Community News - March 2015, Issue 8

• LONGBRIDGE • NORTHFIELD • COFTON HACKETT • LICKEY • KINGS NORTON • REDNAL • RUBERY •

NEWSCOMMUNITY WORD FROM THE EDITOR

Published in partnership with Bournville College March 2015, Issue 8

Do you have an interesting story to share? Is there something happening in your area you would like us to report on? Then get in touch with us by:Email: [email protected]: 0121 477 1380Twitter: #OurLocalNews

Bournville College launches new Construction CentreBournville College celebrated

the launch of its brand new £6 million Construction and Building Services Centre in Longbridge.

Over a hundred delegates, including project partners, employers, staff, students and local residents attended the event. The Centre was declared officially open by Councillor Brett O’Reilly.

The two-storey, 30,000 square feet purpose built facility comprises of workshops for plumbing, brickwork, gas and new technologies, electrical installation, painting and decorating as well as ACS Gas Test Centre, dedicated computer suite and six theory rooms.

Michele Sutton, Interim Principal and Chief Executive, commented: “As the economy recovers from recession, we are excited to be offering our young people the skills necessary to find a job in the thriving construction industry. We already have strong provision in this sector – last year Ofsted judged courses in construction as ‘Good’.”

The Centre was designed in consultation with Construction Training Industry Board and local employers to be able to accommodate future curriculum expansion driven by continuous industry changes

and technological advances. In addition, the facility has been awarded a BREEAM Excellent rating.

Brett O’Reilly, Labour Councillor for Northfield Ward, said: “I very much welcomed the opening of Bournville College’s Construction Centre. There is a huge demand for skills in the South of Birmingham, and it is great to see further investment from Bournville College in this area.”

‘Ofsted judged courses in construction as ‘Good’.’

‘Excited to be offering our young people the skills necessary to find a job in the thriving construction industry’

INSI

DE:

PLU

S:Longbridge surviving the last 10 years P6 - 7

Take the kids out this Easter P11

£500 MILLION FACELIFT FOR BIRMINGHAM’S WHOLESALE MARKET - SEE PAGE 3

COMMUNITY NEWS - Published in partnership with Bournville CollegeMarch 20152

NEWS

In January I welcomed constituents to “Northfield Talks”,

a public discussion at Northfield Baptist Church to talk about the early findings of my survey on immigration, and local peoples’ concerns on the issue.

The idea to hold the survey and event were in response to the many emails, letters and conversations I have with local people on the doorstep. I know people are worried about the management of immigration and how it affects jobs, wages, and public services like schools, social housing and the NHS.

In addition to the hundreds of people who participated in the survey, over fifty constituents braved the snowy weather to hear the findings and raise their concerns at the event. They deserve a very special thank you!

The survey found a large majority (67%) think immigration is an important issue, especially in relation to wages and working conditions. The most common concern was the need to stop people’s wages being undercut, with 89% of local people surveyed calling for more resources to enforce legislation around the minimum wage and employment conditions.

What that highlighted for me is that beneath people’s concern about immigration are often worries about other things – about the need for better training and job opportunities for young people, about insecurity at work, about the NHS and about the shortage of good quality affordable housing. And about the fact that all too often politicians don’t seem to listen.

Sadly, parts of the media find it easier to equate all this with immigration, when the reality is rarely so simple. Sadly some political parties think peddling myths are a better way to get votes than discussing facts.

Take the NHS. People at the event recognised that our hospitals simply would not function without doctors and nurses from abroad. But that is no excuse for the UK not to train up enough doctors and nurses here. Sadly nurse training was cut since 2010. The Government must turn that around.

Contrary to what you sometimes read in the press, many people at the event thought it is important to maintain Britain’s tradition of offering a safe haven to those genuinely fleeing torture and persecution. But they want to be assured claims are genuine and that decisions are made more quickly. Other issues expressed in both the survey and the meeting included controls on foreign criminals entering the UK and the importance of people from abroad learning English if they are to settle here.

What people were less convinced about is that the answer is a fixed cap on numbers. Eighty-three per cent of people surveyed did not believe the Government’s cap works. People know it can actually stop people coming in who can make a real contribution to our economy. 70% of respondents did not understand why international students have been included in the cap. People agreed that immigration controls should be smarter, and that we need better staffing and border controls to properly record who is coming in and leaving. It’s madness that we don’t have that now.

Northfield Talks brought together a wide range of views of people from different ages and different backgrounds - in responses to the survey at the event and in the online discussion that accompanied it. It was a challenging discussion at times but an important one. We need openness to distil the facts from the myths. And it showed Government needs to a lot more, on border controls, on banning employment agencies who only recruit abroad, on enforcing fair wages and on improving skills and training to name but a few.

You can read the results of my survey on my website: www.richardburden.com/immigration

ImmigrationRICHARD BURDENView from your Labour MP for Birmingham Northfield

Can Richard Help?Richard Burden is the Labour MP for the Birmingham Northfield constituency which covers Frankley, Kings Norton, Longbridge, Northfield, Shenley, Rednal, Rubery, Weoley and West Heath. If you have a problem – from housing to traffic issues – that you would like Richard’s help with you can get in touch by: Writing to Richard Burden MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA

Calling 0121 477 7746

Emailing [email protected]

@RichardBurdenMP

RichardBurden4Northfield

You can also make an appointment to see Richard at one of his regular advice desks in the constituency. You can call 0121 477 7746 to make an appointment and confirm the venue.

TESCO Express store in Northfield serves its last customer

TESCO Express store in Northfield closes as supermarket giant

makes sweeping changes across the UK.

The closure saw 15 employees, most of which were local residents face an uncertain future. Another key concern for local shoppers is the health of the Northfield high street, which is vital to the local economy and community, it remains to be seen what will replace the store.

Tesco’s Chief Executive Dave Lewis, told Northfield MP Richard Burden, in a letter that the Bristol Road Store would remain open until the 15 March and customers would be served through their “local West Heath Express and Bournville Esso Express and our dotcom service.”

Mr Lewis commented on the closure stating: “The decision to close the store has been exceptionally difficult to take. I recognise the closure will affect many hard working colleagues, our customers and the local community.

Shoppers who are on the look out for alternative local convenience stores, are still blessed with a range of options in Northfield Town Centre. But those who will remain loyal to Tesco will have to travel over a mile from the previous location to West Heath Express.

YOUR VIEWSDo you have an interesting story to share? Is there something happening in your area you would like us to report on? Then get in touch with us by:

Email: [email protected]: 0121 477 1380Twitter: #OurLocalNews

COMMUNITY NEWS - Published in partnership with Bournville College March 2015 3

Community News’ Top 10Are you planning a romantic evening, someone’s birthday, or maybe you’re just looking to try something new? Check out our suggestions for the top 10 local restaurants.

In no particular order:

La Banca ItalianLooking for a taste of the Mediterranean? From pizza to pasta, La Banca has it all.

LaiLing Cantonese Restaurant ChineseA delightful traditional Cantonese restaurant, worth a visit for lovers of Asian cuisine. (429 Lickey Road)

The Cod Pot EnglishOur list wouldn’t be complete without a traditional English fish and chip shop… that said, The Cod Pot is one of the finest around.

Westmead Hotel Bar & Cafe LoungeOn the look out for a carvery? You won’t be left disappointed. Generous portions of top quality food. (Redditch Road)

Thania Spice, Monsoon Restaurant& Omar Khayam IndianBirmingham is famous for its simply amazing selection of quality Indian restaurants. It was a difficult task, but we managed to select our top three. Thania spice: 27a Alvechurch Road Monsoon Restaurant: 75 May Lane Omar Khayam: 771 Bristol Road South

Veg Out VegetarianAre you a vegetarian? Don’t worry; we haven’t missed you off our list. Veg Out specialise in fine dining for vegetarians. If you’re a veggie, it doesn’t get better than this!

Leverton & Halls For lunchIf you’re looking for a spot of lunch, or just a quick bite to go, check out Leverton and Halls. Fantastic tasting, fast grub. (218 Mary Vale Road)

Victoria Inn RestaurantSimply put, this is pub dining at its best. Enjoy a great British menu, in a lovely, warm, cosy atmosphere.

Feel like we’ve missed a hidden gem? Let us know your favourite by emailing [email protected]

Veg Out, 46 Poplar Road

Victoria Inn, 113 Hewell Road

The Cod Pot, 29 Watford Road

Westmead Hotel Bar & Cafe Lounge

La Banca, 1896 Pershore Road

£500m facelift for Birmingham’s Wholesale Market Places to eat

The plan, which costs a whopping £500 million, will take ten-year

plan to complete and cover 34 acres of Birmingham’s city centre.

The site will see over 1,000 new homes and an incredible 3,000 new jobs. In an attempt to boost the local economy the plans also include space for several museums, cinemas an art gallery and a music venue.

Sir Albert Bore (leader of Birmingham City Council) stated: “Our plans for Birmingham Smithfield will create a vibrant new destination - adding to the city’s

reputation as a top visitor destination and a great place to live and do business.”

In order to ensure the plan runs smoothly, Funding has been secured via the Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) .

Andy Street (chairman of LEP) said: “Birmingham Smithfield provides a new and exciting opportunity to secure investment for the city’s gathering renaissance which will create new jobs and long-term economic growth.”

LONGBRIDGE, SURVIVING THE LAST TEN YEARS - SEE PAGE 6 - 7


There’s a lot been said in the news recently about school crossing

patrols and whether the Council will continue to fund them.

The arguments as to whether they should be retained took me back to when our older son first started school at Turves Green Infants. Mrs Newman was the crossing lady and she knew every child and who should, and shouldn’t, be picking them up from school. One unforgettable day a neighbour’s child decided that, at the age of six, she could go home, a 15-20 minute walk away, by herself - yes, those were the days when children “managed”to walk to and from school! Despite standing to cross in amongst a crowd of people, the youngster got as far as Mrs Newman’s lollipop stick and no further. “You’d best wait with me until dad arrives”, she said. Those that were looking for the girl at the School all shuddered at the thought of what might have been if Mrs Newman hadn’t been there. Years later the same Mrs Newman was still crossing children outside the Turves Green Schools but it was the children of pupils she’d previously helped, how she was missed when she retired.

During my year as Lord Mayor we invited all the crossing patrol people in the City to join us for afternoon tea. For us it was a pleasure to be able to recognise the invaluable service they give in keeping our schoolchildren safe.

I feel very strong that crossing patrols must stay and this is why I’ve encouraged my colleagues Debbie Clancy and Rachel Maclean to collect signatures on petitions to let the Labour Council know no price can be put on keeping our children safe. It did seem a little odd to me that the Labour Council announced that crossing patrols would be abolished and then

a few days later Labour Councillors and Members of Parliament made the announcement that some had been “saved” for twelve months but then strange things happen in the Council around election time.

Last year a few days before polling day a Labour councillor announced that West Heath Library would be re-built and leaflets were circulated to this effect. His announcement came after months of me trying to get the Council to honour a previous commitment to provide a new Library in West Heath and them saying “no”. Later I was told that the comments about the re-build had been made in a personal capacity and nothing had been decided by the Council. At the time of writing this article, and after many meetings, there is little sign of the new Library in West Heath but, then, as I said previously, strange things happen around election time so hopefully it’s a case of watch this space!

As we get closer to the garden growing season I’m receiving more and more phone calls and letters from residents about green wheelie bins. Last year residents had the choice of bags or bins, this year, it’s the Council choice. I have the greatest admiration for the person who managed to push a bin up the steepest of drives but how they expect the resident to push it back down when full is beyond me. The same goes for bins that have been delivered to those with steps up to the front of their property.

Common sense seems to have gone totally out of the window so if you have a problem with wheelie bins (or anything else) please don’t hesitate to contact me on 0121 475 8246 or email [email protected]

RANDAL BREWView from your Conservative Councillor - Northfield ward

School crossing, libraries and wheelie bins

WHAT DO YOU THINK? CONTACT US WITH YOUR VIEWS

‘I feel very strong that crossing patrols must stay’

Bournville College chooses Tiny Babies Big Appeal as Charity of the Year

T iny Babies Big Appeal will be Bournville College’s charity in

2015, it was announced at a charity ball which raised over £16K for the neonatal unit at Birmingham Women’s Hospital.

The sell-out event which attracted over 260 attendees to the College was organised by a couple whose twin girls were cared for in the neonatal unit after being born twelve weeks early.

‘We would never be able to thank the staff at the unit enough for saving the lives of our precious babies but what we wanted to do was organise a fundraising event to make sure the unit can continue to help babies like ours’ Alma Aganovic, twins’ mum said.

Alma, who works at Bournville College, wanted the event to take place there in order to raise awareness amongst students and staff at the College.

‘It was a wonderful opportunity for everyone at the College to get involved. Catering students cooked and served our meal, music students provided entertainment, art students got involved in photography and collateral design, so it has given them great experience. We’ve also had amazing support from the staff with both running the event and attending on the evening.’

The money raised will enable the neonatal unit to purchase four heated cots they desperately need. Students and staff at Bournville College are now eagerly planning a series of fundraising events

and activities in what promises to be a busy year. Participation in the Morrison’s Great Birmingham Run, pamper session for patients and a talent show have been discussed so far, but the list of possibilities is endless. In addition to fundraising efforts, Bournville College students are eager to volunteer their time and, where possible, link their support of the charity to their studies.

Michele Sutton, Interim Principal of Bournville College, said: ‘Not only are we honoured to support the hospital which helped Alma and her family, we must also remember that this is our local hospital. Most of our students were born there. Many of our adult students have had babies there. Some of these babies, no doubt, ended up receiving care in the neonatal unit that we’re raising funds for tonight.

Birmingham Women’s Hospital is our community’s maternity hospital, same as Bournville College is a community college. We always encourage our students to be true citizens and get involved in the local community and help others. I’m proud of the generosity of our students and staff who give their time, money and commitment to raising money for such a great cause.’

Eileen Rock, the fundraising manager at the Women’s Hospital, said: “We are extremely pleased to be chosen as Bournville College’s charity. We rely on fundraising, donations and community support to upgrade our facilities and this new partnership will provide a much-needed boost.”


A community message from Bournville CollegeWe are looking for feedback on our new strategic direction

After several rounds of negotiations with stakeholders,

members of the community and students, Bournville College is proposing to follow a new mission statement, values and strategic objectives.

In order to better refine our direction and make sure we are meeting the needs of our local community we are welcoming feedback on our new statements and strategic value objectives. (See right)

Do you agree, or disagree? Your feedback will allow us to better support both individuals and the community as a whole.

Please submit your views to: [email protected] or in writing:

Bournville College Marketing Department 2 Devon Way, Longbridge Birmingham B31 2TS

Submissions must be received before: Friday 10th April 2015

MISSION STATEMENT “Raising Aspirations, Transforming Lives”

VALUES STATEMENT

Successful Continually improving everything we do to ensure excellence in the quality of our services.

Transparent Communicating with integrity, openness and transparency with all stakeholders

Resilient Delivering value for money and financial sustainability to enable future investment in our services, learners and communities.

Innovative Identifying new areas and methods of teaching, learning and collaboration that meet the needs of our learners, communities and employers.

Diverse Providing an accessible working and learning environment that meets the needs of our learners, and celebrating the progress, achievement and destinations of all.

Empowering Providing opportunities that enable individuals to achieve their full potential and improve their prospects.

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES

1 Continually improve the quality of teaching, learning and assessment to raise success rates and enable our students to secure further progression and target destinations.

2 Ensure the college and all its activities are financially sustainable and contribute towards maintaining its solvency and ability to invest in the future.

3 Identify unique curriculum opportunities that strengthen Bournville College as a brand and align to local and regional economic activity and technological advancements.

4 Introduce new methods of curriculum delivery, including the use of new technologies, to improve the employability and skills of our students and recognise the opportunities of the regional, national and global economy.

5 Align college services, funding and educational opportunities with the needs of the community, regional employers and the Local Enterprise Partnership.

6 Encourage creativity in our students, staff and other stakeholders to deliver fresh ideas, and recognise innovation and achievement.


Longbridge, survivingHow a community pulled together and is now

Terrible shame.What we now have to do is look after the workforce and the families of the workforce.

Tony Blair, PM 15 April, 2005

Sir John Bourn10 March, 2006

Peter Pritchard, Rover dealer 27 December, 2005

Stressful time.MG Rover held an important position in the local economy and local communities of the West Midlands.

Mismanagement.They strung us along. It was gross mismanagement.

It’s almost 10 years to the day since the news broke regarding the collapse of MG

Rover. More than 6,000 MG Rover workers lost their jobs, but the damage spread further afield, with an estimated 25,000 jobs lost in related supply industries. This took the total job losses to over 30,000.

The closure and loss of jobs left the Longbridge community in a state of disarray. As the biggest employer in the local area, unemployment was rife, local shops suffered from a lack of customers and local residents even moved away from the area to seek work.

Astonishingly reports in 2014 claimed that liquidators are still assessing and picking through the remains of the last British owned, mass-market car manufacture.

The end of an era

‘It was a bleak time.’

Inside the MG Rover complex - Taken by Pete Ashton

Loading the monosides - Taken by Spencer Cooper

Birmingham Post, December 2006


the last ten yearsset to receive the benefits

Redevelopment. We will certainly create more jobs than there are at the moment.

Anthony Glossop, St Modwen 15 April, 2005

David Dodge 17 October, 2013

Matthew Hancock MP 27 September, 2012

Regeneration.Affordable houses to rent and buy, represents a significant investment and is further evidence of our commitment to making the regeneration of Longbridge.

Resurgence.Bournville College and its new campus is clearly going to play a vital role in regeneration of Longbridge.

The story of the resurgence of Longbridge actually dates prior to the

collapse of MG Rover. In 2001, St Modwen was selected as a development partner for a 57-acre plot of land. The company then acquired a further 228 and 183 acres in 2003 and 2004. This land is now home to a range of modern facilities, which serve the local community:

Bournville College When the College arrived in 2011 the now thriving town centre didn’t exist, in fact it was a wasteland. The College now caters for 20,000 students per year and has introduced several commercial facilities to local residents, including a gym, hair & beauty salons, a conference centre and an MOT test centre/garage.

Sainsbury’s and Marks & Spencer’s A few years after Bournville College arrived, so did Sainsbury’s. Sainsbury’s has given local residents the convenience of a mega store on their doorsteps. Later in 2015 Marks & Spencer’s will open up a flagship store next to Sainsbury’s.

In terms of economic growth and employers, both are set to become major parts of the community

Food outlets & travel accommodation The town centre now has the privilege of 6 food outlets, a number that will only increase during the coming years.

Austin Park Named after Lord Austin of Longbridge, who founded the Austin Motor Company at Longbridge in 1905, Austin Park represents the £2 million investment in providing a three acre green heart at the centre of Longbridge town centre.

MG MG was confirmed as the fastest growing automotive brand for 2014 according to the latest figures released by SMMT. The iconic British brand grew sales by 361% following a highly successful launch of its new MG3 supermini, a major expansion of the dealer network and the addition of a new performance diesel powertrain in the MG6.

A rejuvenated, thriving town centre.

Even though we’re 10 years down the line since one of our darkest days, we’re still recovering. It has been a long road, one we’re still travelling down, but there is light at the end of the tunnel.

NORTHFIELD RESIDENT WHO SERVED IN WORLD WAR TWO TURNS 100 - SEE PAGE 10


B31 VOICES

Some of our news from February - lots of positive news this time!

Recovered iPhone, supportive community, students raise money and Peppa Pig visits Northfield Shopping Centre

Michelle Hickinbottom’s daughter, Shaunnah, was travelling on the

Cross City south line and accidentally left her iPhone on the train.

Michelle, from West Heath, called the phone and it was answered by Josh Brown, who said he would hand the phone in at Selly Oak. Michelle told him how grateful she and her daughter were and asked him to leave his address so she could forward him a £20 reward for his kindness.

However, generous Josh didn’t leave his address with the phone, instead leaving an

inspirational note, asking them to ‘pay it forward’.

The note inspired a social media search for Josh asking #WillTheRealJoshBrown PleaseStandUp and after a few days he was found!

Animal lover Josh Brown is just 12 years old and lives in Alvechurch. When they heard about Josh’s good deed, Stone Willy’s Kitchen in Longbridge offered him a free pizza.

Thank you for being our new hero, Josh!

The local community offered support to a mother and her young daughter

after a car smashed through into the living room of their apartment in Frogmill Road - just one day after they moved in.

The car driver was taken to hospital but his injuries were not thought to be serious. Luckily, the occupants of the apartment were not injured, but were very shaken.

A man had been arrested on suspicion of drink driving following the accident. West Midlands Fire Service crews removed the vehicle and made the building safe. The occupant of the flat was overwhelmed by offers of support from the local community.

Local man Colin Redmond, who was passing at the time, helped the driver from the car and also offered assistance to the occupants of the flat.

MP Richard Burden visited to offer support and many local residents offered support and help on the B31 Voices Facebook page.

Katie said: “I am overwhelmed at people's response to this. I feel truly blessed that there are good people in this world.”

We hope that she and her daughter can settle into their new home soon and wish them all the best for the future.

Recovered iPhone Supportive Community

Photo taken by Rob Norman of West Midlands Fire Service


B31 Voices is a community website run by local volunteers. It covers the Northfield district, including Frankley, Kings Norton, Longbridge, Northfield, Rednal, Weoley and West Heath.

B31 Voices provides an interactive resource for news, issues, campaigns, events and more throughout the district.

Images courtesy of Northfield Shopping Centre

Two A level students are raising money for a trip to help disadvantaged

children in Africa. Shenley Academy students, Dashen Allen, who also works at Clarks shoes in Northfield Shopping Centre, and Cameron Andrews are also asking people to donate shoes and clothing that they can take out to Africa to give to the pupils at Mpondwe School, in the remote Mpumalanga region of South Africa. Fundraising challenges so far have included a leg shave and a 2.5km swim at Northfield Pool. You can follow 4TeamAfrica on Facebook or Twitter.

Any donations of clothes and shoes can be dropped in to St Gabriel’s Church, Marston Road & Shenley Lane, Weoley Castle, West Midlands, B29 5PL between 11.30am - 2pm.

Images courtesy of Northfield Shopping Centre

P eppa Pig paid a visit to Northfield Shopping Centre in February, much

to the delight of young fans! And young Persian Bristoll was especially excited to meet her! The Kings Norton 4 year old was diagnosed with life threatening Wilms tumour in his kidney and lungs at the age of 2. After gruelling treatment at Birmingham Children’s hospital, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy and having a kidney removed, the day Peppa visited marked one year cancer free for Persian! Persian’s mum Kate said that they were celebrating the day like a birthday and meeting Peppa was a perfect treat for his special day.

The Longbridge Convention, at the Hollymoor Centre, saw a

broad cross section of the community – including community organisations, residents, councillors, police, fire service and more – come together to discuss local challenges and working together on solutions. The convention was hosted by Longbridge Neighbourhood Watch and Frankley Carnival Committee.

Anyone who is interested in being invited to future events should email Bruce Pitt at [email protected]

West Midlands Police Longbridge Neighbourhood Team welcomed a new Sergeant, Sgt. Raf Khan, in February.

On a sad note, at least two cats suffered injuries after being hit by pellets from

an air gun in the Longbridge and West Heath areas in February. Both suffered serious injuries.

The RSPCA are investigating the incidents and anyone with any information is asked to call them on their 24 hour animal cruelty line 0300 1234 999

4TeamAfrica

Peppa Pig visits Northfield Shopping Centre

Longbridge Convention All help appreciated

You can find more on all these stories and news, issues and events as they happen, at www.b31.org.uk Find us on Facebook at B31 Voices and on Twitter @B31Voices

Musicwith Bournville College

Tune in and study MUSIC with us!Enquire today:

0121 477 1111 or [email protected]


The Big Hoot programme set to unleash school childrens’ creativity

Children from across Birmingham still have time get involved in the city’s

largest ever public art event, as the deadline approaches for schools to register to take part in a dedicated curricular programme devised by the organisers of The Big Hoot, and sponsored by the Schools of King Edward VI.

Due to launch this summer, The Big Hoot will see Birmingham become a virtual aviary with more than a hundred 165cm owl sculptures set to appear throughout all ten districts of the city. Presented by leading arts and education company, Wild in Art working in partnership with Birmingham Children’s Hospital, The Big Hoot has been launched to help boost business, tourism and civic pride throughout the region, with an ultimate aim of raising more than £500,000 for Birmingham Children’s Hospital.

In line with the event, the schools programme offers teachers the chance to take part in a dedicated curricular programme which will give children the opportunity to design and decorate a 90cm ‘owlet’ sculpture.

Comprising a creative, cross-curricular and key stage 1-4 appropriate series of activities, the schools programme is designed to fit into existing school curriculums by covering subjects including art and design, the study of birds, mammals and reptiles, as well as links to science, humanities and ITC. Participating schools can also access CPD training, delivered by Arts Connect West Midlands, for teachers in the delivery of

Arts Award so students can achieve the ‘Discover’ and ‘Explore’ levels of this nationally-recognised qualification.

The Schools of King Edward VI will be the official education partner of the education programme, and its eight city sites will each participate in the curricular programme by decorating their own owlet sculpture.

Its involvement in The Big Hoot is set to provide a boost to its existing primary school outreach scheme, which will bring the project to even more children throughout Birmingham, whilst also allowing staff to identify gifted and able students from all backgrounds in an effort to encourage them to consider taking the 11 plus exam to gain entry to the Schools of King Edward VI.

As the official Education Partner, the Schools of King Edward VI will also receive a full-size owl sculpture, with one lucky pupil due to get an opportunity to work with a leading local artist to create the final design.

With packages priced from £525 + VAT, it’s hoped that up to 200 schools will take part in the curricular programme. The schools’ finished ‘owlet’ sculptures will be exhibited in Birmingham in line with the arrival of The Big Hoot this summer, with the schools able to keep their owl upon completion of the project as a timeless souvenir of their involvement.

For more information, please visit www.thebighoot.co.uk

Denis Ramplin, Director of Marketing & Communications at the Schools of King Edward VI, said: “We’re pleased to be working with The Big Hoot on this dedicated schools programme which will help to develop children’s skills across multiple disciplines in a fun and engaging way. It will also help us to bring the excitement of The Big Hoot to children across the city, and to inspire them to get involved with the arts.”

Richard Russell, Assistant Head at King Edward VI Five Ways and Outreach Co-ordinator, said: “This is a programme which will complement our existing outreach schemes in conjunction with our partner primary schools. We want to identify the able gifted & talented children from disadvantaged backgrounds in order to provide an opportunity to gain entry to our schools.”

Sarah-Jane Marsh, Chief Executive of Birmingham Children’s Hospital, said: “As a children’s hospital, we are passionate about the development of young people across Birmingham, and The Big Hoot schools programme is a great way to bring the excitement of the project into the curriculum. The Big Hoot is a major part of our fundraising plans in the coming year, and we hope that by giving young people this level of ownership of the project, they will play a key role in helping us to spread the word about this great initiative.”

Northfield resident who served in World War Two turns 100Ralph Cox who currently resides at

Beeches Residential Care Home was born in Lozells in 1915, he reached the grand age of 100 during February this year. Amazingly Ralph defied the odds to survive WW2, despite being shot three times whilst serving his country. For his effort and bravery Ralph was highly decorated receiving a total of six military medals.

In his life before the Army Ralph married his childhood sweetheart and first wife Anne. Together they had four children, during this period of his life Ralph worked as a fireman.

After the war he returned to the Midlands and settled back into family life. Many years later unfortunately Ralph’s first wife passed away, which led Ralph to marry for the second time in 1982.

Ralph, who currently has 13 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren, has attributed his long life to being an avid, all-round sportsman. Remarkably he managed to play golf into his early 90s.

Do you know of any local heroes? Or residents who have gone above and beyond? Let us know at: [email protected]


The West Midlands’ first ever Open Device Lab (ODL) has launched at

the Innovation Centre at St. Modwen’s Longbridge Technology Park, attracting web designers and developers from across the region.

Longbridge Device Lab provides the developers of websites and online applications with a place where they can test their products on a library of smartphones and tablets, for free.

The launch further establishes the Innovation Centre as a digital enterprise hub, which is attracting organisations keen to be part of a growing community of web businesses.

Established by web design agency Ballyhoo, which is based at the Innovation Centre, the ODL is part of a global not-for-profit initiative that enables developers to test their products on an array of devices.

There are 17 other ODLs across the country – but until now, the West Midlands’ web designers and developers have had to travel outside the region to discover how their websites and apps perform.

Founder of Longbridge Device Lab and Ballyhoo, Alison Chaffey, said: “Until now, web developers based in the West Midlands have needed to travel to Cheltenham, Sheffield or Manchester to test their devices.

“Feedback from people who attended the launch of Longbridge Device Lab a few weeks ago shows this is a much needed facility and we have already received a stream of visits and enquiries from web designers and developers wanting to trial their products.

“The Innovation Centre is the ideal location for this venture thanks to the growing number of digital enterprises based here in addition to the first rate transport links and amenities at Longbridge Town Centre.”

James Teal, manager of St. Modwen’s Innovation Centre, said: “Longbridge is proud to be home to the West Midlands’

first ever ODL. It supports our aim of becoming a world class connected community and hub for ICT companies.

“The Innovation Centre provides an excellent complementary business environment that enables close working relationships to be established amongst a range of organisations, while promoting growth and job creation.”

St. Modwen, the UK’s leading regeneration specialist, has created more than 3,700 jobs as part of the mixed use community it is developing at Longbridge.

West Midlands first open device lab attracts web developers to Longbridge

Take the kids out this EasterLooking for a fun filled activity for the family this Easter? Visit the Easter Barn at Becketts Farm. Activities range from holding day old chickens, to feeding the lively lambs. For the more adventurous you can also say hello to Al, Luna and Sara the alpacas or Maggie, Kiki and Ruby the donkeys.

Other activities include a craft marquee, which includes, a wonderful selection of treats available for purchase. Children can also get involved in craft based activities by designing their own Easter flowerpots and planting sunflower seeds.

The Easter Barn is open every day from 28th March – 12th April, from 10am – 4pm


Clarke Willmott family lawyer warns Birmingham’s cohabiting couples to protect themselves legally

Birmingham’s cohabiting couples are often unaware about their lack of legal

rights, warns a city centre solicitor following the release of government statistics today.

Official figures published by the Office for National Statistics* show that the unmarried family is now the fastest growing type of family unit in the UK.

There has been a 30% increase in the number of cohabiting couple families over the last 10 years (2004 to 2014).

Rayner Grice, a partner and head of the Birmingham family team at Clarke Willmott, says that the growing number of couples who are having children before getting married – or choosing not to tie the knot at all – are not paying enough attention to their legal position. They can protect themselves and their children by making formal cohabitation agreements, she explained.

“The ‘common law’ husband or wife is a myth – it doesn’t exist,” said Grice.

“We are seeing more and more Birmingham couples who believe that by merely living together they accrue legal rights over their partner’s assets and income, which simply isn’t the case.

“The pressures of the economic climate means that couples do not place marriage as a priority when, in modern society, it impacts very little on day to day life,” she said.

“However, what is not widely understood is the position for those individuals and their children if that relationship breaks down.”

When an unmarried couple splits up, the court can only consider the principles of property law, which in many cases will depend solely on contributions that each may have made. Any other financial resources, such as income and pension, are disregarded.

“Often one partner will have spent time not working in order to be at home with the children. If that relationship then breaks down then that party cannot make a claim for financial support for themselves,” explained Grice.

“Similarly the court does not place as much emphasis on the needs of the children with unmarried parents. Maintenance provision for the children is merely dealt with by an application to the Child Maintenance Service for child support to be paid by the non-resident parent. There is also limited

consideration over where a child is to live and the court can only, if appropriate, make orders for the benefit of the child and not the parent.”

“It is very important that, when couples are thinking of setting up home together, they are clear about what their roles and contributions are going to be.

“Consideration needs to be given to the provision they wish to make for each other and their children in the event of a breakdown and/or death of one of the parties. This is especially important of the property and assets are held in the sole name of one of them.

“At Clarke Willmott, we have seen an increase in enquiries for advice relating to cohabitation agreements as an attempt to safeguard future provision, particularly for children.

“It is also important that when purchasing a home together that the parties think carefully how they wish to own their respective shares. If it is not their intention that they should share in the equity equally, then this needs to be properly recorded in the title deeds on purchase.”

If you have any queries regarding a family law difficulty then please contact the family team at Clarke Willmott on 0845 209 1382.

*ONS Families and Households 2014 Statistical Bulletin, published 28 January 2015

‘30% increase in the number of cohabiting couple families over the last 10 years’

‘The ‘common law’ husband or wife is a myth – it doesn’t exist’

Email. [email protected] | Twitter. #OurLocalNews Post. Bournville College, Marketing Department, 2 Devon Way, Longbridge, Birmingham, B31 2TS Distribution. 1 B L Direct Marketing - 07456 69379 - [email protected]

Harvey’s LawA win for pet owners

It’s one of the scariest thoughts for pet owners. Not being able to locate your

beloved cat, dog, or other pet. A recently passed law means the highway agency has a legal obligation to notify you if your pet is killed on the road. The law, named “Harvey’s Law”, means any pet killed on Britain’s roads must be collected, identified and their owners notified.

Transport minister John Hayes told MPs: “I have asked the Highways Agency to ensure that indeed they do collect and identify every animal that is killed and contact the owners by whatever practicable means.”

“I have told the Highways Agency that is what I expect. It will be a requirement and that is what will happen.”

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Community News - March 2015, Issue 8

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Transcript of Community News - March 2015, Issue 8