TEMESPANFebruary 2026
3IndexPage Number and ArticleEditor’s Note4 Church Services7 Rev. Morris Message11 Message from the Diocese18 World Day of Prayer19 Lindridge Hall What's On20-21 Christmas Celebrations23 Lindridge School News25 Clows Top Gardening Club27 Menith Wood WI29 Frith Common Carol Crawl30 Quiz Night31 Toddler Group33/35 Matinee & Evening Movies39 Teme Valley Walkers 41 Teme Valley Tote43 Teme Valley Wildlife Group48 Teme Valley Historical Soc.51 At A Glance Events57 Clubs and Societies58 ContactsCover Photograph:CatkinsJulia GordonThe trouble with not having an actual January edition of the magazine is that by the time February comes along, reporting on all the Christmas festivities seems a little like old news. So my apologies if rather a lot of this month's articles are retrospective in nature, but I thought it was important to share with you some of the local events that took place over the Christmas holidays, in case you want to participate next year. Never fear though, there's plenty to look forward to this month including two really good movies and the great value monthly breakfast at LPH, plus all sorts of clubs and activities you can get involved with - see What's On, page 19. We'll also soon be posting some important dates for the year ahead on the Parish Hall website (www.lindridge- parishhall.co.uk) so you can get these on your calendar in good time. Just a reminder too, that the LPH committee is always interested in recruiting new volunteers to help with various events so if you'd like to get more involved please contact the hall via email at: [email protected] you and best wishes to you all for a healthy and happy 2026.JG/Editor
4The Four Rivers GroupServices in February 2026Knighton, Lindridge, Pensax, Stockton, AbberleyGreat Witley, Little Witley, ShrawleySunday 1st February – Candlemas – Presentation of Christ in the Temple9.15 a.m. 9.30 a.m.11 a.m.LindridgeGreat WitleyAbberley St. Mary Choral Holy Communion Morning WorshipHoly CommunionSunday 8th February – 2nd Sunday before Lent9 a.m.11 a.m.4 p.m.6 p.m.Little WitleyKnightonStocktonAbberley St. MichaelHoly CommunionHoly CommunionWorship for All – Songs of Praise Celtic Holy CommunionSunday 15th February – Sunday next before Lent9.30 a.m.11 a.m.Great WitleyAbberley St. Mary Holy CommunionMorning WorshipWednesday 18th February – Ash Wednesday 7 p.m. Great Witley Ashing Service Saturday 21st February 10 a.m. Knighton Parish Rooms REVS!Sunday 22nd February – 1st Sunday of Lent9 a.m.11 a.m.11 a.m.4 p.m.6 p.m.Little WitleyShrawleyKnightonStocktonAbberley St. MichaelMorning WorshipHoly CommunionMatinsHoly CommunionCeltic Evening PrayerWednesday 25th February10.30 a.m. Lindridge Parish Hall in Eardiston Holy Communion
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7A Message FromOur Vicar Rev. David MorrisDear All,I don’t know what you think about technology but it really has been annoying me of late. Having had a corporate career with lots of technological content it comes as a bit of a surprise to me. Now I know that we all have lots of benefits from improvements in technology which range from healthcare, through mobile communications to having an almost unlimited access information via the internet (whether it’s all wisdom is for another day). But there comes a time when actually it might be nice just to talk a human! I’m not being a luddite but I do wonder if in some areas of life things have moved too far towards computers simply talking to computers. And let’s face it, artificial intelligence is getting so good that sometimes it takes a while to realise it’s a computer responding to your requests (typed or verbal).A recent example I have is of trying to place an order for something cycling related via a website. There was a problem with the way the ordering system was storing my details but no problem I can speak to a human and sort that. So far so good and probably the sort of thing you’ve come across as well. With renewed confidence I tried again another 5 times with a new cheery message of “Would you like to cancel your order?” each time I tried to place the order (with no other options). No problem – I can talk to a human again – but that was an assumption too far. For the new problem the only option for resolution was send an email and we’ll try to respond within 48 hours!I know many of you will have had the same frustrations but it makes me wonder what we’re doing here. We worship a God who is Father, Son and Holy Spirit – an intimate community. As we’re all made in God’s image this must mean that we’re all meant to be in community and consequently talking to humans is what we do. When we’re not doing that, surely we’re not living
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9up to what God would have us be? It’s just a fanciful thought, but I think Jesus wouldn’t use a self service checkout but would take the opportunity to talk to a human. Someone like you and me – marvellously made and unconditionally loved.God bless,DM.What’s Lent about?Lent may originally have followed Epiphany, just as Jesus’ sojourn in the wilderness followed immediately on from his baptism, but it soon became firmly attached to Easter. It became the principal occasion for baptism and for the reconciliation of those who had been excluded from the Church’s fellowship for whatever reason. This history explains the characteristic notes of Lent – self-examination, penitence, self-denial, study, and preparation for Easter.Muddy Boots Mission Area Lent ReflectionsAs usual there will be Lent Reflections across the Muddy Boots Mission Area (Wyre Forest West, Four Rivers and Teme Valley). we’ll be following part of the Pilgrim Course of the Church of England and we will be looking at the Lord’s Prayer. The sessions are as follows:• Week 1 - Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name• Week 2 - Your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as in heaven• Week 3 - Give us today our daily bread• Week 4 - Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us• Week 5 - Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evilLocations and timesGreat Witley - there will be face to face sessions in the Four Rivers Group from 1430-1600 on Wednesdays these being held at the Rectory (that’s David’s house) which is 1 Chiltern Close, Great Witley, WR6 6HL. The sessions are:25th February, 4th March, 11th March, 18th March, 25th MarchOnline – these will be via Zoom on the Wednesdays in Lent at 1900-2030. Contact Sallie for more detailsAround the Teme Valley – these will be held on Fridays in Lent from 1030-1200 in various people’s homes. Contact Julia or Jen for detailsFeel free to mix and match as best suits your commitments. Contact details are given below:Rev’d Sallie Butcher on 01299 896837or email at [email protected]’d Julia Quinn email at [email protected]’d Julia Curtis on 01886 853286 or email at [email protected]’d Jen Jones email at [email protected]’d David Morris on 01299 896783 or email at [email protected]’d Dr Tobias Thornes on 07487 885234 or email at [email protected]
10Zenith Automotive Refinishing Vehicle repairs and restorations Scratches, dents & scuffs Alloy wheel repair Professional Machine Polishing Panel Replacement Mobile estimates in the local area (on request) No job too big or small Contact Zeb Goldsmith: 07957184612 or pop in to see me working out of Extreme Gleam Detailing Unit 4 Tenbury Business Park Pilates | Run Club (Including C25K)HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training)Sports rehabilitationPersonal Training | Intrinsic Biomechanics Trainerwww.enhancedmovementstudio.co.ukContact Emma on 07989 [email protected] Bridge: Mill Farm Country RetailBromyard: Methodist Church HallTenbury Wells: Pump Rooms & Burford Village HallLudlow: Gather | Hallow: Remedium For the latest up-to-date class times and bookings:Clifton Upon Teme Nurseryand Forest SchoolContact Abi or Lottie on 01886 812380 [email protected] Club for Clifton Primary School Available3 months to 5 years7:30am - 6:00pm50 wks per Year
11Message from the DioceseOn 17 January, the Diocese officially welcomed Hugh Nelson as the next Bishop of Worcester. As he joins the Diocese, he will be spending time getting to know Worcestershire and Dudley and its people as well as finding out more about what’s happening in our churches.Bishop Hugh said:“Our diocesan vision is to be Kingdom People, who are part of a network of flourishing churches of all kinds, sizes and styles, with a particular focus on children, young people and their families. To be Kingdom People is to look for the signs of God at work in the world around us, to be of service to our communities – especially those most in need - and to constantly point people towards the goodness and love of Jesus. What a great vision that is!”“I am so looking forward to getting out and about, visiting churches, schools and communities and meeting God’s Kingdom People in every part of the Diocese.”As Hugh arrives, a programme is being planned for him to visit as much of the Diocese as possible, meeting clergy and lay leaders as well as congregation members. He will be looking particularly for places where he can hear from children and young people through schools, youth groups and other church-run activities. “Jesus told us that the Kingdom is like a community with a child at the centre, so I want to find out what children and young people think of God and what they’d like from church, regardless of whether they currently attend, or even consider themselves Christians.”Alongside being Bishop of Worcester, Hugh will continue to be Bishop to the Armed Forces. His youngest daughter is in the final year of her A-levels, so in the first few months, he will be travelling back to Truro for a couple of days
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13The Filling StationOur next meeting will be on Thursday 19th February 2026. A speaker has not yet been arranged for this evening, but all who are on our regular mailing list will receive up to date information about it nearer the time. We meet as usual at Eastham Memorial Hall, Eastham, Worcs. WR15 8NP at 7.15pm for a 7.30pm start.We look forward to you joining us for these evenings of fellowship, worship, teaching, and refreshments. If you are not on our mailing list and would like further information or details about our meetings, then please do not hesitate to contact me on: [email protected] each week until his wife Lizzie and daughter can join him in Worcester after the exams are over.Hugh continued: “It is an exciting time to be joining the Diocese of Worcester. God is doing something in our culture at the moment, and there is a new openness to faith. I already know that there are so many people dedicated to serving their community faithfully within and beyond our church buildings. I am looking forward to working, praying, serving and worshipping with you, so that together we can become, even more fully, God’s Kingdom People across Worcestershire and Dudley.”Bishop Hugh is going to be recording simple videos every week or two, sharing what he is discovering as he gets to know the Diocese. Look out for them on our social media pages and on our website.
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15Midweek Monthly Holy Communion ServiceYou are warmly invited to a regular monthly Holy Communion service, fourth Wednesday of the month.Wednesday, February 25th at 10.30amLindridge Parish Hall in Eardiston WR15 8JLAfter the service there will be time for a cuppa and chat. Plenty of parking available and good accessFor more information contact:Eve - 01299 890047 or Pauline 01584 881216Service led by Rev. David MorrisThe 4 Rivers Group of Churches - Diocese ofWorcester. Priest in charge: Rev David Morris.Midweek BreakPlease note that our next coffee mornings will be on Wednesday 11th February 10.30am to 12noonEnjoy your mid-morning coffee with others in our community at Lindridge Parish Hall on the above Wednesday. Spend time chatting with friends, old and new, and enjoy drinks and biscuits. For more information contact Kate Harley – 881194
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17Lindridge St Lawrence Church NewsAnother year has passed and we have said goodbye to 2025 and are looking forward with an open mind as to what 2026 has in store for us all. I hope that you all had a great Christmas and New Year and are getting on top of the clearing away of the Christmas tree and decorations.The Carol Service at St Lawrence Church Lindridge may initially have not appeared to be have been particularly well supported, but, with the Tenbury Town Band, the Church Choir and the congregation there were nearly 90 of us enjoying a super service. The church looked beautiful yet again – thank you to our ladies who are on the flower rota. Our Choral Communion in February will be on Sunday 2nd February at 9.15am and our next mid-month Communion service at Lindridge Parish Hall will be on Wednesday 25th February at 10.30am. All are welcome to both of these services, and also to stay for light refreshments afterwards when there is opportunity to chat with friends.Zoom Evening Prayers continue to be held on Wednesday evenings at 6pm during school term time – please contact me for the link if you would like to join with these prayers. St Lawrence Church is always open to all, those who just want to experience the peace and quiet or sit in silent prayer. Any comments or queries please contact me on [email protected]
18 WORLD DAY OF PRAYER 2026FRIDAY, MARCH 6th10.30 A.M. IN LINDRIDGE PARISH HALL, EARDISTON.‘I will give you Rest: Come.’The World Day of Prayer is held on the first Friday of March every year and is an international, women-led, ecumenical movement that shares the hopes, concerns, and prayers of women from around the globe. It is a powerful demonstration of global solidarity. It begins in Samoa and moves across the world in a continuous wave of prayer, finishing 38 hours later in American Samoa.Each year, women from a different country craft a service sharing their unique spiritual journey and culture. This year the women of Nigeria have created a service with the theme “I Will Give You Rest, Come.” It speaks to our need for peace and solace, drawing on their faith and experiences in a world filled with struggles and anxieties. By coming closer to God we find rest in him.Members of the 4Rivers Group of Churches are holding their service in Lindridge Parish Hall in Eardiston. It will be at 10.30a.m. and everyone is most welcome to join us to hear the stories of four Nigerian women who inspire us to work towards a better world.Eleanor Baber and Christine Clarke‘Rest for the Weary’ by Gift Amarachi Ottah.THE 4RIVERS GROUP OF CHURCHESKNIGHTON ON TEME, LINDRIDGE, STOCTON ON TEME, PENSAX, ABBERLEY, GREAT WITLEY, LITTLE WITLEY, SHRAWLEY
19 Lindridge Parish Hall“What's on Page”- February HALL EVENTS FOR ALL AGE RANGESQuiz NightSaturday 7 February7 for 7.30 startTest your knowledge, and enjoy a fish & chip supper.Matinee - Lunch & FilmThursday 5 FebruaryLunch 12.30pm, Film 2pm Film: Breakfast at Tiffany’sFilm NightSaturday 21 February7.30pmFilm: Mission ImpossibleWith bar and ice creamsCommunity Bar and GamesThursday 5 February 7pm A relaxing environment, with very competitive bar pricesMovement MattersMondays 11am - NoonFun & Friendly fitness classes for seniorsLanguage CaféThursdays 7-9pm12 & 26 FebruaryCome and practice your French or Spanish languageArt ClassEvery Tuesday 2pm – 4pmCome and learn new skills or share your talents- a creative group of peopleContact us details:Lindridge Parish Hall, 01584 881 747 or email: lindridgeparishhall@outlook.comwww.lindridgeparishhall.co.ukMid-Week Coffee MorningWed. 11 February10:30am – 12noon Come and meet like-minded people for fellowshipMid- Week Church ServiceWed 25 FebruaryLet’s gather together and share Christmas fellowship.Hire the hall for any occasion ZumbaMonday Nights 6-7pmGet fit, stay fit. Burn calories while having fun at the best exercise class ever.Saturday Breakfast and Market28 February 10am-12noonYou’re in for a treat with our home cooked breakfast.Toddler GroupMondays 9:30-11:30amEnjoy a tea or coffee with the young ones in a safe space with friends.
20Christmas CelebrationsWe celebrated Christmas in a service at Lindridge Parish Hall on Wednesday 17th December with an overall theme of “Watching and Waiting”. Along with carols and poems we were challenged on what our hopes were once our waiting was over and Christmas Day finally dawned. Peace in the world, restored relationships, world leaders putting their country’s people first in place of power for themselves – these were thought about and a poem written especially for our event was read which dared us to be different to show that love at the centre of our lives can be a light in the darkness of the lives of others. A huge thank you once again to Janet Gittins for accompanying us on the keyboard, Kevin Gittins in leading us in yet another fun rendition of The Twelve Days of Christmas (not that there was much in the way of lords a’leaping, ladies dancing and drummers drumming, but more each set of us trying to remember what we were supposed to be doing!). Thank you to all who supported this afternoon – it is the participation of many within the community who make it the success it is. Jean RuddBright torches and lanterns led us along the pathway to the Christmas Eve Service at St. James Pensax. A beautifully decorated church welcomed the fifty strong congregation.The Service was led by Reverend Robert Barlow- with Nativity readings and carols, which the congregation sang with gusto!Drinks and mince pies were later served. A truly impressive start to Christmas.Pensax Christmas Eve Carol Service
21Christmas Market Comes to Lindridge Parish Hall\"A resounding success\" was the consensus of all who attended last December's Christmas Market held at Lindridge Parish Hall. C o m m i t t e e member Julia Gordon, first mooted the idea of holding a Christmas Market, but she c o m m e n t e d that it was the combined effort of all members of the commiteewho c o n t r i b u t e d their time and effort in setting up the hall, manning the bar and mulled wine and cider stations, and keeping the supply of warm mince pies and sausage rolls coming, that made the evening the success it was. The hall was decked out with festive greenery, baubles and a Christmas Tree, all in front of a \"roaring fireplace\" courtesy of Sheridan Chaffey and the internet! Nine stallholders set up around the room to sell their wares, including beautiful wax melts, freshly baked goods and preserves, artisinal gin, bric a brac, books, enamel decorations, wreaths, stained glass and skin care products.[Many thanks to Oldfields Cider Farm for their generous donation of cider for this event.]And to add to the festive a t m s p h e r e , members of the Lindridge church choir led the gathering in a lovely selection of carols, which everyone joined in with and enjoyed . Thank you to Polly Gillespie for organising the choir.\"I think it's definitely something we will want to do again next year\", said Committee Chair, Julia Cooper \"and we'll be posting a \"hold the date\" on the village hall website early in the new year. So do make a note of the date when it's posted and join us for a fun, festive evening next year.\"
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23News from Lindridge NurseryAs the New Year began back at Nursery we took time to reflect on what a truly fantastic end to the last year we had - a fun-filled festive period packed with Christmas activities, laugher and special memories! Our highlights were our Christmas Sing-along where families joined us to celebrate together and the Christmas party with dancing, music and party games. A particularly magical moment was visiting Santa’s grotto—the excitement on the children’s faces was so lovely to see. As we stepped into the New Year the wintery weather at the start of term was perfect to begin our new topic: Winter - exploring the Winter season and changes in the environment before moving on to learning about animals in cold places and then other animals from around the world. We are looking forward to all of the adventures, learning and exploration the year will bring!• Teacher Led Nursery• Play Based Learning• Fantastic Forest Area• Qualified, experienced and caring staff• Funded and non funded hours can be used for wrap around care• Funded and non funded places available from 2 years• Contact us on 01584 881466 or [email protected]
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25Clows Top Gardening ClubNext Meeting Wednesday February 25th, 2026This month we will be welcoming a highly respected local lady - Rosemary Winnall. She is a regular contributor to the Worcestershire Wildlife magazine; seemingly an expert on almost any aspect of native flora and fauna. This time Rosemary will be talking to us on \"Flower Power\" We aim to have the doors open at 7.15 pm, for the speaker at 7.30. The talk is followed by tea/coffee and biscuits and a chance to chat to the speaker or each other! There will be the usual \"Flower of the Month\" competition, a table of magazines to swap, and our newish feature - a table of plants or items to purchase with the proceeds going to Club funds. The annual membership fee is only £12. (not £15 as I wrote last time!) with a charge of £2 on the night towards hall hire and refreshments. We would very much like to see some new members this year. Spring is an ideal time to start thinking about the garden, with the early spring flowers to bring us hope that the winter is almost done. So we hope to see you on the 25th for an enjoyable and entertaining evening.Thank you to St. Michael's ChurchKnighton On TemeLast autumn, St. Michaels church in Knighton on Teme held a Harvest Supper. From the funds raised at the event, a donation of £200 was made to the local branch of Riding for The Disabled - this is the Cavalier Centre at Much Wenlock. The Center would like to acknoweldge and thank the church, and all who helped organize the event, for this this generous donation.
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27Menith Wood WIOur Christmas lunch was once again hailed as a great success, and ideas are already being shared as to a repeat in the Lindridge Parish Hall for our 2026 celebration but with a new menu. On Monday 5th January Janis led us in some seated/standing exercises to keep us active, focusing on mobility, strength, balance and core. She pointed out that movement matters, and never more so than as we get older as there is a danger that, as aches and pains bother us, the inclination is to sit more and become inactive. Following refreshments we had a demonstration of CPR using dummies from Sophie. This training is essential for all as not one of us knows when we might be called upon to help someone who has fallen or collapsed around us. As our National Federation resolution for 2025 calls us all to be aware that “Bystanders can be Lifesavers”, this demonstration was much appreciated by us. Our next skittles evening will be held on Friday 20th Februaryagain at The Eardiston – 7pm for 7.30pm - £2 per person plus a plate of food. We have recently sent a donation of £100 to The Friends of Tenbury Hospital from our previous year’s evenings.Our next main meeting will be at Lindridge Parish Hall on Monday 2nd February, 2.15pm for a 2.30pm start when two of our members Sue Godwin and Liz Dove will be helping us to “Spring into Spring”. Visitors are always welcome to our meetings, and if you would like further information about us and our future programme then email [email protected]
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29On 19 December, residents of Frith Common marked 24 years of carolling around the village. This m u c h - l o v e d tradition, the brainchild of the Baker family, formerly of Brook House, has become a highlight of the festive calendar and is enjoyed by many local residents each December.Participants process around the village, singing carols together and enjoying refreshments along the way, generously provided by several households. Young and old alike take part, and spirits are always high. It is a wonderful way to welcome the festive season while sharing seasonal music, good cheer and a strong sense of community with our neighbours.Many thanks to Polly Gillespie for continuing to coordinate this tradition and to Geoff and Di Thompson at Oldfields Cider for hosting the final call on the crawl.The Frith Common Annual Carol Crawl
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34ROCK BRIDGE CLUBRock Bridge Club has started its new season. New members are welcome whether on their own or with a partner.We meet every Sunday at 7.00 pm at Rock Village Hall. The meetings are very sociable and relaxed; and not competitive. (We do not play duplicate bridge.)Please do come along. Just turn up or phone 07854 951 330Please contact Zoe Herington:www.zedyoga.co.ukTel: 07962 981456Yoga classes atEastham Memorial HallFor adults of all agesCHIMNEY SWEEPAndy JohnsonCertificates issuedWeekend sweepsStove maintenance07798 [email protected]?✉Based in Martley
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36ARE YOU LOOKING AT A FORTUNE?• Free auction estimates on items you are considering selling. • Valuations for insurance and inheritance tax purposes. • Live on-line Auction sales held every three weeks, to include -• Fine Art and Antiques sales every two months, and • Interiors Sales of Victorian, Edwardian and later furniture and effects • Expert jewellery valuations Contact us for an appointmentPhilip Serrell Auctioneers and ValuersThe Malvern SaleroomBarnards Green RoadMalvern WR14 3LW01684 [email protected] pair of Royal Worcester covered vases, decorated with Highland cattle by John StintonSold for £7,000FURNITURE – PAINTINGS – SILVERJEWELLERY – PORCELAINGLASS - OBJETS D’ART
37Introducing Guardians of Hollow Meadow CICHollow Meadow CIC is a 3-acre local wildlife site in Stoke Bliss. The Meadow has a stream running through it and that part is managed as a Flood Plain with the four resident sheep, two Cotswold cross and two Soays, being excluded between March and August to allow the wild flowers, including orchids and grasses to flower and set seed, then gathered for hay. A path is cut throughso that visitors can walk through the meadow with minimal disturbance to the biodiversity.The remaining 2 acres is a steep south-facing bank, part lime and part heavy clay. This, again, has a different flower-rich mix. In 2023, a Community Interest Company was founded to enable the meadow to continue into the future as a protected site.After a busy couple of years working with Natural Networks and Severn Rivers Trust, weare now in a position to host courses relating to Nature, Crafts and Well being. Bookingsfor the courses are direct with the course leader. However, if you wish to visit the meadowyou are welcome to contact us at [email protected] to arrange a time.15165624 Courses held at the MeadowApril 11th Saturday 10am-1pm Weaving a small rush mat [email protected] May 2nd Saturday 11-4Spring Celebration https://www.gaiasweave.comJune 20th Sunday time tbaTVWG Bioblitz Contact: [email protected] DATE FOR ARTICLES FOR THE March edition of Temespan is February 6th
38• Massage • Reflexology •• Aromatherapy •Gift vouchers availableTreatments by appointmentMonday - Saturday(Late evenings available)Frith Common WR15 8JXTo Book your treatment get in touch today!07866 267 286 [email protected] Sarah Hall Complementary TherapyWould you like to feature in this magazine?Do you have photographs you’d like to share or a story to tell?Have you recently taken part in an event that will inspire your community?Please let me know and I will try to include it in our next [email protected]
39Teme Valley WalkersDecember 17:Bewdley Christmas quiz walkA fun and informative walking quiz in and around Bewdley, devised by our leader Barrie Elding, was enjoyed by 18 members of the TVWs.We were split into three teams and Severn Side South team won with 25 points out of a possible 31, the other two teams scoring 22 and 21.21 of us enjoyed a good meal at the Mug house afterwards.We have had great walks in 2025, with 8 different walk leaders, with an average of 15 walkers per month, highest turnout 20, lowest 8.February 25 Walk: To be confirmedDetails will be posted to the Lindridge Parish Hall website as soon as confirmed and emailed to the existing group members. Or email Barrie Elding at eldings.gmail.com with any questions, Lindridge Parish Hall 100 Club December draw1st - Vicki Stevens2nd - Ray PeacockJanuary Draw1st - Janet Young2nd - Thea Blackburn
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41Teme Valley ToteDecember’s Draw (9th in this series)December’s prize draw of the Tote was decided when Rev'd Jen Jones threw the dice on 1st December to determine the set of random numbers and the starting point. As a result, the prize winners are as follows:The £50 winner is Mrs A Stanley of Knighton (Draw no 637)The £30 winner is Alexandra Winnington of Stanford (Draw no 554)The £20 winner is Ms J Haylor of Stoke Bliss (Draw no 826)January’s Draw (10th in this series)Happy New Year to all our Toters!!!January’s prize draw of the Tote was decided when Rev'd Julia Curtis threw the dice on 6th January to determine the set of random numbers and the starting point. As a result, the prize winners are as follows:The £50 winner is Mrs R Collings of Knighton (Draw no 658)The £30 winner is Mrs L Lear of Knighton (Draw no 666)The £20 winner is Ms Cecilia Dean of Stanford (Draw no 516)If you have any queries about the Tote, please contact Robin Dean on 01886 853295 or by email ([email protected]) – he is still looking for someone to take over its running!!
42Call Luke today! Tel: 07792 120888 / 01584 881759Email: [email protected] Do you have LPs or singles or complete collections (large or small) in good condition?All genres considered... Rock, Metal, New Wave, Punk, Indie, Jazz, Blues, Soul, Funk, Dance Music, Electronica & Alternative etcWE buy YOUR OLD VINYL RECORDS FOR CASH!Luke Ad.indd 1 01/09/2023 11:08
43Teme Valley Wildlife Group By Stephanie MocroftFebruary 2026Numerous small woods bear the name copse or coppice, reflecting their former role in the manufacture of traditional products such as fence posts, hedge stakes, hop poles, sheep hurdles and gates from a renewable wood resource. The practice of coppicing, cutting down a tree and then harvesting its straight r e g r o w t h , began in the Neolithic period but came to a halt after the Second World War. The oldest evidence for the use of coppice products in England comes from the 4,000 BC site of the “Sweet Track”, a causeway in the Somerset Levels whose watery domain has preserved its lining of coppiced brushwood to the delight of archaeologists many millennia later.There are lots of coppices along the Teme valley, many of them of ash, not a surprise given the thousands of hop poles which were once required. A quick look at the map brings up Mill Coppice, Bine Coppice, Brickbarns Coppice, Rock Coppice and Slashes Coppice to the south of the river and Rough Coppice, Hackenchop Coppice, Howney Coppice, Ash Coppice and Pudford Coppice to the north. Their names represent their owners, the type of tree they contained or, in the wonderfully named Hackenchop Coppice, the sort of work that went on in them.Woods were t y p i c a l l y divided into different areas or “coupes” which were cut in rotation so that usable wood was available every year. For different woods and different uses the trees were cut down in cycles varying from 5 to 20 years. There was always wood to cut and always some just beginning to grow. The great secret of broad-leaved woodland is that it is endlessly renewable. Coppicing extends the lives of these trees, unlike conifers which cannot recover after felling. Woodland managed by traditional
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45coppicing is alive with wildlife. The cutting of a coupe lets light onto the woodland floor which is followed by a profusion of primroses, violets, foxgloves and wood anemones and bluebells. Fast-growing tree shoots rapidly turn into leafy bushes and bramble makes thickets which provide cover and nest sites for birds and small mammals. Butterflies thrive. Of birds, warblers in particular are attracted to this habitat and make the most of new food and nesting opportunities. As the trees get bigger and light begins to diminish, bees and insects feed on tree nectar and shadier conditions hide larger mammals and provide roosts for larger birds. Rarer plants such as herb Paris and broad-leaved helleborine prefer a denser tree canopy so they wait until conditions are just right before putting up their shoots.Woods which offer subtle gradations in light and in tree maturity host the greatest variety of plants and animals. Coppicing creates these conditions whilst also producing usable wood, a fact known to our ancestors, but sadly we no longer rely on wood for brushes, brooms, pea sticks, spade handles, basketry, clogs, wattle and daub, firewood, kindling or charcoal. If woodland is managed in the traditional way, wildlife gets a huge boost so bean sticks, anyone? The next meeting of the Teme Valley Wildlife Group will be at 7:30pm on Thursday February 13th2026 at Stoke Bliss and Kyre Village Hall, WR15 8RR. We welcome Andrew Fusek Peters whose talk is called “Garden Safari”. He is a very popular return speaker and we can expect some stunning photography. Members and friends are welcome, it is just £3 on the door.For up-to-date information on what wildlife is being seen in the area, or to give us your sightings or comments, please visit our Facebook page. Our programme of events, newsletter and bird survey are available on our website at www.teme-valley-wildlife.org We hold meetings on the second Thursday of the month January to November. All are welcome.
46Free guided walks along our footpaths and bridleways taking 2-3 hours, off the roads and into the countryside. Our walks are between 5 and 7miles many of the routes are undulating with stiles. We usually walk at a brisk pace. Everyone welcome but sorry no dogs allowedBEFORE LEAVING HOME PLEASE CHECK OUR WEB SITE FOR ANY CHANGES TO THE PLANNED WALKwww.rockpathfinders.ukFor any further information or changes email: [email protected] Or ring Alan on 01299 400304February WalksThurs Feb 2, starting at 10.00amStourport Farm Shop & KitchenDunley RoadStourport , DY13 0AA Thurs Feb 19, starting at 10.00amBlakedown Parish Rooms18 Belbroughton RoadBlakedownDY10 3JGRock: Pathfinders
47The Herefordshire and Worcestershire Wellbeing and Recovery CollegeThe Wellbeing and Recovery College operates across Herefordshire and Worcestershire (H&W). It is a partnership of H&W Health and Care NHS Trust, Voluntary and Community Sector organisations, Public Sector partners and our Experts by Experience across communities in H&W. Our aim is to increase awareness and understanding of recovery and self-management, while breaking down the stigmas relatingto mental health.At the H&W Wellbeing and Recovery College you can develop the tools, skills and understanding that you need to drive forward your own wellbeing and recovery journey.Our mental health and wellbeing can affect us all and we want you to feel this college is foryou whether things have been running smoothly lately or whether the road has been a bumpy one for you.We offer a wide range of courses and workshops designed to take each individual on a journey, however short or long, to find not only new skills but also the knowledge and understanding of how to manage your mental health, wellbeing and recovery.• Creativity: explore your creative side with classes such as art, sewing, creative writing and crafting. • Recovery: our courses will help you discover the importance of the transformative impact of recovery in building a more satisfying and meaningful life. They will help you uncover the hidden potential and strengths within you to enable and empower you to focus on setting goals, overcoming obstacles, and embracing your unique abilities for a more fulfilling life• Information & Skill: these sessions will equip you with the information and skills to help you or people that you support to navigate and deal with life’s ups and downs, whether that means getting to grips with IT and cookery, learning techniques to helpmanage emotions, or finding out more about mental health and wellbeing.• Supporting Others: our courses will provide you with an opportunity to understand an individual’s own experiences of whatever they are going through, and give you the tools to support them on their journey to better mental health and wellbeing.• Wellbeing & Lifestyle: life can sometimes throw challenges in our path, but that’s where resilience comes in. Our courses will help you to develop invaluable skills to better face adversity, build emotional strength, and embrace change whatever you are going through, and they will give you the tools to support you on your journey to better mental health and wellbeing.The Herefordshire and Worcestershire Wellbeing and Recovery College is openMonday to Friday from 9am to 4.30pm. Tel: 0300 302 0458 Email: [email protected] and voicemails will be answered as soon as possible. To register with us: https://www.hwwellbeingandrecoverycollege.org.uk/register/We are constantly updating our offer so please keep checking in on our ‘Courses and Workshops’page: https://www.hwwellbeingandrecoverycollege.org.uk/event-directory/The Herefordshire and Worcestershire Wellbeing and Recovery College
48There were 23 members/guests at our December meeting to see “Time to Time” act out their version of a Victorian Christmas courtesy of two main characters Lady Maud Grey and her servant Eliza.In the 18th and 19th century there were big changes in rural areas by people in villages leaving to find work in the cities and wealthy people coming to the countryside to live. During the 18th century work was hard and non-stop, holidays were almost non-existent. Christmas was celebrated in a very sombre way but that all changed when Queen Victoria started her reign in 1837 largely as a result of the Industrial Revolution. Charles Dickens wrote a book called “Christmas Carol” in 1843 which urged rich Victorians to give money and gifts to the poor. Christmas Day and Boxing Day were given as holidays to some of the workers. Boxing Day got its name from the servants’ opening boxes containing their gifts from rich family members.The “Penny Post” was introduced in 1840 and it became popular to send Christmas cards to one another by the wealthy but when the “halfpenny post” was introduced in 1870, ordinary people could afford to do the same so the tradition was extended to a wider group of people. Turkey was eaten by the rich much earlier having been brought over from America, but by the late 19th century it became more widely available. Turkey farms in Norfolk sent their birds on the long walk to London markets in October. It would take about six weeks and having arrived rather exhausted they were then fattened up for sale. The Christmas tree was introduced to this country by Queen Victoria’s husband Prince Albert when he had one installed at Windsor Castle in 1845. The hierarchy then followed suit and soon a market was created for the sale of fir trees. These were sometimes decorated with lighted candles and bunting. Thom Smith, a London sweet maker, invented the cracker in 1846. The idea was to wrap his sweets in fancy paper but soon he added love notes, paper hats and small toys which made them much more popular.Bells would be rung on Christmas Eve and the family would gather in the parlour to tell stories. For those with money, presents would be put in a stocking which was Teme Valley Historical Society
49then hung up. At dawn the bells would be rung to welcome Christmas Day. Everyone would walk to church and then go home for dinner which might include soup, turkey/goose, followed by plum pudding or mince pies (sometimes with meat). After dinner everyone would retire to the parlour to open their gifts under the Christmas tree which would be lit by candles. In the evening there would be entertainment with singing, poems, stories, games and music.All of these facts were revealed in conversation by our two storytellers and interspersed with carols which we sang.Our next meeting will be held on Tuesday 24th February in Abberley Village Hall at 7.30pm when Quentin Watt will speak on “The Rise and Fall of the Bromsgrove Guild”. All are welcome.Mike HarleyTEMESPAN recently received the following THANK YOU letter, the author of which asked to remain anonymous.(I promise it wasn't me! (Ed).\"On behalf of the Temespan readership, may I say a big ‘thank you’ to the Temespan Team for the great job they do, bringing our local magazine to our homes ten times a year.Thank you to Julia for her excellent editing and inspired choice of magazine cover pictures (often her own photos) and to Natalie for interfacing with advertisers and looking after magazine finances. Thank you to Nikki for overseeing the distribution of magazines to our four parishes and to the very many kind and dedicated local deliverers who bring each issue of Temespan to our doors, come rain or shine. Thank you as well to everyone who contributes to the magazine content, either regularly in each edition reminding us all of upcoming dates, events and classes and reporting on what has taken place, or by providing one-off articles to catch our attention and spark our interest. And finally, thank you to all our local advertisers for their support in buying advertising space, as well as to everyone who responds to the yearly request for donations, generously contributing towards the continuing regular appearance of our wonderful magazine. May Temespan continue to go from strength to strength\".
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