In View Winter 2014

Bournville Village Trust – a community with many views

0300 333 6540 [email protected] bvt.org.uk bvtnews bournville village trust

Show apartments open at Bournville Gardens Page 14

OpenView success at 350Page 4

In this issue...

Vision funding is a game-changerPage 6

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umn/

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Busy Apiaries are hives of activityPage 7

Remember, remember: 2nd of December!Page 8

Gas WarningPage 9

Gardener’s Pluck AwardPage 10

“I’m very happy here” Residents give Selly Wood House the thumbs upPage 12

Children learn of Cadbury’s exploitsPage 15

BVT staff were sad to learn of the death of Tom Greeves in June of this year and we reflect on his time with us.

Succeeding Dorothea Hoyland, Tom Greeves became a BVT Trustee on 26th July, 1971; thus began his 32 years of loyal and committed service to the work of the Trust.

It was immediately evident Tom would bring a fair-minded, balanced approach, to BVT’s business. As a Bournville Estate resident, he particularly appreciated the sensitivities of many issues affecting the day-to-day lives of local residents.

He gave generously of his time, and showed a continuing determination to further the aims of the Trust.

When Tom became a Trustee, important areas of the Estate had still to be developed. The housing schemes at Hole Farm and The Priory, including Rosefields,

were completed during the first decade of his Trusteeship. Rowheath House, with its ground-breaking solar power system, had started to show the way in terms of new technologies.

In the mid-80s, Tom played an influential role in the inception and design of the Rowheath ‘Solar Village’ which, at the time, was Northern Europe’s largest and most impressive solar development. His invaluable engineering knowledge helped secure funding support for the solar project, and his enduring interest in energy efficiency shaped BVT’s policy on environmental matters.

With the proposed ‘New Bournville’, at Lightmoor, Tom would dearly have loved to have seen experimental ‘earth-sheltered’ houses. Perhaps he was a little ahead of his time, for such an exciting innovation cannot be far away.

Tom served, for 14 years, as Vice Chairman of BVT. From its inception he was also a member of the Trust’s Finance & Development Committee, on which he served as Chairman from 1981-85.

With a particular interest in staff terms and conditions, he also made a valuable contribution to establishing the Trust’s employment policy.

Over the years, he offered wise counsel on many difficult issues, including how to handle the consequences of the economic downturn of the early 90s – and the negotiations which led to the successful revision of the basis for calculating the annual management charge.

Tom’s quiet authority, and genuine passion for the Trust’s work, earned him the respect of all who had the pleasure of working with him. His fellow Trustees, and BVT staff, would like to put on record their grateful thanks for his long and valued service to the Trust.

02 InView Autumn/Winter 2014

Thank you

TOM

Tom Greeves; a BVT Trustee from July 1971–October, 2003

Bournville Village Trust has been awarded the coveted Keep Britain Tidy ‘Green Flag’ for Bournville Village Green, on Sycamore Road.

Delighted to receive the award, Lloyd Gower, BVT’s Landscapes Manager, told InView; “The Green Flag scheme recognises and rewards the best green spaces in the country, and our award highlights that Bournville residents are benefiting from a green space of the highest quality.”

BVT Chairman, Duncan Cadbury, said; “The Green forms such an important part of our community, and this award both recognises and celebrates it. We are committed to preserving it for future generations.”

Bournville Village Green is among a record-breaking 1,476 parks and green spaces to receive this prestigious award.

Keep Britain Tidy’s Green Flag Award scheme manager, Paul Todd, added; “A Green Flag Award provides national recognition for all the parks managers, staff and volunteers who, through their dedication and hard work, have helped to create these fantastic places for everyone to enjoy.

“Quality green spaces are a vital resource for communities – that’s why it’s so significant that we have given out more awards than ever before.”

InView Autumn/Winter 2014 03

Village Green gets the green flag

Open Country talks Bournville

The Bournville legacy was discussed ‘on air’ recently, on BBC Radio 4’s programme Open Country.

Presenter Felicity Evans told listeners how, in the late 19th century, the Cadbury family sought to expand their growing chocolate business and develop their vision for a better quality of life for Birmingham people.

Having bought 300 acres of land, the Cadburys created a ‘model’ village they called Bournville; helping people escape the city’s slums, and move into quality housing – with gardens and fruit trees, open spaces, churches and sports facilities.

During the programme, Felicity visited Bournville, to see how George Cadbury’s work and ethos continues today, look at some of the first houses built there, and chat to lifelong residents. She also heard how, 90 years after its creation, Rowheath Pavilion is still home to sports teams and community events.

The presenter then ascended Bournville’s carillon tower – built by George Cadbury, after an inspiring trip to Belgium – where Carillonneur, Trevor Workman, gave a demonstration of how it should be played.

Felicity also told how modern residents of Bournville aren’t the only ones to benefit from George Cadbury’s forward thinking. Lightmoor Village, near Telford, is being developed to enjoy the same community benefits George envisioned for Birmingham.

More than 700 local residents braved the drizzle to go along to 350 Bournville Lane and take part in this year’s OpenView event – making it the best-attended yet.

Now in its fifth year, OpenView is an opportunity for us to raise awareness of our work and talk to residents and the wider community about the services we provide.

Visitors were particularly enthralled by the presentations by BVT’s Heritage Manager, Gillian Ellis, on the history of BVT and why George Cadbury’s work is as relevant today as it was 100 years ago.

Ashleigh Evans, BVT’s Head of Business Improvement said: “Even though the weather wasn’t the best, this year’s OpenView event was a great success and attracted over 700 visitors. If the weather had been kinder, we are sure we would have had over 1,000 visitors. As well as the heritage talks, visitors enjoyed learning about the bees and BVT’s apiaries managed by Bournville Bee Keepers and the fact that we have an agricultural estate of some 2,500 acres. In fact, one of the most popular attractions were the prize cattle – Princess and Baby Princess – brought by John Monk from Chadwich Manor Farm.”

Visitors, including the Mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Shafique Shah – tried their hand at a host of activities including ‘spot your home’s hazards’, ‘get the hoop down the wire’ and the ever-popular ‘loo seat challenge’. They also found out how BVT spends every pound and saw prizes given out throughout the day for various craft and photographic competitions and, of course, the Vision funding awards.

There was lots for the children to enjoy too, from the bouncy castles and face-painting by Rockatots to storytelling by Annamation and learning about previous Vison winner Emma Peach’s upcycling classes.

Despite the weather, this year’s OpenView proved to be the most successful ever and we are confident the next event will be even better.

OpenView success at 350


The winners of our recent photographic competition were announced at this year’s OpenView and had their photograph taken with the Mayor of Birmingham, the winners are as follows:

• Anne Prior• Carol Nelson• Deborah Bates• Sarah Bennett• Phoenix Hall Senior Youth Club


PHOTO WINNERS PULL FOCUS

Tracy and Sue picture a win

The Rest House Centenary competition, invited local artists to immortalise the historic building in oils, watercolours, chalk, pencil or any way that they wished.

The winners were Tracy Fleming and Sue Shellam for the 18 and Over category, Charlotte Dawkins in the 12 to 18 year old category and Charlotte Bardell in the 12 and under category.

Tracy, of Bournville, won a boat trip, which she enjoyed with her family. More of her paintings of local scenes – including views of the Rest House, Rowheath, the yachting pool, Selly Manor and old Northfield – can be viewed on her website, at www.tracymyfanwy.wix.com/tracymyfanwy

Second prize in the competition went to Sue Shellam, of Kings Norton, who made a silk picture of the Rest House and won tickets to visit Cadbury World.

The winners of Vision ’14 were also announced at OpenView – see our story ‘VISION FUNDING IS A GAME-CHANGER’ on page 6.

Anne Prior – Best view on the Estate

Sarah Bennett– Best picture of Bournville

Carol Nelson – Best picture of Weoley

Phoenix Hall Senior Youth Club – Under 16s

Deborah Bates – Best picture of Bordesley


Randlay Colts Junior Football Club and Ironstone & Lawley Running Club are just two of the lucky winners celebrating – after each scooping a £2,000 share of BVT’s allocated £14,000 Vision ’14 funding!

Launched in 2011, Vision provides funding to community and social enterprises in Birmingham and Shropshire, to help them launch or grow projects that improve neighbourhoods. Chosen by members of the public, the winners were announced at this year’s OpenView event, on September 20th.

Shropshire’s Ironstone & Lawley Running Club has already invested its share of the award into holding a 5K fun run – to promote running and its benefits, on overall health and well-being.

Randlay Colts plan to use their grant to provide free football coaching for children aged between four and

six years old, purchase new kit and equipment and establish new teams.

Paul Chadderton, Club Secretary at Randlay Colts, added; “We’d like to thank everyone who voted

for us, we’re extremely excited to be able to offer local youngsters free football. Our funding will make a huge difference to our club, and the community. We hope, by helping to establish new teams in the years to come, it will also secure the future of Randlay Colts!”

Other projects to benefit from Vision ’14 funding include Weoley Hill Community Choir, TaiChi in the Park, Community Fitness and Bournville Crafty Bees.

The Bees founding member, Julie Davis, told InView; “We’re delighted to win this funding, it’s a welcome boost and will provide more opportunities for our group.

“We have brought together the local community to share skills and support local charities. To date, we have

produced hats for the homeless and clothes for premature

babies in our local neo-natal units. No skills are required to join our group, just a willingness

to learn a new craft and make

items for charity.”

Bournville Infant School has also been awarded

Vision cash – to purchase and refurbish a decommissioned

bus which, with children and local families, they will redesign into a teaching and learning space.

BVT’s Head of Business Improvement, Ashleigh Evans, told InView; “I’m sure the voting public found it a real challenge to pick the winners, as the standard this year was so incredibly high.

“We hope this money will provide a stepping-stone for the project winners to develop their ideas and make a positive, long-lasting impact on their communities.”

Vision funding is a game-changer!

Ironstone & Lawley Running Club

Randlay Colts

Bournville Infant School Play Bus

Bournville Crafty Bees

Community Fitness Bordesley

Tai Chi in the Park

Weoley Hill Community Choir


The Bournville Society: Past, Present and PopularOne of the most popular local history groups in south Birmingham, The Bournville Society aims to promote an interest in the local environment – past, present and future.

Its successful year of illustrated presentations was brought to a conclusion with a talk on Bournville Works, and an outing to some of the lesser-known Cotswold Villages.

An increase in membership and visitors saw attendances exceed 550 throughout the year. As well as a programme of talks, the Society committee produced a book, Bournville Through Time, which is published by Amberley.

Selling well at local and city outlets, the book has proved to be very successful. Royalties from the project will allow the committee to purchase a sound reinforcement system for Society meetings – which are held at Dame Elizabeth Hall, Firbank Close, off Oak Tree Lane, Bournville. There is car parking on site and the hall has disabled access.

The Society’s programme for 2014-15 continues as follows:

• 3rd December at 7.30pm – Historic Indoor Swimming Pools of Birmingham – by Steve Beauchampe.

• 4th February at 7.30pm – WWI Friends Ambulance Unit (including the role of Laurence and Egbert Cadbury’s exploits) – by Paul Handford.

• 4th March at 7.30pm – AGM, followed by Cadbury Advertising Archive – by Sarah Foden, Information Manager & Archivist and Nigel Proctor, Head of AV Services, Mondlez International.

• 1st April at 8.00pm – Stained Glass Window Makers of Birmingham School of Art – by Roy Albutt.

• 6th May at 8.00pm – The Birmingham History Galleries – by Jo-Ann Curtis, Curator at Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery.

• 6th June – Brian Draper’s outing to Herefordshire and the Golden Valley.

For further information, please contact R. J. Booth on 0121 475 6814, Rosemary Shutt, on 0121 458 2547 or visit: www.bournvillevillagecouncil.org.uk www.bvt.org.uk/news-and-events/the-bournville-society/

Adele Jones – a second year student at Newman University, studying Youth and Community Work – wanted to undertake a completely different placement and decided to go to BVT’s The Holdings to carry out the required 333 hours’ work that her course had set.

Opened in 2001, The Holdings is BVT’s Supported Housing Leaving Care Project. It provides local youngsters with a ‘stepping stone’ between being in care and independent living. The service promotes safety, emotional well-being, community integration and appropriate self-determination.

Adele told InView; “In order to gain as much knowledge as possible, I wanted to try something different to

my previous experiences. Something I could really get stuck into.”

“I have learned much more than I expected and created many new working relationships. I now understand how the system works, and what young people moving from care to independence actually go through.”

The BVT apiaries are flourishing – at both 350 Bournville Lane and Rowheath – and, according to our Beekeeper, Ian Baker, Bournville’s very own honey is starting to flow.

The apiary at 350 now has a staggering seven hives, of varying types, these are:• A national hive, with six honey

collection supers – two of them brand new, and four obtaining honey

• A nucleus colony, collected from Stirchley, which is progressing well and will soon need to move up to a larger hive

• A traditional William Broughton Carr hive, which now has additional collector units, and has gained another pagoda level

• A national hive, containing a swarm collected from Inverness Road, which has been moved up to a full‑size hive and, again, is progressing well

• A hive‑sized mating colony, collected from Beckett’s Farm, in which we think there may be a virgin queen

• A small old nucleus, containing a swarm collected from Morrison’s traffic lights, which is possibly queen‑less, and so may be divided up to help other colonies

• A very weak commercial colony, which may receive bees from the small old nucleus.

Rowheath now has five colonies, all of them in the early stages of development, these are:• A mating hive – with a virgin queen

from Bournville beekeeper Colin Hawkings’ apiary which, once mated, will replace the failing queen

• Likewise, for the second mating hive• A nucleus colony, collect from

Rubery, which is progressing well

• A full national colony

• A full deep national colony.

Ian told InView; “Busily delivering the last main flow of nectar, our bees are currently foraging on lime trees and some Himalayan balsam. We are extracting apiary honey at 350, and have also geared the apiary ready to run beekeeping sessions with BVT staff.”

Adele opts for the Holdings

Busy apiaries are hives of activity

Celebrating 80 years of Blackthorn ClosePresent day residents held an 80th birthday party for Blackthorn Close in June – with tea, cake and open gardens.

They also put together a display of photographs and articles relating to the close – and the many folk who have lived there – including a 1925 rent book.

BVTs Heritage Manager, Gillian Ellis, also dug out a number of old photographs from the Trust’s 1940s and ‘50s archives.

A vivid memory for some was the VE Day street party when, accompanied by Mr. Vick on the piano, Joyce Cadbury (Laurence Cadbury’s wife) stood on the doorstep of number 37, and sang Jerusalem.

The residents now aim to publish a booklet recording the close’s history and their memories, which they will present to future new residents

Blackthorn Close was built by the Holdings family, who as well as owning a nearby builder’s yard, also lived in the Close.

The first children born in the Close were siblings Christine and Michael Johnson. Both still live in the close, and have seen many changes over the years – not least the expansion of the kitchens in the houses.

Christine told InView; “The original kitchens were small – as people went shopping every day and butchers, bakers and their like called door-to-door. The advent of fridges and freezers, and the growth of supermarkets meant people needed bigger kitchens, so they were expanded.”

Resident Suzette Spears, who had previously organised a 50th birthday party for Blackthorn Close, felt it was important to hold another celebration – and fellow residents agreed. She added; “There’s incredible community spirit here – everyone knows each other and is keeping George Cadbury’s vision for the Bournville estate alive.”

BPS NAMED ‘APPRENTICE EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR’

BVT’s Bournville PropertyCare Services has won the prestigious Construction Industry Training Board ‘Apprentice Employer of the Year’ award.

BPS received the award – in recognition of their commitment to employing and training individuals through apprenticeship programmes – at the CITB’s 50th Anniversary ‘Pride of Construction’ awards ceremony, in London.

Steve Fellows, Head of Asset Management at Bournville Village Trust, said: “We are very proud to receive this award which recognises our ongoing efforts to invest in the plumbers, electricians, painters and decorators, carpenter, joiners and gas engineers of the future.

“Currently we employ 10 apprentices who are learning a whole raft of trades, working alongside experienced tradespeople to receive expert tutelage and mentoring.

“Once their training is complete, we will continue to support them to find and secure permanent placements as part of our ongoing commitment to helping young people into work.”

BPS has an outstanding and long-established track record of working with local schools, providing work experience placements and encouraging people from a range of cultures and backgrounds, to work as apprentices.

BPS currently has 74 employees, of which 12 are apprentices on a three-year rolling scheme. Three or four apprentices complete each year, and are replaced by new apprentices as they move on to become full-time operatives.


Remember, remember: 2nd of December!The Bournville Christmas lights event will start at 6.40pm on December 2nd – with the carillon playing in the background.

Local scouts will be serving hot drinks, some of the shops will be open, and Father Christmas is scheduled to touch down at 7pm and switch on the lights – then all the local boys and girls can visit him in his grotto.

Everyone is welcome at the event, which is organised by Bournville Village Council in conjunction with a range of B30 churches. BVT both funds the lighting and decoration of the tree.

Gas warningBVT takes very seriously its legal responsibility to ensure the gas supply in your home is safely maintained.

The severity of gas problems means BVT cannot allow any homes to remain unchecked, for more than a year.

To confirm your home remains safe all we require is access, for about an hour, once a year. If we are unable to contact you to arrange this, BVT will take legal action to ensure we can keep you safe.

If you have questions, or would like to confirm the date of your annual gas service, please call

0300 333 6540

Keep your chimney sweptIt is commonly believed that only gas appliances produce carbon monoxide – but every appliance that burns fuel produces it.

In fact, your solid fuel stove or open fire produces 100 times the carbon monoxide of a gas or oil appliance. This, and the risk of a chimney fire, is why it’s important to have your chimney competently swept.

Some insurance companies will no longer pay out for chimney fire damage, unless the flue has been swept by a professional chimney sweep, who can issue a valid ‘certificate of sweeping’.

For guidance, the sweeping frequencies below will depend on a number of factors, including: type of fuel burned, appliance used, use duration, wood fuel moisture content, and type of chimney.

• Smokeless fuel: at least once a year• Wood: quarterly, when in use• Bituminous coal: quarterly,

when in use• Oil: once a year• Gas: once a year

Remember, if your chimney is clean, there is nothing in it to burn – so it will not catch fire.


Having secured Olympic legacy funding of £28,432 from Sport England’s Inspired Facilities fund to improve its condition – a special ribbon-cutting ceremony in August marked the reopening of Bournville’s Rowheath pool.

After over 12 months of work – which has seen the pool emptied, de-silted and re-stocked with fish – local anglers will now have a superior pool to fish; including four new pontoons, a newly treated second island and established plant and reed bedding for fish to spawn in.

Covering approximately one-and-a-half acres, the pool was originally created as a boating lake, when George Cadbury built Rowheath Pavilion for his workers’ recreation.

Until recently, locals fished at the pool on day tickets, there was a children’s fishing club and ease of access made it popular with disabled anglers.

The pool will once again be managed by Angling Unlimited, who have plans to reinstate both the junior and senior fishing clubs.

Andy Walker, project leader with Angling Unlimited, told InView; “Having drained 50% of the water, and re-housed the existing perch, roach, tench and large carp in a nearby stock pond, we are delighted that the pool is now ready for use by local anglers.

“We hope the new island will encourage local mallards and moorhens to nest. We also plan to extend the existing island, which is a breeding ground for coots.”

The pool was officially reopened by BVT’s Chief Executive, Peter Roach,

along with Andy Walker, local anglers and residents. Peter told InView; “We’re delighted the pool is back to its original condition and look forward to seeing our angling community flourish, along with the Rowheath pool itself. We owe a great deal to the vision of George Cadbury, for creating more than just housing.”

Sport England’s Chair, Nick Bitel, added; “A year on from the Olympics, this National Lottery investment is helping us deliver a lasting sporting legacy in Bournville.”

Anglers back at Rowheath

Congrats to IreneIn June, Irene Pugsey, a Cornfield Housing Society resident celebrated her 100th birthday. Cornfield Housing Society Committee marked the day by presenting her with flowers and birthday balloons. Irene, who had no idea she was going to receive the gifts, said they were a lovely surprise.

Gardeners Pluck Awards

Congratulations to the council!

In 2014, once again, the BVT garden competition was highly successful and extremely well supported and culminated in a special awards evening, at which BVT Chief Executive, Peter Roach, presented 33 awards.

This year’s overall winner was Mrs. Geraldine Smith, of Kingfisher Way, Bournville – in recognition of the amazing transformation she has achieved in her garden, in just a year.

Seen here are some of the winners, with our competition judge, Stan Gardner.

In the Bloomin’ Kids category, Bradley and Isabella Anastasio, of Black Haynes Road, Selly Oak, won first place – and Phoenix Hall Youth Club came third.

Bill and Eileen Walton, of Brookside, Telford, won first place in the Class 6 Disability category.

Photos are courtesy of Ade Marsh Photography.

Everyone’s in the Christmas spirit, down on Chadwich Manor Farm – especially Morag, the Highland cow! What’s more, you are welcome to join the farm festivities. The farm is open every day, from the 1st to the 23rd of December, from 10am to 6pm, and on Christmas Eve from 10am until 4pm.

You can visit and children can say hello to all the animals in the Christmas barn and wish Belter, the goat, and Morag a ‘merry Christmas’ – and make lots more furry friends.

In the new tea room, mums and dads can treat themselves to a home-made mince pie and a drop of mulled wine – or find that special gift they’ve been looking for, in the craftsman’s gallery.

The farm also stocks a wide range of Christmas trees, several different spruce, wreaths, farm fresh turkeys – and there’s always some home-reared lamb, pork or Highland beef to take home.

Morag can’t wait to meet you.

Lizzie’s Farm, Chadwich Manor Farm, Chadwich, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire B61 0QG. Telephone: 07866 616986, email [email protected] or visit www.lizmonkpottery.com

Once again held at Cadbury’s Recreation Grounds, the annual Bournville Festival drew a large crowd and went down exceptionally well. Many congratulations go to Bournville Village Council, for all their hard work in organising and running the event, despite this year’s inclement weather. Popular attractions, as ever, included a craft fair and the famous Bournville maypole dance.

BEFORE

AFTER


Bloomin’ Kids Award: 3rd place – Phoenix Hall Youth Club

Bloomin’ Kids Award: 1st place – Bradley and Isabella Anastasio

Class 6 Disability: Bill and Eileen Walton, Brookside, Telford

Overall Winner: Mrs Geraldine Smith, Kingfisher Way, Bournville

There’s a sack of festive treats at Selly Manor this Christmas.

On 22nd November, from 11am to 4pm, the Christmas Craft Fair will get you in the seasonal mood, and give you the chance to buy some truly unique Christmas gifts.

With talented people from Bournville and beyond selling their wares, there’ll be something for everyone. And it all takes place in the stunning setting of the Tudor Manor and Medieval Hall.

This year, there will also be a chance for the kids to meet Father Christmas, as he is visiting Selly Manor’s very own grotto.

Craft Fair admission is free, but there is a small charge to visit Father Christmas and booking is required. Simply call 0121-472 0199 to book a time slot.

Shenley the owl had a hoot when he found himself in Nancy Knight’s back garden – because the 84-year-old fed him grub bought for her pet shih tzu, Mac.

Nancy found the barn owl outside her Selly Oak home after being alerted by Mac’s howls. She told InView; “At first I thought someone had thrown a brown paper bag into my garden. The owl must have hurt himself and was exhausted when I got to him, but he was in great condition, which made me think he must be someone’s pet.”

Nancy named him Shenley, after Shenley Green, where she lives – and, on the advice of welfare experts, fed dog food to her feathered friend.

The great grandma added; “I’d never seen an owl up close before, and he was absolutely beautiful. It’s an honour, because they are normally such timid creatures.”

A space was quickly reserved for Nancy’s visitor at a rescue centre in Henley-in-Arden, but the rightful owner has since come forward – and Shenley has flown his new nest!

Selly Manor’s Traditional Christmas takes place on the 6th December, from 5pm to 8pm.

Come and see the Tudor manor, decorated for Christmas, lit by atmospheric candlelight – and brought to life with music and dance by talented living history group, Gloriana.

You will also be able to enjoy festive refreshments and listen to Christmas carols, performed by the Blackwell Concert Band and Bournville Graduates Choir. For admission prices and further details, please call 0121-472 0199.


Come and meet Santa…

Funding set to improve all manner of things

or enjoy a more traditional Christmas!

Nancy helps a feathered friend

Selly Manor, which was saved from destruction by George Cadbury in 1907, has been awarded £29,200 from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

The funding will help the Selly Manor team improve the visitor experience, by making the museum more accessible and attractive to a wider range of people.

The money will be used to create new information leaflets and a downloadable guidebook, produce audio tours aimed at youngsters and those with limited sight, install a digital screen to show 3D tours of the manor – benefiting those with limited mobility – and create a virtual tour on the museum’s website.

There are also plans to hold a series of events – including an archaeological dig culminating in a free Edwardian tea party, for locals.

Nicki Lupton, Learning & Interpretation Officer at BVT, told InView; “We’re pleased to receive this funding, which will enable us to provide better resources for visitors – and work with our local community on some exciting new initiatives.”

BVT Chairman, Duncan Cadbury, said; “Selly Manor was very nearly lost, until George Cadbury acquired and moved it, at a cost of over £6000 – or around £25,000, in today’s money.

“It is this unique heritage, and its ability to bring the Tudor period to life, that makes Selly Manor such a very special place. This funding will help make our visitor experience more memorable.”

Reyahn King, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund (West Midlands), added: “Research has uncovered previously unknown stories about Selly Manor and its occupants and, over time, these can now be shared with visitors.”

Formerly the Manor House of the Worcestershire village of Bournbrook – now in the Selly Oak ward – Selly Manor is thought to date back to 1327.

“I’m very happy here”Residents give Selly Wood House the thumbs upFrom cooking and poetry to Tai Chi, there’s plenty happening at Selly Wood House in Bournville.

With over 30 years’ experience caring for people with nursing or continuing healthcare needs, staff at the care home are committed to person-centred care, treat every resident as an individual and always put the resident experience first.

Each resident gets the personal care and attention they need, whenever they need it and they are given greater choice, which makes them feel more confident, healthy and independent.

With high standards and dedicated staff, Selly Wood House is a warm and friendly home with a vibrant community.

92 years young in May, resident Thelma Hurson, told InView; “I’ve been here two years now. I was born in Hay Green Lane, I went to Bournville School and was both a Land Girl and a Cadbury’s girl. The food here is lovely, I go on trips, I sit out most days and I don’t want for anything – so I’m very happy here.”

Seven years a Selly Wood House resident, Thelma’s friend Dora Russell, 94, added; “I’m a Stirchley girl and both my

husband and I worked at Cadbury’s. Because I had a lovely marriage, I didn’t want to interrupt my daughter’s – so I came here, because I’d heard such good reports. I read poetry, cook and do Tai Chi, and the girls here are so friendly they really make this home. I recommend Selly Wood House to everyone.”

In the home’s current brochure, Dora’s daughter, Mrs Wilson, of Harborne, says; “Selly Wood House is a brilliant nursing home, and I stress the word ‘home’ – the staff are mum’s friends, and they have become part of our family.”

If you would like to see what Selly Wood House has to offer, why not give them a call on 0121 472 3721.

MAINTENANCE PANELS TOUR KITCHEN COMPANY

Back in 2011, tenant representatives of our Birmingham and Shropshire maintenance panels were invited – with our Asset Management staff – to get involved in the process of reviewing BVT’s kitchen supply contract.

In order to ensure the on-going ‘best value’ of this supply contract, the Asset Management team again recently invited the tenant panel to get involved in reviewing that same contract.

The panel’s review will inform BVT’s decision as to whether it is in the Trust’s best interests to remain with current supplier, Symphony Kitchens, or switch to another company.

With this in mind, BVT arranged for both tenant maintenance panels to accompany members of the Asset Management team on a visit to the Barnsley centre of Symphony Kitchens’ operations.

Their site is home to a 650,000 square foot manufacturing facility and a multi-million pound product marketing suite.

On arrival, our panels were received by members of Symphony’s senior management and, after a short company presentation, embarked on a guided tour which took in all aspects of the kitchen production process.

After lunch, Symphony managers demonstrated the features of their product ranges and answered questions, whilst accompanying a tour of the marketing suite.

Our panel was impressed with the scale and efficiency of the Symphony operation, and the tenants found their tour of the site extremely enjoyable and informative.

For more information about Symphony Kitchens, please visit: www.symphony-group.co.uk/about


Applications are invited for future vacancies at the

OUR CRITERIA FOR RESIDENCE HAS NOW CHANGED

If your present home’s too large, or your garden is becoming too much for you, why not arrange an informal visit to view the almshouses at The Quadrangle, Bournville.

On the corner of Linden Road and Mary Vale Road, they offer independent living for the elderly and are close to local shops, bus routes and Bournville train station. An oasis of peace, quiet and security, the 33 one bedroom self-contained bungalows overlook an enclosed garden, and in the centre of the grassed quadrangle is a clock tower with recently restored bells.

The scheme has a communal lounge, a small sitting room and a laundry room. There is also a guest room for use by residents’ relatives.

All of the bungalows are linked to a 24-hour alarm call system and, during office hours, the scheme manager supports the well-being of the residents and organises a varied activity programme, including quizzes and trips. An annual outing to the coast is organised as well as a half-day excursion to a place of interest, and the residents also run a Social Committee and plan activities.

If your application has previously been refused, you may wish to contact us to see if you are now eligible to apply. For further information, an application form, or to arrange a visit please contact our Customer Service Team,

on 0300 333 6540, or email [email protected]


Robby ‘clicks’ with Dorothy

Shenley Court Hall threw open the doors of its computer suite to locals, recently, as part of ‘Spring Online’ – an award-winning initiative that enables, often older, people to try using computers and the internet.

Part of Digital Unite, the initiative saw the community centre become a hub for people with no, or limited, information technology experience. Many locals dropped in to receive one-to-one tutoring in the basics of getting online, and what to do once connected.

One of the volunteers who helped residents get to grips with IT was 80-year-old Robby Daiziel, of Christopher Taylor Court. Robby has been providing IT support and training to fellow residents since he moved in, several years ago; his motto “it’s never too late to learn!”

Self-taught, Robby not only builds computers, he also sets up Wi-Fi access and helps older people become familiar with communication tools such as Skype, and social networks such as Facebook.

Fellow resident, Dorothy Egan, told InView; “Robby has helped me set up my laptop, which means I’ve been able to keep in touch with my daughter in Kent.”

Robby, who has set up training courses and provides guides to help residents remember what to do, told InView; “IT has moved on so fast, but it’s a great way for older people to stay in touch and opens up a world of opportunity, whether on a computer, tablet or laptop.”

BVT plays an active role in supporting its local communities in getting online and provides Wi-Fi access in most of its community buildings. The Community Centre at Shenley Court Hall is leased to Shenley Youth & Community Trust, and it offers a fully equipped IT Suite for local residents to use.

If you would like to find out more about BVT’s programme to support Digital Inclusion, IT workshops or online access, pop into Shenley Court Hall, or visit us at 350 Bournville Lane – and we’ll make sure you get connected.

BDHT takes stock, in RedditchBVT has recently sold 42 Redditch properties, plus a shop, to BDHT – Bromsgrove District Housing Trust – the largest provider of affordable housing in Bromsgrove.

As always, BVT wished to ensure the properties are managed in the most effective and efficient way possible, and to ensure that the people living in them get the best service that can be provided.

BVT Trustees felt best able to focus on our main areas of business, in Birmingham and Telford, and that our Redditch customers would benefit more from a landlord better placed to provide a personal local service.

However, BVT was only willing to sell the homes to a landlord able to demonstrate that it could match the high level of service BVT prides itself upon – and provide a local service from a local office.

Over a period of several months, all of BVT’s Redditch tenants were consulted and BVT put in place, with local residents,

a very careful selection process in order to choose the new landlord.

Mark Robertson, Managing Director of BDHT, told InView; “We’d been looking to expand our reach beyond Bromsgrove, and – due to its proximity to our HQ and our staff ’s local knowledge – had identified Redditch as a priority area.

“We are really pleased BVT chose us to buy and manage these homes, particularly as they had undertaken such a careful selection process.”

BVT’s Director of Housing & Community Services, Annette Homer, added; “Maintaining high service levels for all our tenants is extremely important to us – and we were really impressed by the service and commitment BDHT had to offer.”

Robby Daiziel explains how to get on to Skype to fellow resident, Dorothy Egan.

Birmingham residents joined partners from the ExtraCare Charitable Trust, Birmingham City Council, the Homes and Communities Agency and BVT at the opening of two show apartments, at College Green’s new Bournville Gardens Retirement Facility.

The 212 apartments will have health and leisure facilities, with care, well-being and dementia services available to approximately a third of the community.

A total of 70 homes in the village are available for outright purchase, 98 for shared ownership and 44 for rental, with 75% of the apartments available for general sale already being reserved, with only nine two-bedroom apartments remaining.

Due to open next autumn, the village is costing £39m to develop, with £1.232m grant funding made available from the Department of Health, through the Homes and Communities Agency.

Starting prices for a 50% shared-ownership apartment could be from £99,975 up to around £124,975 for a larger two-bedroom home.

Demonstrating the Charity’s on-going commitment to support local older people with limited means, rental apartments in the village will be affordable for people on a minimum income, receiving maximum pension credit guarantee.

Each apartment will have its own living room, kitchen, shower room, and one or two bedrooms. A significant number will also have their own balconies.

ExtraCare staff will provide care within residents’ own homes, with a well-being service to support a proactive approach to healthy living and an Enriched Opportunities programme for residents who develop dementia.

The facilities will include a fitness centre, café bistro, IT suite, greenhouse, craft and hobby room, shop and well-being centre. Residents and visitors will have the opportunity to take part in a variety of hobbies, including choral singing, Tai Chi, writing, drama and wheelchair aerobics – all designed to support independence and improved social opportunities.

Keen to move in, local residents Keith and Margaret Shaw, 78, have already reserved an apartment,

sold their house, and started the process of down-sizing.

Margaret had some health issues last year, she was given just days to live, but now she is on her feet again, and the couple are enjoying life to the full.

Keith told InView; “One of the main reasons we like Bournville Gardens is because it’s flat. Margaret will have no problem. We felt it right to make our move now, before we got any older and moving became impossible.”

BVT Chief Executive, Peter Roach, told InView; “This opening marks a key milestone in the development of Bournville’s flagship care village, which will not only provide new homes but excellent health and leisure facilities too.

“It’s fantastic to hear how Keith and Margaret will benefit and, once it is completed, we expect other residents, and the local community, will also enjoy all that the village has to offer.”

Anyone keen to register an interest in the village can phone 0121 227 8010, or visit www.bournvillegardens.co.uk for more information.

Show apartments open at Bournville Gardens

Future residents Margaret and Keith Shaw join representatives from ExtraCare, Bournville Village Trust and Birmingham City Council at Bournville Gardens, at the opening of the new show apartments.


BVT worked with nearly 100 pupils from Bournville Junior School recently to illustrate the role played by Laurence Cadbury in founding the Friends Ambulance Unit (FAU) – which treated thousands of casualties during the First World War.

The unit, which was staffed mainly by conscientious objectors from Quaker families, sent over a thousand men to France and Belgium, where they worked on ambulance convoys and trains with the French and British armies.

The children heard how Laurence served as a transport officer with the unit, from 1914 to 1919, receiving for his services the British Star with Bar and Military OBE and the Croix de Guerre, from the French authorities.

Laurence’s exploits were recounted on a school visit to Dame Elizabeth Cadbury Hall, where the children also learned some basic first aid and designed propaganda-style posters. Later, they sowed poppy seeds, to be cultivated on the school’s allotment and to go on display at 350 Bournville Lane.

BVT Chief Executive, Peter Roach, told InView; “The son of our founder, George Cadbury, and a former chairman of the Trust, Laurence helped treat thousands of casualties during the First World War.

“As the country marks 100 years since the start of the conflict, we wanted to share the significant role played by Laurence, a local man, with local children – and in turn mark this symbolic anniversary in a special way within our community.”

Selly Manor Museum Manager, Daniel Callicott, who led the event, added; “Laurence’s life, and the role he played in establishing the Friends Ambulance Service, is fascinating. The children heard about the kind of person he was, from his daughter Veronica Wootten, and the day really brought his story to life.”

After the First World War, Laurence was appointed to the Cadbury’s board, as Managing Director. During the Second World War, he chaired Bournville Utilities, a company set up to manage the production of war materials made in the Cadbury factory – including five million gas masks.

Laurence went on to become a Director of the Bank of England, sit on the board of the Daily News – which was founded by Charles Dickens – and chair BVT for 24 years, before his death aged 93, in 1982.


BVT welcomes news of Ebbsfleet

Children learn of a Cadbury’s exploits

George Cadbury’s vision for Garden Cities lives on after the Chancellor’s recent announcement the Government intends to create a new Garden City, at Ebbsfleet, in Kent.

Since its inception, in 1900, BVT has remained true to the guiding principles of Garden Cities – ensuring its communities continue to flourish, with open spaces, tree-lined roads and varied housing stock for rent and purchase, as well as employment and investment opportunities.

BVT plays an active role in the Town & Country Planning Association (TCPA), and is supportive of the creation not just of Ebbsfleet, but of other projects that will help address the UK’s growing housing crisis.

In fact, BVT is working closely with the TCPA’s New Communities Group, to deliver exemplary large-scale new developments of over 3,000 dwellings, and encourage a sharing of knowledge and best practice through seminars, workshops, study visits, parliamentary meetings and newsletters. Together, the group is providing innovative local leadership for plans to deliver over 53,000 new homes based on the Garden City.

Bournville Architects’ Director, Ian Tipton, told InView; “George Cadbury had real vision – what he started here in Bournville can, and should, be replicated.

“The UK is facing a huge housing crisis. Simply building houses is not the answer. We need to create communities that can, in time, become self-sustaining.

“BVT hopes to play an active role in the planning of Ebbsfleet. We relish the opportunity to share our experiences – and adapt these to support the future of housing in the UK.”


A total of 25 children and six volunteers from BVT-managed Phoenix Hall, in Birmingham, travelled to Paris in August, for their first residential trip abroad. Fayyaz Razzaq, a Volunteer at the Hall, explains more.

Our coach departed from Phoenix Hall at 5am on the 24th August to start what was to be a 12-hour journey to Paris.

We arrived at Dover ahead of schedule and were allowed to board an earlier ferry to Calais. Thankfully, good weather, steady waters and travel sickness tablets made for a smooth ride across the Channel.

We finally arrived at our destination, Chateau de Grande Romaine in the small town of Lésigny, a few hours later. The children then had an hour of free time, which most spent stretching their legs and exploring the chateau’s beautiful grounds.

The activities planned for that evening – a scavenger hunt and an egg challenge – proved hugely entertaining. The children then retired to their rooms for the night, whilst we volunteers made adjustments to the itinerary.

The first item on the following day’s itinerary involved climbing the Eiffel Tower and we marched on, through moans, until we reached the top. After some photos, we started our descent and finally, legs like jelly, we reached the ground.

A boat trip along the River Seine allowed us to have lunch and recuperate – as we drifted through historic Paris,

under several well-known bridges, and past famous landmarks such as Notre Dame and the Louvre.

Souvenir shopping was next on our agenda, and everyone explored the shops for gifts, before heading up to the historic basilica, Sacre Coeur, which is situated on the highest point in Paris. Thankfully, we had recovered enough to climb the stairs!

There was yet more shopping, before we boarded the coach back to our residence, where the evening activity we had planned was crêpe making. The children enjoyed this immensely – producing some mouth-watering crêpes – and, after their long, tiring day, finally went to bed.

The next day was what everyone was most looking forward to; a trip to Disneyland – and our fast-track tickets enabled us to ride the park’s most popular rides, over and over again. After our evening meal, and some last minute shopping, we watched a spectacular firework display.

Our final day in Paris presented one last chance for some quick shopping, before we bid ‘au revoir’ to France and travelled home. It’s safe to say, our first overseas trip had proved to be a huge success.

New BVT website … is where it’s @!Regular visitors will already have noticed that BVT’s busy website has been completely refurbished. With a new layout and content, it’s been structured to be quick and simple to use, from the moment you arrive.

The homepage prominently features buttons for the main site pages, which are ‘Your BVT’, ‘Our Homes’, ‘Our Communities’, ‘Our Business’, ‘Careers’, ‘News & Events’ and ‘Publications’.

‘Your BVT’ is a source of useful information about living with the Trust, using SeeMyData and managing money. You can also securely manage your information, report repairs or anti-social behaviour, make payments and give us feedback.

‘Our Homes’ tells you all you need to know if you wish to reside on BVT.

‘Our Communities’ details the wide variety of activities and services we offer – and shows how to volunteer to help provide them. You can also find out how we look after our estates, our community services and resident associations.

‘Our Business’ looks back at how George Cadbury envisioned his ‘factory in the country’. Here, you can find out all about our founder.

‘Careers’ shows current BVT vacancies, our excellent employment terms, how we train and encourage our staff – and our commitment to equality and diversity.

‘News & Events’ will bring you up to date with what’s happening on the Trust, in Birmingham and Shropshire, on a daily basis.

‘Publications’ lets you view and download planned maintenance and resident information – and shows how we deal with complaints, comments and compliments. Also, every BVT leaflet has been published in PDF (portable document file) format – and they are all here, where you can easily view and download them.

So, what are you waiting for? If you have a question about BVT, visit www.bvt.org.uk – and you’ll soon find where it’s @!

Phoenix trip has a certain je ne sais quoi!


By Wiebina Heesterman – A Bournville Resident

As in most UK cities, air pollution from car exhausts is way above the admissible norm for Birmingham. But what do we do about this unhealthy state of affairs?

Some of you will already have had a look at the Birmingham Mobility Action Plan* (BMAP). It is largely about smarter travel, and aims at cutting down on carbon emissions. Birmingham City Council wants to reduce the city’s carbon footprint by 60% by 2027. The most important goal is to make neighbourhoods safe for everyone, walkers and cyclists above all.

Walking is a healthy activity, and we would like to see all children walk more – but many youngsters do not even walk to school. It’s common to see long streams of traffic crawling to every school – and that’s not healthy at all.

Short car journeys cause a great deal of air pollution. In Birmingham alone, they total some 250,000 per day – so much of the pollution is from the ‘school run’.

Most of what comes out of car exhausts is invisible, and does not smell, either. But that doesn’t mean it’s good to breathe it all in.

If the benzene, toluene and formaldehyde – substances that can cause cancer – were bright red, yellow and orange, the smallest smoke particles, which give rise to lung disease and asthma were black, the carbon monoxide dark grey and less damaging fumes green and blue, parents and kids would be speckled all over if they travelled to school by car!

But the kids you would see walking, or cycling, to school would not have as many speckles because, while the car traps what comes inside through the air vents, outside the wind disperses the fumes.

In London, they are planning to measure the difference in air quality between areas where there are bad ‘school runs’ and where most children walk, by putting specialised sensors in different spots.

Are there any sensors in cars bringing children to school? That I don’t know – but I hope so! Then we would know whether it is true that being inside a car exposes us to much worse air pollution than being outside.

Kids cartoons:Drawings by pupils at schools not far from 350 Bournville Lane:

“Dad, bring me to school. I don’t want to walk!!” “Yes, darling! You should walk to school. It’s not far!”

*See: http://greencity.birmingham.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/BMAP_Green_Paper_Summary_Document.pdf

†See: The International Centre for Technology Assessment, 2000 at pureti.com/content/documents/ICTA-In-Car-Air-Pollution-Report.pdf

Walk, don’t do the school run!

Green car goes furtherCarbon emissions reduction, through the increased use of sustainable modes of transport, is being encouraged. Birmingham City Council set out its long-term strategy in the Birmingham Mobility Action Plan (BMAP) to reduce carbon emissions and improve road safety and health for all citizens.

One BVT initiative which is proving highly popular is the use of an electric pool car, based at 350 Bournville Lane. So far, 23 members of staff are registered to use the car and, over the past year, have covered nearly 3,000 miles – mostly on short journeys around the Estate.

The car has also been seen at weekend events, most recently at the Manor Farm Barn public consultation event, and September’s Heritage Day at the Moor Pool estate.

To encourage staff to use the car for travel between Bournville and Telford, two charging points have been installed at BVT’s Lightmoor office.

Other local organisations using the same electric vehicle include West Midlands Police, who operate a fleet of 30 cars.


A total of 124 runners, of all ages, took part in Lawley village’s first ever 5k Fun Run in September. There was a great atmosphere, with a few people even brave enough to run in fancy dress.

As the run took in the sites of both the old and new Lawley Village, with a couple of hills thrown in along the route, there were plenty of opportunities for members of the local community to gather and cheer on the runners.

The Fun Run was organised by Ironstone Management Services (IMS), Lawley & Overdale Parish Council and Lawley Running Club. David Wright, MP, also took time out to come along and be the official starter.

The event was kindly sponsored by local businesses, including Anytime Fitness,

Foden Property, Foden Solicitors, Greggs, Morrisons, McAuliffes Contractors, Lawley Pharmacy and The Grazing Cow.

The organisers would like to thank the local community, who took the time to help set up and marshal the event, as without their help events like this could not take place. The organisers are already planning next year’s run.

At the end of the run, IMS were pleased to announce that £700 was raised for Combat Stress, and a cheque will be presented to them for this amount.

All dressed up for a 5k fun run

It’s all about to kick off at Telford UFC

New route to a Telford Home

For the second year running, Telford’s Community Team has organised a BVT Day at AFC Telford United. All Telford residents are invited to come along on match day – Saturday 29th November – and support their local football club.

Bobby Buck, the AFC Telford United mascot, will be joined on the pitch for a kick-about by Bournville Bob and the Lawley Lightmoor Galaxy Team will be the all-important ball boys for the match.

Also, the children of two BVT residents will be chosen to be the match day

mascots – and run out onto the pitch with the home team.

To claim your free child’s tickets, please contact the Telford Community Team, at [email protected] or by calling 01952 567417.

Getting set, (L to R), are Andy Crozier (Lawley Running Club), David Wright MP, Local Councillor Jayne Greenaway, Emily Benson (IMS), Sharon George (Lawley & Overdale Parish Council) and Charlotte Harvey (Combat Stress).

Some of the ‘Lightmoor babies’ – with their ‘handy work’.

Last year’s BVT Team, with Man of the Match, Sean Clancy.

BVT customers wishing to move to another home in the Telford area – either with the Trust or a different housing association – can now apply for a transfer using the choice-based letting scheme, Homes Direct.

The Homes Direct website is packed with useful information to help you find a suitable home, and you can use it to:

• Search for available properties• Apply for a property• View results of previous lettings.

To begin your search, simply visit www.homesdirect.org.uk and register.

If you need assistance registering with, or searching on, the Homes Direct website, please contact a member of the Shropshire Housing Team on 01952 293777, or email [email protected]

At the beginning of each year, all new babies born in Lightmoor Village are gifted a fruit tree – which is planted in the orchard at Holywell Meadow.

Some of the families of the children who have fruit trees planted in the meadow came together recently, to create a hand-print tree to display at Lightmoor’s Oak Tree Centre.

A great deal of fun was had, making the hand-and-foot-prints for the tree, as well as some fabulous mementos to take home.

Lightmoor babies already hands on


£100

Anyone up for a market trip?

Last Christmas, residents from across Telford enjoyed a coach trip to Birmingham’s annual Frankfurt Christmas Market. The trip was so popular it is being repeated this year – on Saturday 6th December.

The cost is £5 for adults and £3 for children. If you would like to come along, please contact the Telford Community Team – at [email protected] or on 01952 567417 – to book your place.

Make a clean sweep and you could be quids in!If you are thinking about ending your tenancy, please remember that you need to give four weeks’ notice and get in touch with us to complete the necessary paperwork.

When you move out, if you:

• Leave the property and garden clean, tidy and free from any rubbish; clear the loft space and ensure all personal items and furniture are removed – including carpets and curtains – before you hand in the keys

• Contact the relevant services, regarding discontinuation of supplies and final meter readings, or clear any debt, or card meters

• Return all keys by 9:30am, on the Monday following the termination date,

and• Ensure your rent account is cleared, in

full, by the end of tenancy date

YOU COULD RECEIVE A CHEQUE FOR

You’d be surprised how many tenants leave rubbish behind, and their property in a poor state of repair.

If BVT needs to spend money on clearance and repairs, we have less to spend on providing services. Help us, by leaving your property in a good state and you could be quids in.

Bournville House remembersIn October, residents and staff at Bournville House, Lightmoor, hosted a 1940s-themed event aimed at bringing people together to remember and commemorate the sacrifice and service from the First and Second World Wars – as well as the armed services that have, or are still, serving our country.

Rev. Leslie Burke, from Elim Community Church, led a remembrance service in Bournville House gardens, incorporating a commemorative planting, as well as the flying of the Union Flag. The playing of the last post closed the service, which was followed by a street party to celebrate the golden era.

Singer Tom Wenlock entertained guests, in true 1940s style, and the event also provided an opportunity to learn about cooking methods from the period.

Bournville House Lifestyle Co-Ordinator, Danielle Gleave, told InView; “Many local people came along – to remember the commitment and sacrifice given by our armed forces, and heroes, past and present – and entered into the spirit, making it a memorable day for all the family.”

Bournville House Extra Care Manager, Ruth Evans, added; “This year marks 100 years since the start of the First World War, and our residents were keen to mark the contribution made by all those who served in it, and in subsequent conflicts, in a way that included members of our local community.

“As part of the event, we also planted a cherry blossom tree and laid a special

plaque – so that our residents and the local community could commemorate and remember the sacrifices made, by men and women, during all conflicts for many years to come.”

A working partnership between BVT and the Accord Group, Bournville House Extra Care Housing is a 59-apartment development that provides homes with care and support.

All proceeds raised on the day went to support the work of Help for Heroes and the Royal British Legion.

AND

TELL US WHAT OUR PANTO STARS ONCE DID – AND WIN A FAMILY TICKET TO SEE

Jane McDonald, Duncan James, Gary Wilmot, Chris Gascoyne and Paul Zerdin are all set to star in this year’s magical Birmingham Hippodrome pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk – and we’re giving you a chance to win a family ticket to go and see it.

To win the ticket – for two adults and two children – all you have to do, with the help of the clues below, is tell us what else the panto’s five famous faces are known for.

The sender of the first set of correct answers drawn – on the competition closing date, 1st January 2015 – will win our family panto ticket. Oh, yes they will!

1: Duncan James – who will be playing Idle Jack – is a former member of which famous pop band?

a) Red b) Green c) Blue

2: Jane McDonald will be flying in as the pantomime fairy; on which current daytime TV show, was she a co‑presenter?

a) ‘This Morning’ b) ‘Loose Women’ c) ‘The Wright Stuff’

3: Chris Gascoyne – who will play the giant’s scary henchman, Fleshcreep – played the on‑screen son of which Coronation Street character?

a) Tracey Barlow b) Ken Barlow c) Thelma Barlow

4: Gary Wilmot – who will be trotting out as the Dame – came to fame on which TV talent show?

a) ‘The X Factor’ b) ‘New Faces’ c) ‘Opportunity Knocks’

5: Paul Zerdin will appear as Simple Simon; what is his profession?

a) Comedian b) Ventriloquist c) Puppeteer

Write your answers on a postcard – with your name, address and telephone number – and send it to: Bournville Village Trust, 350 Bournville Lane, Birmingham, B30 1QY, to reach us no later than January 1st 2015.

We are happy to make this information available on CD, in large print or braille.350 Bournville Lane, Bournville, Birmingham B30 1QY Telephone 0300 333 6540 Fax 0121 667 5916

Shropshire Area Office, Cherry Tree House, 1 Lightmoor Way, Lightmoor Village, Telford TF4 3TX

Telephone 01952 293777

Email [email protected] www.bvt.org.uk

It is the policy of the Trust to print all our literature on recycled or a mix of paper from responsible sources.

Oh yes they did!It’s behind them!

Something’s cooking in the

Panettone Chocolate Bread & Butter Pudding(Serves Four People)

A little something delicious to have up your sleeve this Christmas, should you need to rustle up a quick but seasonal dessert.

You will need:• Butter, for buttering the bread

and greasing the dish• 1 medium panettone• 10g finely chopped candied

lemon or orange peel• 50g currants, cherries or

other dried fruit• 180g bar of Bournville

Classic Dark Chocolate• 275ml of milk• 70ml of double cream• Grated rind of one small lemon• 50g caster sugar• Three eggs• Freshly grated nutmeg

Method:1. Heat your oven to 180C/gas mark 4.2. Butter a one-litre oblong

enamel baking dish3. Cut the panettone into

slices and butter them4. Break the chocolate into

coin-sized chunks5. Place one layer on the base of

the dish and sprinkle with the candied peel, half of the currants and half the chocolate chunks

6. Add another layer of panettone and sprinkle with the remaining currants and chocolate chunks

7. Mix the milk and cream together in a measuring jug, stir in the lemon rind and sugar

8. Whisk the eggs in a small basin, and add them to the milk mixture

9. Pour the whole lot over the panettone, and sprinkle with freshly grated nutmeg

10. Bake in the oven for 30-40 minutes, and serve warm – with cream or custard.

Back on dry land…Seen here, Oscar and Toby Strong were the lucky winners of our competition in the last edition of InView. The boys won a day’s weekend boat hire and enjoyed exploring the Warwickshire canals.


Documents

In View Winter 2014