you searchwith local installers.For more information contact e.g. the

Energy Saving Trust atwww.energysavingtrust.org.uk or on

0800 512 012

February in the VegetableGarden.

Perhaps in these straitened times weshould consider growing more of our owngarden produce. We know that Februarycan be colder than both of the previousmonths so making a start on growingvegetables can be an uncertain move but ifthe ground is not frozen or water loggedfinish the winter digging and improve soilconditioning with rotted manure andcompost. If there is crop, such as cabbages,cauliflowers and sprouts left now is thetime to harvest them and prepare theground afresh. Out door plantings can bemade, weather permitting for broad beans,garlic, Jerusalem artichokes, shallot sets andturnips. Other work can be started on fruit treesand bushes, grape vines and rhubarb. Ofcourse many other seeds can be started in

the greenhouse,then developedseedlings will beready for plantingout in the spring.Serious gardenershedge their betsby having a dualapproach withboth indoor and outdoor plantings. Beststarted indoors are leeks, lettuces, onions,peas, radishes etc. Other jobs for February, weatherpermitting are digging, turning compostheaps, spreading both compost and manureon the garden, chitting potatoes, winterpruning of fruit trees, and cutting backautumn fruiting raspberry canes. If all elsefails and the weather continues likeDecember retire to the house and firesideand wait for better conditions.Stuart Williams

FFeebbrruuaarryy iinn tthhee ffoorreessttEvery winter it is payback time for part ofthe forest. The crops of trees, be they oaks,larch, Scots pine, or beech are thinned outonce or twice before the final harvesting ofthe fully-grown trees.

Last November the best quality oak,destined to become furniture, reached arecord price – an encouragement for theWyre Forestry Commission team andsomething to put in the “income” column.(We must try to keep the wolves from thedoor!)

There will be a race against time this monthto finish current felling and thinningprogrammes before the bird nesting seasonbegins. In spite of the mess I can assure youthat damage to the environment is kept toa minimum but this can be a problem insome areas of the forest that have no goodaccess tracks.

Rather than churn up the ground withheavy vehicles (the “forwarders” that taketimber from where it is felled to the trackor roadside) Natural England will be usingan older method to move the timber inpart of their forest estate.

Doug Joiner, a horse logger fromHerefordshire who has brought his horseElla to Wyre for the last three AutumnFestivals, will be sending her and 4 equinefriends to work with a trained teamextracting the timber from HorsehillCoppice, on the eastern side of the forest.

There will be very little damage to thevegetation and soil and the habitat willrecover quickly with woodland flowersflourishing in the lighter conditions.

There are other benefits too. Imagine thepeaceful scene of horse loggers working inthe woods, the jangle of the harness, thecommands of the men, the powerful graceof the horses. Then imagine the alternative.

Health Walks continue every Tuesday andSunday, meeting at the Visitor Centre at10.30 for a 11am start. The walks are free,led by trained leaders, and are especially forthose who wish to improve their fitness –perhaps after illness. They are very sociableoccasions too and have a large following.

Forest Friends meet at 10am eachThursday in term time for an hour of forestactivities for pre-school children and theircarers. Meet at the Visitor Centre. £2 perchild.

Activities for families and children willbe run by Discovery Centre staff from10.30am to 12noon on theTuesday and Friday of the half-term holiday, costing £3.50 perchild. Please ring 01299 266929for more information and tomake bookings.

Linda Iles, Forestry Commission

the bridge - february 2011

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