Crime of the Century
Venue: The Drum
144 Potters Lane, Birmingham B6 4UU
Dates:
Thursday 10 June at 7.30 pm
Friday 11 June at 1 pm
Price: £9 / £7 concession (buy 9 get one ticket free)
Box office: 0121 333 2444
Website: http://www.the-drum.org.uk/
Chickenshed’s explosive dance theatre company turns its attention to the proliferation of knife crime amongst young people.
“I shanked him.
D’ya hear what I am saying?
I shanked him”
Using words, movement and projection alongside a contemporary score of hip-hop and dance music, Crime of the Century packs a frightening punch. The story is based on interviews with victims, perpetrators, families, surgeons, police officers and ex-offenders.
Following three tragic young deaths of teenagers associated with Chickenshed the company embarked on producing a piece of theatre that could be used as a positive tool in the fight against the hopeless savagery of knife crime. The resulting show, Crime of the Century has recently completed a successful run at the Edinburgh Fringe festival to rave reviews from the arts press.
Crime of the Century has received rave reviews from educationalists and workers at the front line of dealing with young people. Many have asked to see the production in their areas and schools. Chickenshed is taking this production around the country to theatres schools and community centres where it can be a potent tool for social change.
“…if the twenty first century will be remembered as the time we let our children kill each other, Chickenshed will be remembered as the theatre company who had the guts to ask how and why.”
Time Out ****
“It would be senseless for this production not to tour every senior school in Britain. The poignancy and power of Chickenshed’s piece earns it the right to be noticed and commended; not only by theatre critics but by politicians.”
What’s on Stage *****
For further information please contact Susan Jamson 020 8 351 6161 ext 233 / 07736 956662, email: susanj@chickenshed.org.uk or visit http://www.chickenshed.org.uk/
Crime of the Century on UK tour:
7 May - The Courtyard, Hereford
13 May -Oxford Playhouse, Oxford
20 May - The Met, Bury
27 May and 28 May - The Hat Factory, Luton
2 June – 4 June - Chickenshed, London
10 June – 11 June - The Drum, Birmingham
16 June - Croydon Clocktower, Croydon
17 June - The Hawth, Crawley
22 June – 23 June - The Brindley, Runcorn
Sunday, 30 May 2010
A world cup parade for Stafford
Football’s coming home to Stafford as part of the annual Mayor’s Festival Parade.
The festival theme this year is “Out Of Africa” which pays homage to the Football World Cup being staged in the ‘Rainbow Nation’ for the first time later this month (June).
Preparations for the parade, on the day before the World Cup Final, have already begun and local businesses, community groups and schools are all invited to get involved. Lorries for floats are available for groups to decorate on a first come first served basis. There is also space for ‘walking floats.
Stafford Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure, Mike Smith, said: “Football fever is sweeping the country and Stafford is no different. So as this years festival coincides with the World Cup we decided to celebrate the host nation and its many diverse cultures, histories and languages.”
He added: “And wouldn’t it be great to be celebrating England in the final with the brilliant carnival atmosphere this parade always brings.”
The borough council run parade on Saturday 10 July will assemble in Bridge Street and set off on its town centre route at 12noon passing through the Market Square, where the borough’s new Mayor, Councillor Malcolm Millichap will be judging the ‘best dressed float’.
Anyone wanting to get involved must register by 18 June either e-mailing events@staffordbc.gov.uk or by calling 01785 619300. More details about the event will be available soon from www.staffordbc.gov.uk/leisure .
The festival theme this year is “Out Of Africa” which pays homage to the Football World Cup being staged in the ‘Rainbow Nation’ for the first time later this month (June).
Preparations for the parade, on the day before the World Cup Final, have already begun and local businesses, community groups and schools are all invited to get involved. Lorries for floats are available for groups to decorate on a first come first served basis. There is also space for ‘walking floats.
Stafford Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure, Mike Smith, said: “Football fever is sweeping the country and Stafford is no different. So as this years festival coincides with the World Cup we decided to celebrate the host nation and its many diverse cultures, histories and languages.”
He added: “And wouldn’t it be great to be celebrating England in the final with the brilliant carnival atmosphere this parade always brings.”
The borough council run parade on Saturday 10 July will assemble in Bridge Street and set off on its town centre route at 12noon passing through the Market Square, where the borough’s new Mayor, Councillor Malcolm Millichap will be judging the ‘best dressed float’.
Anyone wanting to get involved must register by 18 June either e-mailing events@staffordbc.gov.uk or by calling 01785 619300. More details about the event will be available soon from www.staffordbc.gov.uk/leisure .
A first for Shropshire!
The Shropshire Guild of Contemporary Craft have made the unusual decision to employ a new Chair, in order to keep the Guild going forward.
The idea was formulated by outgoing Chairman and potter at Coalport China Museum, Ralph Jandrell. Ralph said “I was coming to the end of my time as Chairman, and nobody within the group had stepped forward expressing a wish to become the new Chair – so I decided to put the idea forward to pay a local marketing and pr company who we have worked with for a few years. Members of the Guild don’t have the time to take on the job, as we are all working so hard on our own businesses; it made simple sense to employ someone to undertake the role for us”.
Each County within England has their own type of craft guild or association, but to employ a Chairperson is a first for Shropshire and the Country.
The Much Wenlock based company is Lilac Sky Marketing, PR and Photography – owned by Sophie Eades. Lilac Sky promotes The Guild’s annual and prestigious ‘Gorgeous’ Contemporary Craft Fair, which is held at Enginuity in Ironbridge each October. Sophie of Lilac Sky said “I was very surprised but pleased to have been asked. I am very passionate about local crafts and local small businesses so to have the opportunity to not only be paid but also to promote the group further is wonderful for Lilac Sky”.
Ralph continued “Lilac Sky has been wonderful to work with, Sophie is very supportive and helpful in everything she has done with the Guild. Last year visitors to ‘Gorgeous’ were up 60% on the previous year, so we know Sophie works very hard to promote us.”
The Shropshrie Guild of Contemporary Craft has members all over Shropshire, including basketmaker ted Bruce from Oswestry, Leatherworker Su Nickless from Craven Arms and Blake and Jeanette Mackinnon, Ceramic jewellery designers from Ludlow.
Sophie has already formulated future plans for the Guild, including trying to find a permanent exhibition space or shop to exhibit and sell the work of Guild members. Sophie continued “many other Guilds in the country have hugely successful permanent shop spaces, which can only be seen as very positive wherever it may be sited.” Sophie continued “Shropshire has an absolute wealth of creative talent, from furniture to glass, leatherwork, ceramics, jewellery and so much more – we should all be supporting these small companies some of which work from their spare rooms or sheds. What is so important is that they are all keeping these skills alive which would otherwise be lost.”
Sophie, who formally took over Chair of the Guild this week said “it is going to be very exciting and challenging taking on this role, and I am very positive about plans that I have made and look forward to working very closely with all the members of The Shropshire Guild of Contemporary Craft”.
The idea was formulated by outgoing Chairman and potter at Coalport China Museum, Ralph Jandrell. Ralph said “I was coming to the end of my time as Chairman, and nobody within the group had stepped forward expressing a wish to become the new Chair – so I decided to put the idea forward to pay a local marketing and pr company who we have worked with for a few years. Members of the Guild don’t have the time to take on the job, as we are all working so hard on our own businesses; it made simple sense to employ someone to undertake the role for us”.
Each County within England has their own type of craft guild or association, but to employ a Chairperson is a first for Shropshire and the Country.
The Much Wenlock based company is Lilac Sky Marketing, PR and Photography – owned by Sophie Eades. Lilac Sky promotes The Guild’s annual and prestigious ‘Gorgeous’ Contemporary Craft Fair, which is held at Enginuity in Ironbridge each October. Sophie of Lilac Sky said “I was very surprised but pleased to have been asked. I am very passionate about local crafts and local small businesses so to have the opportunity to not only be paid but also to promote the group further is wonderful for Lilac Sky”.
Ralph continued “Lilac Sky has been wonderful to work with, Sophie is very supportive and helpful in everything she has done with the Guild. Last year visitors to ‘Gorgeous’ were up 60% on the previous year, so we know Sophie works very hard to promote us.”
The Shropshrie Guild of Contemporary Craft has members all over Shropshire, including basketmaker ted Bruce from Oswestry, Leatherworker Su Nickless from Craven Arms and Blake and Jeanette Mackinnon, Ceramic jewellery designers from Ludlow.
Sophie has already formulated future plans for the Guild, including trying to find a permanent exhibition space or shop to exhibit and sell the work of Guild members. Sophie continued “many other Guilds in the country have hugely successful permanent shop spaces, which can only be seen as very positive wherever it may be sited.” Sophie continued “Shropshire has an absolute wealth of creative talent, from furniture to glass, leatherwork, ceramics, jewellery and so much more – we should all be supporting these small companies some of which work from their spare rooms or sheds. What is so important is that they are all keeping these skills alive which would otherwise be lost.”
Sophie, who formally took over Chair of the Guild this week said “it is going to be very exciting and challenging taking on this role, and I am very positive about plans that I have made and look forward to working very closely with all the members of The Shropshire Guild of Contemporary Craft”.
EXCITING OPEN-AIR THEATRE SEASON AT BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL GARDENS THIS SUMMER!
The season gets off to an exciting start on Wednesday 23 June at 7.45pm with The Chapterhouse Theatre Company’s production of William Shakepeare’s ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’. A magical tale of squabbling fairies, bewitched lovers, bumbling amateur actors and a buffoon with an ass’s head, this is the perfect play to introduce children to Shakespeare. The audience, as with all the season’s productions, are encouraged to bring their own low seating or rugs.
James Wheeler, Chief Executive at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens, said: "Here at the Gardens our magnificent Main Lawn creates a perfect natural amphitheatre and is ideal for open-air productions and concerts. We are looking forward to an exciting season this summer."
The rest of the season’s programme holds other special treats:
* 29 & 30 June & 1 July – 7.45pm:
‘Merry Wives of Windsor’ by William Shakespeare - The Crescent Theatre Company
* 2 July – 7.00pm:
‘Tales of Terror’ – ghostly tales from The Happiness Patrol
* 14 July – 7.45pm:
'Midsummer Night’s Dream,’ by William Shakespeare - Chapterhouse Theatre Company Open-Air Garden Theatre
* 20 & 21 and 27 & 28 July – 7.45pm:
‘Measure for Measure’ by William Shakespeare - MDCC Theatre Company
* 3 August – 6.30pm:
‘Beauty and the Beast’ by Laura Turner - Chapterhouse Theatre Company Open-Air Garden Theatre
* 8 August – 7.45pm
‘Pride and Prejudice’ by Jane Austen, adapted by Laura Turner
- Chapterhouse Theatre Company Open-Air Garden Theatre
* 18 & 19 August – 7.45pm
‘The Importance of Being Earnest’ by Oscar Wilde - Rain or Shine Theatre Company
For more information on the productions, bookings and ticket prices:
http://www.birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk/ or T: 0121 454 1860
NEW THEATRE PRODUCTION IS EMOTIONAL ROLLERCOASTER!!
“Without You” by Melanie Clarke
Saturday 26th June 2010
The Mixing Bowl Theatre
Custard Factory
Gibb Street
Birmingham
B9 4AA
Local theatre group Innov8 Youth Theatre go from strength to strength as they embark on their next production. The Saturday workshops are now based at the brand new Colebourne Primary school building. “It’s a brilliant space and it’s really inspired us to produce some great work. The group performed, “Positive Vibes” in February, a community arts showcase featuring drama sketches, comedy, singing, dance and a special appearance by local beat-boxing twins!
Following that performance, the group quickly moved onto their next production, “Without You” which follows the story of a family of sisters and their mother as they struggle to cope after the disappearance of their father. The show is an emotional rollercoaster and gives each member of this strong cast a chance to flex their acting skills to the maximum!
Innov8 members show why they work so well together.
Theatre director Melanie Clarke says; “It’s an emotional piece and really demonstrates how much the group has grown up. It’s a serious theme, featuring emotions and taboos and is a conscious move to more serious drama. We’re currently rehearsing for two plays and the other looks at the controversial topics of race relations in a community. It’s an exciting time for Innov8 and each of these plays mean something to us. We’re hoping to show audiences how these taboo issues can be explored through Theatre and our group represents how well people can work together to produce high quality, emotional drama.”
“Without You” follows a year in the life of a family of six daughter’s after their father disappears, leaving only a letter of apology. As they struggle to adjust to their changing circumstances, tensions rise and rebellions begin. Through the tears and tantrums, there is the descent of their mother into a dangerously depressive state. The play shows how both the family and friends have to work together to make difficult decisions which will ultimately affect all their lives.
Members rehearse scenes from “Without You”
“It may sound like a depressing night out” laughs Melanie, “but it’s actually an uplifting piece which shows how the family learn to support each other. There are definitely moments of high emotion and it’s not a fairy tale but we can guarantee a memorable evening.”
Najma Jokhia, the group’s youngest member at 11 and in Year 7 at school, agrees. Here, she gives her own take on being part of the group and this production.
Hi, my name is Najma and I'm a member of the Innov8 Theatre Group!
Najma rehearses with fellow actors, Aanisah and Zara.
- I joined the group as I really like Drama itself. I love acting in my spare time and I'd love to be some kind of superstar in the acting career when I'm older.
- I enjoy being around friendly associative people in this group, I feel comfortable as there are other people just like me who love Drama, I like working together with them and producing a masterpiece.
- In the play, the eldest sisters try to manage the family as their mother suffers from depression during their fathers absence, they try to keep their sisters calm and reassure them everything will be alright. The other sisters begin to doubt each other and go through hell and back!
During the play, they hear their father has died which worsens the effect on the mother. The sisters try to keep it together and finally realise that all of them fighting would not help any of them.
They begin to come together and the mother comes home from hospital and is well again
-People should come see the production as it is a heartfelt play and very realistic. It is quite emotional and you really want to know what happens next. It’s a fantastic play in my opinion.
-I play the youngest sister 'Ruby' in the play, the most outwardly sensitive of the sisters. She is devastated and unable to cope and doesn't show any anger when she is unstable. When she becomes a burden, she draws inward and tries to hide her emotions.
The most challenging bit for me is to stay in role when Ruby blows off at her cousin when she's had enough of everyone sticking their nose in. I have to shout at her which is a bit funny sometimes as I normally don't do that in real life but I will overcome that as it says in Drama 'Always stay in role!' “
Innov8 has been running in the Hodge Hill community for 3 years and offers young people a chance to participate in the arts in their local area in a safe and friendly environment. “We’ve been lucky enough to have been awarded funding from Birmingham Grassroots to fund this production and this has been invaluable, it’s meant we can hire a suitable room for rehearsals and performances and makes for a professional experience for our dedicated members. We’ve got a brilliant group of young people right now and each brings something unique to the group. It’s this mix of personalities that makes our group special and it’s why I enjoy running the group so much.”
Who knows what next year will bring but for this year, things are looking great and these are definately exciting times for innov8!
Tickets are on sale now for “Without You” priced at £5 they can be bought online at the innov8theatre website
http://www.innov8theatre.co.uk/
Friday, 28 May 2010
Art Alive! Barber Insititute brings artist John Brett to life.
Arts and Entertainment news from Scene Central
Meet the Pre-Raphaelite artist John Brett, whose works are currently on display in the fascinating exhibition Objects of Affection: Pre-Raphaelite Portraits by John Brett. Hear more about his life, paintings and photography in this fun and entertaining performance for all ages.
Admission is free. For further information about Objects of Affection: Pre-Raphaelite Portraits by John Brett visit http://www.barber.org.uk/
Hairspray hits the Wolverhampton Grand
Arts and Entertainment News from Scene Central
Starring Brian Conley and Les Dennis, Hairspray has been hailed as “The ultimate feel-good show” The Guardian.
Opening night standby tickets are just £10 each!
To claim your promotional tickets quote the code STANDBY or enter it in the promo code box when you book online at http://www.grandtheatre.co.uk/
* Terms and conditions apply: booking fee may apply, strictly subject to availability, not applicable retrospectively and can be withdrawn at any time. Only one discount applies per ticket. Please note when booking online that the discount will not appear until you reach the payment screen.
Brand new children's show Twinkle Twonkle
Arts and Entertainment News from Scene Central
Monday 31 May to Thursday 3 Jun, 11am and 2.30pm, mac, Birmingham
mac has something to keep the whole family entertained this half term, including a brand new children's show from the company that brought you The Gruffalo. Twinkle Twonkle is inspired by nursery rhymes, the Big Bang and is about the strange creatures to be found amongst the stars of the night sky.
For more information or to book tickets contact Sales & Information on 0121 446 3232 or visit http://www.macarts.co.uk/
Wolverhampton Steam + Vintage Rally - West Park + Parade through City Centre: Saturday 5th + Sunday 6th June 2009
Wolverhampton’s summer season of Outdoor Events about to start!
On the first weekend of June the Steam and Vintage Rally, kicks off the season in style with more steam engines than ever before...
Wolverhampton Steam + Vintage Rally - West Park + Parade through City Centre: Saturday 5th + Sunday 6th June 2009
Once again the organising committee has found a great cross section of exhibits and attractions to entertain all members of the family around the park. They have collected together a fine display of Traction Engines, Motorcycles, Stationary Engines and Models of equipment of times gone by.
Don't miss the working area showing how things were traditionally done in times gone by. Please feel free to talk to the owners and exhibitors; they like to hear of your experiences when working similar equipment.
Other attractions will include a giant modern day funfair, trade stalls, a craft marquee and a vintage funfair. The show will be open from 11am till 6pm both days and admission is free.
If you cannot attend the rally in the park, look out for the Steam & Vintage Parade through the City on Saturday 6th June leaving West Park at 12 noon.
Midlands Fire Engine Services Arena Enactments
Midlands Fire Service are a voluntary organisation who bring displays and demonstrations to the general public, taking the serious topic of road and home safety and making it fun for all to learn about.
The West Midlands Fire service continues to work towards its vision of “Making the West Midlands Safer.”
Fire fighters from your local station will be attending the Sandwell Show and are available to give advice on how to make you and your family safer from fires and other hazards.
Fire fighters are working in a number of ways to make the West Midlands safer and for several years now have been carrying out Free Home Fire Safety Checks and fitting smoke alarms Free of Charge. A Home Fire Safety Check can be arranged by speaking to any of the West Midlands Fire Service staff at the Sandwell Show or by calling free phone 0800 389 5525.
When a smoke alarm has been fitted in the house the occupants are given an early warning and have the chance to escape. By closing any doors as they make their way out, they help to prevent the spread of heat and smoke within the house, limiting the amount of damage that can be caused.
Fires involving chip pans still account for a large number of fires in the home and demonstrations will take place during the show of the devastating effects that a chip pan fire can have.
The West Midlands Fire Service Road Casualty Reduction Team will be attending the show and will be on hand to explain the tragic effects that bad driving practices can have.
Finally to show the outcome of bad driving practices Fire fighters will be demonstrating some of the equipment used at road traffic collisions to systematically remove parts of a vehicle and then extricate a trapped casualty following a simulated collision.
Studebaker celebrates it's 60th Birthday!
Our baby was born on 16th August 1950, at the South Bend Indiana, Studebaker factory in 1950. Following production, it spent 12 months at the factory before being sent to Trautweins & Co to be converted from a flat bed truck into a fire truck. It was then purchased by the Neshanic Volunteer Fire Company New Jersey in 1951 for $8995.
On arrival at the fire house, the firemen realised that it was much bigger than they thought so they had to extend the fire house to accommodate their new state of the art pumper.
After 21 years of active service, it retired and spent the next few years travelling around shows and being looked after by its new private owners. In 1984, at one of these shows, a British entrepreneur spotted the Studebaker and purchased it to go into an American style diner in Bury Lancashire in the UK. Unfortunately, for hygiene reasons, the truck had to be completely de-polluted which meant the engine had to be drained of oil and all of the pipes were cut. There it stayed for another 15 years looking pretty to people as they ate their meals.
In May 1999, the chain of restaurants closed and the Studebaker was taken to auction at Donnington in Derby where it was Purchased by Mr Carter from Cricket St Thomas in Somerset UK. He had every intention of restoring it however, due to other commitments he could not complete the work needed, so he put it up for sale.
In 2004, the Studebaker was advertised in heritage Commercials and was spotted by Gerald Jenkinson, who then accompanied my Dad Albert to buy the truck. Gerald then organised for it to be transported from Somerset to Penkridge in Staffordshire. It has taken 5 years of hard work to bring The Studebaker back to life, but it’s been a wonderful journey full of interest, surprises, expenses....but ultimately successes.
This restoration project was completed by the owner Albert Dean, our good friend Gerald Jenkinson (affectionately known as The Doctor), Shaun Tindill, and many more.
Other great attractions include...
Classic Carriage Built Prams and Vintage Prams + Classy Canopies
'Prams Perfect Prams' is an exhibition of Classic Carriage Built Prams and Vintage Prams with Classy Canopies as a perfect accompaniment.
Official Websites:
Perfect Prams: http://www.perfectprams.co.uk/
Classy Canopies: http://www.classycanopies.photosite.com/
King's Court Dancers
Making a welcome return to the festival the dancers will be on stage again to perform popular dances such as The Can Can.
Maggie O'Hara - 'The Victory Years'
Maggie will be performing her 1940s tribute show, 'The Victory Years', providing a nostalgic soundtrack to the proceedings and entertaining the crowds with old favourites.
Maggie has vast experience in theatre, television, cabaret, production shows, concerts, conferences, large-scale outdoor events, clubs and private functions both here in Britain and abroad. Maggie is regarded as a top class professional.
Brass Bands
West Midlands Concert Band play the bandstand on Saturday 5th and Great Wyrley Community Band play on Sunday 6th.
Also look out for…
Classic Campers
On the Lake…Droitwich Spa Model Boat Club
Motor Bikes & Stationary Engines
North American Indian Village
Wolverhampton Mower Club
Birmingham & West Midlands Area Military Vehicle Trust
Staffordshire Aircraft Restoration Team
Model Marquee
Craft Marquee
Punch & Judy Show
Awning Displays & Organs
Read the latest edition of the Marston Green Gazette
Click on the link below to read the latest edition of the Marston Green Gazette
Marston Green Gazette June 2010
Marston Green Gazette June 2010
New on the BSSEC blog... Looking for the low-down on the likely impact of public spending cuts on the third sector?
Based partly on Institute for Fiscal Studies data, Karl Wilding at NCVO estimates that the impact on the wider third sector will be to effectively set it back six to seven years, returning its funding from public sources to 2003/04 levels. He also has interesting analysis of the sectors likely to be hit hardest.
READ MORE/....
http://www.bssec.org.uk/blog/?p=624
READ MORE/....
http://www.bssec.org.uk/blog/?p=624
POP STAR JAMELIA BECOMES THE FACE OF BIRMINGHAM’S SUMMER STYLE
Images by Richard Grassie
Spring has finally sprung and Style Birmingham is celebrating with the announcement of a new ‘face for spring/summer’, pop star Jamelia.
The singer and local girl has teamed up with Stylebirmingham.com to model this season’s hottest trends from Harvey Nichols, House of Fraser and Selfridges. From bold prints and bright colours, to tribal and candy girl fashions, Jamelia fronts the campaign to help Birmingham’s shoppers stay stylish this summer.
In an exclusive photo shoot in Birmingham, Jamelia worked with celebrity photographer Richard Grassie, whose portfolio includes Rihanna, Pussycat Dolls and Leona Lewis. The final images appear on stylebirmingham.com; the city’s one-stop shop for fashion, shopping and style; from this week and aim to show the city’s style elite the staple items for their summer wardrobes.
Jamelia said:
“This summer’s key trends are every girl’s dream; with lots of bright colours, pretty prints and fantastic shapes, there’s definitely a look to suit everyone. The final images are great because they feature both high street names and expensive designer pieces, proving that you can be super-stylish whatever your budget.”
Kevin Breese, Marketing Champion for Retail Birmingham and General Manager of Harvey Nichols, said:
“Jamelia was the perfect person to front this campaign, not only is she a Birmingham girl but she always looks effortlessly stylish. As a city, Birmingham has great fashion sense and these new images of Jamelia show just how stylish we are.”
After several TV projects, Jamelia returns to the music limelight later this year with the release of her fourth studio album, which has been produced by music-makers that have worked with Jay Z, Beyonce, Lady Gaga and Rihanna. She is also shooting two documentaries and a movie in September.
To see Jamelia as the face of Birmingham’s fashion and for the latest news from Birmingham’s retail offer, visit http://www.stylebirmingham.com/
Images by Richard Grassie
Talking trains in Warwickshire
Warwickshire County Council held a special meeting to ask local community representatives how it can help to share information about the Government’s proposed high speed rail scheme ahead of the official consultation planned for the autumn.
Representatives from district and borough councils, along with parish and town council officials and local action groups, were brought together by the County Council in the Council Chamber at Shire Hall in Warwick today (Thursday 27 May).
The meeting was chaired by Cllr Alan Cockburn, the County Council’s Portfolio Holder for Environment and Economy, and heard from Strategic Director Paul Galland and County Planner Andy Cowan. The focus of the discussion was how best to share the wealth of information now held on the dedicated website with those affected communities without access to the internet.
Warwickshire County Councillor Alan Cockburn said: “The meeting proved productive for all parties involved. Some very useful ideas were put forward and there was a clear recognition of the importance of all groups working together to share and disseminate information.”
Warwickshire County Council’s dedicated HS2 website can be found at www.warwickshire.gov.uk/hs2 where people can view maps of the proposed route, the consultation on the Exceptional Hardship Scheme plus links to other relevant documents and websites.
The Warwickshire website has a series of answers from HS2 Ltd, the Government appointed company responsible for the proposed rail link, to direct questions from Warwickshire County Council. This covers topics ranging from noise impacts to economic benefits.
It also includes a report from two professors at the University of Barcelona about the lessons learned from high speed rail projects carried out in Japan, France, Germany, Spain and Italy.
The County Council wants to ensure that Warwickshire residents are kept informed during this process and are joining with the borough, district, town and parish councils affected to ensure this happens. The dedicated internet site has a wealth of useful information and links for people to find out more about the proposed scheme.
Representatives from district and borough councils, along with parish and town council officials and local action groups, were brought together by the County Council in the Council Chamber at Shire Hall in Warwick today (Thursday 27 May).
The meeting was chaired by Cllr Alan Cockburn, the County Council’s Portfolio Holder for Environment and Economy, and heard from Strategic Director Paul Galland and County Planner Andy Cowan. The focus of the discussion was how best to share the wealth of information now held on the dedicated website with those affected communities without access to the internet.
Warwickshire County Councillor Alan Cockburn said: “The meeting proved productive for all parties involved. Some very useful ideas were put forward and there was a clear recognition of the importance of all groups working together to share and disseminate information.”
Warwickshire County Council’s dedicated HS2 website can be found at www.warwickshire.gov.uk/hs2 where people can view maps of the proposed route, the consultation on the Exceptional Hardship Scheme plus links to other relevant documents and websites.
The Warwickshire website has a series of answers from HS2 Ltd, the Government appointed company responsible for the proposed rail link, to direct questions from Warwickshire County Council. This covers topics ranging from noise impacts to economic benefits.
It also includes a report from two professors at the University of Barcelona about the lessons learned from high speed rail projects carried out in Japan, France, Germany, Spain and Italy.
The County Council wants to ensure that Warwickshire residents are kept informed during this process and are joining with the borough, district, town and parish councils affected to ensure this happens. The dedicated internet site has a wealth of useful information and links for people to find out more about the proposed scheme.
BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL GARDENS CELEBRATES ERNEST HENRY WILSON (1876-1930)
left to right - Hilary Hall, Chairman of the Trustees of Birmingham Botanical Gardens; the Deputy Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Michael Wilkes; the 'young Wilson'; and Rob Blythe of the Birmingham Civic Society.
The life and work of an extraordinary man – Ernest Henry Wilson - gardener, botanist and plant hunter – was commemorated at Birmingham Botanical Gardens & Glasshouses recently, with a blue plaque, presented by the Birmingham Civic Society and unveiled by the Deputy Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Michael Wilkes.
The 'young Wilson', personified by actor Tristan Pate, as he appears in photographs during his training at the Gardens
The man who ultimately was to introduce the 'Chinese gooseberry' or kiwi fruit to the western world, came from a humble background. The son of a railway worker living on the outskirts of Birmingham, Ernest rose from nursery boy to the pinnacle of his career, the Directorship of Harvard University’s Arnold Arboretum. He spent his formative years living and working in Edgbaston and trained at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens from 1893 to 1897 before going on to the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew and fame as a plant collector. He returned from his early expeditions to marry at St. George’s Church Edgbaston. Students from Birmingham Botanical Gardens still go on to achieve great things and last spring planted five specimen trees from his finest Chinese introductions around the church.
‘Chinese’ Wilson was one of the most famous and successful plant hunters, he collected over 100,000 specimens, introducing 1,200 new species and recorded his expeditions on 10,000 glass plate photographs. Over 20 years he collected in 15 countries on three continents – and still found time to publish ten books. His plant introductions from China included Davidia involucrata – the handkerchief tree – a fine specimen of which can be found at the Gardens along the Wilson Walk. Today in almost every garden will be found a Wilson plant.
left to right and re-creating an old photograph , Simon Gulliver, Plant Records Officer & Horticultural Lecturer at the Gardens; 'young Wilson' Tristan Pate; and Derek Wilkes another of today's gardeners.
Vidar's latest theatre review
Review of audio described performance of Frankie and Johnny at Wolverhampton Grand on Friday 16 April 2010 – from Vidar Hjardeng
Although Frankie and Johnny was a very popular movie starring Michelle Pfeifer and Al Pacino I hadn’t seen it ,so had no preconceived notions, when I went to the audio described theatre performance during its last week of a UK tour, at the Wolverhampton Grand.
Set in 1980’s New York, this is a classic love story by Terence McNally which was a great off-Broadway success. In this new lavish touring theatre production, the lead roles were taken by Kelly MacGillis (best known perhaps for her part in the film Top Gun) and Rolf Saxon (whose films have included Mission: Impossible and Entrapment).
The play opens with actress Frankie and chef Johnny finding themselves in bed together after a first date. Johnny firmly believes he has found his soul-mate, but Frankie need to be convinced, and as the night unfolds they slowly begin to get to know each other (and themselves) as they take exploratory steps toward the start of a possible relationship, in what is a funny, tender and romantic comedy.
Before the show, resident describer Anne Hornsby took fellow visually impaired patrons and their companions onto the stage for the pre-show touch tour, which in effect, was a visit to the play’s principal location - a New York apartment with a view of Manhattan skyline visible from the window.
Back in the foyer the theatre’s Access and Marketing Officer, Janine Graeme distributed the all-important head sets – explaining how they work to newcomers – before we took our seats to listen to Anne’s ‘live’ introductory notes 15 minutes before curtain-up. This pre-show information described the set, just in case people hadn’t been able to get to the theatre in time for the touch tour (which is normally about an hour before the start of the play), and the character and costume notes – which were fairly concise as the play was a two-hander! It was quite a tour de force on the part of the 2 protagonists holding everyone’s attention for over 2 hours, and Anne skilfully wove in the appropriate description when the actors drew breath.
The next audio described shows are Columbo (based on the iconic American detective series) on the evening of Friday 28 May, and the West End musical hit, Hairspray, on the evening of Monday 14 June, and information on concessionary tickets, the touch tour and how to book headsets can be obtained from the box office on 01902 429212.
Although Frankie and Johnny was a very popular movie starring Michelle Pfeifer and Al Pacino I hadn’t seen it ,so had no preconceived notions, when I went to the audio described theatre performance during its last week of a UK tour, at the Wolverhampton Grand.
Set in 1980’s New York, this is a classic love story by Terence McNally which was a great off-Broadway success. In this new lavish touring theatre production, the lead roles were taken by Kelly MacGillis (best known perhaps for her part in the film Top Gun) and Rolf Saxon (whose films have included Mission: Impossible and Entrapment).
The play opens with actress Frankie and chef Johnny finding themselves in bed together after a first date. Johnny firmly believes he has found his soul-mate, but Frankie need to be convinced, and as the night unfolds they slowly begin to get to know each other (and themselves) as they take exploratory steps toward the start of a possible relationship, in what is a funny, tender and romantic comedy.
Before the show, resident describer Anne Hornsby took fellow visually impaired patrons and their companions onto the stage for the pre-show touch tour, which in effect, was a visit to the play’s principal location - a New York apartment with a view of Manhattan skyline visible from the window.
Back in the foyer the theatre’s Access and Marketing Officer, Janine Graeme distributed the all-important head sets – explaining how they work to newcomers – before we took our seats to listen to Anne’s ‘live’ introductory notes 15 minutes before curtain-up. This pre-show information described the set, just in case people hadn’t been able to get to the theatre in time for the touch tour (which is normally about an hour before the start of the play), and the character and costume notes – which were fairly concise as the play was a two-hander! It was quite a tour de force on the part of the 2 protagonists holding everyone’s attention for over 2 hours, and Anne skilfully wove in the appropriate description when the actors drew breath.
The next audio described shows are Columbo (based on the iconic American detective series) on the evening of Friday 28 May, and the West End musical hit, Hairspray, on the evening of Monday 14 June, and information on concessionary tickets, the touch tour and how to book headsets can be obtained from the box office on 01902 429212.
Thursday, 27 May 2010
Read the latest edition of the Harborne and Edgbaston Gazette
Click on the link below to see a PDF version of the June 2010 edition of the Harborne and Edgbaston Gazette:
Harborne and Edgbaston Gazette
Harborne and Edgbaston Gazette
Test you knowledge
Here are two different short quizes I have created recently for the June editions of the Harborne & Edgbaston Gazette and for The Harp Newspaper. Have a go and test your knowledge, no prizes, it's just for fun:
The Harp - Newspaper of the Irish Community in the West Midlands
1) Originating from the Greek word for dispersal, what term is often used to describe the world wide migration of Irish people?
2) Name Kings Heath’s world champion Irish dancer?
3) Along the border of which two rival Irish provinces was the Black Pig’s Dyke constructed?
4) What was Ireland’s most important manufacturing industry in the 19th century?
5) Name the national cathedral of the Church of Ireland?
The Harborne and Edgbaston Gazette
1) Where in Harborne would you find a huge cedar tree planted by Thomas Green in 1785?
2) Which modern day Sandwell town was once part of the parish of Harborne?
3) What became of the original St John’s church which stood on St John’s Road?
4) Who founded the Oratory RC church on Hagley Road?
5) The Moor Pool estate was the idea of which Unitarian screw manufacturer?
6) Which Edgbaston resident discovered the medicinal affects of foxgloves?
7) Which world famous Harborne company was founded by the Johnson Brothers?
8) Which ancient race of people lived at Metchley Fort?
9) Who was the first Chancellor of Birmingham University?
10) Which longstanding member of the Edgbaston and Priory tennis clubs was the Women’s and Mixed Doubles Wimbledon champion in 1969?
Here are the answers:
The Harp Quiz
1) Diaspora
2) Conor O’Sullivan
3) Ulster and Connacht
4) Linen
5) St Patrick’s, Dublin
The Harborne Gazette
1) Grove Park
2) Smethwick
3) It was destroyed by a bomb in the Second World War
4) Cardinal John Newman
5) John Sutton Nettlefold
6) William Withering
7) Chad Valley Toys
8) The Romans
9) Joseph Chamberlain
10) Ann Jones
The Harp - Newspaper of the Irish Community in the West Midlands
1) Originating from the Greek word for dispersal, what term is often used to describe the world wide migration of Irish people?
2) Name Kings Heath’s world champion Irish dancer?
3) Along the border of which two rival Irish provinces was the Black Pig’s Dyke constructed?
4) What was Ireland’s most important manufacturing industry in the 19th century?
5) Name the national cathedral of the Church of Ireland?
The Harborne and Edgbaston Gazette
1) Where in Harborne would you find a huge cedar tree planted by Thomas Green in 1785?
2) Which modern day Sandwell town was once part of the parish of Harborne?
3) What became of the original St John’s church which stood on St John’s Road?
4) Who founded the Oratory RC church on Hagley Road?
5) The Moor Pool estate was the idea of which Unitarian screw manufacturer?
6) Which Edgbaston resident discovered the medicinal affects of foxgloves?
7) Which world famous Harborne company was founded by the Johnson Brothers?
8) Which ancient race of people lived at Metchley Fort?
9) Who was the first Chancellor of Birmingham University?
10) Which longstanding member of the Edgbaston and Priory tennis clubs was the Women’s and Mixed Doubles Wimbledon champion in 1969?
Here are the answers:
The Harp Quiz
1) Diaspora
2) Conor O’Sullivan
3) Ulster and Connacht
4) Linen
5) St Patrick’s, Dublin
The Harborne Gazette
1) Grove Park
2) Smethwick
3) It was destroyed by a bomb in the Second World War
4) Cardinal John Newman
5) John Sutton Nettlefold
6) William Withering
7) Chad Valley Toys
8) The Romans
9) Joseph Chamberlain
10) Ann Jones
Folk Diary at a glance - from the Traditional Arts Team
Tuesday 01 June
Green Man Singaround, Long Itchington, Warwickshire
Plough Folk Club, Stourbridge
Wednesday 02 June
Circle Folk Club, Coseley
Rea River Roots, Cotteridge, Birmingham
Up In Arms Concert, Biddulph Arms, Staffordshire
Urban Fox Folk Club, Yardbird, Birmingham
Thursday 03 June
Brewood Acoustic Music, Brewood, Staffordshire
Chequemates, Tamworth, Staffordshire
Common Folk, Walsall
Nightjat Music, The Courtyard, Hereford
Shirley Red Lion, Solihull
Traditional Song Session, Kings Heath
Friday 04 June
Black Diamond Folk Club, Aston
The Chase Folk Club, Cannock
The Woodman Folk Club, Kingswinford
Unicorn Folk Club, Wheaton Aston, Staffordshire
Saturday 05 June
Moseley Folk Day at MAC, Edgbaston
Green Man Singaround, Long Itchington, Warwickshire
Plough Folk Club, Stourbridge
Wednesday 02 June
Circle Folk Club, Coseley
Rea River Roots, Cotteridge, Birmingham
Up In Arms Concert, Biddulph Arms, Staffordshire
Urban Fox Folk Club, Yardbird, Birmingham
Thursday 03 June
Brewood Acoustic Music, Brewood, Staffordshire
Chequemates, Tamworth, Staffordshire
Common Folk, Walsall
Nightjat Music, The Courtyard, Hereford
Shirley Red Lion, Solihull
Traditional Song Session, Kings Heath
Friday 04 June
Black Diamond Folk Club, Aston
The Chase Folk Club, Cannock
The Woodman Folk Club, Kingswinford
Unicorn Folk Club, Wheaton Aston, Staffordshire
Saturday 05 June
Moseley Folk Day at MAC, Edgbaston
Wednesday, 26 May 2010
Hereford gets ready to celebrate in international style
An event with an international flavour is being planned for Hereford’s High Town on June 6 to bring together people from other countries who are living and working in the county.
The Welcome to Herefordshire event scheduled for June 6 takes place from 10am-4pm and will feature live entertainment, market stalls, international food, drink and much more. Entertainment kicks off at 12 noon: local dance company Feat beat will be performing tap and jazz routines. Local and cultural artists will be performing traditional, classical and modern chart topping songs, and to remind us of our past, local street entertainers will perform traditional puppet shows to keep us all entertained.
Organised by Herefordshire Council and partners, the event is part of the MIRA (Migration & Integration in Rural Areas) project which is funded from levies paid nationally by migrant workers. Its aim is to help migrant workers in rural areas integrate with the local community and ensure they are able to access services for their families and children.
Dominica Lipska, Herefordshire Council, said: “This will be a big fun event for everyone. It gives residents and visitors the chance to learn about the way different cultures live, work and enjoy family life together. We hope people from a broad range of backgrounds and cultures will come along, enjoy some of the entertainment and find out about the support and services available for migrant workers from organisations across the county.
“This is a partnership event with representatives from the police, Herefordshire Housing, the fire and rescue service, NHS Herefordshire, voluntary agencies, safer Herefordshire and Herefordshire Council.”
The Welcome to Herefordshire event scheduled for June 6 takes place from 10am-4pm and will feature live entertainment, market stalls, international food, drink and much more. Entertainment kicks off at 12 noon: local dance company Feat beat will be performing tap and jazz routines. Local and cultural artists will be performing traditional, classical and modern chart topping songs, and to remind us of our past, local street entertainers will perform traditional puppet shows to keep us all entertained.
Organised by Herefordshire Council and partners, the event is part of the MIRA (Migration & Integration in Rural Areas) project which is funded from levies paid nationally by migrant workers. Its aim is to help migrant workers in rural areas integrate with the local community and ensure they are able to access services for their families and children.
Dominica Lipska, Herefordshire Council, said: “This will be a big fun event for everyone. It gives residents and visitors the chance to learn about the way different cultures live, work and enjoy family life together. We hope people from a broad range of backgrounds and cultures will come along, enjoy some of the entertainment and find out about the support and services available for migrant workers from organisations across the county.
“This is a partnership event with representatives from the police, Herefordshire Housing, the fire and rescue service, NHS Herefordshire, voluntary agencies, safer Herefordshire and Herefordshire Council.”
Stafford Castle serves up Food Festival
A beauty queen, an author and recipes from the past will feature at Stafford Castle’s first food festival this summer.
“Food through the Ages” is the theme of the event on 20 June, with costumed characters from historical re-enactment groups cooking up recipes spanning 900 years.
Visitors to the Stafford Borough Council-run venue will be able to see and taste dishes prepared, cooked and served up from eras ranging from the Middle Ages, through Tudor and Victorian times to the present day.
Yasmin Moghaddam, who was crowned Miss Staffordshire last month (April), will be among the line-up. The 21-year-old, from Lichfield, will be giving vegetarian cookery demonstrations.
Historian Pamela Sambrook will also be on hand to sign copies of her book “The Staffordshire Oatcake: A History”.
The event, sponsored by Taste of Staffordshire and supported by The Swan Hotel, will include a host of displays, demonstrations and hands-on family fun activities.
There will also be a bar, a hog roast, farmers’ market traders and healthy eating cookery demonstrations by Stafford Borough Council staff.
Councillor Mike Smith, Stafford Borough Council’s cabinet member for leisure, said: “Stafford Castle’s first-ever food festival promises to be a mouth-watering mix of history, unusual food and family fun.
“We hope lots of people come along to see the demonstrations, talk to the costumed characters, learn some centuries-old recipes and sample some of the weird and wonderful dishes being served up.”
The event will take place from 11am to 5pm. Admission will be £2 for adults, £1 for children and concessions, or £5 for a family of four.
First built by William the Conqueror, the castle has dominated the Stafford skyline for more than 900 years and is considered to be one of the best surviving examples of Norman earthworks in the country. It is the venue for a host of activities throughout the year, from classic car shows to the popular summer open-air Stafford Festival Shakespeare event.
For further information about events at Stafford Castle, visit the website at www.staffordbc.gov.uk/heritageevents
“Food through the Ages” is the theme of the event on 20 June, with costumed characters from historical re-enactment groups cooking up recipes spanning 900 years.
Visitors to the Stafford Borough Council-run venue will be able to see and taste dishes prepared, cooked and served up from eras ranging from the Middle Ages, through Tudor and Victorian times to the present day.
Yasmin Moghaddam, who was crowned Miss Staffordshire last month (April), will be among the line-up. The 21-year-old, from Lichfield, will be giving vegetarian cookery demonstrations.
Historian Pamela Sambrook will also be on hand to sign copies of her book “The Staffordshire Oatcake: A History”.
The event, sponsored by Taste of Staffordshire and supported by The Swan Hotel, will include a host of displays, demonstrations and hands-on family fun activities.
There will also be a bar, a hog roast, farmers’ market traders and healthy eating cookery demonstrations by Stafford Borough Council staff.
Councillor Mike Smith, Stafford Borough Council’s cabinet member for leisure, said: “Stafford Castle’s first-ever food festival promises to be a mouth-watering mix of history, unusual food and family fun.
“We hope lots of people come along to see the demonstrations, talk to the costumed characters, learn some centuries-old recipes and sample some of the weird and wonderful dishes being served up.”
The event will take place from 11am to 5pm. Admission will be £2 for adults, £1 for children and concessions, or £5 for a family of four.
First built by William the Conqueror, the castle has dominated the Stafford skyline for more than 900 years and is considered to be one of the best surviving examples of Norman earthworks in the country. It is the venue for a host of activities throughout the year, from classic car shows to the popular summer open-air Stafford Festival Shakespeare event.
For further information about events at Stafford Castle, visit the website at www.staffordbc.gov.uk/heritageevents
CAROLINE WELCOMES ICT SYMPOSIUM TO NATIONAL MOTOR CYCLE MUSEUM
Caroline Spelman, MP for Meriden, has welcomed the decision of The Institute of Circuit Technology (ICT) to hold their 2010 Annual Symposium at the National Motorcycle Museum, Solihull. The symposium will take place Tuesday, June 15th.
Caroline says “I am pleased that ICT will be holding their annual event at the National Motor Cycle Museum, which is becoming recognised as a good conference centre, conveniently near to Birmingham International Station and the airport.
“This symposium helps to put our area on the map and attract business people of many different kinds. This one focuses on electronics and printed circuit board technology. Some of the talks ICT are holding concern new and emerging technologies, which are vitally important to the industries we want to build in Britain to make us a real competitor in world markets.
http://www.carolinespelman.com/
Caroline says “I am pleased that ICT will be holding their annual event at the National Motor Cycle Museum, which is becoming recognised as a good conference centre, conveniently near to Birmingham International Station and the airport.
“This symposium helps to put our area on the map and attract business people of many different kinds. This one focuses on electronics and printed circuit board technology. Some of the talks ICT are holding concern new and emerging technologies, which are vitally important to the industries we want to build in Britain to make us a real competitor in world markets.
http://www.carolinespelman.com/
Peter Murphy - The Slade Rooms, Wolverhampton
Peter Murphy - The Slade Rooms, Wolverhampton: Sunday 1st August 2010
Vocalist of rock group Bauhaus, Peter Murphy has released a number of solo albums enjoying critical acclaim and popularity. Thin, with prominent cheekbones, a rich Baritone voice, and a penchant for gloomy poetics, often called the "Godfather of Goth”, but Murphy’s talent and influence are far greater than this suggests.
Official Website: http://www.petermurphy.info/
Tickets priced £18.00 are available from Midland Box Office: 0870 320 7000 or online at http://www.wolvescivic.co.uk/
Treasured – A Secret Journey
a gentle interactive performance for one person at a time
Put yourself at the heart of an incredible interactive performance with Jane Packman Company’s production Treasured – A Secret Journey in mac’s brand new performance studio next month.
Treasured is a unique sensory performance for one person at a time, which invites you to venture into your imagination. Beginning in the sanctuary, you can relax and drink tea whilst your guide helps you choose one of three pieces of fantastic jewellery, each unlocking a different treasured secret...
When you have chosen you will enter the dressing chamber, be adorned with the piece, and take your place in the centre of a magical story.
This gentle, interactive performance offers a fleeting experience of a different world. Influenced by dressing ceremonies and fantastical storytelling, Treasured is centred around three pieces of sculptural jewellery specially commissioned from West Midlands jewellers Mikaela Lyons, Louise Bryan and John Moore.
Developed by Birmingham-based director Jane Packman in collaboration with the cast, Treasured is one of the first shows to be performed in mac’s brand new Foyle Studio, a 150 seat flexible performance and rehearsal space created as part of the centre’s two-year, £15m building project.
Amanda Roberts, Arts Development Director at mac said: “Locating artists at the heart of our work is central to mac's creative vision, and it’s been a pleasure to commission and collaborate with rising regional maker Jane Packman to realise such a groundbreaking performance, crossing contemporary jewellery, storytelling and immersive theatre and creating something very special for our re-opening season.”
Treasured - A Secret Journey is at mac from 9 - 27 June, Weds - Sun 2.30-4.30pm & 7-9.20pm. Performances last approx 30 mins – please arrive 10 minutes before your show is due to start.
Tickets: £7 (£5) weekday afternoons and family shows on 13 & 20 June, £12 (£9) evenings & weekends. Available from Sales & Information on 0121 446 3232 or visit http://www.macarts.co.uk/
Put yourself at the heart of an incredible interactive performance with Jane Packman Company’s production Treasured – A Secret Journey in mac’s brand new performance studio next month.
Treasured is a unique sensory performance for one person at a time, which invites you to venture into your imagination. Beginning in the sanctuary, you can relax and drink tea whilst your guide helps you choose one of three pieces of fantastic jewellery, each unlocking a different treasured secret...
When you have chosen you will enter the dressing chamber, be adorned with the piece, and take your place in the centre of a magical story.
This gentle, interactive performance offers a fleeting experience of a different world. Influenced by dressing ceremonies and fantastical storytelling, Treasured is centred around three pieces of sculptural jewellery specially commissioned from West Midlands jewellers Mikaela Lyons, Louise Bryan and John Moore.
Developed by Birmingham-based director Jane Packman in collaboration with the cast, Treasured is one of the first shows to be performed in mac’s brand new Foyle Studio, a 150 seat flexible performance and rehearsal space created as part of the centre’s two-year, £15m building project.
Amanda Roberts, Arts Development Director at mac said: “Locating artists at the heart of our work is central to mac's creative vision, and it’s been a pleasure to commission and collaborate with rising regional maker Jane Packman to realise such a groundbreaking performance, crossing contemporary jewellery, storytelling and immersive theatre and creating something very special for our re-opening season.”
Treasured - A Secret Journey is at mac from 9 - 27 June, Weds - Sun 2.30-4.30pm & 7-9.20pm. Performances last approx 30 mins – please arrive 10 minutes before your show is due to start.
Tickets: £7 (£5) weekday afternoons and family shows on 13 & 20 June, £12 (£9) evenings & weekends. Available from Sales & Information on 0121 446 3232 or visit http://www.macarts.co.uk/
Stafford Teenager Wins i-Phone in Park Competition
A Stafford teenager has won an i-phone in a prize draw run to get ideas for a new play area in the town. Kieran Hughes, aged 14, from the Highfields area, was presented with his prize by Councillor Mike Smith, Stafford Borough Council’s cabinet member for leisure. The prize draw was organised by the borough council to encourage residents to give their feedback about plans to redevelop the play facilities at Victoria Park.
Specialist play equipment company Kompan Limited has been contracted to carry out the work at the award-winning town centre park.
More than 2,000 people of all ages have so far completed questionnaires about what they want to see in the new-look playground since public consultation started in March.
Their views are being fed back to Stafford Borough Council and Kompan to help draw up the design for the £450,000 scheme, which will see the existing play areas removed to make way for a variety of new equipment.
Members of the design team have visited nurseries, schools and colleges in the area to get youngsters’ ideas on what features they need. They have also set up a website to invite feedback, as well as consulting with community groups such as Castletown Residents’ Association and the Friends of Victoria Park.
Work will see the two existing play areas replaced with a range of new equipment and landscaping to fit in with the rest of the park. A dedicated youth area will be created, along with a new toddler and junior playground.
Final designs for the project are expected to go on show to the public in mid-July.
Councillor Smith said: “We are delighted by the level of response we’ve had from the public about what they want to see in the new Victoria Park play area.
“It’s great to have so much feedback, and this prize draw is a way of saying thank-you to Kieran and everyone else who has given their views on the scheme.”
Victoria Park was awarded the ‘Green Flag’ award in 2007 – the national indicator of the best parks and open spaces in the country – and has retained it ever since.
More information about Victoria Park can be found at http://www.victoriapark.me.uk/ or www.staffordbc.gov.uk/victoriapark
New on the BSSEC blog....Social enterprise in Queen¹s Speech
Thanks to Alun Severn for this update:
For the first time ever, today’s Queen’s Speech included the words ’social enterprise’!
I’ve always thought that one of the greatest joys open to a new prime minister must
be putting unintelligible jargon into the mouth of the monarch....
READ MORE/.....
http://www.bssec.org.uk/blog/?p=593
For the first time ever, today’s Queen’s Speech included the words ’social enterprise’!
I’ve always thought that one of the greatest joys open to a new prime minister must
be putting unintelligible jargon into the mouth of the monarch....
READ MORE/.....
http://www.bssec.org.uk/blog/?p=593
100 years of county smallholdings celebrated
Martin Stott with Cllr Peter Barnes
The outgoing Chairman of the County Council, Councillor Peter Barnes, visited the farm with the County’s Head of Environment and Resources, Martin Stott.
The tenant Mr Richard White planted an oak tree and showed his flock of lambs to Cllr Barnes who is himself a farmer and to Mr Stott.
The first small holding to be leased by the county, back in 1909, was Northfields Farm in Priors Marston which extended to 198acres and cost £5674. The County Council’s small holding estate now covers some 2,000 hectares.
The small holdings provide opportunities for careers in agriculture and rural enterprise. The estate can also contribute to ‘community growing’ by the provision of allotments and horticultural strips.
Warwickshire County Council’s small holdings are an important part of the Warwickshire landscape and they are a significant source of high quality local food.
Martin Stott said: “Small holdings continue to play a critical role in the life of rural Warwickshire and in preserving rural enterprise. They are becoming increasingly important as we try to reduce ‘food miles’ and promote local food consumption.”
Tuesday, 25 May 2010
Ikon Gallery asking for memories of 1974 Birmingham bomb
The front window of Ikon Gallery following the 4 January 1974 bombing.
An archivist at Birmingham’s Ikon Gallery has uncovered original images showing the aftermath of a 1970s terrorist bomb blast. Ikon is now asking members of the public if they have memories of the bombing, which tore out the front window of the gallery.
Dating from 4 January 1974, the evocative images show Ikon’s then-director Simon Chapman clearing up shards of broken glass whilst nervously smoking a cigarette. At this time Ikon was housed in a shop unit in the West Court of the Birmingham Shopping Centre (now the Pallasades), adjacent to an army and navy recruitment office - the likely intended target for the bomb.
She said: “We’re looking for stories from the people of Birmingham who remember Ikon during the 1970s, from stand-out exhibitions to incidents such as the bombing. We have plenty of official records – what I’d love to hear now are your stories and reminiscences.”
The memories will form part of an archive collection to be presented alongside Ikon’s next exhibition, This could happen to you: Ikon in the 1970s. A retrospective of the gallery’s programme from 1970-1978, it will feature the work of 32 artists including Birmingham-born John Walker, who represented Britain at the 1972 Venice Biennale, and Ian Emes, an animator who went on to forge a brilliant career visualising the music of Pink Floyd.
The exhibition will take place at Ikon’s Brindleyplace galleries from 21 July – 5 September, with a further exhibition of photographs by Harold E. Edgerton at The Pallasades Shopping Centre, near to Ikon’s former home.
Anyone with any memories of the bombing or Ikon in the 1970s should contact Jane Morrow on 0121 248 0708 or email j.morrow@ikon-gallery.co.uk
Ikon director Simon Chapman assessing the aftermath of the 4 January 1974 bombing, West Court Shopping Centre, Birmingham.
Herefordshire's school pupils challenged on diversity
Herefordshire’s school pupils are being challenged to think about diversity and stereotyping in a new play called Different which is touring the county’s high schools in June and July.
Funded by Herefordshire Council’s healthy schools team, 2xl youth projects have put together a one hour piece that explores the diversity of school culture and immigration.
The show will tour years seven and eight (11-13 year olds) across the county and in the autumn term, the pupils will receive follow up workshops to explore and discuss some of the themes addressed in the performance.
Different is a creative mix of washing lines, birthday cards and knickers and is billed as an innovative piece of theatre exploring the beautiful diversity in the world around us. The show consists of a montage of tales and experiences: the audience will hear true accounts of those who have moved to the UK and watch as prejudice is tackled by a rugby player! Two actors multirole all kind of diverse people in different situations, only to discover we are all the same underneath.
“Learning about other cultures and accepting difference is an important part of every child’s development,” said Kim Goddard, healthy schools co-ordinator. “We want all our children to be aware of the world around them and learn to embrace and celebrate difference.
“It’s not just about culture, but a whole range of other differences and stereotypes which can mislead young people and give them a flawed view of the world which can limit their own learning and behaviour.
“Drama is a great way of challenging pupils’ stereotypes and 2xl have a track record of delivering successful projects that change views and broaden perceptions. Their thought provoking performances encourage pupils to think beyond their own experiences and put themselves in the shoes of other people who have different experiences of life.”
Funded by Herefordshire Council’s healthy schools team, 2xl youth projects have put together a one hour piece that explores the diversity of school culture and immigration.
The show will tour years seven and eight (11-13 year olds) across the county and in the autumn term, the pupils will receive follow up workshops to explore and discuss some of the themes addressed in the performance.
Different is a creative mix of washing lines, birthday cards and knickers and is billed as an innovative piece of theatre exploring the beautiful diversity in the world around us. The show consists of a montage of tales and experiences: the audience will hear true accounts of those who have moved to the UK and watch as prejudice is tackled by a rugby player! Two actors multirole all kind of diverse people in different situations, only to discover we are all the same underneath.
“Learning about other cultures and accepting difference is an important part of every child’s development,” said Kim Goddard, healthy schools co-ordinator. “We want all our children to be aware of the world around them and learn to embrace and celebrate difference.
“It’s not just about culture, but a whole range of other differences and stereotypes which can mislead young people and give them a flawed view of the world which can limit their own learning and behaviour.
“Drama is a great way of challenging pupils’ stereotypes and 2xl have a track record of delivering successful projects that change views and broaden perceptions. Their thought provoking performances encourage pupils to think beyond their own experiences and put themselves in the shoes of other people who have different experiences of life.”
West Midlands offenders have faith in Probation
Offenders are overwhelmingly satisfied with their Probation Service in the West Midlands. 94% of offenders who were questioned in a survey in February 2010 said they are satisfied or very satisfied with how they are supervised by the service. 2389 offenders filled in a questionnaire about their experiences of being managed by the Probation Service after being given a Community Sentence by the courts or on licence after release from prison.
Chief Executive of Staffordshire and West Midlands Probation Trust, Mike Maiden, said:
“I’m very pleased with these results. It shows that my officers’ work really makes a difference to offenders’ lives by helping them make changes and reduce their reoffending. The public can be confident that Probation works.”
For the majority of offenders, being on Probation has increased their confidence that they can improve their lives.
78% said it was likely that the supervision they receive on Probation will stop them offending.
61% said Probation had given them new opportunities for the future.
56% said they had learned new skills on Probation that would help them in the future.
And 58% said they felt more positive about their future because of the training and support they received on Probation.
These are some comments from the offenders who filled in the survey.
Probation helped with my drug problem and my offending. It has made me aware of the effect on the victim and the consequences.
Because I have learned new skills and I fully understand right from wrong, I now see myself as a man, not a boy.
I have learned skills to prevent my committing domestic violence and abusive arguing with my wife which leads to the domestic violence.
I am attending the Skills For Life course. I am learning maths skills which I did not do at school. My 10-year-old son will probably benefit most from these skills as I will be able to help with his maths homework more.
It gives me an opportunity to express my thoughts and feelings to my Probation Officer. She is very helpful and strict with her approach. The staff here are great. The biggest change in my life is not re-offending, working towards the future and making a difference.
Probation officers engage with offenders using “pro-social modelling” – acting as a positive role model and demonstrating how offenders should behave. 96% of offenders questioned said their Offender Manager treated them fairly and 97% said they were treated with respect.
It is planned to take this excellent work further forward into the new merged Staffordshire and West Midlands Probation Trust. A national survey will take place later this year to assess SWM Probation’s performance as part of the national picture.
Chief Executive of Staffordshire and West Midlands Probation Trust, Mike Maiden, said:
“I’m very pleased with these results. It shows that my officers’ work really makes a difference to offenders’ lives by helping them make changes and reduce their reoffending. The public can be confident that Probation works.”
For the majority of offenders, being on Probation has increased their confidence that they can improve their lives.
78% said it was likely that the supervision they receive on Probation will stop them offending.
61% said Probation had given them new opportunities for the future.
56% said they had learned new skills on Probation that would help them in the future.
And 58% said they felt more positive about their future because of the training and support they received on Probation.
These are some comments from the offenders who filled in the survey.
Probation helped with my drug problem and my offending. It has made me aware of the effect on the victim and the consequences.
Because I have learned new skills and I fully understand right from wrong, I now see myself as a man, not a boy.
I have learned skills to prevent my committing domestic violence and abusive arguing with my wife which leads to the domestic violence.
I am attending the Skills For Life course. I am learning maths skills which I did not do at school. My 10-year-old son will probably benefit most from these skills as I will be able to help with his maths homework more.
It gives me an opportunity to express my thoughts and feelings to my Probation Officer. She is very helpful and strict with her approach. The staff here are great. The biggest change in my life is not re-offending, working towards the future and making a difference.
Probation officers engage with offenders using “pro-social modelling” – acting as a positive role model and demonstrating how offenders should behave. 96% of offenders questioned said their Offender Manager treated them fairly and 97% said they were treated with respect.
It is planned to take this excellent work further forward into the new merged Staffordshire and West Midlands Probation Trust. A national survey will take place later this year to assess SWM Probation’s performance as part of the national picture.
Icknield Choir To Hold Concert for Birmingham Hospices
The Bimingham Icknield Choir (pictured above) is holding the mass male voice concert on October 9th in aid of the John Taylor and Acorns Birmingham Children Hospices.
It will feature a choir of over 200, the championship Sovereign Brass Band from the West Midlands (pictured below) - and special guest star Rhian Lois Evans (Soprano) who was the 2008 winner of the coveted Bryn Terfel scholarship.
Ray Woods, Marketing and Fundraising Officer for the League of Friends of the John Taylor Hospice said,
"We are over the moon that the Birmingham Icknield Choir have chosen us as one of the two charities to benefit from their efforts - partcularly as this year marks the 100th anniversary of the Hospice
Not only will the concert benefit us financially, but we hope that it will help to raise awaress of the work of the Hospice movement and encourage volunteers to come forward to help us.
The Choir have been incredibly supportive of our Hospice and good causes generally and they are celebrating their 110th anniversary - so both organisations have been in existence for a similar period of time."
Tickets are now on sale priced, between £8 and £18 by calling 0121 780 3333
Further details are available by calling 01922 451 870
The John Taylor Hospice helps patients and their families in Sutton Coldfield, Great Barr, Erdington and the north and east of the City. It has a day hospice, an inpatient unit and community based nursing and bereavement support teams. The Hospice celebrates its hundredth anniversary this year.
Monday, 24 May 2010
Fun for all the family at mac this half term
Theatre, film and free events and activities throughout the week
mac has something to keep the whole family occupied this half term in the beautiful surroundings of Cannon Hill Park, including a brand new children’s show from the company that brought you The Gruffalo.
The fun starts over the Bank Holiday weekend with a free visual art and craft workshop for families and children led by artist Claire Hickey at 12pm on Saturday 29. On Sunday 30 from 2pm families can join in with Thalia Conomos to create simple props and masks and then listen as they become part of her magical stories.
From Monday to Thursday, Tall Stories’ present their brand new show Twinkle Twonkle, which is inspired by nursery rhymes and the Big Bang and is about the strange creatures to be found amongst the stars of the night sky. Following on from the success of their stage adaptations of The Gruffalo and Room on the Broom, Twinkle Twonkle is full of stories, songs and silliness that lifts you up, up and away...
Tuesday evening Two Man Ting kick off the Summer’s Tuesday Tunes sessions, with free performances from local musicians on the terrace and a barbecue. Jon Lewis and Jah-man Aggrey play hi-life lo-fi music fusing African, Jazz, Folk and Pop.
Rounding off the week, Moseley Folk and mac present a whole day packed with performances, activities and film on Saturday 5 June. As well as music from The Demon Barber Roadshow and Wizz Jones, there’s a performance from all-girl burlesque morris group The Belles of London City and screenings of the heart-warming mockumentary Morris: A Life with Bells On It starring Sir Derek Jacobi.
Throughout the week the galleries and Bridges Café Bar are open as usual, with the main gallery additionally open on Monday 31, from 12 – 8pm. The cinema will also be showing special matinee screenings of How To Train Your Dragon and Clash of the Titans.
Dorothy Wilson, Chief Executive and Artistic Director of mac said: “With this fantastic range of events and activities this half term, the refurbished and expanded mac has everything you’ll need for a family day out right here in the heart of Birmingham.”
Twinkle Twonkle is at mac from Monday 31 May – Thursday 3 June at 11am and 2.30pm. Tickets are £8 (£6) and available online at http://www.macarts.co.uk/ or from Sales & Information on 0121 446 3232.
mac has something to keep the whole family occupied this half term in the beautiful surroundings of Cannon Hill Park, including a brand new children’s show from the company that brought you The Gruffalo.
The fun starts over the Bank Holiday weekend with a free visual art and craft workshop for families and children led by artist Claire Hickey at 12pm on Saturday 29. On Sunday 30 from 2pm families can join in with Thalia Conomos to create simple props and masks and then listen as they become part of her magical stories.
From Monday to Thursday, Tall Stories’ present their brand new show Twinkle Twonkle, which is inspired by nursery rhymes and the Big Bang and is about the strange creatures to be found amongst the stars of the night sky. Following on from the success of their stage adaptations of The Gruffalo and Room on the Broom, Twinkle Twonkle is full of stories, songs and silliness that lifts you up, up and away...
Tuesday evening Two Man Ting kick off the Summer’s Tuesday Tunes sessions, with free performances from local musicians on the terrace and a barbecue. Jon Lewis and Jah-man Aggrey play hi-life lo-fi music fusing African, Jazz, Folk and Pop.
Rounding off the week, Moseley Folk and mac present a whole day packed with performances, activities and film on Saturday 5 June. As well as music from The Demon Barber Roadshow and Wizz Jones, there’s a performance from all-girl burlesque morris group The Belles of London City and screenings of the heart-warming mockumentary Morris: A Life with Bells On It starring Sir Derek Jacobi.
Throughout the week the galleries and Bridges Café Bar are open as usual, with the main gallery additionally open on Monday 31, from 12 – 8pm. The cinema will also be showing special matinee screenings of How To Train Your Dragon and Clash of the Titans.
Dorothy Wilson, Chief Executive and Artistic Director of mac said: “With this fantastic range of events and activities this half term, the refurbished and expanded mac has everything you’ll need for a family day out right here in the heart of Birmingham.”
Twinkle Twonkle is at mac from Monday 31 May – Thursday 3 June at 11am and 2.30pm. Tickets are £8 (£6) and available online at http://www.macarts.co.uk/ or from Sales & Information on 0121 446 3232.
The Wars of the Roses revisited at Ross and Leominster libraries
Virgin Widow Cover: The novel Virgin Widow by Anne O’Brien.
Local author Anne O’Brien will be talking about her writing and signing copies of her latest novel Virgin Widow at Ross Library on Friday, June 11 and Leominster Library on Friday, June 18.
Jan Nesaratnam, senior reader services librarian at Herefordshire Council, said: “The name Anne Neville does not, even for lovers of historical fiction, spring readily to mind apart from her fleeting appearance in Shakespeare’s Richard III where Richard, complete with Shakespearean hump and limp, woos her over the corpse of King Henry VI. Not the most promising start to a marriage.
“Local author Anne O’Brien draws on the fascinating relationship between Anne and Richard as the basis for her new novel Virgin Widow and her evening talk at Ross and Leominster libraries, as she explores this exciting period of British history.
“The daughter of Warwick the Kingmaker, Anne Neville was betrothed twice as a child to Richard of Gloucester, the future Richard III. When her father rebelled against Richard’s brother, the Yorkist King Edward IV, she was married off to the rival claimant Prince Edward of Lancaster; but his mother Margaret of Anjou declared that the marriage was never to be consummated.
“After Edward’s death (at Richard’s hands?), Anne found herself a prisoner on the “wrong side” in the war: her father dead, her mother trapped in a convent and betrayed by her elder sister. Her only hope was rescue by Richard,” she added.
Anne O’Brien is a former history teacher who lives with her husband in an 18th century cottage in the depths of the Welsh Marches.
Virgin Widow was published by MIRA as a Paperback Original on May 21 2010. Price: £7.99.
Details of the events:
Local author Anne O’Brien will be talking about her writing and signing copies of her latest novel Virgin Widow.
Friday 11th June
Ross Library
Tel. 01432 383280
Friday 18th June
Leominster Library
Tel. 01432 383290
7-8pm
Tickets £3 available from Ross and Leominster libraries
www.herefordshire.gov.uk/libraries
Pupils dance their way to success
Pupils from Trinity Primary School in Hereford try out their dance moves.
Herefordshire Council secured £43,000 in funding from the Paul Hamlyn Foundation for the Moves to Succeed dance project which involved pupils from Trinity, Marlbrook, Lord Scudamore and St. Martin’s primary schools. Nicola Roderick from Nicola’s School of Dance is co-ordinating the project.
To celebrate the completion of the project, a special one-day conference is being held at The Courtyard in Hereford.
Annie Millen, Herefordshire Council’s Arts Learning Officer, said: “The project has been a great success in improving self-esteem and helping pupils find ways to express themselves positively as well as the added bonus of improving their fitness through dance.”
Nicola Roderick added: “Pupils have also gained a positive attitude towards attending school and the project has helped those taking part to cope better in the classroom.
“Dance is also a fun way to learn and the one-day event on Thursday, July 1, will include performances from the children and 2Faced Dance Company, practical workshops, guest speakers and lectures,” she added.
Tamsin Fitzgerald from 2FacedDance Company added: “Moves to Succeed is an excellent project for young people in Herefordshire and has demonstrated the vast dance talent we have within this county. It also shows the difference dance can make to some people’s lives.”
The conference is aimed at dance and PE teachers but will also be of interest to anyone involved in developing coping strategies fin the classroom. It costs £75 for the day, including lunch and coffee at The Courtyard.
To book places, contact Annie Millen on 01432 383658 or email amillen@herefordshire.gov.uk
Skills for the future
Pupils from Arden School – one of the five schools involved in the project – with their certificates.
Students aged from 9 to 13 from Arden School, Dorridge Junior School, Knowle CE Primary School, Lady K Leveson CE School and St George and St Teresa Catholic Primary School joined forces with staff and PhD students from Warwick University to produce their own pieces of work looking at ‘play’.
The pupils looked at the differences in play from an historical perspective, comparing games and play equipment between now and the past, the differences in play between children of different ages and genders and planning playgrounds to ensure effective and purposeful play.
The ‘Young Students as Researchers’ programme first launched on 2 December last year, when pupils from the five schools were welcomed to a campus development day at Warwick University by Professor David Wray.
Professor Wray demonstrated different research techniques to the pupils, who then spent the day working with the University staff and PhD students deciding on what methodologies they would like to use.
The young researchers then had just over three months to complete their projects and submit them to the University, before returning to the campus on 27 April to present their findings at a special conference.
Each of the five groups involved talked through their projects to an audience including University staff, their teachers and their parents, before being rewarded with a certificate, presented by Professor Wray.
The project was judged to be so successful that another is planned for the Autumn, this time involving students from different Solihull schools.
Second Chance Furniture wins prestigious environmental business award
Staff and volunteers from Second Chance Furniture Re-Use scooped the Environmental Business Award sponsored and presented by Land Rover Coventry Telegraph Business Awards Presentation at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry.
Second Chance were one of three short listed projects in the Environmental Business category , together with Calcutt Boats and KR Exhibition Services that met the “Success Criteria” of showing outstanding concern for the environment and had taken steps to introduce improvements that protect and enhance the quality of life. They also had to show how they contributed to reduction of global warming, reduction of ozone depletion, improvement in human health etc.
A few weeks prior to the event a film crew visited the project to shoot footage for the short video profile of each finalist. The video was voiced over by Olympian and former world record holder, David Moorcroft, who also attended the evening to offer his support to local businesses. Representatives from the region’s business community and senior executives of the principal organisations in the area were present.
Project Manager Peter Whitehead said “We are surprised and delighted to receive this prestigious award. The other businesses that were short-listed posed serious competition and both are commercial operations, whereas Second Chance furniture is a social enterprise. It is recognition of the hard work and commitment of both the staff and volunteers that work at the project. Our aim is to reduce the amount of waste that goes in to landfill and to help the local community by offering affordable furniture, white goods and cycles for sale in the warehouse. I would like to thank Warwickshire County Council, Nuneaton and Bedworth Council and Chapter 1 for their continued support of the project.
At the beginning of the year Warwickshire County Council awarded the project additional funding to open a new premises in North Warwickshire. Work is currently in progress to try and secure suitable premises.’’
If you feel that you have furniture, larger white electrical items or cycles that would be suitable for re-sale then Peter asks that you contact them on 024 7632 6189 to discuss suitability and to arrange a collection. Alternatively, furniture can be taken to the warehouse if donors have the means to do this.
2nd Chance Furniture Re-Use Project in Nuneaton was set up almost four years ago with the aims of providing affordable used furniture – primarily to those in financial hardship – but also to help reduce the amount of waste going into landfill and to provide volunteering experiences. It currently works with around 30 volunteers & work placements and handles around 140 tonnes of furniture a year.
Second Chance were one of three short listed projects in the Environmental Business category , together with Calcutt Boats and KR Exhibition Services that met the “Success Criteria” of showing outstanding concern for the environment and had taken steps to introduce improvements that protect and enhance the quality of life. They also had to show how they contributed to reduction of global warming, reduction of ozone depletion, improvement in human health etc.
A few weeks prior to the event a film crew visited the project to shoot footage for the short video profile of each finalist. The video was voiced over by Olympian and former world record holder, David Moorcroft, who also attended the evening to offer his support to local businesses. Representatives from the region’s business community and senior executives of the principal organisations in the area were present.
Project Manager Peter Whitehead said “We are surprised and delighted to receive this prestigious award. The other businesses that were short-listed posed serious competition and both are commercial operations, whereas Second Chance furniture is a social enterprise. It is recognition of the hard work and commitment of both the staff and volunteers that work at the project. Our aim is to reduce the amount of waste that goes in to landfill and to help the local community by offering affordable furniture, white goods and cycles for sale in the warehouse. I would like to thank Warwickshire County Council, Nuneaton and Bedworth Council and Chapter 1 for their continued support of the project.
At the beginning of the year Warwickshire County Council awarded the project additional funding to open a new premises in North Warwickshire. Work is currently in progress to try and secure suitable premises.’’
If you feel that you have furniture, larger white electrical items or cycles that would be suitable for re-sale then Peter asks that you contact them on 024 7632 6189 to discuss suitability and to arrange a collection. Alternatively, furniture can be taken to the warehouse if donors have the means to do this.
2nd Chance Furniture Re-Use Project in Nuneaton was set up almost four years ago with the aims of providing affordable used furniture – primarily to those in financial hardship – but also to help reduce the amount of waste going into landfill and to provide volunteering experiences. It currently works with around 30 volunteers & work placements and handles around 140 tonnes of furniture a year.
Don’t be a mucky pup
Star of the campaign, Hiccup, and friends spread the word “don’t be a mucky pup”.
Solihull Council has launched a new campaign, ‘Don’t be a mucky pup’, to keep the borough free from dog mess.
Fronting the campaign is Hiccup, a local Border Terrier, who is reminding residents to clean up after their dogs.
Throughout summer Solihull’s park rangers will be handing out leaflets and bags to residents to encourage them not to be mucky pups, so everyone can enjoy the outdoors without the worry of stepping in something.
Dog foul is not only unpleasant but can be a dangerous, particularly to young children, causing Toxocariasis which can lead to blindness, asthma and epilepsy.
While most Solihull dog owners are responsible and clean after their dogs, a careless few ignore laws and leave our streets and parks dirty.
People found failing to clean up their dog’s mess will be given a Fixed Penalty Notice of £75. If the penalty is not paid within two weeks, or if the person has already been given a warning then they may be prosecuted and could end up paying up to £1000.
Stafford pollution expert to advise government
Principal Environmental Protection Officer Shaun Baker was asked to join Defra’s (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) advisory group because of his experience with the borough’s long history of glue manufacture.
The advisory group will help the government tighten up controls on air pollution by companies which make glue or use it as part of their manufacturing process.
Howard Thomas, Head of Environment at Stafford Borough Council, said: “Stafford is recognised as a centre for the glue industry, which stems from its history of shoe-making.
“As a result, the Borough Council’s pollution control staff have built up extensive experience and expertise in minimising the impact of this industry on the environment.”
Shaun, who started working for the Borough Council 15 years ago as a pollution control officer, will help draw up tighter national regulations which are due to be published next spring.
Call to older people to voice their experience
Older people from across Warwickshire are encouraged to make their voices heard at an event in June.
The Warwickshire Voice of Experience ‘VoX’ event, organised by Warwickshire County Council, has been specially arranged so that older people can set the agenda and have their say about how they want to live in later life.
The event will take place at Stratford Racecourse, Luddington Road, Stratford-upon-Avon, from 10am-1pm on Thursday 10 June and the main topic for discussion is ‘Have your say on preventative services’.
The audience will hear about a wide range of preventative measures including healthy eating and healthy lifestyles, advice on strokes, carers’ support, falls and fractures advice, and housing and accommodation support.
The event will also offer a 'Question Time’ style debate on prevention where you can put your questions and comments about services for older people to a panel of experts including the County, District and Borough Councils.
Cllr Izzi Seccombe, Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care at Warwickshire County Council, said: “We want Warwickshire to be a great place to grow old and it is vital that older people have a voice about the services they receive.
“Not only do effective preventative services help older people to live independently for longer, but they also avoid the need for hospitalisation and residential care, thereby saving health and care budgets.”
Warwickshire Voice of eXperience has been set up to enhance the work of the older people’s forums across Warwickshire and to give a broader, countywide voice about older people’s issues. The network meets four times a year and meetings take place in a different part of the county each time.
If you would like to reserve a place please contact the Customer First team on 01926 743026 by Tuesday 1 June.
The Warwickshire Voice of Experience ‘VoX’ event, organised by Warwickshire County Council, has been specially arranged so that older people can set the agenda and have their say about how they want to live in later life.
The event will take place at Stratford Racecourse, Luddington Road, Stratford-upon-Avon, from 10am-1pm on Thursday 10 June and the main topic for discussion is ‘Have your say on preventative services’.
The audience will hear about a wide range of preventative measures including healthy eating and healthy lifestyles, advice on strokes, carers’ support, falls and fractures advice, and housing and accommodation support.
The event will also offer a 'Question Time’ style debate on prevention where you can put your questions and comments about services for older people to a panel of experts including the County, District and Borough Councils.
Cllr Izzi Seccombe, Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care at Warwickshire County Council, said: “We want Warwickshire to be a great place to grow old and it is vital that older people have a voice about the services they receive.
“Not only do effective preventative services help older people to live independently for longer, but they also avoid the need for hospitalisation and residential care, thereby saving health and care budgets.”
Warwickshire Voice of eXperience has been set up to enhance the work of the older people’s forums across Warwickshire and to give a broader, countywide voice about older people’s issues. The network meets four times a year and meetings take place in a different part of the county each time.
If you would like to reserve a place please contact the Customer First team on 01926 743026 by Tuesday 1 June.
Finditinbirmingham Opportunities!
Advocacy services for carers of a person(s) living within the 40 wards of birmingham city council
birmingham city council is inviting bids for the provision of a carers special grant project. the prospective provider will deliver an advocacy services to carers (all ages) of an adult service user or disabled child living within the 40 wards of birmingham city council. this is to ensure that all carers have access to information, advice and guidance about the full range of options and services available to them, and so be able to exercise informed choice and control in meeting their needs and improving the outcomes of these decisions. this means carers are assisted and enabled to say what they want, secure their rights, represent their interests and obtain services they need to improve those outcomes
the successful organisation must be able to demonstrate:
• carers are supported in safeguarding their rights as citizens. in this they feel confident in being supported, or represented, in expressing their views, helping to resolve issues and protect them if they are particularly vulnerable.
• carers who may struggle to be involved in making informed choice feel supported and empowered in exercising choice and control as far as they are able or willing.
• carers have access to appropriate forms of advocacy; this may include being enabled to self-advocate, having peer advocates, as well as specialist instructed and non-instructed advocacy.
• carers will have access to support and advocacy in the exercise of choice and control in how and where they live; this may include employment, training, leisure, development, interests, accessing support and services, and community and social inclusion.
• carers are supported in influencing and reviewing the development and provision of services and resources in their communities
the contract is due to commence on 1st october 2010 and run until 30th september 2011.
the maximum funding available is £100,000 over the total contract period.
if you are interested in biding, please write to:
mr sueb jabbar
commissioner for carers
strategic commissioning
adults & communities
birmingham city council
level 6, louisa ryland house
44 newhall street
birmingham
b3 3pl
or by e-mail to sueb.jabbar@birmingham.gov.uk
by friday 18th june 2010 quoting reference rv5cd and stating whether you wish to receive a hardcopy or an electronic copy of the bid documents. birmingham city council encourages electronic applications
your bid must be returned by noon on friday 25th june 2010
for more information contact sueb jabbar on 0121 303 3923 or by email sueb.jabbar@birmingham.gov.uk
Closing Date: 28/06/2010
birmingham city council is inviting bids for the provision of a carers special grant project. the prospective provider will deliver an advocacy services to carers (all ages) of an adult service user or disabled child living within the 40 wards of birmingham city council. this is to ensure that all carers have access to information, advice and guidance about the full range of options and services available to them, and so be able to exercise informed choice and control in meeting their needs and improving the outcomes of these decisions. this means carers are assisted and enabled to say what they want, secure their rights, represent their interests and obtain services they need to improve those outcomes
the successful organisation must be able to demonstrate:
• carers are supported in safeguarding their rights as citizens. in this they feel confident in being supported, or represented, in expressing their views, helping to resolve issues and protect them if they are particularly vulnerable.
• carers who may struggle to be involved in making informed choice feel supported and empowered in exercising choice and control as far as they are able or willing.
• carers have access to appropriate forms of advocacy; this may include being enabled to self-advocate, having peer advocates, as well as specialist instructed and non-instructed advocacy.
• carers will have access to support and advocacy in the exercise of choice and control in how and where they live; this may include employment, training, leisure, development, interests, accessing support and services, and community and social inclusion.
• carers are supported in influencing and reviewing the development and provision of services and resources in their communities
the contract is due to commence on 1st october 2010 and run until 30th september 2011.
the maximum funding available is £100,000 over the total contract period.
if you are interested in biding, please write to:
mr sueb jabbar
commissioner for carers
strategic commissioning
adults & communities
birmingham city council
level 6, louisa ryland house
44 newhall street
birmingham
b3 3pl
or by e-mail to sueb.jabbar@birmingham.gov.uk
by friday 18th june 2010 quoting reference rv5cd and stating whether you wish to receive a hardcopy or an electronic copy of the bid documents. birmingham city council encourages electronic applications
your bid must be returned by noon on friday 25th june 2010
for more information contact sueb jabbar on 0121 303 3923 or by email sueb.jabbar@birmingham.gov.uk
Closing Date: 28/06/2010
Caroline is our PuterTutor - June 2010 article
Saving Money Shopping
As promised earlier in the year here are some more ideas to help you save money on your shopping by using your computer. With a little savvy searching it is possible to save the cost of your broadband subscription over the year!
I recently found out about a browser add-on called InvisibleHand. Browser add-on are programs that are integrated into Internet Explorer or Firefox (or other browsers), usually providing additional functionality. They are also known as Plug-ins and extensions. InvisibleHand alerts you when a product you are viewing in an online store can be found cheaper on another website. It currently checks around 50 retailers and saves you having to check around looking for the best deal.
There are a few websites that claim to find hidden gem bargains on Ebay (http://www.ebay.co.uk/) by searching for items which are misspelt. You have got a better chance of bidding on a real bargain if the seller has misspelled an item name as this means that it is not picked up by normal Ebay searches. Try http://www.fatfingers.co.uk/ or http://www.goofbay.com/
http://www.myvouchercodes.co.uk/ is a good place to search for print out and online vouchers entitling you anything from 10% off to free postage and packing. The site is updated regularly so it is worth checking back frequently.
Finally with Petrol prices soaring higher and higher it is worth knowing where the cheapest place for fuel is in your area. Visit http://www.petrolprices.com/ and enter your postcode and you can compare your local garage prices.
By Caroline The ‘PuterTutor
As promised earlier in the year here are some more ideas to help you save money on your shopping by using your computer. With a little savvy searching it is possible to save the cost of your broadband subscription over the year!
I recently found out about a browser add-on called InvisibleHand. Browser add-on are programs that are integrated into Internet Explorer or Firefox (or other browsers), usually providing additional functionality. They are also known as Plug-ins and extensions. InvisibleHand alerts you when a product you are viewing in an online store can be found cheaper on another website. It currently checks around 50 retailers and saves you having to check around looking for the best deal.
There are a few websites that claim to find hidden gem bargains on Ebay (http://www.ebay.co.uk/) by searching for items which are misspelt. You have got a better chance of bidding on a real bargain if the seller has misspelled an item name as this means that it is not picked up by normal Ebay searches. Try http://www.fatfingers.co.uk/ or http://www.goofbay.com/
http://www.myvouchercodes.co.uk/ is a good place to search for print out and online vouchers entitling you anything from 10% off to free postage and packing. The site is updated regularly so it is worth checking back frequently.
Finally with Petrol prices soaring higher and higher it is worth knowing where the cheapest place for fuel is in your area. Visit http://www.petrolprices.com/ and enter your postcode and you can compare your local garage prices.
By Caroline The ‘PuterTutor
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