Aldridge Residents Association Messages

Aldridge boy wins E & S Local Hero Award

Dusan Popratnjak — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 20:41:57 GMT

Schoolboy Ben wins E&S Local Hero title

Brave Walsall schoolboy Ben Sambrook, who battled back from a brain tumour and has now inspired fundraising to help others, was today named the latest Express & Star Local Hero.

The 10-year-old Cooper and Jordan School pupil fought off a grade four malignant tumour. He was first diagnosed two years ago.

The experience led his mother Sharon to launch the Ben Sambrook Trust, which now stands at £63,000. Ben, from Aldridge, has been given the all-clear, although still returns to Birmingham Children’s Hospital for check-ups on a regular basis.

He was presented with his award at school and has been invited along with his parents Sharon and Steven as well as younger sister Emily to Molineux on December 7 for an award-winners’ meal, attended by Wolves players and other celebrities.

Sharon said: “We are very proud of Ben and to receive this award is special. He is really well now, doing all things 10-year-olds do, playing football and going out on his bike with friends. The Trust has also taken off beyond all of our expectations.”

Local Heroes, now in its sixth year, is jointly organised by the Express & Star, Wolves and Birmingham Midshires.

Ben said: “I’m really chuffed with the award. I’m looking forward to going to Molineux even though I’m a Birmingham City fan.”

Just this week the Trust has received £1,300 from Thomson Airways, which announced in April it was to support the charity with a percentage of all donations. Ben’s school has also launched its own mobile phone recycling initiative.

The money from the Trust specifically funds research projects to improve diagnosis and treatment off high grade glioma.

Re: Pupils drink lab chemical

Lee Baker — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 20:26:47 GMT

What a bunch of idiots.

Pupils drink lab chemical

Dusan Popratnjak — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 19:57:20 GMT

Pupils drink lab chemical

Six school pupils drank ethanol they had taken from the science lab of their West Midlands school while apparently mimicking a storyline from a BBC drama.

The teenagers were rushed to hospital after drinking the pure alcohol they took during a lesson at Aldridge School, allegedly copying a storyline from Waterloo Road.

The five girls and a boy, aged 14 and 15, were today said to have escaped any lasting health problems.

Education bosses in Walsall today said the BBC had “taken a risk” with the TV ethanol plot.

Councillor Rachel Walker, portfolio holder of children’s services for Walsall Council said: “It’s unfortunate that the young people had access to the chemicals involved and did not take on board the further content of the programme. The BBC has taken a risk with their programming as they do with lots of their gritty storylines.”

Warnings are now being sent out to other borough schools about securing chemicals following the drama, at 2pm yesterday.

Wednesday’s episode of Waterloo Road showed characters making ethanol cocktails. But it also featured a nurse repeatedly telling the pupils they could die from drinking ethanol. A BBC spokesman today said the show had tackled the issue in a “responsible manner”. He said: “The episode clearly showed the dangers of using ethanol and did not glamourise it in any way.”

The pupils from the Tynings Lane school were taken to Walsall Manor Hospital but were allowed to leave with their parents yesterday evening.

A letter to parents from school head teacher David Mountney today said a probe had been launched. “There are no concerns about their health and well-being and all of them are fully engaged in their GCSE exams at school today, as normal,” he added.

Aldridge cash plotter is jailed

Dusan Popratnjak — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 20:16:37 GMT

Cash plotter faces jail

An Aldridge businessman was facing jail today after using his town centre shop as a front for money laundering.

Richard Williams, who ran Aldridge Interiors, was being sentenced at Birmingham Crown Court.

The 45-year-old, of Marshall Close, Aldridge was found guilty of two charges of money laundering for using his business to conceal large sums of money made by a nationwide drugs smuggling ring.

Williams was also to be sentenced for his part in smuggling over 2.2 million counterfeit cigarettes.

Kitchen firm boss from Aldridge is jailed

Dusan Popratnjak — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 20:13:21 GMT

48 years in jail for gang of smugglers

A gang of smugglers who shipped pure cocaine with a street value of £300,000 into the country have been jailed for a total of more than 48 years.

Mastermind Paul Price, of Weeford, near Lichfield, was sentenced to 10 years and nine months after admitting to conspiring to bring 4.2kg of the drug into the UK.

Kitchen firm boss Richard Williams was jailed for five years for using his business Aldridge Interiors to laun-der more than £1million made from the operation.

The five-strong gang was sentenced at Birmingham Crown Court yesterday.

The court heard that Price, aged 39, of Hungry Lane, was “deeply involved” in the operation.

Williams, 46, of Marshall Close, Aldridge, became embroiled in the network by associate Price.

He was convicted of two counts of concealing criminal property relating to money laundering in July after it emerged that £1million had passed through the shop in Portland Road.

He was also convicted at a separate trial for smuggling 2.2million counterfeit cigarettes.

Mr Adrian Maxwell, defending Price, said his motivation was to clear a £20,000 debt he had built up with a £100-a-day crack cocaine habit.

Aldridge Mail firm

Dusan Popratnjak — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 20:07:36 GMT

Mail firm on the up thanks to post strike

A private mail company is snapping up scores of business customers from strike-hit Royal Mail – and most say they won’t be going back.

Send Marketing is now handling up to 50,000 letters a day at its base on Aldridge Fields Business Park. Managing director Guy Chatburn said: “About half have only just come to us in the last two or three months, in the run-up to the strike action. A survey of our customers found eight out of 10 said they would not go back to using Royal Mail for their business post.”

The five-year-old company has 15 staff handling business mail at its Aldridge base, such as promotional letters from Wolverhampton’s Grand Theatre, Symphony Hall in Birmingham and Birmingham Rep as well as Nationwide Autocentres and Fujifilm.

“We handle letters, not parcels, and we use independent postal companies like Secured Mail, TNT and City Link,” said Mr Chatburn. “They handle the mail until it is delivered to a Royal Mail delivery centre – effectively Royal Mail only handles the last mile of the process, pushing it through the letter box.

“Because we handle mail in bulk, we can print and deliver a letter for just 27p, 3p per letter cheaper than a Royal Mail stamp.

“And we have also found that, despite the strike action, 94 per cent of our customers have been unaffected because we are largely by-passing the disruption of the Royal Mail’s collection and sorting network.”

Swoop nets 6m fake cigarettes

Dusan Popratnjak — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 20:03:52 GMT

Swoop nets 6m fake cigarettes

Six million fake cigarettes have been seized from an Aldridge industrial unit, it was revealed today.

The haul of counterfeit goods was hidden in boxes labelled as mixed vegetables and would have cost the public purse around £500,000 in lost tax revenue.

Keith Morgan, detection manager for HM Revenue & Customs, said no arrests had yet been made but that investigations were under way. He would not reveal which unit had been targeted in Friday’s raid.

Plan for extension to supermarket blocked

Dusan Popratnjak — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 19:57:05 GMT

Plan for extension to supermarket blocked

A plan to expand a West Midland supermarket by demolishing a neighbouring ambulance station has been thwarted after councillors turned them down on road safety and noise grounds.

Morrisons wanted to knock down Aldridge Ambulance Station and build a bigger store in a move that would have created 100 jobs. It would have also paved the way for a reshuffle of paramedic bases across Walsall with plans for a smaller base in Aldridge, next to the supermarket’s proposed new service yard.

But elderly residents who live in Croxalls Court sheltered flats directly opposite the proposed development in Anchor Road said they were unhappy with the plans due to current noise nuisance.

Eileen Turner told Walsall Council’s development control meeting last night: “We object to the service yard as it will be 40m nearer and immediately opposite our apartments.”

She said some residents were being disturbed at night by current 24-hour loading activity at the supermarket and there were concerns over the number of delivery lorries visiting.

Ashley Turner, of architect’s WECC which designed the scheme, said his firm worked closely with the council and West Midlands Ambulance Trust, which was in favour of the plans saying its Aldridge base was to large for its purpose.

The council’s planning officers had recommended the plans for approval.

Councillor John Rochelle, of Aldridge, said: “I am appalled by this application. We were promised a reasonable facility for the ambulances. I think the people of Aldridge will lose out.”

Councillors refused the application on grounds it would adversely affect the amenities of the neighbours at Croxalls Court, increase the traffic on the Aldridge Bypass, the access to the new ambulance base was inadequate and dangerous and an increase in noise levels.

No one from Morrisons was today available for comment.

Worker threatened in armed raid at the Co-op

Dusan Popratnjak — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 18:20:26 GMT

Worker threatened in armed Co-op raid

Masked raiders forced their way into an Aldridge Co-op store, threatening a worker with a crowbar before making off with cash, stamps and cigarettes.

Two men burst into the Co-op in Walsall Wood Road through a back door, confronting a terrified 21-year-old male assistant who was in the building alone.

Ds Rob Bastin, of Walsall CID said: “This was a frightening incident and we are appealing for anyone who was in the area of the Co-op around 6.30am on Saturday or anyone who saw anyone suspicious or any suspicious vehicles in the area to contact the CID at Walsall.”

Clare Rajan, spokeswoman for The Co-operative, said: “The member of staff was unharmed but badly shaken. CCTV footage has been given to the police who are investigating.

“As with any incident such as this, The Co-operative is reviewing security measures at the store and we would appeal for anyone with information to come forward.”

No-one was hurt in the robbery. The offenders are both described as being white men, wearing black balaclavas and dark clothes.

Restaurant move at Champagne Harry's

Dusan Popratnjak — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 12:58:43 GMT

Former nightspot lined up to serve Cantonese meals upstairs.

A 180 - seater restaurant could be created in the middle of a parade of shops in Anchor Road,Aldridge,creating new jobs.Plans have been put before Walsall Council for the expansion of Cantonese Express currently sited in Anchor Road.

The takeaway at the former Champagne Harry's nightclub opened earlier this year,but it has now lodged a plan to create a restaurant upstairs withh 180 covers creating jobs for kitchen and waiting staff.Solihull based agent LG Design Associates has urged Walsall Council to approve the plan.

Joe O'Brien,the site supervisor for Aldridge Shopping Centre,said "We were always aware this was their plan and as far as I know every one is happy for it to go ahead.

We do not have a Cantonese restaurant currently in Aldridge so it seems it is a good addition.That unit would be a big one to have sitting empty.If the plan is approved by councillors it will allow for a kitchen on the ground floor with a restaurant on the first floor.A report to the council by LG Design Associates state the aim of the application is to have the ability to vary the usability of this property.The unit concerned starts at the end of a large parade of shops in Aldridge.

If the application is successful the unit will be the subject of some investment to improve its potential.The opening hoours of the restaurant are proposed to be 12.00pm to 14.00pm and 17.00pm to 11.00pm Monday to Thursday and 12.00pm to and 17.00pm to 11.30pm Friday to Saturday with opening hours 17.00pm to 10.30pm on a Sunday.

The LG Design report added of the proposal aims which is to capitalise on the opportunities presented in the provision of revitalised premises that will hopefully cater fully for the local needs of Aldridges wider community.

The former night club spot sits between a row of existing shops and takeaways with parking bays along its frontage.

Post office where boss stole over £5,000 goes on sale.

Dusan Popratnjak — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 12:46:07 GMT

Lazy hill Post office goes on sale.

A Aldridge post office where the boss stole thousands of pounds from customers accounts has now been put up for sale,and a search has been launced for a new post master.

A postmistress from the Black Country conned elderly customers out of thousands of pounds by tricking them into punching in debit card pin numbers twice.

Jasvinder Kaur Uppal helped herself to nearly £5,000 after her victims elderly customers unwittingly made double withdrawals from their accounts.

The village branch lease is now up for sale for £110,000 with a new postmaster needed to take over on a permanent basis.

Jackie Stenson,of RoyalMail said "its business as usual at Lazy Hill Post Office which is being run by a temporary sub - postmaster and the branch is being sold as a going concern.

Postmistress Uppal was found to have tricked customers into entering their PIN's twice and taking double transactions.

Uppal aged 37 living in Wilkes Avenue Bentley,Walsall admitted to 10 charges of theft totalling £1,840 and asked for a further 19 offences involving sums totalling £3,130 to be taken in to consideration during an appearance before Walsall Magistrates this week.She is to be sentenced on October 27th at Wolverhampton Crown Court.

Local church breaching a noise abatement order

Dusan Popratnjak — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 23:19:09 GMT

"Nuisance " Church hall venue in call to stay open late.

(Police object to noisey church club's bid for late - night events)

An Aldridge church club located in Whetstone Lane that was recently stripped of its entertainment licence for being too noisey now wants to stage four late - night events which has attracted opposition from local police.The Friary Club is seeking permission for four temporary event notices to screen football matches and to hold a "New Year's Eve bash.But West Midlands Police has objected claiming it has "no confidence" in the management of the club to control noise levels.

Baed at St Mary of the Angels Church the club twas stripped of its entertainment licence last year following complaints from near by neighbours about late night partiies that were being held there.

However the popular venue continued playing loud music,leaving its furious neighbours unable to sleep.The club admitted four charges of breaching anoise abatement order and was fined £500 for each offence and told to pay the costs of £741.71p in May this year.

If the club gains approval for its latest bid at a meeting tomorrow,the club can stage entertainment on October 10th,17th,24th and December 31st.The October 10th event is to allow the screening on Sky Sports of the World cup England v Ukraine football game followed by the Aston Villa v Chelsea game on the 17th and the Wolverhampton Wanderers v Aston Villa game on October 24th,followed by the New Years event on December 31st until mid night.

A statement from PC Brian Doyle of Walsall Police Station to be delivered to councillors making the decision said "WM Police have no confidence in the management of The Friary Club can or will control noise levels at its venue.

Inventor from Aldridge

Dusan Popratnjak — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 23:09:26 GMT

Inventor digs in with new idea for Dragons

A West Midland inventor who survived a grilling on TV’s Dragon’s Den is busy cooking up a new money-making invention.

Peter Neath and Ian Worton, from Aldridge, were seen by millions presenting their Grillstream machine on the popular BBC show. But after failing to secure the £120,000 investment they were looking for, 47-year-old Mr Neath said he was hoping to return for the programme’s next series with his latest brainchild, an easy-to-use garden fork.

He and former Barr Beacon School friend Ian, aged 46, originally from Pheasey, attracted interest in the low fat cooking device from a number of the dragons, with millionaire businesswoman Deborah Meaden admitting that turning it down could a big mistake

And Mr Neath, who is the UK director for car parts firm Magneti Marelli, said his experience of dealing with executives from major international firms such as Volvo and Ford had stood him in good stead.

“They set it all up to make you feel very nervous, but we managed to hold our own,” he said.

“The grill is designed to make sure none of the fat drips through and Deborah Meaden decided to have a closer look, so we were happy it worked when she tested it.

“I think because it worked and they could all see it was a good product. They were really quite polite with us.

“We did get the old line from Theo Paphitis, asking what we were going to spend his kids’ inheritance on. But in the end, I think they were only really looking at it as a licensing deal, rather than the retail product we see it as.”

But Mr Neath said they had already secured deals with three big retailers, including Lakeland.

Mr Neath said his easy-to-use garden fork had also been accepted to appear.

“I think it just goes to show that traditional Black Country skills picked up in the automotive industry can be put to good use in designing so many different things.”

Aldridge mansion to be sold

Dusan Popratnjak — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 23:00:13 GMT

Fraudster’s mansion to be sold

A convicted fraudster’s £1.8 million country home in the West Midlands that was ravaged in a suspected arson attack will be rebuilt and sold, it has emerged.

The palatial five-bedroom home on Chester Road, Aldridge, was left in ruins following the huge blaze, with police estimating £400,000 of damage. The Serious Organised Crime Agency (SOCA) had confiscated the property, and another in the palatial grounds, under the Proceeds of Crime Act because they alleged it had been bought from ill-gotten gains.

The arson attack came just a week after SOCA released pictures of the site.

But SOCA spokesman Stuart Hadley said the fire would not prevent the sale going ahead.

“The property will be repaired under insurance and sold as normal,” he said.

“The proceeds will then be split between SOCA and the treasury, 50-50.”

He said that extra security measures had been put in place since the blaze, to prevent any repeat attacks.

The house was previously owned by David ‘Nipper’ Harris, who was jailed for six years in 1994, aged 44, for being the ringleader in a £35 million mortgage fraud.

Pictures of the home in the days after the attack showed the conservatory doors and windows had been blown out, the roof ripped off and the once bright decor and furnishings replaced by a blackened shell.

A converted barn in the grounds escaped the blaze, along with an artificial football pitch with floodlights.

Police were alerted when a badly-burned man staggered into Bloxwich police station on the night of the fire last April.

Classic boat for sale

Dusan Popratnjak — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 22:54:37 GMT

Fast sale hope on classic boat

It was the “E-Type Jaguar” of the boating world in the 1960s designed to cut through the waters at speed.

So when Aldridge businessman Gordon Whiston bought his 12ft 6 Light Craft Graduate racing dinghy 42 years ago for £300 he was the envy of his Dudley Yacht Club pals.

Now moored in his Portland Road home’s front garden and decades since it touched water, Gordon is keen to see the handmade dinghy go to a good owner.

The father-of-one said: “I bought it when it was nearly new, I was a member of a yacht club and sailing was all the fashion. In those days once you were accepted into the clubs you then had to buy the boat they sailed or you couldn’t join.

“I was a member at Dudley Yacht Club which used the Netherton Reservoir, I also took it to the seaside a few times to Wales.

“But it hasn’t been used in nearly 30 years now and I no longer have anywhere to keep it, so I would like to see it go to a good owner.”

The dinghy was made by Wyche & Coppock Ltd in Nottingham and Mr Whiston still has all of the original books and certification which describe the dinghy as perfect “for the discerning helmsman.”

“It is still in its original varnish, though probably needs a new coat now,” he added. “The original wooden mast was stolen and has been replaced with an aluminium one, aside from that it is all original. In modern terms it is probably not that fast, but it was the E-Type Jaguar of its day.

Mr Whiston has the boat, its trailer and cover up for sale for offers over £300. Anyone interested can contact him on 01922 454782.

Reg's Mobility Scooter stolen

Dusan Popratnjak — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 22:49:17 GMT

Anger as thieves take mobility scooter

An 87-year-old war veteran has lost his independence after thieves stole his mobility scooter worth £2,500 from outside his home.

Retired teacher Reg Snell from Aldridge has been left distraught after he discovered it missing on Tuesday morning. He had only owned the vehicle for two weeks and said it had become his lifeline. The great-grandfather has made an emotional appeal for the culprits to hand it back, saying he is now confined to his Walsall Road home.

Mr Snell, a widower, fought for his country from 1940 to 1946 while a member of The Royal Engineers, serving in Italy and Egypt.

He has two sons, seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He worked as a teacher at Lindens Middle School in Streetly, retiring in 1986.

“It really has upset me,” he said. “I have lost my independence. I can walk about the house but I simply can’t walk very far. I rely on my scooter to go into the town.

“I couldn’t believe it when I got up on Tuesday and discovered it had been stolen.”

His 62-year-old son, also called Reg, added: “He has to park the scooter outside his front door because the distance from his garage to his house is too far for him to walk. Stealing a mobility scooter from an elderly, disabled man is cruel and despicable. My father has been left really upset by this.

“This scooter gives him independence and he lost that now.”

People with information should call Aldridge police on 0845 113 5000.

Daughters lose Court Battle.

Dusan Popratnjak — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 22:40:21 GMT

Daughters lose court battle over will money

Two daughters who said their father promised them his house when he died – only to leave it to his new wife in his final will – have failed in a High Court bid for inheritance.

Averil Macdonald, aged 51, and her sister Deborah Bannigan, 48, said they gave their father Joseph Frost £100 a month for 20 years in the belief he would leave them his house in Harborough Drive, Aldridge.

But instead, the widower, a popular man known locally as the Mayor of Aldridge for his community involvement, wrote a will soon after he married his second wife Marion in 2002.

He left his £231,000 estate to her and his daughters got nothing. At the High Court, lawyers for the sisters said they were entitled to the house under the legal principle of “proprietary estoppel” – claiming he had made a firm promise to them that the property would be theirs.

Ms Macdonald, who lives in Winchester and is a professor at Reading University, and Ms Bannigan, of Rugby, both agreed that, if they won the case, Marion would have to be provided for, but said they should get whatever was left of Harborough Drive when their step-mother died.

But Judge Geraldine Andrews rejected the sisters’ case yesterday, and said monthly payments they had made to their father – and their mother when she was still alive – were made “solely in return for an advance on their inheritance”.

The judge added that she was “disappointed” that both sides had not been able to reach a compromise in the case, adding she had got the impression she “had not been told the full story”.

Mr Frost had not invited his daughters to his wedding to Marion in November 2002, while Deborah did not attend his funeral – “indications of far greater family tensions than anyone was prepared to admit”, said the judge.

Mr Frost, who died aged 83 in 2006, was a member of the local Conservative Club, the Royal British Legion and an active member of Aldridge History Society. His late wife, Clare, died in 1995.

Listed building is bought up after only a month on the market

Dusan Popratnjak — Sat, 26 Sep 2009 18:57:06 GMT

Mystery buyer snaps up former bingo hall.

A long standing Aldridge bingo hall will be taken over by a mystery buyer next week.The former Gala Bingo in Anchor Road was put up for sale just last momth by owners Gala Coral after more than 30 years of bingo at the site.

It has already been snapped up by a firm to be unveiled next week.Gala Coral spokesperson Sarah Mercer said.Contracts are due to be exchanged next week on the Aldridge club but we cannot say any more at this stage.More information should be released next week.

The news comes after Gala Bingo in Dudley shut down at the weekend although Gala Coral said it also had a buyer lined up for that site.Gala Coral has blamed the tough economic climate and the hike in bingo tax duty in Aprils budget for the closures.The Aldridge club,which stands in the centre of the town,was formerly the Avion Cinema built in the 1930's.It is a listed building and has been hailed as an example of fine architecture in the past.

It is believed it was on the market for more than £1 million.

The venue was shut on August 1st shedding 18 jobs after owners Gala Coral decided to axe six of its clubs nationwide.

Around 300 customers turned out in force to enjoy a last few games before the closure with many staying from opening until close on the final day.

Aldridge Councillor Tom Ansell said "I am chuffed to hear that some one is taking over whatis a classic building in the middle of Aldridge.We will just have to wait and see what it is to become.

I hope it will be kept for leisure use and not turned in to a mini supermarket or a warehouse or something.There are a lot of rumours going around but we have not been able to establish any of them yetIf it becomes a pub it must be the right sort and not encourage binge - drinking.

Bingo halls have also been hit hard by the smoking ban,which was blamed for forcing the closure of Mecca bingo in Wolverhampton in 2007.

Members there fought desperately to save their club but their efforts were in vain.

Bowling machine is taken in raid at club.

Dusan Popratnjak — Sat, 26 Sep 2009 18:51:12 GMT

Scorces of sports mad youngsters left unable to perfect their skills.

Thieves have stolen a £2,000 bowling machine from Aldridge Cricket Club,leaving scorces of enthusiasts unable to perfect their batting skills.Bosses at Aldridge Cricket Club,known as the Stick and Wicket,are appealing for help to find their valuable machine,stolen during a raid earlier this month.Police are asking people to be aware of any one who may now be trying to sell it.Thieves struck at the club,located at the Green,Aldridge between 09.00am and 12.30pm on September 13th.

They forced their way in,stealing the BOLA bowling machine,worth over £2,000,a Bola power unit as well as a storage box.Andy Downes,the club steward,urged anyone with information about the machine to come forward with information.The machine is used by lots of youngsters because we have got a big academy that ranges from around six or seven year olds to 18.

The bowling machine was used constantly throughout the summer.It goes on one side of the field and the kids go on the other,simulating a cricket crease and it bowls balls at them at different speeds and heights

Its a very large machine,so there must have been more than one of them to get it out of there.But club chairman Jon Rowley who has been at the helm for three years,said the thieves had not taken the legsthat the machine stands on,meaning it can not even be used.He said the loss of the machine would hit the 154 year old club very hard.We have just finished the season but when coaching resumes in a few months,it will have a really big impact.We may have to start fund raising to purchase a new one.

PC Tony West,from Aldridge neighbourhood policing team said that the stolen equipment is very distinctive and fairly specialised,so there is every chance it will stick in some ones mind if advertised to the public.

Any one with information should call Aldridge Police on 0845 113 50000

Church marking its 40th birthday

Dusan Popratnjak — Sat, 26 Sep 2009 17:43:58 GMT

An Aldridge church is getting prepared for a big celebration to mark its 40th anniversary.Duing its four decades St Thomas's Church,Aldridge which opened on September 13th 1969,has seen hundreds of worshippers and community members pass through its doors.The church centrer, in St Thomas's Close,has been a base for scouts,Girl guides,Beavers,Cubs,toddler groups,Bible study groups and even its own football team.It has also helped create hundreds of friendships through the Coppy Hall Friendship Club,which welcomed local pensioners for fun filled afternoons and evenings of music,dance and Easter bonnet parades.

Former Walsall F.C. captain Peter Hart,now minister at St Lukes Church in Cannock,is one of the most high profile names to pass through the church.Rev Hart,who made close to 500 appearances for the Saddlers during a 10 year career was involved with St Thomas's Church,later prompting him to devote his life to the church.

For church member Jim Chalmers a retired Walsall College history lecturer,the anniversary has provided the perfect opportunity to delve in to the church's history since it was set up to serve the newly created Kinghayes Estate. in Aldridge.

The 62 - year old,originally from Merseyside has been trawling through photographs and collecting peoples memories,joined by fellow parishoner Clive Thomas.He said "When we moved to the area we were looking for a church and St Thomas's just stood out to us.Its a happy,family - orientated church".

Celebrations will begin on September 25th,with a Caribbean themed night of food and drums from 19.00pm.On September 26th fathers,grandfathers and their youngsters can have some fun at the Wide Awake Club,from 10.00am while in the afternoon there will be a family fun session.

From 19.30pm a Christian magician,choir and guest artists will perform.Celebrations will be rounded off on September 27th at the Sunday worship at 10.30am

Barr Beacon

Dusan Popratnjak — Sat, 26 Sep 2009 11:25:32 GMT

Plans for visitor site at centre go on hold

A multi-million pound scheme for a visitor centre in Barr Beacon may not materialise for some time, said council chiefs today, as they admitted other projects were a priority.

The £2.3 million scheme failed in a bid for funding in 2007 and Walsall Council was forced to withdraw the application including a cafe, children’s education room and community exhibition area. Council chiefs have failed to secure alternative sources of cash and said today it could be some time before the visitor centre dream is realised.

The authority is looking to slash £13.4m from its 2009/10 spend and has already axed 50 jobs, cut library hours and scrapped the Walsall Illuminations.

It also emerged earlier this month workers could face a pay freeze and cut in working hours to offset a predicted £5.6 million overspend for this year.

The Barr Beacon proposals were put forward as part of the £50 million Black Country Urban Park bid which was scuppered in December two years ago.

It came second in the ITV People’s Millions competition organised by lottery chiefs where the scheme was backed by the four Black Country boroughs.

It secured 29 per cent of the vote while the winning Sustrans cycle network bid supported by 79 local councils received 42 per cent.

Since losing the TV vote there has been no sign of development and although the authority insists it remains committed to the scheme but they are no nearer to finding funds.

Councillor Adrian Andrew, deputy leader and chairman of Barr Beacon Trust, said: “We remain committed to a visitor centre at Barr Beacon but unfortunately in the current economic climate we are having to prioritise our spending.”

Lazy Hill Postmistress

Dusan Popratnjak — Sat, 26 Sep 2009 11:08:46 GMT

Postmistress in card pin con

A postmistress from the Black Country conned elderly customers out of thousands of pounds by tricking them into punching in debit card pin numbers twice.

Jasvinder Kaur Uppal helped herself to nearly £5,000 after her victims unwittingly made double withdrawals from their accounts.

Walsall Magistrates Court heard yesterday the 37-year-old, who faces jail, was caught out after Royal Mail launched an investigation into banking transactions carried out at the branch, in Lazy Hill Road, Aldridge.

Mr John Dove, prosecuting for the Post Office, told the hearing Uppal had stolen a total of £4,970 over a six-month period by targeting elderly customers with Post Office accounts.

“Money was taken on 29 occasions from vulnerable customers at the post office who did not become aware that their accounts had been debited twice until they were approached by Post Office fraud investigators,” he said.

“She admitted taking the money saying that she had got family problems.”

Uppal, of Wilkes Avenue, Bentley, Walsall, admitted 10 charges of theft totalling £1,840 and asked the court to take a further 19 offences involving sums totalling £3,130 into consideration.

Mr Dove told the court she had been of good character prior to the offences committed between November 2008 and April 2009.

Chairman of the bench Mrs Sheena Parry told Uppal the case would be transferred to Wolverhampton Crown Court for sentencing. She was given unconditional bail until October 27.

After the hearing a defiant Uppal, who still runs the shop adjoining the post office, said she blamed the computer system.

Medic to remain on site in plan.

Dusan Popratnjak — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 16:42:35 GMT

Medic to stay on site in plan.

A paramedic will be retained on the site of Aldridge ambulance station under plans to demolish it to make way for a supermarket's expansion,it has emerged.

Morrissons 's planning application for the Leighswood Road site neighbouring its existing store features space for the emergency medical worker and rapid response car.Ambulance bosses say a review of their service in the area could see the creation of a new HQ elsehere in Aldridge.

But the move to submit the proposals before the review is finished was criticised today,amid fears the overhaul could hit 999 response times.

Aldridge North and Walsall Wood Councillor Mike Flower said "Generally it makes sense to have a review and then apply for planning permission,not the other way around.

Councillor Flower has formally written to the council to highlight the concern about any application that will have an effect on the ambulance site.

An e mail to councillor Flower from West Midlands Ambulance Trust Chief executive Anthony Marsh promised any changes would not harm ythe service.

Money talks its apparant that as soon as Morrisons were interested in purchasing the land it would be sold off, its prime land in the centre of the village perimeter.

We need a station to remain with full facilities within the town.

Proposals would see site bulldozed for three houses.

Dusan Popratnjak — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 14:03:50 GMT

Care home plan lodged just a week after arson attack.

Plans to transform a vandal - hit former Aldridge care home into new houses have been lodged - just a week after it was wrecked in an arson attack.Beacon view in Aldridge was set alight in the latest of a string of attacks on the council - owned building which closed 4 years ago.But the proposals,submitted by the councils property department,would see the site bulldozed to make way for three houses.

Councillor - Mike Bird explained the thinking behind the prompt action."If we had just demolished the existing structure straight away we would have lost it as a development site"That would make it green belt land and mean that any future construction would have to be referred to government inspectors..

However now the plans are submitted along with photos of the structure,the remains of the building will be demolished over the next two days.We have ensured that every thing has remained within the planning guidelines and avoided the risk of the site becoming a danger zone.

Martin Adamson - Aldridge artist

Dusan Popratnjak — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 13:52:37 GMT

Martin's proper job is a real block buster.

He has put Bond beauty Halle Berry in a bikini,turned Dame Helen Mirren into The Queen,sparkled with Harry Potter and protected Judge Dread - Sylvestor Stallone from baddies.However,you will not see Martin Adamson in front of the camera but you will see his creations on the big screen.The Aldridge artist has provided props for some of the biggest blockbusters to grace the silver screen.

When Martin is not rubbing shoulders with the likes of Glenn Close,Mel Gibson and Tom Cruise or working on Oscar winning films such as Titanic,Gladiator and Braveheart the 58 year old can be found in his workshop,producing costume jewellery and props for the next Hollywood blockbuster.The workshop is lined with tubs crammed full of pearls,jewels,gems and other trinkets where Martin meticulous and painstaking puts the creations which give reality to the world of films.From crowns,headdresses,rings to necklaces and suits of armoury Martin;s made them all,with some of the creations taking weeks to perfect.Born in West Bromwich before moving to the Walsall area aged 5,Martins love of all things theatrical was ignited when he joined Aldridge Youth Theatre two years later.

There he soon discovered his real passion lay in what was going on behind the scences.He found more excitment in helping to build sets and creating costumes and making head dresses and crowns,this was his real passion in life.I really enjoyed doing it as a hobby but never realised that I would eventually be able to do it as a real job.One of the people based at the theatre group asked me had I ever thought of doing it as a career,and it was as if a light bulb suddenly went off.

Martin then decided to take a three year theatre design course at Croyden College of Art,and realised that he wanted to specialise in prop making.After qualifying,Martin started out making scale models for designers,getting him a foot in the door of the world of film design,where he was able to build up many contacts.His first real job was for the BBC making crowns for Verdi's Maacbeth in 1977,which appeared on the front page of the Radio Times,from there he went on to produce props for cult shows such as Blake 7 and Doctor Who,including the doctors well known question mark handle umbrella.It was perfect times for Martin as it was the golden age of Television,who lives with his rescue dog Rollo.

Through contacts and his burgeoning reputation he started working on his first film,Terry Gilliams Jabberwocky in 1979. His CV now boasts hair decorations for the 1982 hit Return of the Jedi,jewellery and badges for the World is Not Enough in 1999,and jewellery and costume props for the first four Harry Potter films.

Martin also worked on the 1986 film The Lat Emperor,other blockbusters to his credit include the Pirates of the Caribean,Judge Dress in 1994 and 101 Dalmations.

Hopes for arson- hit rugby club.

Dusan Popratnjak — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 12:59:35 GMT

Team soon to be on home soil.

Bosses at an arson - hit rugby club are hopeful of being able to return to their own ground to play games from October.Aldridge Rugby Club is very optimistic about getting all facilities in place to allow it to host matches again at its Bourne Vale home.Officials have been offered the use of near neighbours Veseyans ground,in Little Hardwick Road,Aldridge to allow them to kick off the new season in North Mids West Five League.

This followed the blaze which destroyed the teams 52 year old club house leaving the team without any changing rooms at the end of July 2009.It ripped through the changing rooms and bar area,destroying kits and equipment worth more than £5,000.

The club has been inundated with offers of support since and have been loaned some changing cabins.Now they need to secure shower facilities before they can return to their home base but are optimistic of having these in place within a few months.

Chairman Alex Reed said "We will be playing some early season games at the Veseyans.The support we have received has been fantastic,without it we would have come to a grinding halt.An ex player has loaned the changing cabins to us and now we just need the shower portakabin.

Hopefully some time in October we will be able to play games again on our home ground.

Offers of help have includrd a £5,000 loan from the North Midlands RFU,£500 worth of playing kitfrom NBS Rugby and two strips from Moseley.Playing kit,tackle bags and balls have been donated from Essingt,15 balls from Ian Bletcher the RFU's coach development officer from the West Midlands along with tackle bags and balls from Lordswood Dixonians and £100 from Shrewsbury.

Fire fighters from Aldridge,Walsal and Landywood were called to the fire,which gutted the building on July 22nd at around 02.30am.

CCTV will record any breaces of environmental regulations.

Dusan Popratnjak — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 12:21:56 GMT

Spy camera to watch controversial lorries.

A spy camera will record lorries driving to a quarry along an Aldridge Road,where residents have to put up with noise,vibrations and dust for more than 30 years.CCTV will watch trucks as they go past residents homes in Branton Hill Lane,Aldridge.

The lorries travel to and from Bliss Sand and Gravel Ltd quarry.It will be looking out for any lorries mounting pavements,those with materail falling off the back of their vehicles or any other breaches of environmental regulations.Residents in Branton Hill have had to put up with their homes being shaken and their road covered in dirt from the lorries.

Earlier this year a planning inquiry decided an access road should be built to the quarry taking lorries away from the homes in Branton Hill Lane.But building work is yet to start on the new road and some concerns and fears that the recession could scupper those plans.

Councillor Mike Flower,now Walsalls Council cabinet member for the environment said that the council shared the delight of the residents in the Lane when the planning inquiry allowed for a relief road to be built at the Bliss Sand and Gravel quarry.The council understand the local residents fears and concerns that the relief road may not be constructed because it was linked to the building of new houses in the area.However with the now housing market being depressed we can only appreciate there are concerns as to when thius road may be built which is a matter out of the councils hands.

In response to requests from the local residents we have decided to arrange for CCTV cameras to be kept in the Lane which we will use to closely monitor the quarry traffic.

Windows of opportunity at local company.

Dusan Popratnjak — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 12:13:44 GMT

Aldridge window firm has recently won three major contracts securing the positions of its 70 + work force.

Select Windows based in Walsall Road, have won long term deals with Dudley Council and Watford Housing and housing group Lovell.It has allayed fears that dire economic conditions could lead to more redundancies after the company was forced to layoff some workers earlier this year.Managing director Dee Benning said they had even been able to recruit six new staff thanks to the contracts.,like every other local business we have been facing some reallife pressures but now we have won these contracts they are all long term ones,which gives us a chance to make investments in our factory.

Plans for ambulance station cause concern.

Dusan Popratnjak — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 12:04:52 GMT

Plans to demolish Aldridge ambulance station and replace it with a smaller base are facing some opposition amid fears it could hit 999 response times.

Aldridge - Brownhills MP Richard Shepherd has written to the West Midlands Ambulance Service warning them against the proposal to close the existing ambulance base in Leighswood Road. Super market chain Morrisons has offered to purchase the land to build an expansion of its neighbouring store and have now lodged a planning application.West Midlands Ambulance Service said it could build a smaller replacement office in the town,while opening a larger base in Walsall to replace their existing base located in Bloxwich Lane with no loss of service to Aldridge.This probably gives concern to Aldridge Residents that the intended new base that would be located in Walsall will be used as a central site for ambulance staff to sign on for duty/work who will then be basedto provide emergancy cover for the local areas. and in particular response time that will be lost in having to travel to Aldridge from Walsall.The station in Aldridge which covers a wide area has in the past failed to meet response times when fully staffed.

Simon Lewis for West Midlands Ambulance Service's regional head of estates and facilities,commented As a result of a recent consolidation of the trusts strategy for controling stores,the site at the Aldridge base is now larger than required.The trust has an outline plan to retain a smaller emergancy presence at the location.The plan involves relinquishing the lease at Bloxwich Lane and acquiring a new fit for purpose industrial unit in Walsall.There are also plans to put the scheme out for consultation.

Why can't the ambulance station be accomodated at Anchor Meadow Medical Centre or at the nearby Fire Station ?

Residents in Aldridge are currently losing their services again,its obvious that Morrisons want to purchase the land and its value thus increased.

Homes plan for building hit by fires

Dusan Popratnjak — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 11:43:15 GMT

Council wants site transformed.

A former care home wrecked in an arson attack is set to be transformed into new homes,it was revealed-Beacon View, in Aldridge,was set alight last Wednesday night.It has been the latest incident in a string of attacks on the council - owned building which closed four years ago.Council leader Mike Bird said it would not be left at the mercy of vandels and arsonists and plans were being drawn up for the building of homes.The building shell would have to stay as planning laws have made it difficult to get permission for a new building to replace it.

This is a disgrace that it has been left for so long and we must sympathise with the local residents that live close to the home,they have had to put up with theeye sore.The council cannot demolish it because then any planning application for it would be a new build in green belt land.

The blaze started shortly after 19.00pm on Wednesday and took six fire crews to bring it under control.During the fire the buildings roof collapsed and only the shell remains of the former two storey brick built building.

Event at Aldridge airport

Dusan Popratnjak — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 13:34:41 GMT

Model jet fans are flying high

Hundreds of model aircraft enthusiasts flocked to Aldridge at the weekend to show off their model miniature aeroplanes.

Around 500 people turned up to the event that was held at Aldridge airport to see model aircraft such as mini Spitfires,Harvard and Hurricanes.The event which was staged over Saturday and Sunday,was organised by Walsall's Greenacres Model Area club and its Chairman Reg Lewis.

It was a wonderful day,the weather was kind for the organisers,said Mr Lewis.

There is a 250 cars parked up so we are estimating 500 people have attended the event.

The club held another two day event last month which featured both electronic and fuel powered air craft but it had to be cut short because of bad weather - pouring rain.

The model aircraft flying club is based at the former airfield in Bosty Lane,Aldridge and members meet there on the last Wednesday of every month at Rushall Labour Club.They have members aged from 10 years old to 80 +.

for further information visit their web site at:-

www.greenacresmac.co.uk

Aldridges new dental practice in High Street.

Dusan Popratnjak — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 12:37:34 GMT

New Dental practice

Aldridges former job centre in High Street,Aldridge is set to be transformed in to a new dental practice it was revealed today.

Health chiefs say a deal has been agreed with a private firm Rodericks and now completed allowing the new facility to open in one month.

It has come after consultation revealed a shortage of dentists in the east of Walsall.,where only one in five people are signed up.

Phil Griffin who is the assistant director for the primary care contracting for NHS Walsall primary care trust tells us that NHS Walsall are looking forward to start working with the new company to deliver high quality dental care to the local residents.

Tributes are paid to local comic from Aldridge Billy Jay

Dusan Popratnjak — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 12:00:24 GMT

Tributes paid to comic Billy Jay

Tributes were today being paid to popular Black country comedian William "Billy Jay" Williams after his death from a fifth heart attack.The Aldridge great - grandad of Westgate in Aldridge,worked with a host of celebrities in a four decade career.A big club favourite,his family today paid tributes to a man who was always there for them and who they said could make you laugh and cry in the same sentence.

Billy, aged 73, who leaves wife Kathleen, also 73, children Robert, 51, Julie 48, Wendy, 46, and Joanna, 35, had to retire from his life on stage after four heart attacks, followed by a triple by-pass around 15 years ago.

Joanna said her father fulfilled a final wish before his death from another heart attack on Friday morning.

“He’d been saying for a while that the last thing he wanted to do was take his granddaughter, my daughter, Charlie, to the seaside,” she said. “Well he did that on the Thursday and when I spoke to him that night he said he’d had the best time, he was made up. He passed away the next morning.”

He signed a contract to appear regularly on Noel Edmonds’ Late, Late Breakfast show in 1986 but during his first show, self-employed hod-carrier Michael Lush died in a stunt and the show was immediately cancelled.

Joe Williams, aged 67, one of Billy’s four siblings, said of a 40-year stand-up career: “He brought enjoyment to thousands. We had some great nights and he certainly made more people happy than he did sad.”

Forklift repairer pulls out

Dusan Popratnjak — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 11:57:49 GMT

An Aldridge firm which repairs and rebuilds parts for forklift trucks across the country has been forced into liquidation because of the decline in the number of manufacturers.

Comlec Units Ltd,founded in 1985,has put its Northgate site on the market and sacked its workforce,which once stood at around 19 employees.

But owner Rob Blackwell has vowed to rebuild under the name Comlec Units Partnerships on a smaller site supported by his wife,sons and daughters who all work together.

He said this was his livelihood and that he does not intend to run away from it.They will be looking for a smaller site and will hopefully be able to take some of those workers back on in the future.

Mr Blackwell said that Comlec was the only firm specialising in repairing and rebuilding fire resistant equipment for fork lift trucks.

Youth theatre moves to recoup cost of tackling damaged car park.

Dusan Popratnjak — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 12:08:06 GMT

Pay to park decision on £20,000 damage.

Charges for people using an Aldridge car park are set to be introduced to cover £20,00 damage to the car park surface at Aldridge Youth Theatre in Noddy Park Road,Aldridge. which till now is open to the local public,it now needs to raise cash to pay for its up keep.

Members blame public use for the damage to the surface and say lorries often use it at night and coach parties meet on it during the day,causing it to deteriorate.Member and former Chairman Mike Harrison said parking charges were a sensible option in trying to raise money for the general upkeep of the car park.He said "The car park has deteriorated very badly and we estimate the damage to be around £20,000,we are going to carry out some immediate patching work to begin with and then we are hoping to secure a grant possibly with Cory Environmental Trust topay for the work to be carried out on the car park.We have observed many lorry drivers using it as a place to park up and sleep at night .The car park is regularly used by visitors to the town who go to local banks and shopping and dropping their children off to attend a local school.All of this has contributed to the ongoing damage.People have the misconception that it is owned by Walsall Council and not the Youth Theatre.By introducing a charge it is the best way of keeping the car park well maintained in the future.

The charges will be30p for the first half hour,80p for an hour,£1.50p for two hours and £2 after 2 hours.

The youth theatre is the only custom - built one in the countryt and is a registered charity.The public have been allowed free use of the car park since its surfacing in the mid 1980's.Elite Parking Control will be patrolling in the car park and issueing tickets biut Mr Harrison wanted to reiterate that clamping will not be put uin to operation.

Residential home site is hit by blaze

Dusan Popratnjak — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 11:52:14 GMT

A derelict former residential home which shut four years ago has been destroyed in an arson attack.Beacon View,Little Aston Road,Aldridge which has been targeted by arsonists before was set alight at about 19.00pm yesterday.

Two fire crews were backed up by four more as the roof of the detached two storey building collapsed.An aerial platform was used during two hours fighting the fire and Little Aston Road was shut to traffic late in to the night as Walsall Council structual engineers checked what was left of the brick building.Fire fighters spent the night checking for hot spots which could possibly reignite.

Beacon View was near to Cooper and Jordan School,was closed in 2005,it used to provide residential care for more than 30 years,initially as a childrens home,and then as a 21 bed home for adults with learning difficulties.It was targetted twice by arsonists in April.

West Midlands Fire Service grou commander Nigel Sowden said "As well as six fire engines and a hydraulic platform a water douser from StaffordshireFire Rescue Service in Cannock had to be called in to assist with the water supply.The incident is being treated as arson.

Arson attacks have increased by 21% in Walsall over recent weeks - school holiday time.New figures show around three arson attacks are being reported to police every week across the borough.

Aldridge to get new dental surgery

Dusan Popratnjak — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 11:39:27 GMT

A dental practice is set to open in Aldridge to combat a desperate shortage in the east of Walsall.The new practice will open in Aldridge's High Street next month.Health chiefs say that they cannot reveal the exact location of the site until contracts have been finalised.It is thought that Aldridges former Jobcentre is the earmarked placeto become the practice but this has not yet been confirmed It comes after a major publicconsultation revealed a shortage of practices in the east of Walsall,where only one in five people are signed to a dentist.

Aldridge town centre,along with nearby Leighswood,came out on top in the consultation,with people high lighting a particular need there.Between 10 and 21 % of around 100,000 in that area signed up to a practice,compared to 42% in the rest of the borough.

Michelle Cummings,spokesperson said "Contract are being signed at the momentbut next week we will be letting people know how they can register".The new dentist is due to open in September.Around 1400 made their feelings known in the public consultation,which was hailed as a huge success.

Continental Aldridge Market is here !

Dusan Popratnjak — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 09:22:06 GMT

Where shopping should be fun.

From continental cheeses and chutneys to Moroccan and Nepalse crafts,celebration cakes to hand made jewellery as well as a variety of collectibles,Aldridge's summer market is the place to go to pick up a range of interesting and unusual products.Organised by Aldridge Village Business Partnership and Walsall Council,the market will be held on Friday21st August and Saturday22nd August from 09.00am t0 17.00pm each day in Aldridge shopping Centre.

As well as ample shopping opportunities,the event aims to provide fun days out for all the family,with childrens attractions including a bungee trampoline,face painting,candy floss and ice cream,a childrens ride and fun treasure trail around the shops for the under - 12's.Stilt walker Mad Dom will be adding a touch of magic to the day with his unique entertainment.

Aldridge is an excellent shopping destination in its own right offering a mix of high street favourites and independent retailers in both the shopping centre and the heart of the village.The compact nature of Aldridge means many of the shops are within easy walking distance.And when you need a break from shopping,Aldridge boasts a number of eateries,including Simply Delicious,The Cafe in the Square and Greggs.

For evening dining,you are spoiled for choice, with Italian,Cantonese,Indian,contemporary Eastern Bengali fusion and traditional pub food on offeras well as a number of takeaway outlets.With buses linking the village to Walsall,Birmingham,Sutton Coldfield and Brownhills,Aldridge is easily reached,and there are several car parks available if you want to drive over.

Pub calling time on event after trouble.

Dusan Popratnjak — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 19:57:25 GMT

Bosses scrap music session after reveller suffers head injury.

An Aldridge pub has pulled the plug on its Friday night music event after a 19 - year old reveller suffered a head injury in a disturbance.Bosses at the Elms,in Anchor Road, say they have taken the decision to scrap the weekly bash until they can decide how to manage it better. It comes after police were called to the popular pub at 11.00pm on Friday night to reports of disorder.Catherine Preece, spokeswoman for West Midlands Police said "A 19 year old received treatment in hospital".It was not serious and he was not kept in over night.Inquiries are continuing.But bosses at Mitchell and Butlers owned pub have taken the proactive decision to temporary stop Friday night entertainment,which usually included a live band or a DJ.

Alastair Scott a spokesman for M & B said "We have not been contacted by the police or licensing authority or any body at all.However we have taken a decision ourselves that we are going to cease entertainment on a Friday night.We are looking at how best to run entertainment which serves the local community in the best way.She added that they are not stopping entertainment on a Saturday night though and that will continue.The pub can accomodate 600 punters and has a dance floor,television screens and pool tables.It underwent a refurbishment in September 2001.

Any one with information about the incident should callthe police on 08451135000

Roaring trade as rebranded bakery opens

Dusan Popratnjak — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 19:33:42 GMT

An Aldridge bakery is toasting its success,following unprecendented sales within its first two weeks of trading.Greggs,in AnchorParade,reports doing a roaring trade since opening on June 16th.The shop,which was formerly a Bakers Oven,was rebranded as Greggs last month after the two sister companies came together.

According to a company spokesman,the rebranding of the shop also secured 14 jobs and ensured customers are still served by the same friendly faces every day.

Charlotte Pilbot, assistant manager at the Anchor Parade shop said "We are delighted to have welcomed so many new customers to the shop since the rebrand as well as continuing to serve many loyal Bakers Oven customers.

The new Greggs products are flying off the shelves. Sue Pook,sales manager for Greggs said "We are delighted to welcome the Aldridge Bakers Oven to the Greggs family and are looking forward to working closely with the existing shop team.

Dusan

Dusan Popratnjak — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 12:11:00 GMT

30 jobs in growth at store

Dusan Popratnjak — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 22:09:11 GMT

Thirty new jobs will be created at an Aldridge supermarket if it is given permission to expand.

Morrisons is aiming to extend on to land currently occupied by the ambulance station in Leighswood Road.West Midlands Ambulance Service has agreed to close the Station and replace it with a smaller office if the plans go ahead.

Katie Neasham of Morrisons said today "We would anticipate that the extension would create over 30 jobs at Aldridge". It woud be a 643 sq m expansion of the food store creating a new service yard for vehicles and an extension of the car park for shoppers.West Midlands Ambulance Service NHS Trust wants to close stations at Leighswood Road in Aldridge and in Bloxwich Lane,Walsall.A single base could be created in the town centre.

Calls on return of court for sale.

Dusan Popratnjak — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 21:59:29 GMT

The sale of Aldridge Magistrates Court could be thwarted after council chiefs demanded the land be handed back by the Ministry of Justice.

The building and its car park,which sits between Rookery Lane and Portland Road,is up for sale and discount chain Lidl is rumoured to have expressed its interest in the site.

But Walsall Council,which sold the land to the Government for £1 million 10 years ago wants it back for the same price.They have written to the Ministry of Justice saying it should be a community building.Councillor Mike Bird,leader of Walsall Council,said "It is a disgrace and in my view it should come back to us and I know the people in Aldridge feel that way.

This asset should come back to the council at the price for which it was transfered.Aldridge MP Richard Shepherd is also angry at the plan to sell the land to the highest bidder.This is the gradual degradation of local servicesand something we are used to in Aldridge where we are ripped off on a regular basis.Lidl today stated it was still actively looking for the correct location in Aldridge to house a 13,000 sq ft store and had not ruled out the court site.

300 attend last session at Bingo hall.

Dusan Popratnjak — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 20:04:26 GMT

Aldridge Gala Bingo hall has finally shut last Saturday evening and now been put up for sale after decades at the heart of the village community,leaving loyal employees job less.

The final numbers were called at the venue last Saturday evening has regulars turned up for the final time.

A total of 18 staff have lost their positions at the club including long serving Staff Irene Geoghan and Mary Eden.

They between them have spent more than 60 years at the venue - deputy controller Irene 32 years and bar supervisor Mary 33 years.

Around 300 people attended the final session.

The firm blamed the economic downturn as well as a bingo duty rise in April's budget.

Bingo halls have also been hit by the smoking ban which was blamed for the closure of Mecca Bingo in Wolverhampton

Amtrak workers will get share of £400,000

Dusan Popratnjak — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 19:55:09 GMT

More than 150 former workers of failed parcel delivery firm Amtrak will share an estimated £400,000 in compensation over the way their redudanies were handled.

When the Aldridge company went into administration last August,no notice was given to the 230 emoloyees Birmingham Employment Tribunal heard.

Under the Trade Union and Labour Relations Act 1992, any company with more than 100 employees should hold a 90 day consultation period because of the scale of the redundancy programme.

Giving evidence ,the GMB unions Mohammed Khalik representing around 100 workers said "As the respondant failed to take any steps to consult the GMB about the redundancies I would ask the tribunal to make a protective award in favour of all GMB members at the date of the redudancy".

More than 153 axed staff,of whom some were not represented by unions,had submitted claims against Amtrak on grounds there was inadequate consultation.

Represernting himself,van driver Robert Merrick aged 33 from Well Lane,Blakenall told the panel that any information was given by hearsay,there was no staff council,no memos sent to the staff and no formal method of communication.

When he arrived at the premises on August 26th last year he was told by the administrator that the business had closed.We were sent home without any consultation.

No one from Amtrak which used to be based in Northgate way was in attendance at the meeting.

Tribunal chairperson Fiona Monk said "We have come to a unanimous judgement that the respondant failed to comply with the regulations.

Aldridge Parish Church

Dusan Popratnjak — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 23:23:37 GMT

Aldridge Parish Church

Parishioners raise huge ammount for church during one service.

It was manna from heaven that even he could not have prayed for -and left a Black Country vicar astounded.

Rev Richard Cornfield asked worshippers to give to the church rebuild fund,after only one service they had donated £270,000just 110 members of the congregation at St Marys Church in Aldridge pledged the colossal amount during a single service.

Rev Richard Cornfield

Their unbelievable generoisty means the church is almost a quarter of the way to its million target to replace crumbling rooms in the rectory.

Rev Richard Cornfield said the collection last Sunday included "several" individual donations of more than £10,000.The 13th century church in the Green has a healthy congregation often attracting more than 350 people.

Members were asked last weekend to leave donations anonymously in buckets or via standing orders.

Rev Cornfield said he was astonished when he added up the total.The fundraising drive had been launched just a week earlier.The pleasing factor was that donations came from every one pensioners to professionals. At such a difficult time for the economywhen most people are struggling.

Vicar stunned by £270,000 collection

It was manna from heaven that even he could not have prayed for – and left a Black Country vicar astounded.

Rev Richard Cornfield asked worshippers to give to the church rebuild fund, and after only one service they had donated £270,000. Just 110 members of the congregation at St Mary’s Church in Aldridge pledged the colossal amount during a single service.

Their unbelievable generosity means the church is almost a quarter of the way to its £1million target to replace crumbling rooms in the rectory.

Rev Richard Cornfield said the collection last Sunday included “several” individual donations of more than £10,000. The 13th century church in The Green has a healthy congregation, often attracting more than 350 people.

Members were asked last weekend to leave donations anonymously in buckets or via standing orders.

Rev Cornfield said he was astonished when he added up the total. The fundraising drive had been launched just a week earlier.

“I am both amazed and delighted,” he said.

Aldridge Rugby Club

Dusan Popratnjak — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 23:17:30 GMT

Aldridge Rugby Club.

Scorces of teams offer help after base is destroyed in arson attack.

Bosses at an arson hit Aldridge rugby club have been offered a new temporary home to ensure they can kick off the new season.

Aldridge Rugby Club has been offered the use of playing and changing facilities at neighbours Veseyans in Little Hardwick Road,Aldridge.Scorces of teams have stepped forward to support Aldridge after a blaze caused thousands of pounds of damage to the clubhouse.The fire ripped through the changing rooms and bar area destroying kits and equipment worth more than £5,000.

Offers of help have included a £5,000 loan from the North Midlands RFU,£500 worth of playing kit from NBS Rugby and two strips from Moseley.Playing kit,tackle bags and balls have all been donated from Essington,15 balls from Ian Bletcher the RFU's coach development officer for West Midlands West along with tackle bags and balls from Lordswood Dixonians and £100 from Shrewsbury.

Now neighbours Veseyans have offered Aldridge use of their playing and changing facilities until they can get temporary facilities in place at Bourne Vale.

Officials have thanked the rugby community for their support since the 52 year old building was destroyed.

Chairman Alex Reed said "On behalff of Aldridge RFC I would like to expressour gratitude to all those who have called to offer support,equipment or facilities.Without so many generous offers we would not be in a position to guarantee that we could start the upcoming season and therefore the survival of the club.

An Arson attack which completely gutted a rugby clubhouse in Little Hardwick Road,Aldridge has been slammed as 'despicable' by police chiefs.

Fire engines arrived at Aldridge Rugby Club on Little Hardwick Road at around 2.30am on Wednesday to tackle a blaze which destroyed the entire clubhouse interior.

Hours later, players woke up to distressing calls and texts informing them that their club had little more than the outer walls left – erasing decades of memories in the process.

"I'm gutted," said Aldridge RFC player Nick Jones.

"I've been playing there for 11 years and it's just devastating."

West Midlands Police are working with fire investigators, who have confirmed the fire was started deliberately.

"This was a despicable attack on a building that is regularly used by the local community," said Inspector Jan Legget, sector Inspector at Aldridge.

Sandra Large, cook and bar manager at the club, believes everything can be put right with a little help from the community.

She said: "Any support or contribution from the members of the community would be really appreciated at this time."

Aldridge RFC officials believe the Bourne Vale-based clubhouse will need to be bulldozed and rebuilt from scratch.

Mrs Large, who has worked for the club for 25 years, said that despite the destruction of the blaze, club life will go on.

She added: "Of course the club will continue with the games and will still be training, but unfortunately without the facilities of the club for the foreseeable future."

The fire also claimed bags of rugby kit and equipment such as tackle bags and balls.

Aldridge RFC regularly fielded three teams last season – with their first team playing in the Midlands 6 West North division.

Police are appealing for anyone with any information about

(The former club house in Bourne Vale)

(Police investigate the scence)

Aldridge Garden Centre's

Dusan Popratnjak — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 22:20:47 GMT

Aldridge Garden Centre's in Aldridge.

Aldridge Garden Centre.

WS9 OLS

Telephone:- 01922-451401.

Pacific Nurserys.

Chester Road,

Aldridge.

Telephone :-01922-452121

Valley.

Erdington Road,

Aldridge.

WS9

Telephone:-01922-

W.M Wheat.

520,Chester Road,

Aldridge.

Tel:-0121-353-7123.

Wyevale.

Chester Road,

Aldridge

WS9

Telephone :-01922-452121

Aldridge Pubs

Dusan Popratnjak — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 22:04:20 GMT

Aldridge Public Houses.

Bowman.

Cedat Tree.

Irish Harp.

Lazy Hill.

Plough and Harrow

Red Lion.

Struggling Monkey.

The Elms.

Whitehouse

Restaurants.

Stylish new looks mean Portobello is tastier than ever.

Aldridges premier Italian restaurant,Portobello,has recently undergone a complete refurbishment which includes the addition of a sumptuous coffee lounge area.Now as well as providing first class Italian cusine at prices every one can afford,Portobello will also be open for coffee and light snacks during the morning( Monday to Saturday) offering a tasty selection of paninini's,pastries and specialist teas and coffees,from 09.30am to noon.

Even popular with Portobello customers are the special offers available in house.Lunch time diners can take advantage of a special two course lunch offer,available Monday to Saturday,for only £5.95 per person.And on Sunday,any pizza or pasta can be purchased from the a la carte menu for only £5.95.Portobello regulars and new customers will also be pleased to know that the set menu is still on offer,from Sunday to Friday,from only £12.95 per person.

Portobello's superb set menu offers outstanding value and great quality food,with a choice of three courses from an exceptional a la carte menu including steaks,fish and chicken.Portobello boasts a relaxed,informal atmosphere with "grade A service and a bustling open plan professional kitchen at the heart of this,making it the perfect place to dine what ever your occasion.

So why not call in and give it a try and enjoy something from their extensive menu.

Portobello is open Monday - Saturday 09.30am - 14.30pm and 17.30pm - 22.30pm.

Sunday opening hours are 12 noon to 20.00pm

For reservations call in at 17,High Street or call on 01922-744777

Gala Bingo hall is set to close in Aldridge

Dusan Popratnjak — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 17:27:42 GMT

Number is up for bingo hall

Gala bingo hall in Anchor Road,Aldridge could be shut in a wave of national closures, it was announced this afternoon.

The UK’s biggest bingo operator Gala Coral said the club in Anchor Road was one of five it planned to close, putting around 300 jobs at risk nationwide.

The firm said it is looking to make savings and would begin consultation with staff tomorrow.

It is not known how many jobs are under threat at Aldridge and workers refused to comment today. The company has blamed the tough economic climate as well as a bingo duty hike in April’s Budget.

Halls have also been hit hard by the smoking ban, which was blamed for forcing the closure of Mecca Bingo in Wolverhampton in 2007. Other clubs at risk are in Hull, Glasgow, Fife and Essex.

An announcement was due to be made to staff and regulars in Aldridge when it opened at 7pm.

The hall was once the Avion cinema and has been hailed in the past as an example of fine architecture. Built in the 1930s, it is an example of the Moderne style, with cream and green horizontal stripes.

Aldridge councillor Tom Ansell said: “It will be a tragic loss in the community. It was well used and it’s also a listed building.

“We will certainly want to keep it in use, so if Gala is leaving, hopefully someone else will move in there.

“It seems nobody’s safe. This is a really body blow for Aldridge.”

Edith Bustin, aged 83, of Walsall Wood Road, said: “It’s a shame as people still enjoy playing bingo and a lot like to go along in the afternoons as it is just a social thing for them.”

Gala Coral has closed 13 bingo halls and four casinos since the smoking ban was introduced. In December it said no more closures would come.

It has been reported Gala has a net debt of £2.5 billion