WIN - Redditch Borough Council - Worcestershire Hub

HELPING TO MAKEcommunity projects a realityCommunity groups across Redditchhave been given a helping handproviding useful services andevents for residents.The Redditch Borough CouncilGrant Programme helps to fundlocal voluntary and communityorganisations that are deliveringimportant services in the town.And so far this year 21organisations have benefited fromgrant money which has helpedfund services such as a communitycafé to a crèche and holiday playscheme.This year groups are alsobenefiting from StrongerCommunities Grants in which alllocal voluntary and communitygroups are invited to bid for grantsof up to £500. The Council hassupported 15 local organisations inthe first two rounds of the grantprogramme. The final round islaunching this month with thedeadline for applications the 26thAugust.Cllr Greg Chance, Chairman of theGrants Panel, said: “The Councilrecognises the brilliant work that iscarried out by kind caring peopleand groups within the town. Thevoluntary sector can reach parts ofthe community where others can'tand based on my experiencelooking at groups and individualsapplying for grants, Redditch haslots to be proud of.”For more information, contactVoluntary Sector Grants CocoordinatorDonna Hancox on(01527) 64252 ext 3015.Batchley’s Community CaféBatchley Support Group were given funding from the Council to extend theopening hours of Batchley Community Café to generate more income andprovide community opportunities for localresidents. The funding will also allowBatchley community Café to offer alunchtime delivery service tovulnerable people on the estate.Batchley Support Group is acommunity based neighbourhoodassociation, which aims to buildresident participation and involvementin community activities, advancesocial inclusion and lifelong learning,reduce inequalities in health, and tospeak up for Batchley.The DitchFunding for The Ditch Youth Projecthelped to secure the services of anexperienced youth worker and filmmaker who will be working with thegroup for the next 12 months.Participants will be given theopportunity to contribute to a short filmthat will highlight the issues faced byyounger Redditch residents.8 Redditch mattersRedditch Borough Council

Redditch Carers’ CarelineRedditch Carers’ Careline was given grant funding to helpdeliver a new health initiative for its Carers’ Group members.A Tai Chi taster session was held in April with a four weekcourse of Tai Chi due to take place this month. There has alsobeen a free health check for members of the group.Phil Hunt from Carers’ Careline, said: “Our carers have reallyenjoyed and benefited from the health sessions so far andour partners are continuing to work closely with us. TheBorough Council grant funding has made a considerabledifference to our carers' lives.”For more information call Phil Hunt on (01527) 66177 or emailphunt@carers careline.co.uk. You can also visit the websitewww.carerscareline.co.uk .Organisations which have received grants in 2011/12Citizens Advice Bureau £90,000 Redditch advice and advocacyBatchley Support Group £10,000 Batchley Community CaféAge Concern £10,000 Information and adviceSandycroft £10,000 General funding for servicesWhere Next £10,000 Where Next Support work and trainingRedditch Play Council £50,000 Crèche and Holiday PlaycareBatchley Support Group £2,000 Redditch RootsBritish Asian Women's group £2,000 Cultural learning projectYMCA £1,980 Lights Camera ActionYMCA £1,956 Y-DadsChinese Association £2,000 Chinese New Year 2012Carers’ Careline £4,000 Health awareness projectFriday Fun Club £2,600 Disabled Youth GroupRelate £2,500 Open Counselling Service - RedditchAge Concern £3,360 History projectYMCA £3,273 Active8Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen andFamilies Association £2,000 Support service for Veterans and familiesBatchley Support Group £5,000 Batchley Odd JobsThe Ditch £5,000 Ditch ITYMCA £4,974 Positive FuturesYMCA £4,481 Intensive Intervention ProjectStronger Communities Grants have been awardedto the following organisations this year.Harry Bishops Group £480 Charity Concert – AcornsSmallwood Residents Association £500 Outing for elderlyHeadless Cross Methodist Outreach £500 Woodwork projectMatchborough West Community Group £500 Newsletter and websiteSt Johns - Spice Project £100 Community handy serviceRM Samba - The Band £500 Samba BandThe Salvation Army £450 Projection equipmentWhat’s Your Point £500 Community projectCommunity Voluntary Service £500 Allotment projectRSVP £480 Reading projectTalking Newspaper £500 EquipmentAssociation for the Blind £500 Memory sticksBatchley Support Group £500 Community event - environmentalDistrict Scouts £500 Volunteer recruitment projectSpecial Olympics £500 Training kitRedditch Borough Council Redditch matters 9

Local residents joining thousands ofothers in embracing the composting lifeWORCESTERSHIRE and Herefordshire residents have shown how keen theyare to reduce their waste and do their bit for the environment. A jointscheme between the two councils, this year, sold its 90,000 compost binsince it began in 2004.The popularity of the bins has continued with over 5,700 being sold acrossthe two counties in the last year alone. The 90,000 compost bin waspurchased by Andrew Clarke who lives near Alvechurch.Composting offers gardeners the opportunity to take advantage of thegood weather at this time of year. Grass cuttings, woody prunings, leavesand even nettles can all make useful additions to the compost bin.Vegetable peelings, scrunched up newspaper, toilet roll tubes, hay andstraw, can all be added to the mix, which after several months will yield anutrient rich compost, that will enrich your soil and give your plants a boost.Composting can help prevent waste, reducing the need for it to be sent tolandfill. It is good for the wider environment and the local environment ofthe garden.Councillor Anthony Blagg, Worcestershire County Council CabinetMember for Waste and Sustainability said "Our target was to sell 5000 binsthis year (2010-11) which we have achieved, and then some. I am so pleasedthat so many people are taking an interest in reducing the waste that weproduce, putting the county at the forefront of increasing sustainability."If you are interested in buying a reduced price compost bincall 0844 571 4444 or visit www.hw.getcomposting.com orwww.letswasteless.com10 Redditch matters Redditch Borough Council

Dough, Rice, Meat, Flour,Salt, Lard, Tea, Dough -Food scales and othernotable measures forreducing food wasteFOOD waste is a huge problem in the UK.In general, an average family will throwaway approximately £680 worth of foodeach year. A large slice of this food wastecomes from leftovers - pasta left in the panor couscous that couldn’t be consumed.You can save up to £50 a month bythrowing away less food. Find out how atlovefoodhatewaste.comThe quickest way to reduce the amount offood needlessly wasted, and cut our foodbills, is by making sure we have the perfectportion size.The online Portion Planner available atlovefoodhatewaste.com removes theguesswork by suggesting how much foodto prepare based upon information youenter into the planner, such as the numberof people eating and the foods you wouldlike to include in the meal.Every kitchen needs a few basic bits of hardware to handto maximise its efficiency and keep cooking fun. Puttingthe lid on your food waste once and for all takes just fourpieces of key kitchen kit:•A Mug – great for measuring uncooked rice. One adultportion is about 1/4 mug.•The humble tablespoon - good for measuring portions ofbeans, lentils, sugar and dried fruit.•A spaghetti measurer - will make life infinitely easier ifyou’re unsure how much to cook.•Weighing scales - avoid cooking too much by using thekitchen scales.Don’t forget, food packaging often gives a guidelineamount to cook per portion. And don’t panic if you cooktoo much, simply put it into an airtight container andfreeze or refrigerate it – giving you a ready meal foranother night!For more ideas to help reduce food waste and save money,visit www.lovefoodhatewaste.comRedditch Borough Council Redditch matters 11

Progress Mattersin Redditch SchoolsRedditch schools continue to improve and offer a quality education for all.Ofsted has recently said about Redditch Schools -● Children get off to an excellent start in the Nursery and Reception● Inspirational leadership● Standards in reading are consistently well above average● Pupils are cared for well and kept safe● The dedicated staff are well motivated and the school has a lovely, happyatmosphere● Pupils take part in many enrichment activities● Excellent links with parents and other agencies● Teachers have an accurate and detailed knowledge of pupils● Pupils behave well and work and play well together in a harmonious, secureatmosphere● The curriculum is enriched well by a wide range of visits and visitors● Planning for literacy and numeracy is excellent● Ethos is reflected in the pupils' good behaviour● The school enables the pupils to become responsible and mature young citizens● The pastoral care pupils receive is outstanding● Pupils behave well and show a good understanding of right and wrong● Pupils enjoy their lessons and learn well because of good teaching● Pupils are very safe in school and their outstanding behaviour underpins this● Pupils of a wide variety of faiths and cultures integrate well● Attainment has improved most in writing● Very positive attitudes to learning and self-discipline● Pupils make good progress in English, mathematics and science● Pupils' involvement in raising funds for charity is very extensive● Pupils participate in learning and activities enthusiastically● Pupils are extremely courteous, polite and very proud of their smart, well-cared forschool campus● Many students willingly take on responsibility within school● Students with a statement of special educational needs make good progressbecause they receive effective support● Governors provide good support and challenge● The progress indicated by examination results was matched by the good learningthat inspectors observed in lessons● Parents are overwhelmingly delighted with what the centre achieves for theirchildren● Pupils flourish both as learners and as young people.For more information on Redditch Schools visit www.worcestershire.gov.uk .12 Redditch mattersRedditch Borough Council

og de redaktionelle processer som fx research, redigering osv. (typisk dokumenttype 3 og 4). Andre forholder sig til de journalistiske produkter, altså det indhold, som læserne/ lytterne/ seerne/ brugerne eller andre interessenter får stillet til rådighed ved at benytte mediet (ty-­pisk dokumenttype 5 og 6). I den følgende analyse skelner vi mellem disse forskellige niveauer og præsenterer danske nyhedsmediers kvalitetsbegreber i forhold til deres rolle, derefter i forhold til journalistisk praksis og endeligt i forhold til journalistisk indhold. Derved kortlægges forskelle og ligheder mellem de forskellige medier og mediegruppers idealer om både journalistikkens rolle i sam-­fundet, den journalistiske faglighed og etik og de journalistiske outputs. Der er undersøgt i alt 406 nyhedsmedier (heraf 236 små lokale ugeaviser og 51 fritstående netmedier, der ikke skriver meget om sig selv) fra 8 mediegrupper, og da det ikke er muligt at komme med eksempler fra alle medier, indeholder analysen de mest repræsentative og illustrative eksempler fra datamaterialet. Kvalitetsbegreber i forhold til nyhedsmediernes rolle Dette afsnit præsenterer forskellige kvalitetsbegreber i forhold til nyhedsmediernes rolle. Oplysning og debat Danske nyhedsmedier ser ifølge deres offentliggjorte policy-­‐papirer generelt sig selv som publicistiske snarere end kommercielle medier. Især dagbladene, hvoraf mange går historisk langt tilbage, udtrykker i formålserklæringer og vedtægter, at deres primære rolle og eksi-­stensberettigelse er demokratisk. Den demokratiske rolle kan i sagens natur ikke udfoldes, hvis ikke der er økonomi til det, men dagbladene lægger i deres selvpræsentationer vægt på, at de publicistiske idealer går forud for økonomiske hensyn. Jyllands-­‐Posten skriver fx: Jyllands-­‐Posten udgives ikke primært for at tjene penge. Redaktionelt er målet gen-­nem saglig og fair information at gøre Jyllands-­‐Posten til et demokratisk redskab for en vok-­sende del af den danske befolkning (jyllands-­‐posten.org: ”Jyllands-­‐Postens redaktionelle grundpiller”). Politiken Fonden beskriver sit formål som dels at sikre Politikens og Ekstra Bladets forret-­ningsmæssige udvikling, dels at sikre disse medier ledes som uafhængige radikalt-­socialliberale blade og organer for dansk frisind i overensstemmelse med Politikens hidtidige traditioner (politiken.dk: ”Politiken-­‐Fondens formål”). Også Berlingske Media fremhæver oplysning og debat som kerneopgaver for koncernen: Berlingske Media er et af landets største mediehuse, og vi har leveret nyheder i mere end 265 år. Gennem vores medier skaber vi relationer, øger danskernes informationsniveau 11

Leisure & Cultural ServicesWeek 125th - 29th JulySport25 th - 29 th July 10.00am - 3.00pm Ages 5-12Summer Sizzle @ Birchensale Middle SchoolA mixture of arts, crafts and sports make this a must for all youngsters.£11.00 per day N/RC £7.50 per day RC £5.50 per day Conc.To book contact 0787647827925 th - 29 th July 10.00am - 12.00noon Ages 7+Tennis @ Kingsley Sports CentreA variety of skills and fun games.£46.00 N/RC £31.00 RC £22.50 Conc.25 th - 29 th July 10.00am - 3.30pm Ages 4+Gymnastics @ Abbey Stadium Sports CentreAimed at males and females of all abilities.£75.00 RC N/RC and Conc. available on request.To book contact Abbey Stadium Sports Centre on 01527 6020625 th - 28 th July 7.00pm - 8.30pm Ages 10+Archery @ Kingsley Sports CentreBecome a master bow man.£34.00 N/RC £22.50 RC £17.00 Conc.25 th - 29 th July10.30am - 11.00am or 11.00am - 11.30am Ages 8+Introduction to diving, snorkeling and Basic Lifesaving@ Hewell Road Swimming PoolChildren must be able to swim 2 lengths of the pool, front crawland back stroke and tread water for 1 minute.£24.75 N/RC £16.50 RC £13.37 Conc.To book contact Hewell Road Swimming Pool on 01527 6418929 th July 10.00am - 3.30pm Ages 8+Trip Out - Ragley HallMeet at Kingsley Sports Centre. Packed lunch and plentyof drinks required.£11.50 N/RC £7.50 RC £5.75 Conc.To book contact the Palace Theatre on 01527 60806 except where stated otherwise.14 Redditch mattersRedditch Borough Council

Leisure & Cultural ServicesWeek 21st - 5th AugustSport1 st - 5 th August 10.00am - 3.00pm Ages 5-12Summer Sizzle @ St Bedes Middle SchoolA mixture of arts, crafts and sports make this a must for all youngsters.£11.00 per day N/RC £7.50 per day RC £5.50 per day Conc.To book contact 078764782791 st - 5 th August 10.00am – 12.00noon Ages 7+Tennis @Kingsley Sports Centre. A variety of skills and fun games.£46.00 N/RC £31.00 RC £22.50 Conc1 st - 5 th August 1.00pm - 3.00pm Ages 5+Short Tennis @ Kingsley Sports Centre. A variety of skills and fun games.£46.00 N/RC £31.00 RC £22.50 Conc.1 st - 3 rd August 10.00am - 12.00noon Ages 8+Badminton @ Abbey Stadium Sports CentreA combination of coaching and fun games.£28.00 N/RC £19.00 RC £14.00 Conc.1 st - 5 th August 10.30am - 11.30amChildren’s Float Session @ Hewell Road Swimming PoolTurn up at the pool. No booking required.£1.00 (children)£3.85 N/RC (adults) £2.55 RC (adults) £1.95 Conc. (adults)(Price per day)2 nd August 10.00am - 3.00pm Ages 5 - 7Tiny Tots Trip Out - Birmingham Nature CentreExplore the Nature centre and see lots of animals.Meet at Kingsley Sports Centre. Packed lunch and plenty of drinks required.£13.00 N/RC £9.00 RC £6.50 Conc.3 rd August 1.00pm - 3.00pm Ages 8+Martial Arts @ Woodfield Middle SchoolTry your hand at various martial arts. All abilities catered for.£10.00 N/RC £7.00 RC £5.00 Conc4 th August 10.00am - 3.00pm Ages 8+Trampolining @ Abbey StadiumTry Something New!! A taster session for all abilities.Learn the basics with our qualified trampoline coaches.£23.50 N/RC £15.50 RC £11.50 Conc.4 th August 10.00am - 12.00noon Ages 4 - 7Soft Play/Clay Modelling @ Matchborough East Community CentreCreate a masterpiece with clay and time in the soft play.£7.50 N/RC £5.00 RC £3.75 Conc.5 th August 10.00am - 3.00pm Ages 8+Trip Out - Solihull Ice Rink/Cocks Moor Woods Swimming PoolMeet at Kingsley Sports Centre. Packed lunch and plenty of drinks required.Please bring warm clothes for ice skating and swimming costume and towel forswimming.£15.00 N/RC £10.00 RC £7.50 Conc.To book contact the Palace Theatre on 01527 60806 except where stated otherwise.Redditch Borough CouncilRedditch matters 15

Leisure & Cultural ServicesWeek 38th - 12th AugustSport8 th - 12 th August 10.00am - 3.00pm Ages 5 - 12Summer Sizzle @ Kingsley Sports CentreA mixture of arts, crafts and sports make this a must for all youngsters.£11.00 per day N/RC £7.50 per day RC £5.50 per day Conc.To book contact 078764782798 th - 12 th August 10.00am - 3.00pm Ages 6+Trampolining @ Abbey Stadium Sports CentreBook your sessions with qualified trampoline coaches learning thebasics of trampolining.£65.00To book contact Redditch Trampoline Club on 01527 527254.8 th - 12 th August10.30am - 11.00am or 11.00am - 11.30am Ages 4 - adultOne to One Swimming Lessons @ Hewell Road Swimming Pool£50.00 for weekTo book contact Hewell Road Swimming Pool on 01527 641899 th August 10.00am - 3.00pm Ages 5 - 7Tiny Tots Trip Out - Stratford Fun Day Out!!Meet at Kingsley Sports Centre. Packed lunch and plenty ofdrinks required.£13.00 N/RC £10.50 RC £6.50 Conc.11 th August 8.45am - 5.00pm All agesTrip Out - Trafford Centre Shopping TripA day’s shopping in one of the UKs biggest shopping complexes.Children must be accompanied by an adult.Meet at Kingsley Sports Centre.£15.00 per person12 th August 10.00am - 3.00pm Ages 4 - 7Pond dipping / Bug hunting and scavenging @ Arrow Valley LakeCome face to face with creepy crawlies and pond life.£14.00 N/RC £11.00 RC £7.00 Conc.13 th August 10.00am - 12.00noon Ages 10+Archery @ Kingsley Sports CentreTry Something New!! A taster session for all abilities. Become amaster bow man.£14.00 N/RC £9.50 RC £7.00 ConcTo book contact the Palace Theatre on 01527 60806 except where stated otherwise.16 Redditch mattersRedditch Borough Council

Leisure & Cultural ServicesWeek 415th - 19th AugustSport15 th - 19 th August 10.00am - 3.00pm Ages 5 - 12Summer Sizzle @ Arrow Vale Sports CentreA mixture of arts, crafts and sports make this a must for all youngsters.£11.00 per day N/RC £7.50 per day RC £5.50 per day Conc.To book contact 0787647827915 th - 19 th August 10.30am - 11.30amChildren’s Float Session @ Hewell Road Swimming PoolTurn up at the pool. No booking required.£1.00 (children)£3.85 N/RC (adults) £2.55 RC (adults) £1.95 Conc. (adults)(Price per day)16 th August 1.00pm - 3.00pm Ages 8+Dodgeball @ Kingsley Sports CentreYour chance to be part of this ever popular fast pace sport.£10.00 N/RC £7.00 RC £5.00 Conc.16 th August 10.00am - 1.00pm Ages 8+Street/Break Dance @ Kingsley Sports CentreTry Something New!! This course will teach you the basics of street andbreakdance all to the latest chart topping songs.£15.00 N/RC £11.50 RC £7.50 Conc16 th August 10.00am - 3.00pm Ages 5 - 7Tiny Tots Trip Out - Umberslade FarmMeet at Kingsley Sports Centre. Packed lunch and plenty of drinks required.£13.00 N/RC £11.00 RC £6.50 Conc.17 th August 10.00am - 3.00pm Ages 8+Special Needs Day @ Kingsley Sports CentreFun filled day packed with sports and activities.£11.00 N/RC £7.50 RC £5.50 Conc.17 th August 10.00am - 3.00pm Ages 8+Fencing @ Arrow Vale Sports CentreTry Something New!! Learn the basics in this taster sessionaimed at beginners to the sport.£23.50 N/RC £15.50 RC £11.50 Conc.18 th - 19 th August 10.00am - 3.00pm Ages 12+Fencing @ Kingsley Sports CentreLearn the basics and compete against each other in day two.£32.00 N/RC £21.00 RC £15.00 Conc.18 th August 10.00am - 12.00noon Ages 4 - 7Soft Play and Arts @ Matchborough East Community CentrePaint your own plant pot and plant a sunflower with time in the soft play.£7.50 N/RC £5.00 RC £3.75 Conc19 th August 9.30am - 3.00pm Ages 8+Trip Out - Redpoint Climbing Centre and SwimMeet at Kingsley Sports Centre. Packed lunch and plenty of drinks.£17.00 N/RC £11.50 RC £8.50 Conc.To book contact the Palace Theatre on 01527 60806 except where stated otherwise.Redditch Borough CouncilRedditch matters 17

Leisure & Cultural ServicesWeek 522rd - 26th AugustSport22 nd - 26 th August 10.00am - 3.00pm Ages 5 - 12Summer Sizzle @ Astwood Bank First SchoolA mixture of arts, crafts and sports make this a must for all youngsters.£11.00 per day N/RC £7.50 per day RC £5.50 per day Conc.To book contact 0787647827922 nd - 26 th August10.00am - 10.30am - 11.00am - 11.30am Ages 4 - 12Learn to Swim @ Hewell Road Swimming Pool£24.50 N/RC £16.50 RC £13.37 Conc.To book contact Hewell Road Swimming Pool on 01527 6418923 rd August 10.00am - 12.00noon Ages 4 - 7Giant games and playfun @ Kingsley Sports CentrePlay games on a large scale as well as some of your favouriteplayground games.£7.50 N/RC £5.00 RC £3.75 Conc.23 rd August 2.00pm - 4.00pm Ages 8+Water Polo @ Kingsley Sports CentreTry Something New!! A taster session for beginners to the game. Allparticipants must be able to swim and tread water forat least 2 minutes.£10.00 N/RC £7.00 RC £5.00 Conc.24 th August 10.00am - 3.00pm Ages 8+Multi Sports and Swim @ Kingsley Sports CentreA variety of different sports combined with time in the pool.£23.50 N/RC £15.50 RC £11.50 Conc.25 th August 10.00am - 12.00noon Ages 4 - 7Gym and Tramps @ Abbey Stadium Sports CentreBounce on the trampolines and tumble on the mats.£7.50 N/RC £5.00 RC £3.7525 th August 10.00am - 1.00pm Ages 4 - 7Street/Break Dance @ Kingsley Sports CentreTry Something New!! This course will teach you the basics ofstreet and breakdance all to the latest chart topping songs.£15.00 N/RC £11.50 RC £7.50 Conc.26 th August 10.00am - 3.00pm Ages 7+Magical Mystery TripMeet at Kingsley Sports Centre. Packed lunch and waterproofcoat recommended. Join us on our mystery trip.£15.00 N/RC £10.00 RC £7.50 Conc.26 th August10.00am - 12.30pm or 12.30pm - 3.00pm Ages 7+Arts and Crafts @ Kingsley Sports CentreCreate a masterpiece to take home.Book your half day session or stay for whole day.£12.00 N/RC £8.00 RC £6.00 Conc. (half day)£23.00 N/RC £15.00 RC £11.00 Conc. (whole day)To book contact the Palace Theatre on 01527 60806 except where stated otherwise.18 Redditch mattersRedditch Borough Council

Leisure & Cultural ServicesWeek 630th August - 2nd SeptemberSport30 th August - 2 nd September 10.00am - 3.00pm Ages 5 - 12Summer Sizzle @ Kingsley Sports CentreA mixture of arts, crafts and sports make this a must for all youngsters.£11.00 per day N/RC £7.50 per day RC £5.50 per day Conc.To book contact 0787647827930 th August - 2 nd September 10.30am - 11.30amChildren’s Float Session @ Hewell Road Swimming PoolTurn up at the pool. No booking required.£1.00 (children)£3.85 N/RC (adults) £2.55 RC (adults) £1.95 Conc. (adults)(Price per day)31 st August 10.00am - 3.00pm Ages 7+Bats and Rackets @ Abbey Stadium Sports CentreStriking games and activities including tennis, cricket, rounders,badminton and lots more.£23.50 N/RC £15.50 RC £11.50 Conc.2 nd September 2.00noon - 3.00pm Ages 7+Brazilian Dance for Kids @ Kingsley Sports CentreTry Something New!! The kids version of the dance craze that is sweeping thenation. Learn basic steps and routines in this fun dance workout session.£15.00 N/RC £11.50 RC £7.50 Conc.2 nd September 10.00am - 3.00pm Ages 8+Trip Out - Ragley Hall and Inkberrow Golf AcademyMeet at Kingsley Sports Centre. Packed lunch and plenty of drinks required.£15.00 N/RC £10.00 RC £7.50 Conc.Forge Mill Needle Museum & Bordesley Abbey Visitor Centrewww.forgemill.org.ukActivity Weeks8 th - 11 th Aug & 15 th - 18 th AugA week of fun and stimulating activities for children aged 8 - 12 years.Children need to wear comfortable clothes that may get dirty and bring theirown packed lunch and drinks.10.00am - 4.00pm every dayMonPaper Art. A fun day of activities to include paper making,paper sculpture and printing.TuesLucky Dip. Pond dipping, bug hunting and more.WedAdventure Outing. A day at Ragley Hall.ThursShark Attack. Visit the shark exhibition, follow our shark trailand other fishy activities!PRE BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL AS PLACES ARE LIMITED.Cost per week £60.00 N/RC £40.00 RC £30.00 Conc.Cost per day £15.00 N/RC £10.00 RC £7.50 Conc.To book contact the Palace Theatre on 01527 60806 except where stated otherwise.Redditch Borough Council Redditch matters 19

Leisure & Cultural ServicesKingsley Sports CentreOver 5s Learn to Swim Programme 2 week intense course (Mon - Fri) 9.00am - 9.30am or 9.30am - 10.00amThere will be 2 courses running through out the summerCourse 1 25th July - 5th August (Excluding Weekends)Course 2 15th August - 3rd September (Excluding Weekends)£46.50 N/RC £33.00 RC £24.75 Conc.Under 5’s Learn to Swim/Water confidenceAges 3 - 5 years 1 week course 8th August - 12th August,9.00am - 9.30am or 9.30am - 10.00am£24.75 N/RC £16.50 RC £13.37 Conc.To book contact Kingsley Sports Centre on 01527 529724Summer Youth Festival 2011Once again The Palace Youth Theatre are embarking on their annual summer workshop.Sessions run 10am - 4pm daily with a performance each Friday at 3pm.WEEK 1 - 25th - 29th July. A Musical Adventure. Explore the weird and wonderful world of fairytales through musical theatre.WEEK 2 - 1st - 5th August. The Secret Bookcase. Through story telling and improvisation unlock the legend of the secret bookcase.WEEK 3 - 8th - 12th August. Magical Puppetry. A creative week using junk and ‘bits and bobs’ to make imaginative puppets.Costs are: £135 non reddicard £90 reddicard £67.50 concessionary reddicardFor more information or to make a booking call the Box Office on (01527) 65203How to Book - Bookings commence Monday 13th JuneTo book on Summer Sizzle - Action Sport 07876478279, Palace Theatre, Alcester Street, Redditch, B98 8AETo book on Redditch Borough Council Courses please contact the relevant venueAbbey Stadium Sports Centre 01527 60206, Birmingham Rd, Redditch. B97 6EJArrow Vale Sports Centre 01527 500010, Green Sward Lane, Matchborough, Redditch. B98 0ENHewell Road Swimming Pool 01527 64189, Batchley, Redditch B97 6BAKingsley Sports Centre 01527 529724, Woodrow Drive, Woodrow, Redditch B98 7UHForge Mill, 01527 62509, Needle Mill Lane, Riverside, Redditch. B98 8HYArrow Valley Countryside Centre, 01527 464000, Battens Drive, Redditch. B98 0LJPalace Theatre, 01527 65203, Alcester Street, Redditch. B98 8AETo book on all Action Sport Courses (Except Summer Sizzle’s)contact: 01527 60806, PALACE THEATRE, Alcester Street, Redditch B98 8AEOpening Hours: Mon - Fri 10.00am - 4.00pm, Sat 9.30am - 1.30pmOnce you have received your Activ8 Brochure you can provisionally book by telephone or in person. Select activitiesand contact the correct organisation. Places book up fast so book early to avoid disappointment.To Secure your booking, return the booking form with full payment to the appropriate organisation within 48 hours of booking.Bookings will not be accepted without completion of the consent form and medical details on the reverse of the booking form.PLEASE NOTE: Payment on the day of the activity shall incur an additional £1 administration fee.If paying by credit or debit card over the telephone, booking forms must still be completed and returned to the appropriateorganisation to confirm your booking. Please read all receipts carefully as this is confirmation of your booking.Please be aware, NO CHILD IS ACCEPTED ON A COURSE WHERE CONSENT FORMS AND MEDICAL CONSENT HAVENOT BEEN COMPLETED.20 Redditch mattersRedditch Borough Council

Big hopes for bloomingbeautiful RedditchRedditch’s flowers need to be looking their best this month whenjudges visit the borough as part of the Heart of England in Bloomcompetition.Last year Redditch won a Silver Gilt award in the regionalcompetition after the Council entered into the small city category.This year, the Council is hoping to be able to repeat this success andhas entered Heart of England in Bloom again with the support ofWebbs Garden Centre who sponsor the whole competition.Britain in Bloom judges are due to visit Redditch at the end of July fora tour of the Town Centre, Forge Mill Needle Museum and other areasof the borough.The entry is also being supported by the Where Next Association,Andrew Grant estate agents, Tesco Extra, Standard Newspaper,Clarke Roxboro, The Kingfisher Shopping Centre and ScottishWidows, Firstqall heating and Plumbing and Shipleys Amusements.Britain in Bloom is one of Europe’s largest horticultural campaignswith more than 1,100 cities, towns and villages participating eachyear.Vin-Tastic Trip!A fifty-strong town-twinning group recently returned from a Bank Holidayvisit to Redditch’s twin town in Burgundy, Auxerre where they received awelcome which was particularly ‘cordial ’ this year.Highlights of this year’s visit were a wine-tasting trip to Sancerre, where thegroup visited an organic vineyard, and a beer-tasting excursion toSeptfonds.Take Action!Disability Action Redditch is making adifference in the town – especially withaccessibility in mind.The group, supported by the Council,meets on the second Monday in eachmonth – and already has a list ofachievements under its belt.These include listing and sorting our accessissues in the shopping centre Redditchmayor Anita Clayton, who also chairs thegroup, said: “Most of our members have adisability so we really hear about problemsfrom first hand experience.Newly elected Mayor of Redditch, Cllr Anita Clayton said: “This was my firstbig mayoral function and my first time in Auxerre. We had an amazingweekend - everyone was very kind. Auxerre’s a fabulous place.”The trip, organised by the Friends of Auxerre, is open to anyone who joinsthe organisation and takes place every two years – next year the Auxerroiscome to Redditch at about the same time of year. Trips are self-fundedThis is the Borough’s oldest foreign link, dating back to 1956. Four othertowns are twinned with Redditch: Mtwara in Tanzania, East Africa;Gruchet-le-Valasse in Normandy, France; St Elizabeth in Jamaica; andGujar Khan in Rawalpindi, Pakistan. For further information onany of these other groups please contactdemocratic@bromsgroveandredditch.gov.uk.To contact the Friends of Auxerre callKath Batten on (01527) 500036 ore.mail: kathbatten@blueyonder.co.uk“It really gives a voice to people who don’tfind getting out and about so easy – andmeans we can take action to make lifemore enjoyable for them.”For more details about the group call CllrClayton on (01527) 501797 or e-mailabclayton@redditchbc.gov.ukRedditch Borough CouncilRedditch matters 21

WinningWinyatesWinning Winyates is a five-year community project to support the community of Winyates.Winning Winyates benefits from a pool of resources and expertise, as it brings together localcommunity groups with Redditch Partnership made up of the Borough and County councils, the healthauthority, NEW College, the Police, the YMCA and many other agencies that all work in the area. Hereis what’s going on:Power to the communityWinyates Centre residents will feel safer and more secure this summer when thesecurity project they have worked on with the Community Safety and HousingCapital teams at Redditch Borough Council gives them the power to decide whocan enter the communal areas outside their homes.The entrance doors are to be replaced with fob activated security doors, everyflat will be fitted with a video intercom allowing them to see callers before theyunlock a door and a recorded CCTV system will be installed in the stairways. Thescheme was designed by the Community Safety Team and members of the localcommunity.Community Safety Project Officer Pete Hill is clear about the purposes of theproject: “Security doors and CCTV on their own don’t make an area safe. They aresimply tools which only work when a community choose to use them.“If someone enters the communal areas to vandalise or intimidate we can find outhow and when they entered and what they look like. But this system is not BigBrother, there is no one standing in a room watching the live camera footage. Thesystem is only successful when an empowered and confident resident lets us knowthat an incident has happened.”Once the scheme is installed, the Winyates Centre Residents Group will act as asteering group for the area’s improved security and will oversee the regenerationof the communal areas.The Winyates Centre communaldoors currently provides free access toanyone, but residents will soon be ableto close the door on crime and antisocialbehaviour.22 Redditch mattersRedditch Borough Council

Active WinyatesActive Winyates opens up the area’s public spaces with a series of walking andcycling routes connecting the centre to neighbouring Matchborough and ArrowValley Lake, mirroring the networks that connect all of Redditch. With short,medium and long routes all starting and finishing in the Winyates andMatchborough centres, local residents should look out for their Active Winyatesroute map. This will be distributed to households in the area.No-cost exercise in your neighbourhood!Working WinyatesWork experience, volunteering placements and guest speakers are just a few ofthe things on offer at the Working Winyates clubs, designed to help unemployedresidents get back to the basics of looking for work. People that take part in the sixweekclubs are also supported by ongoing support groups to sustain their progress– thanks to NEW college for donating computers for the Working Winyates clubmembers to use!Cooking projectA range of delicious and healthy meal ideas, tested by the ladies of IpsleyWomen’s Institute in kitchens kindly loaned by Arrow Vale High School, is coming toWinyates this July with the release of a special local cookbook. Written as alearning aid for cooking skills and healthy eating, the book is also a convenientaccess point for residents to reach other health-related services.The Oasis at WinyatesOfficially opened on 24th June by Karen Lumley MP, the Oasis at Winyates drop incentre, coffee and charity shop is run by Oasis Christian Centre and supports theWinning Winyates project. As well as being a hub of community activity, residentsseeking good quality used furniture can also contact local furniture recycler NewStarts here. Oasis is always seeking volunteers, just drop them a line on (01527) 585926.Winyates Barn Community CentreOn the same day that Oasis was officially opened just over the road, a communityparty brought people from across the community together at the Grade II listedWinyates Barn Community Centre. A daytime tea party was followed by family funwith shared food and tales from professional storyteller Big Dave (David Wilkins MBE).Also coming to the Barn over the summer holidays is a 10-week activity programmefor a range of ages and interests, run with the YMCA. Over 20 hours of fun every week,including table games, short mat bowls, boccia and outdoor sports at Ipsley MiddleSchool.ResidentsgroupsResidents groups like the WinyatesCentre Residents are being set upto listen to local issues andconcerns, and give residents a wayto steer activities such as WinningWinyates in their local area – moreon this in our Housing section onpage 26.Redditch Borough CouncilRedditch matters 23

Focus on CentralGatewayto RedditchA freeze frame of the borough's history,environment and vibrant culture: that's thefirst thing people now see as theystep off the train at Redditchas a set of new murals lightup the underpassoutside the town'sstation.“The project hasbeen brilliant. This isthe best thing that I'vedone with the communityin my whole life.sI will be asking all of myfamily and friends to comeand see the mural.”Jose Delgado, Arrow ValeHigh School artist.Carefully researchedto represent some ofthe many fascinatingaspects of theborough’s visualheritage, a range of localsources were approachedincluding the Keeper ofCollections at Forge Mill Needle Museum,the Local History Society, the KingfisherShopping Centre, local railway historiansand members of the borough and countycouncils.With funding from the RedditchCommunity Safety Partnership the projectwas managed by the BoroughCouncil and painted byprofessional artists Hedz withyear nine students from ArrowVale High School, youth andcommunity group What’s YourPoint? and WorcestershireCounty Council YouthServices.The Gateway Mural is the latestin a series of 'roadway arts' aroundRedditch transforming andprotecting public spaces and streetfurniture using bold and colourful artwork.Smallwood,big reachFrom its small office in the old marketbeneath the Kingfisher Centre SmallwoodResidents Association offers a helpinghand to the community, almost 40 yearsafter it was founded in a very differentRedditch to today's thriving town.Home of the Sunset Pensioners' Club, stillgoing strong after over 30 years, theAssociation bears the Smallwood name butits irrepressible founder and Chairman MrsMadge Tillsley MBE, Auntie Madge to herfriends, insists all of Redditch is welcome."We look after the whole community," saidMadge, who was awarded the MBE forservices to the community in 1987 and in1991 was elected the UK's first black mayor."Age, religion, race, Smallwood or Batchley,it doesn't matter. Anyone will tell you we'reall one community. Redditch can teachother towns a thing or two about diversityand community integration."Val Herlihy has been in the Sunset Club for25 years. "We meet fortnightly at the TownHall and subs are only 80p. We have a lotof talks and entertainment and theoccasional outing, and recently we evencelebrated a 90th birthday. It's a small,friendly group and we could alwayswelcome some new members."24 Redditch mattersRedditch Borough Council

Working closely with the Police, theBorough Council and local groups fromacross Redditch the Residents' Associationpioneered a number of communityactivities in decades past and is still thereto support local people. In 2011 localgovernment support is better developed -as shown by the £500 Redditch BoroughCouncil Voluntary Sector Grant the Sunsetpensioners are using for a community daytrip to Weston-Super-Mare this summer."Years ago we had to put our hand in ourown pockets or rely on the generosity of thecommunity," Madge recalls. "There were nogrants at all and it was very hard work, veryhard."Central Ward CouncillorsAnd Madge is still calling on residents to getinvolved with their community, as many localparents and grandparents did before them."These days I know three generations infamilies that first came to us in the 1970s andeven earlier, some had no money, somehardly spoke any English, and the communitywas there for them and helped themintegrate."Smallwood Residents Association:(01527) 62366Cllr Greg ChanceLabourTel: 456264Mob: 07581729005Cllr Debbie TaylorLabourMob: 07917072710Redditch Borough Council Redditch matters 25

HOUSINGroundupTenant panelgives verdictTenants’ views on their housing serviceare now being collected on a regularbasis, after a tenant panel was set upin May. Designed to help housingservices understand and respond towhat residents think and feel, the viewsof the performance development andreview panel will be a feature ofRedditch Borough Council’s Housing ServicesAnnual Report. Tenancy Participation OfficerKaren Lethbridge said: “Involving tenantsand getting their feedback is essential for usto measure and where necessaryimprove our service. Our tenant panel areasked a range of questions that theycan answer using a simple push-buttondevice, like a gameshow buzzer! It’ssimple to do, and the feedback givesresidents a real say in the management oftheir housing.”More meetings are to take place on September12 and November 14 - to get involved pleasecontact Karen on (01527) 64252.Congratulationsto the three winners ofour clear rent accounts cashprize draw! To encourage tenantsto clear their rent accounts, aprize draw for anyone with a clearaccount by April 1 was includedwith annual rent increase letters.Just under 300 entered andthe three lucky winnersscooped £50, £25and £15.In addition to the tenant panel, the findings of mystery shoppersthat visit Housing Services will be used to drive further improvement.Excellence incustomer serviceCustomer service in Housinghas been commended byan external assessor, whovisited tenants to check upon a detailed portfolio ofevidence submitted by staffof the service.The assessor, who as part ofher visit had lunch withresidents of the Council’sExtra Care housing schemeSt David’s House, awardedHousing Services aCustomer ServiceExcellence Accreditation(formerly the Charter Mark).HousingRent arrears collectionsGetting into arrears with rent is a tricky situation for tenants andlandlords alike - especially in a difficult financial climate.Redditch Borough Council's Rent and Welfare Service is focusedon preventing tenancy debt, and introduced a specialistWelfare service in early 2010 to help tenantsmaximise their income.The team helped over 120 Counciltenants to increase their income last year,and almost halved the number ofCouncil tenants in arrears with theirrent from just over 2,500 tenants to1,300. As a result, overall rent arrearsowed to the Council were reduced byover £53,000 from the previous year.Continuing its focus onpreventing tenancy debt, theteam has been reviewed andrestructured with more Officerstrained to assist with maximisingincome and applying for benefits.OptionsAs well as providing specialist adviceto people with housing-relatedqueries, the Housing Options teammanages the Council’s housing waiting list and offersadvice on education and employment.And now a focus group of residents and officers hasbeen created to consider the implications of thepending Localism Bill and ensure the BoroughCouncil’s Housing Allocations Policy reflects the needsof local people.Housing Options manager Elise Hopkins said:“Residents and experts come together on our group,which helps us develop our allocations policy. So far in2011 the group has shadowed housing officers to seehow they actually work, studied all the real challengesof housing and learned about this year’s changes tothe housing benefits system.”If you would like to be involved in this group pleasecontact Housing Options’ Sam Wilkes on (01527)64252.26 Redditch mattersRedditch Borough Council

Praise forCouncilLifelineCustomers have praised a Councilscheme which helps elderly or vulnerablepeople living at home, with more than 97per cent saying they were satisfied with theservice.During a satisfaction survey of Redditchand Bromsgrove Councils home alarmservice, NEW Lifeline, customers were askedto say how satisfied they were with theservice and their experience of using it.Out of 1,000 questionnaires sent out, 376were returned with 280 customers claimingto be very satisfied with the service while 87were satisfied. 290 customers also felt thatthe service was value for money.All returned surveys were submitted into aprize draw, which was won by AstwoodBank resident Josephine Bagby.The 81-year-old, who has been using theservice for around three years, said: “I havefound Lifeline very helpful – it really is a rockto fall back on.”Comments received throughthe survey include:“Calling Lifeline saved my life in January2010.”“The Lifeline is value for money becausethere is always someone there at theend of the phone to help me.”“It gives me peace of mindespecially when I am outside in thegarden - hanging washing etc. I takegreat care but always wear my'Button'.”“Your phone is great, but lifeline isbrilliant, I live alone and am in poorhealth, and it’s comforting to knowsomeone is right there. They're alwayspolite and helpful.”“It truly is my Lifeline in an emergencyit is reassuring to know help is on theend of the phone.”“It gives me and my family peace ofmind as they live a long way away.”Cllr Juliet Brunner presents flowers towinner Josephine Bagby with the helpof CCTV and Telecare ServicesManager Rachel McAndrews.What is Lifeline?NEW Lifeline is a community alarm serviceavailable 24 hours per day, 365 days per yearto any vulnerable person living within theRedditch and Bromsgrove Districts.It supports those who may be elderly, livingalone for the first time, living with a disability,or have a serious health problem.The Monitoring Centre is staffed 24 hours aday by operators who are fully trained torespond promptly and efficiently uponreceiving an emergency call.For more information on NEW Lifeline visit thewebsite www.redditchbc.gov.uk or call(01527) 64252.Helping shoppers get out and aboutShoppers are being encouraged totake advantage of a scheme whichhelps people with mobility issues getaround the town centre.Shopmobility, based in the KingfisherShopping Centre, helps more than 70people every day by providingscooters or wheelchairs for shopperscompletely for free.It has been working in the town since1987 and has recently received anew fleet of scooters followingdonations from residents.Julie Dipple, from Shopmobility, said:“This service is a great help foranyone who needs help gettingaround the town centre, whether it isbecause of a permanent disability orsomething like a broken leg or evenpregnancy.“Customers can come in here andtake their time getting used to themachines. They can also wait with ahot drink for their lifts to arrive beforethey go home.”Shopmobility has a modern fleet of small/largescooters, plus powered manual and attendantwheelchairs. Equipment hire is free (thoughmany users make a donation) and users arefully trained before they take it out. Scooterscan be brought to and collected from users’cars and there is also an escort service forwheelchair users.Dial-A-Ride minibuses can also be used to getto the Kingfisher Centre and drop passengersoutside the Shopmobility centre close to CarPark Three in the Kingfisher.Shopmobility fact fileContact number (01527) 64910Opening hours: Mon to Sat 9am-5pm(third Tues of every month 10.30am-5pm)Bank Holidays: 10.30am-4pmSun up to 19th Dec – 10.30am-4pmYou must be registered to use the service.To find out more about Shopmobility visit thewww.redditchbc.gov.uk or call(01527) 64910.Redditch Borough Council Redditch matters 27

Latest Scoop!Clean and green communities are a part of the Council’s vision. The Waste Promotions teamhas launched a marketing campaign to urge residents to take action and keep the areaswhere they live clean and green.The first encourages dog walkers to pick up after their pooch. Images on Council vehicles and posters around theBorough will help remind residents to scoop the poop!Did you know…….●If your dog goes to the toilet in a public place you have a legal responsibility to pick it up.● If you are seen not picking up after your dog you will be fined £50.●●●●●Dog mess contains parasites, tapeworms, E Coli and salmonella which can affect kidneys and cause intestinalproblems.Use nappy bags or doubled up old carrier bags to pick up dog mess.Round worms found in dog mess cause stomach upsets, epileptic fits, asthma and even blindness. These eggscan live for up to 10 years in the soil and spread easy on children’s hands.It is very common for footballers to pick up infections from playing on pitches where dogs have been to the toilet.Redditch Borough Council empties over 130 dog waste bins a month.28 Redditch matters Redditch Borough Council

Meet Your Councillors 2O11/12"In May the Brough Council held elections which saw five new Councillorsvoted in. Here's the list of all our Councillors. See our website for more details.Just electedAbbeyAstwood Bank & FeckenhamBatchley & BrockhillCllr Simon ChalkConservativeTel: 550124Mob: 07990733247Email: simon.chalk@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Alan MasonLabourMob: 07952858616Email: alan.mason@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Michael ChalkConservativeTel: 63319Email: mike.chalk@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Brandon ClaytonConservativeTel: 501797Mob: 07825604072Email: brandon.clayton@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Luke Stephens Cllr Jinny PearceLabourConservativeMob: 07905735332 Mob: 07875558112Email: luke.stephens Email: jinny.pearce@redditchbc.gov.uk @redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Brenda QuinneyConservativeTel: 459754Email: brenda.quinney@redditchbc.gov.ukCentralChurch HillCrabbs CrossCllr Greg ChanceLabourTel: 456264Mob: 07581729005Email: greg.chance@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Debbie TaylorLabourMob: 07917072710Email: debbie.taylor@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Robin KingLabourTel: 456792Email: robin.king@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Bill HartnettLabourTel: 836802Email: bill.hartnett@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Roger HillConservativeMob: 07967385074Email: roger.hill@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Andrew BrazierConservativeTel: 402048Email: andrew.brazier@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Derek TaylorConservativeMob: 07506771200Email: derek.taylor@redditchbc.gov.ukGreenlandsHeadless Cross & OakenshawLodge ParkCllr Rebecca BlakeLabourTel: 64744Mob: 07739565241Email: rebecca.blake@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr William NortonConservativeTel: 542375Email: william.norton@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Wanda KingLabourTel: 456792Email: wanda.king@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Peter AndersonConservativeTel: 401367Mob: 07943811561Email: peter.anderson@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Gay HopkinsConservativeTel: 524197Email: gay.hopkins@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Carole GandyConservativeTel: 542022Mob: 07739431049Email: carole.gandy@redditchbc.gov.uk(Leader of the Council)Cllr Andy FryLabourTel: 584394Mob: 07894058880Email: andy.fry@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Mark ShurmerLabourTel: 455296Email: mark.shurmer@redditchbc.gov.ukMatchboroughWestWinyatesCllr Anita ClaytonConservativeTel: 501797Email: anita.clayton@redditchbc.gov.uk(2011 -12 Mayor)Cllr Juliet BrunnerConservativeMob: 07990733054Email: juliet.brunner@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Michael BraleyConservativeTel: 543433Email: michael.braley@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr David BushConservativeTel: 64252 ext 3265Email: david.bush@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Malcolm HallLib DemTel: 523985Email: malcolm.hall@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Phil MouldLabourTel: 544663Email: phil.mould@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Adam GriffinConservativeMob: 07400706777Email: adam.griffin@redditchbc.gov.ukRedditch Borough Council Redditch matters 29

Hi-De-Hi tothe Square’sHeart Throb!There are more than seven littlereasons why people should beheading to the Palace TheatreRedditch this Christmas!Leaving his EastEnders love lifebehind, Stefan Booth will be bringingcharm, charisma and smoulderinggood looks to the Palace Theatre thisDecember when he stars in thepopular pantomime Snow White andthe Seven Dwarfs.Stefan has been a huge hit on our TVscreens from the moment heappeared in the hit serial dramaHollyoaks as the heartbreaking JamieNash, before leaving to spend timepounding the beat in The Bill. Hethen went on to score highly withjudges and audiences alike in thepopular ITV Dancing on Ice serieswhich saw him spin, arabesqueand butterfly jump his way intothe final where he performed TheBolero in front of Jane Torviland ChristopherDean, securing therunners-up place.This last year has seen Stefan onthe set of EastEnders regularlyshowing his biceps as builderGreg,Tanya’snewhusband,and hewill beneedingsome ofhismusclepower asPrincein theproduction of Snow White andthe Seven Dwarfs, when hetakes on the Wicked Queen!Joining Stefan will be former HiDe Hi Yellow Coat Nikki Kelly.For eight series of the BBCshow, Nikki brought comedyand laughter to our screens asSylvia and has recently beenseen across the country in thetouring stage version of Hi DeHi as ballroom dancer Yvonne.Nikki will have children booingand adults crying with herpowerfulMIRROR,MIRROR ON THE WALLwhere’s the bestpanto of themall!performance ofthe WickedQueen!Every pantomimeneeds a dameand Peter John’sDame DollyDumpling will have audiencesin a right apple crumble withher colourful costumes andlaugh-out-loud comedyroutines. Adding the topping tothe production will be comicRicky K who guaranteeslaughter all the way topantoland!Stunning costumes, creativechoreography, scenery straightfrom an enchanting fairytaleand fast paced story line willensure this year’s production ofSnow White and the SevenDwarfs is a truly wickedpantomime!Tickets can be booked bycalling the Palace Theatre BoxOffice priced from £14.50 to£17.50 on (01527) 65203 oronline atwww.redditchpalacetheatre.co.uk. Look for the special redperformances to make asaving on your ticketspurchased before the endof September.Sponsors needed forpopular Redditch festivalRedditch businesses are being encouraged to getinvolved in one of Redditch’s biggest annual events bybecoming a sponsor.This year’s Morton Stanley Festival is taking place on 20thand 21st August with more than 30 live bands alreadybooked to perform.Last year the two day event attracted around 7,500people. A number of younger residents also got involvedin the event early on through the Morton Stanley FestivalFacebook group which had over 1,300 followers.This year Redditch Borough Council, which runs the event,is looking for local businesses to sponsor the festival with achance for companies to advertise their services to notonly Redditch residents but also visitors to the borough.Cllr Derek Taylor, Portfolio Holder for Leisure, said: “Lastyear’s Morton Stanley Festival was a great event,successful despite the rain, and attracted people youngand old to the park for two fun days out. This year we arehoping to repeat that success with more of a bigger mixof music and activities for all ages in the family.“We want to make this event a celebration of Redditch,going from strength to strength, and get as many peopleinvolved as possible.”For more information on how to sponsor the event call theRedditch Procurement Teamon (01527) 64252.Have a Safe and Secure SummerWith the summer holiday season now upon us, WestMercia Police is reminding residents to be vigilant andfollow a few simple steps to help keep your home safeand secure while you’re away on holiday:➤ Let a neighbour or friend know that you’re goingaway.➤ Arrange for them to check on your house –collect mail, open / close curtains.➤ Remember to cancel your milk and newspapers.➤ Encourage a neighbour to park on your drive.v Use timer switches to turn lights on during theevenings.v Don’t forget your garden! Effective gardensecurity will help to keep your home secure.For more information about home and gardensecurity, or to contact your local policing team, visitthe force website www.westmercia.police.uk .30 Redditch mattersRedditch Borough Council

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What’s onSelected events from July to October 2011Arrow Valley Countryside Centre(01527) 464000www.redditchbc.gov.ukScarecrow Day. 29thAugust. Build one yourselffor the competition to bejudged by the Mayor. Freeentry and parking.Drop in familyactivities -Pond Pirates.Thursday 28thJuly and 4thAugust, 11am to 3pm. Discoverwhat lies beneath the murkydepths of the dipping pond£1.50 per child. Suitable for allages. No booking required.Scarecrow Making Days.24th and 25th August, 11amto 3pm. £2.50 per scarecrowfor materials. No bookingrequired.National Play Day. 3rd August, 2pm to5pm. Bouncy castle, face painting,drumming with Glamba, activities, Punchand Judy and circus skills. Free event.Forge Mill Needle Museum(01527) 62509www.forgemill.org.ukShark! The Myths and Reality Exhibition.22nd July to 11th September. Shark!Exhibition explores the evolution of theseancient and often misunderstood hunters.Museum entry applies, discounted rates forRedditch residents on Wednesdays.Shark Puppets. 27th and 3rd August.Create your very own ‘jaws’! Costs £4.Underwater Glitter Globe. Wednesday24th August and Wednesday 31st AugustPut some sparkle under the sea! Costs £4.Archaeology Day. Sunday 17th July, 11amto 4pm. Fun archaeology themedactivities for all the family! Adults £2,Children free.'All at Sea' event day. 7th August, 11amto 4pm. A special sea-themed event dayto celebrate the SharkExhibition. Museum entryapplies, children canenter for free.WheelwrightDisplay. 13th and14th August, 11amto 4pm. A displayby the Guild ofModelWheelwrights. Free.Farm Fun Day. 28th August, 11amto 4pm. Adults £2, children £1,family £5, includes entry into themuseum.Ghost walk.21st and22ndOctober,7pm. Join usfor an eerieevening's walkwhen you willdiscover thehaunting talesthat areassociated withthe old mill andthe BordesleyAbbey site.Tickets can bepurchased in advance by contacting themuseum. Cost £5.Pumpkin Carving Workshops. 26thOctober, 9.30am to 12noon and 2.30pm.Booking in advance is essential bycontacting the museum. £4.50.Morton Stanley ParkWindmill Drive, Headless CrossMorton Stanley Festival. 20th and 21stAugust 2011. More than 30 live bands, afun fair and family activities.Palace Theatre(01527) 65203www.redditchpalacetheatre.co.ukAn Evening of Comedy Ian Jones Live atthe Palace, 2nd September.Omid Djalili – Tour of Duty. 9thSeptember. Multi award winning stand-uptelevision and movie star, Omid Djalili isback on tour with his brand new comedyshow.‘A Night of Musicals’ starring MichaelCourtney. 10th September.Sweeney Todd the Demon Barber ofFleet Street presented by the HarlequinTheatre Company. 15th and17thSeptember.Roy Orbison and Friends (tribute). 23rdSeptember.Motown’s Greatest Hits - How Sweet ItIs. 24th September.Terry Bradford and Sussie Arvensen inRoll Out the Barrel presented by TheFamous Music Company. 28thSeptember.The Briefcase Blues Brothers.30th September.Confessions of Honour. 1stOctober.Guys and Dolls presented byAlcester Musical TheatreCompany Presents. 4th to 8thOctober.We’ll Meet Again. 12thOctober.Patrick Monahan 2011 BritishTour and Support - AlanSeaman. 13th October.Jackson – Live in Concert aTribute to Michael Jackson,proudly presented by, SweeneyEntertainments. 14th October.Ceri Dupree is Divalicious!!!! One Night,One man, One Dozen Divas. 15thOctober.Ray Cooney’s Farce - Chase MeComrade presented by Rowney GreenPlayers. 19th to 22nd October.The State Ballet Academy of Minskpresent - The Nutcracker Music: Pyotr i.Tchaikovsky Ballet Classic For the WholeFamily! 30th October.32 Redditch mattersRedditch Borough Council