for more details.
A new Surestart children's centre will be opening in Streetly later this year. Building work will start shortly to house this service as part of The Streetly Community Association campus on Foley Road East.
At a recent 'Burns Night' celebration at Streetly's Mint Restaurant on Thornhill Road, diners raised £2,430 for the Norman Laud Association children's charity in Wylde Green, which provides respite and nursery care for youngsters with special needs.
DO YOU LIVE IN NICHOLAS ROAD, OR ON THE CHESTER ROAD BETWEEN THE STREETLY SCHOOL AND BRIDLE LANE? IF SO WE NEED YOUR HELP.
Peter Roberts, Chairman of Neighbourhood Watch, is no longer able to deliver the SCAN magazines to these roads. He has been acting co-ordinator for some years now but is no longer able to take on this extra work.
Neighbourhood Watch therefore needs two volunteers who will deliver the magazines four times a year collecting subscriptions with the May delivery.
Regretfully, if no volunteers come forward, no more Scan magazines can be delivered in these roads.
Although collecting subscriptions with the May delivery is a slightly longer job, just posting the magazines the rest of the year takes very little time and can also be done at any time to suit you. It is also an excellent way to get to know and keep in touch with your neighbours.
If you can help please contact Tricia McEvoy on 0121 353 8656.
Your views about North Walsall Bus Network
Partners Arriva Midlands, Centro, Midland, Midland Rider, National Express West Midlands and Walsall Council surveyed the public on the current bus network in North Walsall to form part of a review of bus services in April 2010.
The results and findings will be shown on the Network West Midlands website
Maureen Robinson, headteacher of St. Anne's RC Primary School on Blackwood Road is a very proud lady now that her Streetly school has been awarded 'Healthy Schools Status'. Thanks to the efforts of staff members Dawn Colley, Demelza Smith and Yvonne McCullagh pupils now have access to up to three hours of physical activity, healthy meals and snacks and more knowledge of what leading a healthy life involves.
Once again Streetly Tennis Club's veterans are celebrating. Derek Bradshaw won a singles title in the National Veterans Indoor Championship and then, with his partner Alan Purnell, won the doubles final. For more details about the club visit www.streetlytennisclub.co.uk or call Will Rogers on 0121 353 2814.
Sadly, local Streetly dancer Drew McOnie has been voted off the Satuday night show 'So You Think You Can Dance'. Drew would have loved to continue but has no regrets as the whole experience has been absolutely amazing and taught him so much. Drew has also been amazed at the support he has received.
Richard Shepherd, MP for Brownhills and Aldridge and Streetly, was at Streetly School and Sports College to mark a visit by Lord Faulkner. During the visit, which was part of the 'Peers in Schools' project, sixth form students learnt about the workings of Westminster.
Newly appointed headteacher William Downie felt that it was a great opportunity for the students to find out about the democratic process and to meet a lord.
Sea Scouts from the All Saints group in Streetly are spending the first weekend in February taking part in the gruelling Cotswolds Marathon. This involves an 18 mile night hike
Special offer to the Local Residents of Aldridge, Streetly and Walsall, a special discounted price of the HIP Report.
HIP Home Direct is a Home Information Pack and Property Search Company based in Walsall, West Midlands, offering the complete Home Information Pack (HIP) Package; including the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), as well as producing it own in-house Searches. Single point of contact makes the ordering your Home Information Pack a lot easier, whether you need a complete HIP, Part HIP, EPC or Search we can help you.
The cost of the HIP Report is £199 total price. (Including a Hard copy as well as receiving the Report Electronically). No hidden extra charge. £199 is what you pay. With our HIP Report you own the HIP. Our HIP Report is acceptable at any Agents. PCCB Code Registered.
With HIP Home Direct HIP Report the EPC part is also included as standard. All the required information and documents that are needed to market your property is within HIP Report.
Please contact HIP Home Direct, If you have any question whatsoever, Tel 01922 633 692, Mob. 0785 461 3870 or email Email Please feel free to visit our website. www.hiphomedirect.co.uk
This special offers apples to Local Residences of Walsall, Aldridge and Streetly only
Great news for everyone that’s looking to loose weight, get fit and enjoy a healthier lifestyle - Rosemary Conley Diet & Fitness Clubs have been launched in Sutton Coldfield for 2010. This is a really friendly and sociable atmosphere offering support and guidance for anyone – women, men, old and young who want to improve their diet, lose weight and get fit!
Each class is 90 minutes and includes a weigh-in, a motivational and informative talk as well as a 45 minute safe, fun and effective exercise to music session – making it the only club that combine both diet and exercise in the same class.
Rosemary Conley Diet & Fitness Clubs are committed to helping their members achieve their weight-loss goals and adopt a healthier and fitter lifestyle, if you, your family and/or your friends want to improve your health and lifestyle and feel fitter and slimmer in the New Year call Claire on 0121 313 0102 for more information. see class times and locations on the Streetly Events & Whats on page
January 2010 news
The cashier at Foley Service Station was thrown to the floor as five masked robbers demanded cash at 6am Wednesday, January 27th
Fellow staff member Ray Sarjant was pushed into the shelves and forced into the back room as the balaclava-clad group ordered they give them money.
The gang then set upon a 59-year-old man who visited the shop – chasing him onto the forecourt as he attempted to flee the store. He was left with injuries to his head, leg and hand.
A panic alarm was raised and the intruders escaped without any money. However, they made off with computer equipment containing CCTV footage.
The men fled on foot although it is believed they may have had a get-away car nearby. Witnesses should call Walsall’s robbery team on 0845 113 5000.
A local family from Kingscroft Close suffered a terrifying ordeal on January 26th when a gang of five men broke into their house and attacked a 57 year old man demanding the keys to his silver Audi A4 RS4 Quattro car parked on the drive. The victim's wife and two children were in the house at the time but were unharmed.
Police are anxious to speak to anyone who was in the area at 6.30am, perhaps on their way to work who may be able to help. The car was recovered from the Erdington area on Tuesday evening. Contact the robbery team on 0845 113 5000 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
Jackie Harvey, who used her love of gardening to raise thousands of pounds for charity, has died after losing her battle with cancer. Jackie was the West Midlands county organiser for the National Garden Scheme and, together with her husband Martin, regularly opened their beautiful garden at their home 'Ashover' in Burnett Road, welcoming over 10,000 visitors over the last 13 years.
Streetly Men's Second XI Hockey team maintained their place at the top of the table when they beat Droitwich. Man of the match was Bates.
Neil Goldsby, a Warwickshire team member since 1993, has been appointed new head coach at Streetly Tennis Club.
The Sutton Coldfield and District Branch of the Multiple Sclerosis(MS) Society has launched a new helpline manned by four volunteers. Anyone living with or connected to people with this disease, or people who are sufferers of this illness who live in Sutton, Erdington, Great Barr, and nearby villages, can use this service which can offer advice, emotional support and information on grants. Call 0121 241 9300.
Uncork the secrets to a hassle free move at Crest Nicholson's Streetly, In March 2008
CREST Nicholson will be raising a glass to home hunters in Sutton Coldfield with a cheese and wine evening and a chance to talk to the experts.
Prospective buyers are invited to visit the Streetly development on Foley Road East between 5pm and 8pm on 20 March.
The Crest Nicholson team will be on hand along with estates agents and to chat to visitors and in addition there will be the chance to find out more about Crest Nicholson's part exchange programme.
Amanda says: “Searching for a new home can be stressful, especially for those who have got an existing property to sell. The cheese and wine evening will give prospective buyers the opportunity to get invaluable advice from the experts, to find out more about Crest Nicholson's popular Streetly and Four Oaks developments and to have some fun.”
Under the part exchange programme Crest Nicholson will buy a customer's existing property, subject to criteria, taking the problem of finding a buyer out of their hands completely and can even cover the cost of Home Information Packs (HIP), compulsory for all properties.
Streetly is a select development of luxury two and three-bedroom apartments set in one of the most prestigious areas of Streetly.
The spacious apartments are arranged in three stylish low rise blocks and just two properties remain for sale, priced from £319,950.
The apartments benefit from allocated parking for both residents and visitors as well as excellent security in the form of an audio-visual entry and interior alarms.
Each apartment features a fully-fitted kitchen with a range of Bosch kitchen appliances in brushed steel including a double fan oven, gas hob and chimney hood, as well as an integrated fridge freezer and integrated washer/dryer.
The bathrooms and ensuites contain heated towel rails in a chrome finish and polished chrome downlighters are fitted in the kitchens, bathrooms, en-suites and dressing areas.
The apartment buildings also have a communal satellite dish, giving residents the option to subscribe to digital TV.
Four Oaks is select gated community set on Four Oaks Road, comprising two and three-bedroom apartments and two-bedroom duplex properties.
The apartments have fully-fitted kitchens with granite work tops and a range of Bosch kitchen appliances in brushed steel including a double fan oven, gas hob, and chimney hood. Integrated fridge/freezers and integrated dishwashers are provided as well as integrated washer/dryers.
Stainless steel Franke sink and chrome mixer taps are fitted throughout and Karndean vinyl flooring is fitted in the kitchen and utility room.
The 16 properties are divided between three buildings, all with parking spaces or garages, with communal gardens at the front and rear and just two properties remain for sale priced from £279,950.
Both of the developments have excellent access to local amenities, including the beautiful Sutton Park, and are convenient for both Sutton Coldfield and Walsall, offering a wide range of bars and restaurants and excellent shopping facilities.
They are also ideally placed for easy access to the Midland motorway network and Birmingham, Worcester, Coventry and Warwick. Birmingham International Airport is easily accessible by car and a regular train service runs from nearby Four Oaks train station to Birmingham.
For more information on available homes at Streetly and Four Oaks call 0121 353 5913 or log onto Crest Nicholson Streetly Development
Online estate agency Turtlehomes are delighted to offer a special half price offer for all subscribers to the Streetly Village website.
If you instruct Turtle Homes Streetly area to sell your home, we will agree a marketing price with you, take multiple photographs, floor plans and all of the information required to upload to the top property websites including Rightmove, Findaproperty, Primelocation, Propertyfinder, Globrix, Ebay and many more. In fact our marketing network attracts approx 80 million buyer searches every month.
We will arrange with you suitable times for viewings, provide feedback, negotiate the best price for your property and and progress the sale to completion. In fact pretty much the same as your local estate agent but for a fraction of the cost.
All of this for the first instruction at just £99 +VAT marketing fee and £199 +VAT payable upon completion.
Local dancer Drew McOnie from Wood Lane in Streetly is through to the next round of the dance contest 'So You think You Can Dance?'
Drew and his partner Hayley Newton were coached in last weeks show by choreographer Rafael Bonachela, the artistic director of the Sydney Dance Company, who has worked with stars including Kylie Minogue and Tina Turner.
Are you a young aspiring singer? Would you like to professionally mix and produce your own tracks? The Gap, a youth group based in a studio on Trinity Hill in Sutton Coldfield, would like to help you do just that. Singers can be helped to promote their work too.
The studio was set up recently by Charles Clayton and sound engineer Hayden Kind with funding from local churches, businesses and the council. The money is used to engage with young people through drop-ins and school visits, and also by putting on gigs and street dancing.
The studio is available to book on Wednesdays 3.30 - 5.00pm and on Saturdays 1.30 - 3.00pm. by ringing or texting 07837 403 747 or by emailing The Studio For more information visit Gap studios
Starting January, 2010, Walsall Council is introducing a £1.1 million Playbuilder scheme, which it is hoped will improve play opportunities for 8 - 13 year olds across the borough. In the final phase of the project, work is due to start in Foley Road East, Streetly, during March. Instead of tradional play areas with playground equipment , the new scheme will develop natural features including mounds, tunnels, climbing boulders and tree trunks. More of these new facilities are also being provided in Aldridge.
Congratulations to Emma Overy from Streetly who won a bronze medal in the under 20's women's race at the recent Warwickshire Cross country Championships. Emma belongs to the Royal Sutton Coldfield Athletic Club. Well done Emma!
Everything is going ,swimingly, at the swimming lessons run by Val Keight at Streetly School. Several local youngsters including Emily Kingston, Alex Pickett, Jake Gill, Jade Downs and Jaz Dharjan have achieved their 3,000 badges much to the delight of experienced teacher Val and the children's supportive parents. Val has been teaching swimming to children and adults for 19 years. For more details contact her on 0121 353 6616
Pupils from Streetly School recently took part in a 'Make your Mark' challenge to develop an eco-friendly business. The winners were Year 10 - they used an idea where bicycles could be hired in Sutton Park as part of a health and fitness drive. Year 9 pupils also took part in a stock market challenge where they had to wisely invest £15.000 in a range of companies. All pupils were encouraged to develop their entrepreneurial skills as part of National Enterprise Week.
If you'd rather talk face to face with someone about Walsall Council services, why not hop on board the First Stop Express. Staff manning the distinctive blue and white bus will be happy to provide information on or help with museum and galleries, sports and activities, places to visit, events, planning, disabled parking permits, waste disposal enquiries, recycling, pest control - and much more! The bus can be found outside Aldridge Community Centre every Friday between 1400 and 1600.
If you have any queries or comments about this service contact The First Stop Shop at the Civic Centre, Darwall Street, Walsall, telephone 01922 650000. For more information you can log on to What's on Walsall website
Residents of Streetly and Aldridge and the surrounding area are to benefit from the results of a planting project launched by two local farmers from Shenstone.
Father and son farming team Roy and Rod Bartlett, who farm 700 acres of land near Shenstone, have launched a three year project to plant hundreds of trees in 20 acres of woodland and to plant hundreds of metres of hedgerows in order to create a haven for wildlife. All the trees and hedges will be native to the area following advice provided by the Environment Agency.
Roy and Rod are passionate about conserving nature for future generations. Their farming techniques include weeding by hand to reduce the use of chemicals, maintaining natural water features, and leaving grass margins around fields. There has already been an increase in the number of birds and other wildlife on the farm over recent years and the brothers hope that their efforts will create even more.
Some Streetly residents might find it convenient to attend the Warren Farm Urgent Care Centre if they ar suddenly feeling unwell but feel that their condition doesn't warrant a visit to a hospital Casualty department.
The Centre treats a range of minor illnesses and injuries, from rashes to earaches, minor wounds to burns, as well as providing emergency contraception.
Warren Farm Urgent Care Centre is bases at Warren Farm Health Centre, Warren Farm Road, Kingstanding. It is open 0830am - 7.30pm every day except Christmas Day. Just walk in - no appointment is necessary.
Don't forget - Casualty Departments and 999 are for life threatening conditions and emergencies only.
For more information log on to benpct.nhs.uk
All those in favour say 'Eye'! Good news for those Streetly residents who suffer from the eye problem macular degeneration. It is hoped that, under the new scheme, Sutton patients suffering from this disease can be quickly referred by their GP and optommetrists for assessment and treatment. Patients can also now be treated with the sight-saving drug 'Lucentis' which was previously subject to the 'post code lottery'.
Green light for new Neighbourhood model for Streetly
Local people in Walsall are set to be given new powers to influence decisions in the places in which they live after councillors gave the thumbs up to a new scheme at a special council meeting last night (Thursday 28 January 2010).
Members were present to hear Walsall Partnership's proposals to replace Local Neighbourhood Partnerships (LNPs) with a new model, Area Partnerships. Chief Superintendent Kevin Bullas from West Midlands Police and Gary Fulford, Chief Executive of Walsall Housing Group both addressed the Council meeting and Denise McLellan, NHS Walsall’s Chief Executive sent a letter of support.
Nine LNPs have been operating in Walsall since 2004 to help local people to become more involved in matters that affect them in the area in which they live. Despite early success however, their popularity has waned in recent years, with limited attendance at public meetings and lack of understanding of their purpose.
A review of the LNPs, which began in September 2008, confirmed that a new way of engaging with the public was required for the council and its partners to work more closely with residents.
The new model will see the borough divided into six community areas. Within each Community Area, there will be at least one 'Place of Focus'. These will be relatively small, locally identified places where residents and the council and its partners will work together to solve specific issues and problems.
Instead of solely relying on public meetings, local people will be consulted in a wide range of places and at various times of the day, such as at local schools, supermarkets or from door-to-door. This will increase consultation with a wider cross section of the community and give people more of a say in shaping the services the council and its partners provide and the problems and issues they want addressed.
People will also be encouraged to get involved in solving local problems by setting up their own initiatives and groups who can be consulted.
Each Community Area will have a local budget of £40,000, managed by an Area Manager, which will be used to tackle issues affecting the people who live there. Of that, half (£20k) will be ring-fenced to the identified 'place of focus' within each Community Area.
Councillor Mike Bird, leader of the council and chair of Walsall Partnership said: "It's clear that we have to change the way we engage with our local communities and give people the chance to have real influence over the issues and problems in areas where they live.
"This was confirmed in our recent Audit Commission report that people living in Walsall feel they are not given a platform to discuss the concerns where they live.
"Area Partnerships will give local people the chance to engage with the council and its partners more fully."
Clive Wright, director for Walsall Partnership added: "We believe it's important for our local communities to have a greater say in how resources should be allocated locally. But it's equally important that we not only listen to the concerns of people but also explain what action has been taken to improve their neighbourhood.
"This will be achieved through our "We Asked, You Said, We Did" promise, which will highlight how we have listened and what differences have been achieved in their area."
Councillor Garry Perry, cabinet member for safer, stronger communities said: "This isn't a decision we have taken over night. We have consulted with residents, our partners and members of the voluntary sector to develop this model. Our partners including NHS Walsall, Walsall housing group and West Midlands Police are fully on board.
"We believe it will positively change the way that partners work together and help to resolve small scale problems quickly."
It is estimated that the implementation of the new scheme will cost the council £412,000 in 2010/11 and £357,000 in 2011/12. In addition NHS Walsall and Walsall Housing Group have committed financial support to the scheme.
More information on Area Partnerships will be made available soon.
Helping our heroes - a local Streetly woman is part of the vital team that is helping to care for military patients at the Royal Centre for Defence Medicine, Selly Oak Hospital, Birmingham. Since the special military ward opened in 2001, over 1,000 military patients have been treated there by a team of doctors, nurses, biochemists, radiographers, physiotherapists and nunerous other equally important support staff.
Erica Perkins (nee Marder) who used to live at Waterworks Farm, Chester Road, opposite Pacific Nurseries on the Streetly - Aldridge border, is one of this team. She works as a senior nurse in intensive care helping to prevent infection and to nurse the patients through the most critical stage of their care. Last year, Erica spent 3 months at Camp Bastion and was really moved by the bonds built up between the injured there.
After treatment at Selly Oak, the patients are transferred to Headley Court, a defence medical rehabilitation centre in Surrey.
Streetly Hockey Club saw out 2009 on a high and are hoping to maintain this success in 2010.The Streetly Men's First XI are top of the West Midlands Division One and have also been successful in the National Vase competion. Streetly Ladies first XI are also top of their league. The Streetly teams play at the Streetly Sports College on Queslett Road and are always looking for new members. Call 07711 332505 or log on to www.streetlyhc.co.uk
Whilst on the subject of hockey, two teams from Lindens Primary School on Hundred Acre Road, Streetly reached the final in the Streetly Schools annual festival. However, their success doesn't finish there. Other pupils from Lindens School will represent Walsall borough at the Black Country Youth Games held in January competing in triple jump, chest push, javelin, and track and field events. Well done to everyone!
The National Cyclo-Cross Championships due to be held in Sutton Park in January have been cancelled due to bad weather. It is hoped that they will be re-scheduled for the 5th and 6th February. The event involves competitors of all ages from under 10s to veterans over 50.
For the latest update on dustbin collections log onto www.walsall.gov.uk. Regular updates are posted at 9.00am and 500pm.
Are you over 50? Are you a senior citizen or retired from work? Do you have any time to spare?
The Retired and Senior Volunteer Programme (RSVP) was founded in 1988 and its aim is to enable older people to feel valued and to enjoy life by becoming part of their community. It has a nationwide network of 10,000 volunteers over the age of 50 who help their local community in a variety of ways. Anyone who becomes a volunteer for RSVP receives training, support and insurance.
One of the areas where volunteers provide invaluable help is in local schools where they listen to children read, play with them or do gardening or art.
For more information call Debbie Laycock on 0121 308 3747 or email her on deblaycock@gmail.com
The funeral recently took place of George Burden, a hero of the Second World War. George, who was awarded the Military medal for bravery, died on December 17th, aged 89.
He was a resident at Redhouse Nursing Home but previously lived in Aldridge Road, Little Aston on the border of Aldridge and Streetly.
George was a trained horseman of the Staffordshire Yeomanry and saw action in Palestine, North Africa, France, Belgium and Germany. He was in action for the whole of the war and fought on the front line at El Alamein.
Whilst fighting in Normandy as part of the D-Day invasion he was in command of three tanks under German gunfire. His tank was hit and the driver killed but, despite suffering burns, George walked back to the battlefield to recover his damaged tank and it was for this action that he was awarded the Military Medal.
George is remembered as a kind and loving man as well as a hero.
Warren and Jane Bullock, owners of the Zig Zag Dance Factory, which holds classes in Streetly, have tutored pupils to yet more awards. Sutton dancers Mark and Olga Elsbury won the British Amateur Chmpionship at the Winter Gardens, Blackpool.
One of Warren and Jane's three daughters, Alicia, also achieved second place in both the ballrom and the Latin American sections with her partner of only three months Logan Culliney.
A new Zig Zag class teaching salsa, ballroom and Latin starts at Streetly Youth Centre, Foley Road East on Sunday, 10th January. Call 01902 897900 or log on to www.zigzagdance.co.uk
Work on Streetly Playbuilder project to get underway
Work on the first phase of Walsall Council's £1.1 million Playbuilder scheme to enhance play opportunities for the borough's children is set to start this month.
Eleven sites form part of phase one of the project with all the work due to be completed by 31 March 2010.
They will not be traditional play areas with playground equipment but instead will have natural features such as mounds, tunnels, climbing boulders and tree trunks.
The projects have been split into three different groups and contracts awarded to three bidders.
Work on the site at Foley Road East, Streetly and Doe Bank Park, Pheasey, is scheduled to get underway in the first week of February. It is due to be completed by the middle/end of March.
Councillor Barry Sanders, Walsall Council cabinet member for leisure services, said: "Now the timescales have been set for the work to take place residents can see clearly how the Playbuilder scheme is moving forward.
"These play areas will be aimed at 8 to 13-year-olds and will really enhance the play opportunities for youngsters in this age range across the borough."
Play England is funding the £1.1 million project which will see a further 11 sites delivered in the 2010/11 financial year.
We want your views - North Walsall Bus Network
Partners Arriva Midlands, Centro, Midland, Midland Rider, National Express West Midlands and Walsall Council want your views on the current bus network in North Walsall to form part of a review of bus services in April 2010.
We will be holding exhibitions where you can come and speak to staff and give us your views. Alternatively if you are unable to attend an exhibition you can fill in a questionnaire on line. Visit Network West Midlands website for details of the exhibitions or to fill in a questionnaire.
STREETLY Hockey Club have been reflecting on a fine end to 2009 as they hope to maintain their form going into 2010.
At the traditional Christmas break, three of the men's teams and one women's team are occupying promotion places in their respective leagues.
Chris Booth, the Streetly men's club captain, said: "Our First XI has had an extremely good 2009.
"We have continued from promotion last season and are currently top of BodyKraft West Midlands Division One, having only dropped points against Stafford.
"The fact we defeated our closest league contenders Redditch 5-0 in the final game before the festive break has given us a massive lift.
"We have also been successful in the National Vase competition.
"What's great is that it is a relatively young and inexperienced squad and we have excelled under the guidance of coach Shawn Hall.
"We have combined a mixture of solid defence and quick attacking to produce some very attractive hockey."
Streetly Ladies First XI are also top of their league, and ladies' skipper Kate Stableford added: "The first-half of the season has seen some excellent hockey being played, some amazing potential filtering through and an impressive level of commitment from the ladies' section.
"The First XI have won nine out of their ten games and are looking forward to the second-half of the season.
"They have scored 51 goals and conceded seven, putting them on a goal difference of 44 including beating Stafford 10-0 and Walsall 15-0.
"Our newly introduced ladies second team are also having a good season, playing six games, winning three and losing three.
"This is most pleasing because last season the First XI were relegated from Staffs Division Three and struggling to fill one side on a Saturday.
"Now, with the addition of some new players and endless hard work from those behind the scenes, Streetly are now regularly turning out two sides on a Saturday."
Streetly, who are supported by Harvest Estate Agents, play at The Streetly Sports College on Queslett Road and are always looking for new players.
For more details, visit Streetly Hockey Club website or call 07711 332505.
December 2009 news
Police hunt masked gang after Streetly Co-op store robbery at 6am on Monday 7th, Staffordshire Police say four offenders, including one armed with a crowbar, burst into the Co-op in Thornhill Road, Streetly, near Sutton Coldfield, as staff were opening up.
Wearing balaclavas and dressed in dark clothing, the robbers verbally threatened two men working in the shop before stealing a “large quantity” of cigarettes and an undisclosed amount of cash. No figure has yet been put on the stolen haul.
Detective Constable Ian Pickstock, of Tamworth CID, who is leading the investigation, said: “Fortunately no one was injured, although it was a frightening experience for those involved.” The store was closed for a number of hours while officers examined the scene. Police also plan to study CCTV footage. Anyone with information should call police on 0300 123 44 55.
November 2009 News
FESTIVAL OF FILM PUTS SUTTON COLDFIELD IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Sutton Coldfield will feature on the big screen this month as part of Screen WM’s two week Festival of Film.
The festival runs from 16 – 29th November and will include screenings of 12 different films at 8 venues across the region. Kicking off the line-up of films on Monday 16th November is Jon Wright’s irreverent high school horror Tormented filmed around Sutton Coldfield. Starring a talented young cast including April Pearson and Larissa Wilson from Skins, Tormented is being screened at Birmingham’s AMC Cinema.
The Festival of Film feature titles that have been inspired by, produced or filmed in the West Midlands in conjunction with Screen WM’s Film and Media Production Fund. The programme includes Sutton Coldfield filmmaker Justin Edgar's Special People, which premiered at the Edinburgh International Film Festival in 2007, Penny Woolcock’s Birmingham based 1 DAY and Straightheads starring Gillian Anderson and Danny Dyer, which was filmed almost entirely in the Wye Forest. Coventry-born director Debbie Isitt will close the festival with a special gala viewing of her latest release, Christmas comedy Nativity starring Martin Freeman and Ashley Jenson.
Screenings will be free of charge and selected films will also include special Q&A sessions with the writers and directors.
Dr Samir Shah OBE, Chair Screen West Midlands Board said:
“Screen WM’s Festival of Film is a great opportunity to celebrate the West Midlands region and our film-making heritage. All of the films in our programme have either been inspired by the West Midlands, shot on location in the region, or written and directed by our home-grown talent.
“Many of the features have been screened at prestigious festivals across the globe. We hope that the Festival of Film will give people another opportunity to enjoy these exceptional films that all have their roots in the West Midlands.”
Nigel Russell, Head of Tourism, Culture & Olympics at Advantage West Midlands said:
“In recent times, the Heart of England, West Midlands region has proved to be a top location for some of the UK’s most successful films, writers and producers. The Festival of Film is a great way to celebrate the diversity of the West Midlands on the big screen, and for the region to showcase its talent to the rest of the world.”
For further information or to book your free tickets visit:
Screen WM’s Festival of Film
BBC DOCUMENTARY SEEKS CONTRIBUTORS IN STREETLY AND SUTTON COLDFIELD
IS AN ELDERLY RELATIVE OF YOURS A DANGER BEHIND THE WHEEL?
ARE YOU FACING THE DILEMMA: SHOULD YOU TAKE AWAY THEIR KEYS?
Independent TV company Matchlight is making a documentary for BBC1 exploring the dilemma facing the families of many elderly drivers - are they safe behind the wheel or should you take away their keys?
We would like to hear from people who are currently wrestling with this issue, and who might be interested in participating in our documentary.
For many senior citizens, getting behind the wheel is perhaps the activity that most maintains their sense of independence.
But the Department of Transport’s own statistics show that drivers over the age of 80 have more accidents per mile than any other age group.
Would you intervene to prevent an elderly relative, whom you consider to be a danger, from driving?
WheN is the right time to bring up the subject, and how hard is it to confront a relative about it?
Or are you an elderly driver who feels pressurised to stop when you don’t feel it is necessary?
If your family is dealing with this issue now, we would love to hear from you. Please contact us via email on keys@matchlight.co.uk or calling 0131 225 1711.
Thieves stole a locked car with a dog inside owned by a 75-year-old widower while he tended his wife's grave at Streetly Crematorium in Walsall, on Tuesday afternoon 3rd November.
When he returned 15 minutes later, after laying flowers on his late wife's grave, he found shards of broken glass where his car had been.
The car was found with the dog inside on Wednesday in Erdington, Birmingham.
Police said there were no witnesses to the theft and no evidence was left at the scene.
Pc Mark Allwood, of West Midlands Police, urged anyone with information about the theft to contact them.
Jobseeker’s allowance claims have risen by 100 per cent in Streetly, Aldridge, Pheasey and Pelsall as the recession continues to bite.
A report to Walsall Council’s regeneration committee, due to meet Tuesday 3rd November, shows jobless claims have soared by 75 per cent across Walsall Borough, an increase of 4,818 taking the total to more than 12,000.
But four Walsall areas, Streetly, Aldridge, Pheasey and Pelsall, have seen claims rise by 100 per cent in the last 12 months a reflection of how many people have either lost jobs or have been unable to find work in the economic crisis.
calls are being expressed for more aid to be given to manufacturers in the region in a bid to speed up recovery.
The report also highlights a decline in construction contracts throughout the Walsall borough, large scale redundancies and the closure of town centre stores such as Woolworths. Councillor Ian Shires, who sits on the regeneration committee, blamed the decline in manufacture for the impact the recession has had in the area.
He said: “If you look at the countries who have bottomed out now they have all done it on the back of manufacturing, the problem here is we’ve lost our manufacturing.
“This is a serious situation. We now have predominantly white collar jobs, we need to make sure we have a good cross section of opportunities for people.
“The region needs to take a good hard look at itself, we need to stark making things.
“Our MPs should be banging on the doors of Westminster to get more help up here.”
Walsall North MP David Winnick said the recession had been devastating but had not had the impact of similar downturns in the 1980s.
He said: “It’s having an impact as recessions always do, but it would have been much worse if Government had not continued with it’s policy of investment.
“The danger was the recession turning into a depression and all indications are that isn’t happening, but we’re far from complacent.
“Recessions always have an adverse effect and on those least able to be in a position to help themselves.”
Standing the test of time, local fashion shop 'Hide and Suede' in Streetly village is celebrating 20 years of trading. The business, on Burnett Road, is owned and run by Jenny Ladds and sells women's clothes, accessories, footwear and jewellery, and offers an alteration and repair service.
After gaining a BA(Hons) in Fashion Design in Cheltenham, Jenny's first venture was in Marston Green and Streetly is her second shop. Jenny provides a friendly, personal service to her local Streetly customers and customers travel back to her from other countries too. The influx of new apartments, restaurants and other businesses in Streetly has helped Jenny maintain her success and, hopefully the business will still be flourishing in years to come.
New supermarket delivers the goods ! Following it's buy out of Somerfield stores, the shop on Lichfield Road, Mere Green has been re-branded as a Co-op. There is plenty of parking at the store but Streetly shoppers can also be dropped right outside the shop by the S1 Sutton Link bus and, when spending over £25, have their shopping delivered free of charge the next day at a pre-arranged time. Ask in store for details.
October 2009 News
The Somerfield supermarket chain has been aquired by the Co-operative and, as part of this business deal, Streetly's local Somerfield on Chester Road, has been re-launched under the Co-op brand. Happily, all 22 staff have been retained by the Co-op. Children from Manor School, Streetly will be cutting the ribbon at the start of this new venture.
ATTENTION S1 BUS USERS ..... ATTENTION S1 BUS USERS
TIMETABLE AND ROUTE CHANGE WITH EFFECT FROM MONDAY, 26TH OCTOBER.
THE EXISTING 0709 AND 0739 BUSES FROM STREETLY TO ERDINGTON AND THE 0737 AND 0807 BUSES FROM ERDINGTON TO STREETLY, AND THEN ONWARDS TO SUTTON COLDFIELD, WILL OPERATE TEN MINUTES EARLIER ON WEEKDAYS. THESE JOURNEYS ONLY WILL NOT GO VIA FLORENCE AND BROADFIELD ROADS BUT TRAVEL DIRECT FROM SUTTON ROAD TO CHESTER ROAD AND VICE VERSA.
THE S1 BUS LINKS SUTTON COLDFIELD AND ERDINGTON VIA MERE GREEN, STREETLY VILLAGE, HUNDRED ACRE, KINGSTANDING, NEW OSCOTT AND WYLDE GREEN PROVIDING ACCESS ALONG THE ROUTE TO FOUR OAKS AND CHESTER ROAD STATIONS, SUTTON COLLEGE, BISHOP WALSH AND ARTHUR TERRY SCHOOLS, LEYHILL, MERE GREEN, AND SUTTON PARK GP SURGERIES, ALL SAINTS CHURCHES ON BELWELL LANE AND FOLEY ROAD, STREETLY METHODIST CHURCH, SAINSBURYS, MERE GREEN, TESCO, NEW OSCOTT AND LOCAL SHOPS, BANKS, BUILDING SOCIETIES AND DIRECT BUS LINKS INTO BIRMINGHAM AT KINGSTANDING CIRCLE.
PLEASE SHOW YOUR SUPPORT AND USE THIS EXCELLENT LOCAL BUS SERVICE PROVIDED BY A LOCAL BUS COMPANY. FARE DEALS AVAILABLE.
Congratulations and 'bon voyage' to Streetly resident Jill Ball who has just retired from her job as receptionist with Aston based building services provider JS Wright after 32 years! Jill hopes to celebrate her retirement with a well deserved Caribbean holiday.
Streetly Windows will be the new sponsor of local football team Colron Under 9s for the next two seasons. The children look great in their new kit and all parents and supporters in Streetly wish them well.
Well done to Elizabeth Bayliss, Stephan Knight, Alexander Campbell and Jack Bayliss, local junior martial arts pupils from Streetly classes, who were recently awarded bronze medals in the National Ju Jutsu Council Finals held on October 11th in Worcester.
Good performances were also given by Callum Thompson, James Morley and Henry Harding.
Classes are held in Streetly. Contact Ray on 01827 63356 or 0781 698 6405.
CALLING ALL STREETLY OVER 60s YOUR COUNTRY NEEDS YOU!
- and so does local Streetly granny Gill Parkes from Lilac Avenue.
Gill is anxious to raise funds to provide small but necessary items for hospitalised troops and has just completed a sponsored run raising £400 for injured soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan who are patients in Selly Oak Hospital.
On a visit to Staffordshire Regiment's headquarters she was told that it is very hard for the army to get funding to provide things like shavers, flip flops and the occasional chocolate bar and sweets.
Gill's idea is to mobilise a 'Grannies (and hopefully Grandad's!) Land Army to come up with fund raising schemes. She feels very strongly about supporting the lads who get injured and lose limbs whilst fighting for for our Forces.
New parking restrictions on Blackwood Road, Streetly have forced the parking problem experienced there on to Hazelwood Road where thoughtless drivers are parking their cars with no regard to pedestrians, school children, and residents and to the safety of anyone who uses this and other nearby roads. Hopefully, this won't be an 'accident waiting to happen' and drivers who have to park here will show a bit more consideration and care.
Do you need help help with your pet?
Streetly based 'Streetly Dog Walker' is a professional pet care business offering dog walking, cat sitting and pet taxi services at competitve prices. Contact 0121 352 1531 or 07824 810 277 or log on to www.streetlydogwalker.co.uk
Raise your cup in thanks to all those people who attended the Macmillan Cancer coffee morning at Streetly's Hardwick Arms pub (see Pubs & Bars page) and succeeded in raising a record amount of over £1,000. A big thank you to all the local businesses who donated raffle prizes too.
Charity HELP THE HEROES is hoping to raise its' profile and, at the same time raise funds, by publishing a charity calendar. Mat Christodoulou, a Streetly award winning photographer, is part of the team working on the 1940s pin-up style celebrity calendar.
Mat has been named as the best student photographer and has recently held an exhibition of his work at Number 9 Gallery in Brindley Place in Birmingham.
Two more awards were won locally when Streetly restaurant 'The Mint' was voted the 'Best Newcomer 2009 in the Taste of Staffordshire Awards and also became runner up in the 'Restaurant of the Year' category. Congratulations to owner Dan Ralley, head chef Matt Warburton and their eight members of staff.
Restaurant of the Year (Non-European and Asian influence) second place won by Mango Tree, Stonnall, nr Lichfield (See all local Restaurants here)
The congratulations, like the champagne, keep flowing! Streetly couple Beryl and Arthur Medley celebrated their Diamond Wedding Anniversary with an unforgetable family party.
Arthur used to be an engineer at British Industrial Plastics formerly based on Aldridge Road, Streetly.
Are you a railway user? Using a Centro map of the West Midlands railway network you can now click onto any station for up to date information. Log on to West Midlands Railway updates to find out exactly how many minutes until trains will arrive and for up to date information about any incidents or delays.
Streetly based group Erdington Operatic Society will be performing in Gilbert and Sullivan's comic opera 'The Mikado' from Tuesday, November 3rd to Saturday, November 7th at Sutton Coldfield Town Hall. To book call 0121 360 6627.
September 2009 News
Residents of Thornhill Road, Streetly are being good samaritans and collecting and recycling the hundreds of cans and bottles being dumped in Sutton Park.
The Governments 'Building for the Future' programme will target Streetly School in it's first round of funding. Construction work will start in 2012.
Good news! Streetly restaurant 'Mint' on Thornhill Road has re-opened after suffering flood damage in the summer downpours. Business as usual.
Streetly dress shop 'Obsessions' in Burnett Road, has just re-opened after refurbishment. To mark the occasion owner Heidi Middleton held a charity evening in aid of St. Giles Hospice.
Local lad Paul Heard from Streetly is now the under 19 cycle speedway champion. Paul, who races with the Birmingham Monarchs and is also Midlands Junior Champion, hopes his winning streak will continue when he competes for the British Open Title, and in the Grand Prix of Great Britain before the end of October.
Golden Shot Streetly resident Ann-Marie Henbury won a gold medal at the European Field Archery Championships recently. In spite of being a relative newcomer to the sport she has already been entered into next year's Europrean Bowhunter Tournament in Austria and hopes to represent Great Britain at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in New Delhi, India next October.
Streetly pre-school nursery Stepping Stones celebrated their fifteenth birthday by holding a Lion King theme party. Fifty pounds was raised for the charity Livvy's Smile.
A call for help - do you have any time to spare to help deaf people in Streetly? Call Sarah Cassidy on 01902 413 003.
Are you the lady in the black car who tried to intervene in a dispute between teenage boys in Lowlands Avenue, Streetly? If so, please contact PC Ross O'Grady at Aldridge Police Station on 0845 113 5000.
Dancing their way to success, former All-England Champions Warren and Jane Bullock, who run the Zig Zag Dance Factory, received the Supreme Teacher Award at a recent ' Stars of the Future' event. This award is presented to the school with the highest standard of ballroom and Latin American dancing based on an assessment of the school's children and adult dancers.
Warren and Jane were originally trained by Len Goodman, the head judge on Strictly Come Dancing, and now run classes in and around Sutton and Streetly. For more information visit zigzag dance website
Congratulations to the students from Streetly Ju-Jutsu club who recently all were awarded their new belt gradings. Their tutor Ray Owen said they had worked very hard and deserved their success. Anyone interested in joining the club can call Ray on 07551 630 493 or send Email to Ray
Rallying support for St. Giles Hospice, Streetly man Ian Merriman and his two co-drivers Mike Simpson and Paul Hunt, are takng part in the Staples to Naples Challenge which, despite its name, starts in Calais and finishes 1500 miles later in Rome. To sponsor the team visit www.justgiving.com/BL-Motorsport.
August 2009 News
Aldridge Rugby Club, off Little Hardwick Road, Streetly, was destroyed by fire in what police describe as a despicable arson attack in August 2009. The clubhouse will probably have to be rebuilt from scratch and club officials are hoping that the local community will rally round with offers of support. Meanmwhile, games and training will continue.
Police are appealing for witnesses or any information. Contact DS Rob Bastin in the CID at Walsall on 0845 113 5000.
Local Streetly couple Natalie and Parvaiz Elahi have realised their dream of owning a beautiful home in Streetly by taking advantage of a great off-plan deal to swap their two bedroom rented flat for a new home at the Kingsland Grange development off Bridle Lane.
George Wimpey offers a range of special incentives on selected properties for first time buyers including an extra five percent towards their deposit and offers to find buyers for those people who own a property too.
Streetly bus users (See Bus Services page)are once again up in arms over a change to their local buses. Residents of Chester Road and Banners gate fought long and hard to be served by the 993 bus service. This part of the service has now been withdrawn which means that there is no longer a direct bus to take these passengers to work, to shops or to university.
The 993 bus which used to provide an excellent and fast link to the city centre is now split into three longer and more circuitous routes - the 992/993/994. Another result of these changes is that local elderly passengers can no longer access buses without a long and often uphill walk and are now unable to use the local Somerfield and Tesco shops, or to their GP, at the Chester Road/Manor Road/Bridle Lane junction. Some local people find themselves stranded in their homes and have to use taxis. If you have any queries, or comments to make concerning the recent changes on the 992/993/994 routes contact Customer Relations at Centro House, 16 Summer Lane, Birmingham B19 3SD or 'phone them on 0121 214 7214. email customerrelations@centro.org.uk
A 'Customer Comments' form is also available from Streetly Library or from the travel shops in the Pavilions Shopping Centre, Birmingham (lower ground floor near the entrance to M& S food hall), and Birmingham New Street Station.
Streetly Day Care Centre will close at the end of September.
The Blackwood Road centre provides a vital lifeline to 50 elderly people and is the only relief for some housebound OAPs where they get to share a meal with pals and play darts, cards and other games. It is run by the British Red Cross, which is contracted to provide day care services at the site by Walsall Council. However, the council is pulling the plug on funding the centre.
A letter sent to members by Caroline Leighton, operations director for British Red Cross, said: “Currently day care services in Walsall are undersubscribed and there are a considerable number of vacancies in all centres. There are too many day services in the area and the council wish to consolidate the service to enable better use of resources.
“In light of this and the council’s targets for efficiency savings, they are unable to continue to fund the Streetly Day Centre after September 30. Therefore, we have no option but to close the service by that date and our last day will be on September 29.”
July 2009 News
Children from Blackwood Road School in Streetly, had a day out in Bewdley recently when they were invited by an expert on World War Two to the Bewdley Museum's own classroom to learn about the life of an evacuee and the rationing of food and clothes.
All the children dressed up in 1940s clothes and carried a handmade gas mask box. They also had an exciting trip on a steam train to Arley Station.
A new self-referral physio clinic has been introduced at Good Hope Hospital in order to cut waiting time. Patients will be able to book an appointment to see a physiotherapist without having to go through their GP. For more information call the booking line on 0121 424 9053.
Residents of Branton Hall Road, Aldridge, heaved a temporary sigh of relief when their ten year battle to divert heavy traffic from their road was offered a possible solution. The government has granted outline planning for a new access road to be built from the Bliss Sand and Gravel Quarry in Branton Hall Road to the A452 Chester Road.
What a load of rubbish! Did you know that the Aldridge Recycling Centre at Merchants Way, Aldridge - commonly known as 'The Tip' - is now closed on Wednesdays as part of a cost cutting measure to save £100,000.
Local Streetly Hairdressing salon is a 'cut above the rest'. Francesco in Streetly village won the top salon award, and apprentice Antonia Hale won first place for her photographic entry in the first year apprentice category. Well done everyone!
Further funding is needed to help Streetly athlete Jade Surman achieve her goal of competing for Great Britain in the 2012 London Olympics. Jade has had a tough time recently fighting off injuries and would welcome any financial help. If anybody would like to sponsor Jade, or make a contribution, contact Birchfield Harriers on 0121 344 4858.
Streetly author Philippa Jennings has had her first book published. 'Little by Little', published by Eloquent Books, is set in south west Scotland and Cumbria, and tells the story of personal and wider events effecting a farming community hit by foot and mouth disease. Philippa grew up in Scotland and teaches Business and ICT at Kingsbury School and Sports College and is already working on her second book.
Sarah Riley is part of a Streetly family who knows only too well about the difficulties experienced by those troups serving in Afghanistan. Sarah's brother is serving as a Captain in the 2nd Fusiliers and has himself suffered the death of someone in his regiment.
Sarah wants to do something to help the situation by raising money for the charity Help for Heroes so is running a stall at a charity craft fair being held at Wheats Flower and Garden Centre, Chester Road (in between the Hardwick Arms and Irish Harp pubs), on Sunday 9th August from 10.30 - 4.00pm
Sarah would love to see you there supporting our troops. You can also log on to www.helpforheroes.org.uk.
Streetly restaurant suffers a setback. The Mint restaurant in Streetly Village, on the corner of Thornhill and Burnett Roads, has been forced to close after recent flash floods devastated the kitchens. The restaurant opened in November 2008 following a £350,000 refurbishment and all the kitchen equipment will already have to be replaced. Owner Dan Ralley hopes that Mint will re-open in August 2009.
Mint restaurant, in Thornhill Road, owned by Dan Ralley, aged 34, described the downpour and flash flooding:
"We were in the middle of a busy lunch service, when the manhole cover near to our basement kitchen blew.
"It was like something you see in the movies, the cover flew 6ft in the air and 3ft of water swirled into the kitchen.
"Then the manhole covers began to blow all along Thornhill Road, a car got stuck, it was complete chaos.
"The water came in so quickly, we had to stop serving, it was flooding into the fridges. I couldn't quite believe what was happening. We had people waiting for their main courses but we had 3ftfoot of water in the kitchen."
The flood has had a devastating impact on the fledgling business, which opened in November 2008 following a £350,000 refurbishment.
"The feeling at the moment is one of massive frustration. We are hoping to reopen in early August and I hope that by getting the story out, local people will realise that we will be back and we will be better and stronger from this."
Flood defence measures will be put in place at Mint to prevent further problems.
A couple who are always thinking about others - Val and Terry Keight have once again been selling plants and shrubs at their home to raise much needed funds for African orphans.
Val and Terry started off by donating pencils, footballs and books but things have progressed since those early days. After the 2008 plant sale they went to Africa to look at a school they support in Zambia, paid a visit to an amazing lady in her 70s who cares for 265 youngsters, and visited a water hole they funded leaving sufficient funding to provide another fresh waterhole in a village nearby. The next things on their shopping list is equipment for a play area. Watch this space........!
Streetly residents who attend the surgery at 250A Chester Road with long term illnesses , can take advantage of a new scheme called 'Birmingham Own Health'. People who sign up are put in touch with care managers and health coaches to help manage their condition. The service is aimed at patients with diabetes, coronary heart disease, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder(COPD), and high blood pressure. For more information visit www.birminghamownhealth.co.uk or ask at the surgery at 250A Chester Road.
Congratulations to the children of Lindens Primary School who, under the guidance of Helen Yates, won the Walsall Key Stage1 Choir of the Year competition for the second year running. Judges felt that 'the singing was nicely controlled, with effective actions' and that it was 'an enjoyable presentation with a sense of conviction.Mrs. Yates won't be the only one who is extremely proud of the children's performance!
Andrew Jordan and Jordan Sports continue to go from strength to strength. After gaining excellent rankings in recent races, Andrew has made history by becoming the youngest ever driver to qualify on pole position in the history of the HIQ MSA British Touring Car Championship.
Congratulations are also due to Neil Harrison who was crowned the light heavyweight British Jujitsu Champion recently. Neil runs North Birmingham Judo Club, based in Streetly at the community centre in Foley Road East and offers classes for both children and adults and a beginners programme. Call 07817 666964 or visit www.birminghamjudo.com.
Local resident Pushpam Singh held a charity dinner with Indian music and dance, and raised more than £2,500 towards the work of Save The Childrens work in India. Such an amount would fund training for ten teachers for a year or would pay for vaccinations for 500 children for diseases like malaria or measles.
Want to encourage your children to walk? Look at 'Kiddiwalks In and Around Birmingham, written by Melanie Graham and published by Countryside Books. The book details 20 circular walks between 1 and 3 miles in length. The routes are clearly described, as are things to do and see along the way and suggestions for places to eat. There are some really good photographs too.
The book should be available soon from Waterstones or W.H.Smith or direct from the publisher at www.countryside-books.co.uk price £7.99.
HOUSEHOLD BATTERIES TO RECYCLE - Drop them into the containers in schools , council offices, leisure centres and libraries. Streetly Library on Blackwood Road has their box on the windowledge just inside the entrance door.
Both rechargeable and non-rechargeable batteries are excepted.
Local Streetly solicitor Brian Hadcroft was jailed for 4 years over a mortgage scam that cost Barclays Bank and Abbey more than 1.6 million pounds. He was convicted of theft in January 2009 over a fraud which led to the theft of mortgage money from Barclays Bank and Abbey.
Barclays Bank transferred more than £1.6 million into Hadcroft’s account in October 2008 to pay for the purchase of a hotel in Tamworth. And Abbey transferred more than £330,000 into the account to buy a bar in Digbeth.
But, in both cases, the cash was then transferred out of the solicitor’s account for Hadcroft’s own use, rather than paying for the properties as agreed.
After Hadcroft was jailed at Birmingham Crown Court, Det Insp Mark Salt, of West Midlands Police Economic Crime Team, said: “This has been a long and complicated investigation.
“He was in a position of trust as a practicing solicitor but breached that trust for his own personal gain. This is a person who believed it would be easy to commit fraud but our team of investigators are skilled and experienced, and can deal with the most complex of cases. We will look to use the Proceeds of Crime Act to recover money stolen and compensate victims of the crime.”
Jo Lester and Jackie Coken, two retired teachers who used to work together at Blackwood School, won a RHS silver award for their 'Stumpery' Garden at the BBC Gardeners World Live event recently held at the NEC. Everything in their garden was sourced from Walsall Arboretum where they are both volunteers.
Jacob Smith and Luke Goulbourne, aged seven and from Lindens Primary School had a wonderful day when they were match day mascots for Aston Villa at their game against Bolton Wanderers.
A pioneering 'outdoor gym', which will be open to its students as well as older residents in the area, is to be launched by The Streetly School. Land at the side of the specialist Sports College will be transformed into an exercise zone in a bid to encourage people to adopt an active lifestyle. The scheme has the financial backing of the local PCT which is hoping to target the over 50s and by Awards for All. The gym may also be used to rehabilitate hospital patients.
A group of local lads have applied to win a football based scholarship to an American University. Harry Mason has already been accepted and Luke Wilson, Josh Bambury and Oliver Dixon are waiting in hope of good news. The lads all attend The Streetly School.
Poets Wood development in Streetly has been branded the new estate from hell – with some families locked in a five-year battle to try to get their houses brought up to scratch.
Faults reported include peeling tiles, exploding light fittings, flooding and faulty garage roofs.
Residents have also complained that doors have not been fitted properly which has led to a rise in burglaries.
More than 20 homeowners reported problems under the Buildmark Cover to NHBC – the standard setting body for new homes.
A spokesman for NHBC said: “The majority of contacts received, relate to issues reported to the builder during the first two years of the Buildmark cover. As it is the builder’s responsibility to rectify any defects reported to them, the builder has gone on to resolve the majority of cases without further intervention from us.”
A spokesperson for Redrow said: “We are very sorry for any inconvenience experienced by our customers and can assure them that we are committed to resolving any outstanding snagging issues of which we are aware.
“The vast majority of the items referred to have been dealt with for some time. A very small number referred matters to the NHBC’s free dispute resolution service.
Redrow said the issue of some of the homes which were knocked down and then rebuilt was “primarily related to road gradient levels” and customers were offered initial refunds if they didn’t want to proceed.
June 2009 News
Police BBQ to tackle anti-social behaviour is a success
June 10 2009.. POLICE held their first ‘BBQ in the park’ in a campaign to tackle anti-social behaviour.
Youngsters were offered free burgers and soft drinks during the event held at Blackwood Park, Streetly, in the first in a series aimed at keeping them on the right track.
The event was organised after complaints from local residents about anti-social behaviour. More than 40 young people attended and registered their details.
Sergeant Chris Sprague, from Streetly neighbourhood policing team, said: “The BBQ was very well attended and was a huge success.”
Birmingham Children's Hospital has joined forced with Oxfam for a house-to-house collection scheme to raise money for charity.
The charity's bag collection scheme will collect will collect clothes, books, music and homewares from houses within the hospital's catchment area. Every bag of donated items will help Birmingham Children's Hospital provide vital research and equipment to help treat sick children and support Oxfam's work with people living in poverty around the world.
In the past, the hospital had used commercial contractors to make the collections and sell the donated materials to generate money, but by working with Oxfam's brand new house-to-house collection service, they are able to both increase the amount of money raised per item donated and to assure people making donations that every penny of profit goes to charity.
Collection bags will be sent out to homes across Birmingham four times a year, beginning this month with Streetly, Sutton Coldfield, Solihull, Edgbaston and Yardley, for supporters to fill and Oxfam to collect and sort at their Wastesaver recycling plant before being sold to generate maximum value.
Birmingham Children's Hospital will receive £75 for every tonne that is collected while Oxfam will sell the items to high street shops and clothing hubs or sell them directly to the public at Oxfam shops around the country.
Alder Hey Children's Hospital, Great Ormond Street Hospital and The Children's Hospital, Sheffield, have also signed up to the scheme.
Tracy Marsh, director of the Birmingham Children's Hospital Charity, speaking on behalf of the four children's hospitals, said: "We are all very excited to be working on this very innovative partnership with Oxfam.
"Fundraising is essential for all four hospitals as they continue to provide the best possible care for the UK's most seriously ill children. In this climate every penny counts and this partnership means that just one bag of collected goods will go a long way to providing vital equipment and research for sick children.
Richard Fern, Birmingham Oxfam Campaigner at Oxfam, said: "Birmingham Children's Hospital is much loved by everyone in the region. Health services are universal human rights which we support all over the world.
"This is a groundbreaking new scheme and allows people to have absolute confidence that 100 per cent of the profit from their donations is going to support good causes both in the UK and in the developing world. The hospitals get a better deal from items collected for them, and Oxfam is able to generate money to tackle poverty. It's a win-win."
CHARLIE Stretch spent his 20th birthday not celebrating, but wondering whether he would ever make it back to Birmingham.
As a radio operator on board HMS Sirius, Mr Stretch listened as shells hit water around the boat while the vessel bombarded German positions at Ouistreham.
He turned 20 on board on Sunday 7 June 1944 as the battle raged on land and sea.
“I was scared stiff,” said Mr Stretch, from Streetly. “There wasn’t a lot of information coming but we were amazed at we did hear about the number of troops landing in France.
“We got a letter from Eisenhower and when they said our boys were in France and pushing the Germans back, we felt like bloody heroes. It didn’t stop us feeling any less scared.
“I didn’t have much of a birthday but at least there were plenty of fireworks.
“Turning 20 also meant I qualified for rum rations and I needed them that night.”
Walking between the war graves at Bayeux, Mr Stretch, now aged 85, said: “I know it’s only by the grace of God that there aren’t people here today looking down at my headstone.
“We were the lucky ones.”
A GREEN-THINKING Streetly company is smoothing the way for Sutton Park users – by filling in the holes in the uneven surfaces.
Rather than disposing of excess tar surfacing material at the tip, civil engineers RW Services has teamed up with Birmingham City Council, to use it to improve car parks within the 2,400-acre site.
The company's contracts manager James Freeman came up with the idea while visiting the park with his family.
He noticed that the surface in some of the car parks was beginning to deteriorate and realised that his company's remaining tar surfacing material could be used for the benefit of both the company and the council.
Arrangements are now in place for the left over material to be used to fill in potholes.
Mr Freeman said: "As a local company, we are more than happy to help out when we can to improve things within our local community."
Councillor Anne Underwood, Sutton Coldfield constituency chairman, added: "This project is a great example of partnership working between the city council and a local business."
ANNUAL crime figures for Walsall show a decrease in reported crime for all but one neighbourhood, with new data on anti-social behaviour identifying trouble spots in the borough, a police internet site has revealed.
Large decreases in crime levels have been identified in Walsall Wood (down 27 per cent) and Palfrey and Caldmore (down 26 per cent) for the period May 2008 to April 2009 on West Midlands Police's 'My Neighbourhood' website.
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With the motto 'Face Facts – Feel Safer', the police have this week encouraged more Walsall residents to find out what is happening on their doorstep by logging on to www.myneighbourhood.info
The website is described as 'a sophisticated online crime mapping system' based on postcode searches.
A detailed breakdown of both crime and anti-social behaviour incidents is given, with the latter identifying the numbers of rowdy incidents fuelled by alcohol or caused by those 17 and under.
In addition maps identifying hotspots within the borough show concentrations of both criminal and anti-social activity.
Given different neighbourhoods have varying populations, the police have also identified the number of incidents per 1,000 population.
Streetly and Pheasey had the lowest crime rate in the borough with just 39.2 offences committed per 1,000 people, closely followed by Pelsall with 40.6.
Chief Inspector Kevin Doyle, from the neighbourhood policing team said: "Crime mapping is something that West Midlands Police have been developing for over two years.
"We now have the facility to share the reality of crime and anti-social behaviour levels in all of our 248 neighbourhoods across the West Midlands.
"Working with communities, crime fell across 80 per cent of our neighbourhoods last year, and we need to be just as successful in dealing with anti-social behaviour."
Superintendent Gez Moore, of the force's Citizen Focus department, said: "The interactive site allows the community to obtain information around local crime and anti-social behaviour.
"The crime and anti-social incidents are then instantly presented for the general public to view.
"It provides a valuable insight into what is taking place locally and provides opportunities for the public and other agencies to get involved in local issues."
To find out more visit www.myneighbourhood.info or go to www.west-midlands.police.uk and follow the links from the home page.
May 2009 News
Local Streetly couple Leslie and Beryl Wheeler recently celebrated their Diamond Wedding and received a message from the Queen. The couple, who live on Northside Drive, met at a dance at the King Charles Public House in Kingstanding in 1947. Beryl used to work in the jewellery quarter, and Leslie served with the Royal Navy during the second world war. They have two daughters, five grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
John Quinn from Streetly ran in the recent London Marathon to raise money for the John Taylor Hospice.
Local Streetly beauty Laura Harvey, a law student, has received hundreds of public votes to ensure that she will be a semi finalist in the Miss England competition to be held in June. To see Laura's profile log onto www.missengland.info/semi-finalists. 
Streetly Tennis Club member John Keighley won three titles in the Sutton Open Junior Easter tournament.
Staff from the Hardwick Arms Public House will be joining in the Great Midlands Fun Run in Sutton Park on May 31st. They will be running as part of the team from the Sutton Colfield Cancer Support Centre. Former Olympian Sally Ellis has devised a training regime to help the runners enjoy their day. If you are running and want to benefit from Sally's advice logonto www.greatmidlandsfun-run.com.
What a load of rubbish! Aldridge and Streetly residents are disappointed that their local recycling centre at Merchant Way, Aldridge will now be closed on Wednesdays as part of a budgetary decision to save £100,000.
Residents of Branton Hall Road, Aldridge heaved a temporary sigh of relief when their ten year battle to divert heavy traffic from their road was ofered an alternative solution. The government has granted outline planning permission for a new access road to be built from the Bliss Sand and Gravel quarry in Branton Hall Road to the A452 Chester Road.
A new self-referral physiotherapy service has been introduced at Good Hope Hospital in order to cut waiting time. Patients will be able to book an appointment to see a physiotherapist without having to go through their GP. For more information call the booking line on 0121 424 9053.
Clive Hemus from Streetly was one of the first to register for this years Great Midlands Fun Run being held on May 31st. Since the first 8.5 mile run in 2003 the event has raised over £642,000 for charities and local organisations. Clive will be raising money for Kinstanding Age Concern.
March 2009 News
Local charity Midlands International Trust has benefitted from donations from a Streetly doctor.
Dr. Abdul Gatrad, OBE, together with his brother and sister, has helped fund projects to enable poor children around the world to have life changing reconstructive surgery, and eye treatment. Dr. Gatrad is a senior consultant paediatrician at Walsall Manor Hospital.
Do you play a string or a brass instrument? If so The New Streetly Youth Orchestra is looking for new members.Rehearsals take place on Wednesday evenings during term time at Manor Primary School, Briar Avenue, Streetly - just turn up.
Did you used to work at a local Woolworths store? Former Woolworths manager Derek Phillips is hoping to write a book about about these famous stores. Email him at derekphillips507@google mail.com or write to him at 3 Whitcross, Barwick, Somerset, BA22 9TQ. Shoppers recollections are welcome too.
Local Streetly school pupil and synronised swimmer Ellie Holder has been chosen to be
part of the England development squad where she will train once a month with athletes from Team GB. Ellie, who attends Streetly School, recently won three gold medals at the British Synchronised Swimming Championships.
Staff and chldren from Blackwood Primary School, Streetly recently held a 'Peter Pan' themed day to celebrate the opening of the new school library.
Year 8 pupils at Streetly School have been learning about the puppy walking process involved in the training and development of a guide dog, by following the progress of 'Bertie' who has been visiting the school since he was 16 weeks old with his puppy walker Madge Nightingale.The children are also raising money for the charity 'Guide Dogs for the Blind'.
February 2009 News
The recently opened eating disorders centre in Streetly, Newbridge House, launched a new initiative as part of National Eating Disorders Week in February. Simple questionnaires were sent to GPs in north Birmingham to help them to identify patients who may have anorexia or bulimia.
The questionnaire examines the patient's feelings and behaviour towards food and is designed to help GPs spot problems and ensure patients receive vital treatment as soon as possible.
Local Streetly man Charles Tandy died in 2001 following a burglary at the training college where he was an instructor and, in February, his killer was sentenced to nine years in prison for manslaughter. The police and the judge paid tribute to Mr. Tandy's family for the bravery and dignity they showed over this long period of time and also to Mr. Tandy who
was recognised by everyone who knew him as a thoroughly good and kind man.
Former world championship dancing finalists Warren and Jane Bullock ,who hold one of their Zig Zag dance classes in Streetly, have again won a Carl Alan award for their contribution to dance.
Sad news. Streetlys very own 'Diva Doria' Doreen Lyons passed away in February aged 75 years.
Streetly Library on Blackwood Road has re-opened after some alterations. Please note that the new telephone number is 01922 654864.
Go Shopping in Sutton Coldfield and enjoy free parking every Thursday from 10.00am in 'The Mall' (formerly known as Gracechurch Centre)
Pupils from Manor Primary School, Streetly recently visited the new RSPB nature reserve Middleton Lakes situated in Drayton Bassett. The centre will be open to the public shortly and will be offering a programme of regular events and guided walks.
The children took part in bird watching, pond dipping and bug hunting.
For more details call 01827 259454 or email middletonlakes@rspb.org.uk
Residents who have battlng for years against the poor and dangerous condition of Boundary Court just off Hundred Acre Road, Streetly have had their hopes of any action dashed with the announcement that a long awaited compulsory purchase order will no longer be pursued. The building has long been the site of drug taking, alcohol abuse, litter dumping and anti-.social behaviour and nearby residents are frightened that the situation will now go from awful to even worse.
Do you play hockey? If you're interested in joining the Streetly First or Second X1 or the Badgers call David Peers on 07711 332505.
Streetly's Veseyans RFC strongly defended their recent home win against Leek by beating them for a second time.
Two racing drivers are combining their talents and experience to race a Ford Mustang GT4 in the 2009 Britcar Production Championship. Ex. Streetly resident and BTCC Mike Jordan is teaming up with GT racer Stuart Scott with backing from Cambridge Business Travel.
Jordan will prepare the car, which is already in the UK, under his new team banner JordanSport.co.uk
Ex Streetly racing driver Mike Jordan and his new team (Team Pyro) will be entering the Ascari KZ1, run by David and Godfrey Jones, in the 2009 Avon Tyres British GT Championship. In a similar move, Gareth, Philip and Morgan Jones, their sons will take in some Britcar races in a Porsche 911GT3 Cup run by JordanSport.co.uk.
Jordan, who recently downsized and rebranded his Team Eurotech operation into JordanSport, feels that the situation is ideal for everyone involved.
The association between Pyro and Jordan began in 2007 when Team Pyro tended the Renault Clio raced by Mike's son Andrew.
George Wimpey’s brand new development in Streetly, Sutton Coldfield, will comprise homes for all types of buyers, including contemporary two-bedroom apartments, and three, four and five-bedroom homes, with prices ranging from £139,995 to £430,000.
An example of the first houses available at the development is the four-bedroom detached ‘Tolworth’, available to purchase from £299,995 or in part-exchange for an existing property, which is available on selected plots.
George Wimpey also offers a range of deals tailor-made for first-time buyers including help with their deposit, and for those with a property to sell, the leading housebuilder’s part-exchange and easymover programmes offer a range of attractive incentives to make moving quick and hassle-free.
To register for information when new homes are released for sale, prospective buyers should contact the Sales Executive at the development.
To find out more about the new homes at Kingsland Grange, visit the development at Bridle Lane, Streetly, and open Thursdays to Mondays, 11am to 5pm, or go online at Georgewimpey.co.uk.
January 2009 News
Yet more residents who live on George Frederick Road and Banners Gate on the Streetly - Birmingham border, have been penning their complaints about the withdrawal of their off peak 377 bus service. Many residents are now unable to get out and about for shopping, visiting and medical appointments and, in the recent severe weather have had to hire taxis.
A Streetly couple fell for each other in a very big way over sixty years ago when they met at a roller skating rink at Dymchurch on the Kent coast just after the Second World War.
Edna and Fred Groom, who live in Burnett Road, Streetly have just celebrated their Diamond Wedding with a church blessing at St. Margaret's Church, Great Barr, followed by a celebration at the George Hotel, Lichfield.
Streetly Village now has two restaurants. 'MINT'' located at the corner of Burnett and Thornhill Roads opened recently to provide 'straight forward dining celebrating great British produce'. The restaurant has just received excellent an review from the Birmingham Mail food critic Paul Fulford. Open Mon - Sat from 6.30pm Sunday Brunch 10 - 12pm Sunday Lunch from 12pm Call 0121 353 0488 or log onto www.mint-restaurant.com
Streetly residents won't have far to go to enjoy a cup of coffee and a chat with friends when the former Hindley's bakery in Mere Green, just a few minutes drive away, opens as 'Costa Coffee' in February,2009.
Just round the corner on Mere Green Road, the Loch Fyne restaurant is to be re-branded . Called 'The Old Speckled Hen' the pub will serve home cooked British food and real ales.
The Aga Shop on Burnett Road, Streetly, recently hosted the Heart of England Fine Foods annual competition to find the region's tastiest sausage. Owens family butchers of Stoke on Trent won the award for the best breakfast sausage and Boxleys butchers took the 'specialty' prize for their pork and marmite sausage - apparently you either love it or hate it!
DOVE SPA is open in what was formerly the Re-aqua beauty salon on Burnett Road, Streetly.For details of all treatments 'phone 0844 800 2139.
A new joggers group has been set up up locally in Sutton. Budding Streetly runners will now be able to up the pace with other like minded enthusiasts. For more details see the club and events pages.
Police have asked local Streetly pensioners to beware of two white men involved in recent 'distraction' burglaries. The men knock on doors claiming to be from the water board and say that there has been an explosion in the area causing water to be contaminated. They then steal cash. Police advise that there is no such thing as a 'water board' now and that 'bona fide' officials from water companies such as Severn Trent or South Staffs would not require access to homes in these circumstances.
If you have any information which could help police with this problem please call them on 0845 113 5000 or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
A Streetly man has been made an OBE for his services to to the West Midland Reserve Forces and Cadets' Association. Colonel Thomas Derek Christopher Lloyd who is currently a Deputy Lieutenant for the West Midlands, and Provincial Grand Master of Freemasonry for the Province of Staffordshire, served in the TA for 30 years and recently retired as chairman of the region's RFCA after six years in the post.
Colonel Lloyd was born in Great Barr but has lived locally since the 1960s. He is a pilot and a keen skier and recently crossed the Atlantic in a small, two man yacht.
A group of adult students - all with learning disabilities - recently passed the first level of their horticultural exams. The ASDAN scheme, offers a wide range of qualifications for people of all abilities. The successful students were presented with certificates by local Streetly business man Brian Wheat, of Wheats Flower and Garden Centre.
'Streetly Library on Blackwood Road will be re-opening on Monday, 9th February following major alterations. Meanwhile, books can be returned to any Walsall library.'
Walsall is set to receive additional government funding to help provide Friday and Saturday night activities for young people, in a bid to keep them off the streets and out of trouble. Young people will help to decide what these activities are. The emphasis is that they have local access to these activities at times they want and need, such as Friday and Saturday evenings.
Streetly's very own singing sensation Connie Talbot goes from strength to strength.
She celebrated her 8th birthday by reaching number one at the top of the US billboard singles chart following appearances on American TV and radio. She also launched her latest album. In December, Connie performed in Berlin, at Disneyland Paris, in Korea, Taiwan, the Philipinnes and Hong Kong and making a return appearance on The Ellen Show in the US.
Interested in playing football? Colron Boys Football Club under 12s are based in Streetly and are looking for new players. Training is at Streetly School at 6.00pm on Thursdays.
Contact Gary on 0781 4542888.
The Birmingam branch of Age Concern has set up a new service called FIRSTCALL whch will enable the elderly, and their families and helpers, to get help through a dedicated
phone line and website. Firstcall for Birmingham is manned between the hours of 9am - 5pm Monday to Thursday and until 4.30pm on Friday, The number is 0121 270 3311 and the website is www.ageconcernbirmingham.org.uk.
Streetly Wedding Belle Joanna Meadows married Scott Hayler at The Ventian Hotel, Las Vegas. The couple honeymooned in Egypt.
Veseyans RFC are continuing to battle their way to Twickenham. After a narrow win over Wolverhampton they beat Cleobury Mortimer 48 -0 - a great confidence booster to take with them when they play Bishops Castle in their next match.
Streetly Hockey Club had a mixed bag of results. The Steetly 3rd XI and the Streetly Badgers both lost their matches but the Streetly 2nd XI held out against the Kingswinford 2nd XI to beat them 4 - 0.
Streetly Tennis Club had a brilliant result when they won both the Senor Mixed and the Men's 60s doubles titles at the National Veterans Inter-Club Tournament held in Brierley Hill recently. The Streetly over 60s mens team will now represent Great Britain in the 2009 European Club championships. Well done to them!
January 2009 News
Streetly residents will benefit from an improved train service on the cross city Lichfield to Redditch Line via Birmingham New Street. From December 15th the number of evening and Saturday services will be increased to four an hour doubling the existing frequency. It is hoped that Sunday frequency will be increased in the future too. New timetables will be in Blackwood Road Library and in the travel shop, Birmingham New Street Station as soon as they are available. Or you can email www.networkwestmidlands.com
Residents of George Frederick Road are still up in arms about the loss of their daytime 377 bus service. Many of the residents are elderly and unable to access the new route and will have to rely on taxis or friends who have cars. Having contacted National Express they are convinced that the change is merely a way of boosting income and has nothing to do with providing a 'service'. The new route will add a further 10 buses an hour travelling to Kingstanding whilst leaving these residents stranded.
Bus number 56/56A, Diamond bus service from Brownhills to Birmingham via Aldridge, Streetly and Kingstanding introduced some timetable changes from January 4th, 2009. Details available on this website and at www.networkwestmidlands.com
New timetables will be available from Blackwood Road Library and from the travel shop in Birmingham New Street Station.
PC Gary Hall of West Midlands Police, stationed at HQ Birmingham is the Diversity and Community Cohesion Officer for the West Midlands Policing area.
PC Hall is looking for a group of Senior volunteers who would be interested in becoming a voice of the senior community to the West Midlands Police.
This would be purely a voluntery role however transport and refreshments would be supplied. I am looking for up to 25 people in all but they may not all be needed on the same day or evening.
The role of the Senior Independant Advisory Group (SIAG) would be to advise the police service on items & concerns which are linked to the police service and our more senior community.
We are looking for a group of senior people over the age of 55 who would be willing to give about 2 or 3 hours per month to help us with this project which would be doing a great service to the community.
If you would be interested in joining the group then could you please contact me on 07833 720015 or my desk number at the Police HQ: 0845 1135000 ext 76306144.
PC GARY HALL
DIVERSITY AND COMMUNITY
COHESION OFFICER
1ST FLOOR, AQUA HOUSE
20 LIONEL STREET BIRMINGHAM
WEST MIDLANDS.
Newbridge House in Streetly, Sutton Coldfield, offers NHS help to teenage boys and girls with eating disorders battling problems like bulimia and anorexia to look like their skinny superstar idols.
Despite anorexia typically developing between the ages of 14 and 17 and bulimia from 16 to 22, most young people are treated in general psychiatric units at hospitals rather than specialist centres.
But Newbridge House, which even includes a classroom, will see psychiatrists, psychologists, family therapists, dietitians and occupational therapists giving teenagers and some young adults from across the Midlands NHS treatment.
It was opened amid growing concern that skinny celebrities such as supermodel Kate Moss, Victoria Beckham, Nicole Richie and Hollywood actress Lindsey Lohan were to blame for young girls becoming obsessed with their body shape.
And the so-called “size zero” obsession among fashion designers has also reportedly led to girls as young as eight trying to starve themselves.
Dr Richard Newland, a GP and chief executive of Newbridge House, said: “We have created a welcoming, homely environment which is distinct from the institutional, hospital setting where people with eating disorders are often treated.
“Eating disorders vary in severity and the way they affect each individual.
“Some people may stay in Newbridge House because they need a high level of treatment and support, others will come to our centre for day care, returning home every evening. Our team members are all specialists in the field of eating disorders with a wealth of expertise.”
Medical director is Prof Hubert Lacey, one of the most renowned in the medical area in the country.
The detached, 16-bedroom house has been turned into a residential home for boys aged between 14 and 17 and girls and women from the age of 14.
Most patients will be funded by the NHS and referred by their GP or a psychiatrist.
The number of children being admitted to hospital with eating disorders has risen by more than a third in the past decade with one in every 100 girls affected by eating disorders.
Birmingham has the highest number of people claiming incapacity benefit due to an eating disorder in the UK, with 40 people per 100,000.
After initial objections, Newbridge House on the Chester Road, Streetly has opened as one of only a few units which will offer specialist help to teenagers and young adults suffering from conditions such as anorexia and bulimia. The centre can be contacted on 0121 580 8362 or at www.newbridge-health.org.uk.
Praise for a local business hit the news when Regency Plaster of Aldridge Road, Streetly came to the rescue of a distressed couple whose plasterer made a dreadful mess and ruined the plaster arch bought from Regency Plaster. Regency Plaster not only provided a new arch free of charge but also sent a bona fide plasterer who did a fantastic job. In these days of rogue traders and 'couldn't care less attitudes' this company obviously deserves the business.
Have you got any more tales of good service so that we can spread the word?
POLICE are appealing for witnesses following a spate of distraction burglaries in walsall area including Streetly. Officers are currently looking into links between the offences. In each incident two white men in their late 20s called at the home of residents claiming to be from the Water Board and referring to an explosion causing contamination of water.
The men then entered the home of the victims and stole cash.
Two incidents took place at addresses on Goodwood Drive in Streetly, where the offenders took cash from the home of an 88-year-old woman and the home of a 70-year-old woman.
Det Chief Insp Robert Hazel, from Walsall police station, said: “There is no such thing as a water board anymore
“Officials from a water company such as Severn Trent or South Staffordshire will not require access to your home.”
Anyone with information about any of the incidents is urged to call CID at Walsall police station on 0845 113 5000 or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
£625 millions pounds has been allocated for crumbling Walsall secondary schools in line to be bulldozed and rebuilt, which includes among five schools, The Streetly Specialist Sports College ( Streetly School )
Proposals are in a early stage, and Debbie Hunton, headteacher at The Streetly Specialist Sports College, said there was a mood of elation among pupils and staff.
Members of the Cabinet are due to meet on February 4th 2009 to agree plans for the recommended schools.
16 year old Paul Heard who attends The Streetly School has just signed a contract with Birmingham Monarchs Cycle Speedway team.
Paul started racing in 2005 for Sandwell and became a leading junior, qualifying for three successive British Junior Finals in 2006, 2007 and last year at Poole in Dorset.
Paul won the prestigious Chairman's Cup at Bury in 2007, successfully defending it in 2008. He also reached the British under-19s Final in 2008.
Paul's father, John is a leading official in the sport, holding a number of key administrative positions.
Both are shortly to head out to Australia as part of the official British Lions Cycle Speedway team touring party.
Paul Heard has been named in the junior Lions squad and he is expected to challenge for the World Individual Junior title, also being staged in Australia in February and March 2009.
Paul said "Several of my main British rivals have signed for Premier League clubs and
I did not want to be left behind, I am looking forward to racing for Birmingham with my great friends Marcus Wadhams and Chris Timms."
Paul Heard is expected to make his Birmingham Premier League debut on March 15 2009 when the Monarchs head to reigning British Team champs Wednesfield Aces in a crunch local derby.
LIVING PAINTINGS is an award winning charity that provides braille and written copies of children's books. There are all the usual favourites such as Winnie the Pooh and the Gruffalo and educational packs are available too. This vital service provides a free picture book library to non sighted youngsters who look forward to having new books just as much as their sighted friends.
If you'd like to find out more about this library, if you'd like to join, or if you'd like to help in any way contact Su Pollard at at Living Paintings, Unit 8, Kingsclere Park, Newbury, Berkshire, RG20 4SW. Telephone 01635 299771 or www.livingpaintings.org
Are you an ex Coldstream Guard in Streetly area ? If so, you may like to meet up with other ex members of the 1st Battalion who meet up on the second Wednesday of each month at the Nautical Club, 3/4 Bishopgate Street(off Broad Street) in Birmingham City Centre.
The club holds dances and goes on trips to see the Trooping of the Colour and to visit training barracks to see recruits in training. It also visits soldiers in Selly Oak Hospital who have been injured in Afghanistan. The group would love to welcome some new members - lady friends and wives are welcome too. Contact Mike Broadbent on 0121 358 5122 or on 0780 319 8231.
St. Anne's RC School in Blackwood Road is organising 'Walk to School on Wednesdays' in order to keep fit and healthy. Parents and grandparents are being encouraged to get involved and classes will be competing against each other to see who can get the most walkers!
The 377 Walsall to Sutton Coldfield Bus has been re-routed. Off peak services will no longer travel along George Frederick Road but instead will travel along the stretch of Sutton Oak Road between the Parson and Clerk public house and Kingstanding Circle, continuing into Rough Road and Banners Gate.
The change has been made because of the demand from Walsall residents who want to travel to Kingstanding. However, residents of George Frederick, Westwood and Longmoor Roads are very concerned at the loss of this local service which they have had for over fifty years. These roads are hilly and many elderly residents fear that they will become trapped in their homes and no longer be able to do their weekly shopping.
Residents of Bridle Lane are up in arms about the continuing encroachment of phone masts. Two masts have been erected at the junction of Manor Road and Bridle Lane and a third one has just been erected a few yards away on the Chester Road in spite of planning permission previously having been refused.
Local singing star Connie Talbot appeared on the Oprah Winfrey show in America on November 17th. Connie's second album, which is a mixture of traditional and modern Christmas songs, is being released on November 24th and her American television appearance will be screened in this country later in the year.
Streetly MP, Richard Shepherd is lending his support to a campaign which will help local businesses to save up to £1,100 a year by claiming the 'Small Business Rate Relief that they may be entitled to. Businesses can check their eligibiltyby logging onto
conservatives website
A strong performance by Streetly Veseyans RFC guaranteed a 21 - 6 win against Leek, an excellent result after their previous disappointing match.
Knitting expert, Julie Reekie put an appeal in her doctor's surgery, and in Blackwood Road Methodist Church for help to knit blankets for local charities. Gwen Skeldon and Joyce Eade answered her cry for help and two blankets have already been donated to Age Concern with a third for Acorns Children's Hospice on the way.
Good Hope Hospital parents, whose babies die during pregnancy, at birth, or within 28 days of birth are to be helped to gather memories of their baby. SANDS - the Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Society - will provide a 'memory box' containing a camera, a white blanket, two teddy bears, a handmade card, and a trinket box for small items such as wrist tags.
SANDS provides information and support for bereaved parents and their families and can be contactd by visiting Sands website
Claire Boylan and Jenny Austin, both sufferers of alopecia -or hair loss- have formed a support group for fellow sufferers. Almost 300 people from the Sutton Coldfield and Walsall area now belong to the group which meets monthly at various locations to share problems, get advice, and make friends.
Join us to meet and talk to others with hair loss.
For information call Claire on 07785 501 588 or Jenny on 07530 718 382 or visit alopeciaonline website
A scheme run jointly by the charity Leonard Cheshire Disability and Barclays has helped 163 disabled people to set up in business and provided support to over 800 more. Steve Dent of Sutton Coldfield was paralysed following a spinal injury and was helped by the 'Ready To Start' scheme to form his company SPOKZ which sells disabled sports and lifestyle equipment.
For more information visit readytostart website or spokz website
A new restaurant was opened on the corner of Thornhill Road and Burnett Road in Streetly Village on Monday, 10th November 2008. 'MINT' hopes to provide straight forward dining using great British produce and will be serving food on Monday to Saturday from 6.30pm with Sunday brunch from 10.00am till 12.00pm and Sunday lunch from 12.00pm.
For more information or to make a reservation phone 0121 353 0488 or visit mint restaurant
Streetly area house-hunters looking for a stylish home are invited to register to buy off plan for a new development at Kingsland Grange, Bridle Lane, in Streetly. George Wimpey's brand new development will comprise of homes for all types of buyers, including contemporary two-bedroom apartments, and three, four and five-bedroom homes, with prices ranging from £139,995 to £400,000.
Home buyers registering their interest now, will receive details of the first properties as soon as they are released - and by buying off-plan, customers can stamp their style on their new home, choosing kitchens, bathrooms, floorings and fittings to suit their own specifications. To register for information about new homes at Kingsland Grange in Streetly, follow this link to the George wimpey website
On Sunday 26th October a sponsored PSDA dog walk was held in Sutton Park to raise money for vetinary care. more info available, just
Call freephone 0800 917 2509 or log on to www.pdsa.org.uk/walkies
The Air Ambulance went to the rescue when an elderly man from Foley Road East, Streetly fell over 25 feet from his ladder whilst trying o chop off tree branches. He was taken to Heartlands Hospital by the air ambulance, which landed in the grounds of Manor School, Briar Avenue, and was found to be suffering from neck and rib injuries.
Andrew Jordan is well on the way to more success. He has signed up with Triple Eight Race Engineering to race in the 2009 British Touring Car Championship in a Vectra run by Team Euro Tech. Dad Mike is a little jealous but extremely proud!
A £500 grant from The Midcounties Cooperative has enabled the Streetly Community Association to buy seven lightweight tables and a trolley to be used by the many groups who use this venue. Dance classes, flower arrangers, the WI, parties and weddings will all benefit. For more information or to find out about classes and groups available, call 0121 353 8630 or email; streetly association.
Could this be you?
The P*rr*tt Society is looking for people with the surnames Pirretts, Parrotts, Purretts, Perretts, Porritts or anything similar to discover more about their ancestors.
A local resident who was the president of the Sutton Coldfield Movie Makers has died after a short illness aged 101. Gladys Dean, a former teacher, was a founder member of Birmingham's Crescent Theatre.
Planning application refused.
Plans to turn what was previously Pinewood Nursing Home on Chester Road into a children's home have been refused. Application had been made for the building to become 'Newbridge House' a centre for children with eating disorders which residents did not object to.
Objections from local residents were raised when it was discovered that the application was a 'C2' classification. Once this classification had been granted the property could have been used for residential purposes, for a hospital, school or training centre, by reason of old age, disablement, past or present drug or alcohol dependency or mental disorders - without seeking further permission from the Council.
Residents were very concerned at the wider implications of such a development. A Council spokesman said that ' it was the wrong sort of venue for the wrong sort of place'.
World Record
Local resident Tony Davis was awarded a 'Guinness World Record' for the amount of blood he has donated. Tony is a 'platelet' donor and his 605 donations go back to before official records began. Tony's daughter needed the help of a blood transfusion when she gave birth to her first child and now Tony's donations are used to help cancer, haemophillia and dialysis patients.
Local business closes doors for the last time
Streetly Furnishings on Aldridge Road finally closed its' doors to the public on Sunday, 7th September after twenty two years of providing homeowners with beautifully crafted solid wood home furnishings. Director Mark Hyde is retiring from furniture retail to devote more time to a more recently developed import company and to seeing more of his family.
Happy Birthday to Vicky Southam
Snookers oldest fan celebrated her 108th birthday recently with cards from friends and relatives including one signed by snooker celebrities such as Joe Perry, Peter Ebdon, Ali Carter and Shaun Murphy. Vicky Southam was named after Queen Victoria . She worked as an orderly at Dudley Road Hospital during the first world war before going into nursing. As part of the war effort she also polished bullets and made soldiers'shirts. Vicky still lives independently, with some help, in her own home.
'Ace' performances
Streetly Tennis Club still continues to be on a winning streak across the board. Junior players Josh Sherrington and John Keighley won both doubles and singles titles over the summer months under the coaching of Richard Macey and his team. Derek Bradshaw and Ken Buswell reached the doubles final in the Over-60s. Ken also added the Over-75 grass court singles title at Wimbledon to the indoor and hard court titles he won earlier this year. For more information log onto www.streetlytennisclub.co.uk
Another 'run' of success!
Three local athletes ran away with gold medals in the British Masters Road Relays. Richard Cashmore, John Hughes and Bunny Kyd, who all belong to the Royal Sutton Coldfield Athletics Club, came first in the veterans Over-70 three mile road relay held recently in Sutton Park beating runners from all over the UK.
Jordans race at Silverstone
Father and son team Mike and Andrew Jordan, who were based in Streetly for many years before moving to Lichfield, both finished in the top ten of the British Touring Car Championship at Silverstone in front of a 27,000 crowd.
The Hardwick Arms is being researched by local historians who are keen to trace the history of the pub, they are currently trying to find out when the pub actually became the Hardwick Arms and have narrowed it down to between 1904 and about 1914 - even the brewery don't seem to know, if you have some information, please contact streetly website.
Local Streetly golfers, Steve Such and Mark Strange are organising the Annual golf tournament 'Autumn Cup' for the third year running. The tournament, involving two teams of eight players, is played over 3 days and this year will be held at th Wychwood Park De Vere Hotel in Cheshire.
Former Streetly Comprehensive pupil in TV series
Linzie Bissett was recently on air on Channel 4 every Thursday evening helping wine expert Monty Waldin set up a wine business in the Pyrenean foothills. The six part series is called 'Chateau Monty'. Linzie left school at 15 and her first job was working for insurance company Allied Dunbar. Now back in England and currently trying to set up a new catering business Linzie said that the experience was a chance of a lifetime and had changed her life.
Local man 'hits the boards' Alyn Evans, former Arthur Terry pupil and Streetly resident, was on stage in the charity gala performance of 'Me and My Girl' at the London Palladium in October 2008.
The performance raised money for the Anthony Nolan Trust. For more information see www.meandmygirl2008.co.uk
New furniture store opened in Streetly on Saturday, 20th September 2008 at 334 Aldridge Road, Streetly. Tel. 0121 352 1733. Open Mon - Sat 9.30 - 5.00 and Sun. 10.00-4.00. Lots of bargains. Managers Special every week.
Congratulations to local swimmoming Paralympic gold medal star Ellie Simmonds from everyone in Streetly.
On Saturday 13 September 12 noon a PROTEST MEETING was held outside ALDRIDGE BAIL HOSTEL Local residents concerned about a recent incident involving the sexual assault of a young 8yr girl in Aldridge, wish to press for the closure of Aldridge Bail hostel in accordance with the high court decision in 1996 which found that it should be closed. Streetly residents share these concerns having heard about proposals for 3 more facilities to be located in Streetly. These will be called "supported accommodation" and described as not bail hostels or registered premises, and therefor will "not be in any way secure" and provide accomodation for court bailed individuals who represent "no risk of significant harm to others" although it "excludes offenders with convictions for any sexual offence, cruelty to children or racially aggravated offences" under the terms of the government awarded contract to ClearSprings who describe their business as "a leading private provider of accommodation and support services for vulnerable clients, we pride ourselves in our capability to deliver services in a professional and safe manner." These new buildings will be rented private houses within residential areas which require no local consultations or planning permission, as part of a scheme introduced on Monday 18 June 2007 to enable the courts and prison governors to make greater use of bail and early release on a strict curfew. see more information here including the Government petition
Ex streetly race ace Andrew Jordan, was recently crowned as HiQ's 'champagne moment winner' for the first time following his brilliant drive at Oulton Park in July 2008 when he raced to his first ever podium finish. HiQ's asked spectators to vote for their star performer on their official website www.hiqonline.co.uk with Andrew winning 67% of the votes.
More success for Andrew Jordan who finished third overall in the 24th round of the HiQMSA British Touring Car Champonship at Knockhill. Dad Mike didn't fare so well. A brake problem lead him to start in 16th position on the grid finally finishing 11th in the third race.
Connie Talbot the young Streetly singing sensation is spreading her wings to star in her own karaoke game for the Nintendo Wii. The console game entitled 'Sing Along With Connie', is based on her recent album 'Over the Rainbow' features all 15 tracks and should be available early in 2009.
Sharon Bunn from Streetly won a brand new Vauxhall Corsa in the St. Giles Hospice weekly lottery. Steve Thompson Cars of Lichfield sponsored this pirize as part of St. Giles Hospice 25th birthday celebrations.
It's not just the British Olympic Team who are won gold - Streetly School is celebrating excellent GCSE results with 72% of pupils gaining five or more A* to C grades. In
recognising the pupils' hard work, head teacher Debbie Hunton was delighted with the results.
A heart warming tale - a man who underwent a heart transplant almost 20 years ago celebrated his Golden Wedding in August 2008. Doug Hindle and his wife Jean
say the secret to their happy marriage is always making time fo each other.
Proposals to convert a property in Chester Road, Streetly, into a care home for youngsters have caused considerable local objection and concern.
Inspirations Care Services have put forward the application to change use of the building to cater for 9 to 17-year-olds. This will be for children who have suffered from neglect, physical or sexual abuse or have been subject to traumatic experiences in early years.
In a report to councillors David Elsworthy, head of planning, building control and regeneration, has recommended the scheme is approved subject to conditions.
He says: “The applicants do not admit children who have sexually offended, who are drug or alcohol dependent or who have diagnosed mental health issues.
“The homes try and mirror family living as the children have usually not experienced any type of normal family environment.”
Residents are concerned about what kind of children will be housed, crime and disorder issues and fear it will be an overdevelopment in the area.
They also say there are already problems with anti-social behaviour from loitering youths and it would erode family character of Streetly. The site lies on the junction of Kingscroft Road.
Inspirations Care Services insist there will be three to four adults on shift from 8am until 10pm each day, with two adults on-site overnight. The application will be considered by members of the development control committee.
Outstanding nursery Ofsted report
Coogee Nursery School based in Burnett Road, Streetly has been classed as 'outstanding' by Ofsted Inspectors. Jane Medina, owner and teacher, said she was very proud and thrilled with the result. Everyone at the school worked tirelessly to give the children a loving, caring and exciting environment in which to blossom and develop.
coogee nursery school website
Police appealed for witnesses following a collision between two cars in Streetly on Saturday 9th August 2008.
A Honda Civic and a VW Golf were in collision on Foley Road West at around 2.35pm. The Honda then collided with a tree.
Two men, both aged 18, were taken to hospital with serious injuries. A 45-year-old man and a 48-year-old woman received treatment for minor injuries.
Foley Road West was closed for around 3 hours while inquiries were made at the scene.
Any witnesses are urged to contact the road policing unit at Walsall police station on 0845 113 5000.
Streetly doctor Richard prescribes a little fantasy fun
A local GP often swaps his stethoscope for the world of fantasy and magic. Dr. Richard Denning who is a GP based at the Oaks Medical Practice in Streetly, recently helped to organise a games expo event which showcased the hobby of board and role-playing games.
During the exhibition, visitors were able to learn about a wide variety of games including 'Dungeons and Dragons'. Dr. Denning and a host of other games hobbyists organised the event in their spare time in order to attract more people to take up the hobby.
There's a deer at the bottom of my garden
Deer-keeping hasn't been practised in Sutton Park since the town got its charter in 1528, but the deer haven't gone away - they are still spotted in Sutton and Streetly. The deer are the Reeves Muntjac breed and experts at Sutton Park Visitor Centre reckon that the number in Sutton Park is in double figures. Less numerous red and fallow deer have been spotted too. It is thought they follow the railway track and have been seen in Streetly near the where the railway crosses the public right of way from Lindrosa Road over Little Aston Golf course. Local residents have also reported sightings in their gardens. Early mornings are the best time to catch a glimpse of these beautiful but timid creatures.
Have you seen a Muntjac deer? Send details of your sighting and any photos to Streetly website
Streetly Furnishings, located on Aldridge Road, in Sutton Coldfield closed down in June 2008 after 22 years in business providing homeowners with beautifully-crafted solid wood home furnishings.
Director Mark Hyde, 50, retires from furniture retail to divide his time over-seeing a more recently developed import company as well as seeing more of his family.
"The Streetly Diva" now has a page on Streetly website which explains how she raises funds for good local causes and brings a smile to eveybody, see Diva Dorie
Streetly's very own young singing sensation Connie Talbot has also made it onto Streetly website Connie Talbot
Caroline Griffin recently moved to streetly on the estate opposite "Farmers Johns". I have discovered a lovely woodland with 2 lawned areas off Compton Drive and Gunstock Close. A lot of rubbish has been dumped at various places in the wood, there is a lot of dog fouling on the lawns and also a lot fencing is broken. The bird song as you walk along the path is lovely. There are also many varieties of wildflowers, Forget me nots, dog rose, ferns, blackberries, Elderflower, holly, laburnum, sycamore, oak, holly and many Rhodedendrons. There are 2 walsall Metropolitan Council signs saying "No fly tipping, penalty £50 by order of the Chief Executive and Town Clerk".
I have e mailed Walsall Council about the dog fouling, asking for signs to be put up.
Does anyone else in streetly know anything about it.?
I have found a book called the the Streetly Local History Trail in the Local History Department of Sutton Coldfield Library. This gives the history of the Blackwood area of streetly and how the Queslett road got its name, also info on the tabernacle chapel on Aldridge Road. and lots of other info on the history of streetly.
I have received a
reply from Andrew Cooper from Walsall Council, who visited the woods with an Arboricultural Officcer looking
at the issues I raised and those of other residents. He asked a
service provider to remove the flytipped waste from the rear of Gunstock
Close by the end of next week. He will report back to the Parks
Manager Nigel Illsley.
He has also told me that part of the councils tree management review they
are looking for local volunteers to act as tree wardens for woodlands and
open spaces and wonders if I would be interested in participating. I have
emailed back to say yes, and should anyone else wish to help, they should contact Ian Mcdermott 0121 360 9464 or via e mail, Mcdermotti@walsall.gov.uk
Streetly has set up its own local history group
The History group meet on a monthly basis looking at topics such as schools, shops and businesses, public houses, local characters, in fact anything which might be of interest.
If you have any memories of 'what used to be where' put them down on paper and either bring them to the next meeting or drop them into 51 Lindrosa Road, 15 Thornhill Park , or Blackwood Road Library. Don't worry about the spelling, we just want the facts no matter how trivial they may seem. Please include details of where you can be contacted.
The group has the backing of Walsall Local History Centre which would like to archive all material including any photographs you might have.
The Centre would also like to encourage the involvement of local school children.
The meetings and times are detailed on the Events page.
We shall also be remembering all the shops in Streetly. Any details - dates, names, location, owners and staff will be greatly apreciated.
Banners Gate United Reformed Church has been saved after members voted for a merger with Streetly Community Baptist Church. The URC building in Westwood Road will now offer a permanent home for the Baptists, who have been holding their meetings at Streetly School. The Baptists, who had an equal vote on the merging proposals, will add new life to the ageing congregation at Banners Gate, who have now been able to reverse their decision to close their church. Although it may take some time for the formal establishment of the Partnership, joint worship, mission and other activities have already begun and the first joint service was held on Easter Sunday. ( see the Church page for more information )
Streetly as part of Walsall Council is also part of "The Black Country in terms of Planning and Development"
Black Country Core Strategy: What is it about?....
The Black Country has a distinctive character and strong communities. Local people have strong ties to their area and are justly proud of the Black Country’s heritage.
However, the Black Country is also an area facing considerable social, economic and environmental challenges. To address these we need to build more homes to meet future needs, attract new jobs, shape the growth of town centres and transform the environment. Our vision is to create a Black Country where people want to live and provide a wide range of job opportunities.
The four Black Country Local Authorities of Dudley MBC, Sandwell MBC, Walsall MBC and Wolverhampton City Council are producing a Core Strategy. This will be a ‘spatial planning document’ which will guide the delivery of more than 60,000 new homes across the Black Country between now and 2026, supported by new shops, offices, leisure, transport and environmental improvements.
In your area this will cover :
the location and type of future housing developments
where jobs should be located
how people can move around the Black Country
the location and size of new shopping, leisure and cultural facilities
protection and improvement of the natural and built environment
how to address the needs of the Black Country’s diverse communities
Based on what people have told us so far we have identified a series of ‘regeneration corridors’ where this change will be focussed. These are shown on the map overleaf. The Core Strategy will affect all areas in the Black Country both inside and outside the corridors. Inside the corridors change will be focussed on delivering new homes and employment. Outside the corridors, in places such as Aldridge and Streetly, the focus will be on protecting and enhancing what is good.
More information including detailed proposals for the regeneration corridors and the centres of Brierley Hill, Walsall, West Bromwich and Wolverhampton can be found in the Core Strategy Preferred Options document. This can be viewed at the First Stop Shop, Walsall Civic Centre, at Aldridge & Streetly Libraries and Core Strategy On-line Copies can be sent to you by requested using this E-mail link
Other information available includes a summary of consultation responses received so far and technical evidence.
Further details are available from Mr Jon Lord
( Principal Regeneration Officer-Policy Team)
Walsall Council
E-mail Mr John Lord
Telephone 01922 652478
New rail services linking Birmingham to places like Aldridge, Streetly, Castle Bromwich, Minworth, The Fort and Walmley are being investigated by Centro.
The West Midlands public transport body is funding studies that will look at linking Birmingham with a number of possible new routes.
It has commissioned the research, which if positive, could be a first step towards a series of vital new services.
The plans include at least two new services an hour between Birmingham and Tamworth, calling at new stations at Kingsbury, Castle Bromwich and The Fort.
Trains on the route would also call at the new £9 million Coleshill Parkway Station and at Wilnecote and Water Orton.
They are also looking at services that would travel through Sutton Park between Walsall and Water Orton, calling at new stations in Aldridge, Streetly, Sutton Coldfield, Walmley and Minworth.
Key to the plans is the proposed implementation of new Chord lines in Bordesley, which would allow new and existing services to access the newly refurbished Birmingham Moor Street station.
Consultants Halcrow are carrying out the study and are due to complete it by November 2008. They will be looking at the cost, as well as key issues like overcrowding.
Planners and economists will also assess passenger demand, congestion, emissions and accidents.
Councillor Gary Clarke, chairman of Centro, said: "If these plans are realised, they will build on the significant investment already seen in regional rail network over recent years.
Free loft insulation and wall insulation is available to any Walsall ratepayer aged 70 or over.
Contact Hayley Campbell on 01922 652 123 for the full details. Walsall Council, Housing Standards and Improvements.
Free venue for non-profit organisations
The Innkeepers Lodge on Chester Road, next to the Parson and Clerk, is offering free access to its meeting room facilities to registered charities. This includes use of a LCD computer projector and screen, flip charts, TVs and videos. There is plenty of parking and disabled access. The room can accommodate 20 people for a business style meeting or up to 50 for a sit down event. The rooms will be available on a first come first served basis. 'Phone the duty manager on 0121 353 7785.
Walsall M.B.C. Draft Sustainable Community Strategy
The draft Sustainable Community Strategy provides a vision for Walsall in the year 2021 and sets out our priorities for the next 6 years. We have listened to local people and this is an opportunity for you to tell us how important the priorities that we have developed so far, are to you. Your response will influence the key things that service providers do and how resources are allocated. Please take a about 4 or 5 minutes minutes to answer the following questions in the link below.
Walsall Draft Sustainable Community Strategy Questions
Photography in Streetly.... is now being used to show how residents are proud of thier community and will work together with local communities and organisations including the Police in a bid to tackle and resolve any decline or damage in the area, nothing is more powerful ....than a picture !
See the photo Album
You are welcome to send Photographs of the local area to highlight those scenes and views you enjoy most, you may also wish to send any photo which brings attention to any area of damage or in need of repairs which can then be passed to the correct people to take positive action.
Want to complain about your Streetly area concerns... and get results ? well.....NOW YOU CAN....Its official...complaints get noticed when you take a moment to write it down on a NEW "One off Issue" FORM. Down load it , fill the essential parts of the form, then choose, take it to your next CAG meeting or Local Neighbourhood Parnership Meeting, post it, or even save it on your pc then email back. The aim of this form is to report details regarding a "one-off issue" that any resident of Aldridge South or Streetly may choose. This information will be logged with a unique reference number. Once the completed form has been actioned you can obtain the latest status of your issue by contacting Streetly area LNP officer John Morris (01922 652029).
Jane O'Conner PPI Facillitator
Just to introduce myself.... I am the Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) Facilitator at Walsall tPCT. I am new in post and my role is to ensure that you, the local residents, local workers and communities are able to feed your views into the groups that are responsible for commissioning the health services that you use in Streetly, Walsall. Your contribution will help lead to an improved quality of service, and better, more efficient services that reflect the needs of the community that they serve.
I will be meeting with voluntary sector organisations in Streetly and Walsall so that we can discuss how we could work together to achieve these aims.
If you wish to know more, please contact me:
Jane O'Connor
Patient & Public Involvement Facillitator
(PPI Facilitator)
Health Development
Jubilee House
Bloxwich Lane
Walsall
WS2 7JL
01922 619983
Streetly website attracts visitors from every part of the world including people who once lived in the local area and now live far away but wish to leave messages and memories to friends on a new page being prepared for Streetly website, contact us if you wish to be included.
Regular Blood Donor sessions are held at "The streetly Association" Youth Club. Foley Road East, Streetly, B74 3HR. New dates published on Whats on & Events Page.
