Posted Monday, 24 March 2008
Hello all I am trying to track down a very dear friend whom I lost contact with her name is Samantha Howson. Thanks for any help you can give.  Just want to say hi to her.
Peter

Posted Monday, 4 February 2008
Hello, I live in Holland and I am doing some research about TVR Sports cars. There where quite a few TVR's in Solihull in the early Seventies. Anyone who can remember the TVR cars and the owners please contact me.
Thanks
Eric

Posted Monday, 4 February 2008
F.A.O. Nikki Sprague
I guess we are of a different generation so I cannot claim to know you but I wonder if you are related to Audrey Sprague who lived in Corville Gardens in the 1950s, with a brother called Graham. She was a very attractive girl who I last saw in the 1950s (see my note in the 1940s Memories). I still have photos of her and wonder what she has done with her life since then.
Noel Myerscough

Posted Wednesday, 16 January 2008
I am researching the personal history of Mr. Peter Oscar Serck (born 17.10.1882 in St. Petersburg -- dead 1924 in Torquay). He was Norwegian citizen and the first known Norwegian football player abroad. He played for the team Victoria in St. Petersburg before the First World War with a lot of Englishmen. But he is more known as an industrial founder in heating and radiators.  I have read a pamphlet by Basil Harley A History of the Serck Group (1982), published by Serck plc., Serck House, 737 Warwick Road, Solihull, West Midlands.  Does Serck House still excist?
Arnt-Erik Selliaas

Posted Monday, 26 November 2007
I just read the great article on the Hunt family of Welford and Stratford-upon-Avon (www.solihull-online.com/hunt.htm).  I am interested in knowing more about the various branches mentioned.  In particular about Samuel Hunt b. c. 1794 Welford, d. c. Jul 1874 Stratford-upon-Avon.  Can you help me or direct me to further information?  Thank you.
James Ward

Posted Monday, 19 November 2007
Francis Way Maternity Home.  I resided there from Nov 1969 until Feb 1970.  I would love to make contact with anyone who stayed there at the same time as me.  NB I was happily reunited with my daughter 7 years ago.
Nora Armstrong

Posted Monday, 5 November 2007
Ahh, the feelings of a first love - never forgotten, I'm sure!
My first real love - apart from my Mum -  was a girl called June Collier who I met at one of the Saturday night gigs at the Solihull Civic Hall in 1962.
Like most first loves, the road never seemed to be a smooth one; she lived in Willaston Road, Sheldon, which was a serious bike-ride from Dovehouse Lane, and when we missed the last bus from the Olton cinema one night, I remember we had a very long and cold walk to her home, and I had an even colder walk back to Marsham Court Road!
Now this may be fanciful on my part, but several years later my wife Hilary and I attended a Moody Blues concert at the NEC Arena, part of an anniversary present from our children.
Just before the lights went down, a couple claimed their seats next to ours, which were fairly high-up on the left side terrace, two-thirds the way down the hall.
The lady sat next to me, and immediately I felt a sense of knowing her very well - perhaps too well, some might say, and I racked my brains trying to place her and where I knew her from.
From that day to this, I still feel that this was indeed June, but a different and matured June who now had a husband and children of her own, so I didn't pursue the matter any further at the time.
Even now I still kick myself for not having done so, for the first real love of someone's life never really leaves them despite the passage of time.
Life is full of ifs, buts and if-onlys, however we have to take what life offers us, and make our choices accordingly - we don't get many second chances, sadly!
Cllr Johnny Bramham, Elmdon

Posted Monday, 5 November 2007
I was born on 23 March 1948 and I think I have in the passed read that The Rover Car Company held a Board meeting to agree the name Land Rover. Can you help as this may explain my own addiction to Land Rover products for the last 37 years.
Paul Jones

Posted Monday, 22 October 2007
Deborah Braggs
Well, this is a long shot but still worth trying.
In the summer of 1987 I met this lovely British lady in France.  Then only 16, I travelled from my home town Saint-Malo to visit her at Halloween in Dorridge.  We wrote for a few more weeks after the visit but completely lost touch since 1988.
I have travelled the world, studied in Boston, MA and now working in Canada.  It must be a sign of getting older to remember the wonderful innocent years of adolescence.  Now married, established and working too much, I get great joy and inspiration remembering those wonderful times.
If anyone would be so kind to help me renew ties with this person (Deborah Braggs) or someone in her family, I would greatly appreciate it.  I can be reached at the following email address:
Olivier Bataille

Posted Tuesday, 2 October 2007
Letter to the Editor. You ask if we can still picture our first love. Well I can and have lived with it every day for 64 years. My broken heart will never heal but I have lovely memories of the sweetest girl in the world..
Her name was Beryl Patricia Hemming and her family owned the Solihull Brickworks located at Blyth Brook Cottages at Sandal Bridge and today following housing development is known as Riverside Drive. We spent many happy hours
together at Solihull Lido at the end of Park Avenue and at Solihull Cinema both of which have passed away. I am now retired and live in Cornwall and 81 years of age. The sad part of the story is that my first love was terminated when her father found out and stopped us.
It felt like the end of the world for me at the time but with the help of my next girl friend who became my wife I survived. I now have 3 daughters of my own and I am a great grandfather so it turned out OK in the end. If anyone of your readers remembers Beryl and me we would love to hear from them. Best Wishes and Kind Regards.
Roy Stanley BA.IEng.MIET

Posted Wednesday, 15 August 2007
Can you tell me the history on Hillfield Farm Libbards Way?
John Morgan

Posted Wednesday, 25 July 2007
I am emailing from Auckland, NZ and just want to comment on how much fun the weekend trips were on the organised coach trips which leave from the Barley Mow every weekend at about 7.30am.  Trips of interest included Blackpool, Lord Lichfield's Manor, Salisbury, Bournemouth etc and I made some wonderful friends on board. 
M Sunley

Posted Monday, 16 July 2007
What was the former name of Bloomers Nightclub at the Swan Centre? I can remember it being The Cavendish but I think it had an Italian name even before that. I think it was a sister club to The Dolce Vita in Smallbrook Queensway.
Anthony Allen

Posted Tuesday, 26 June 2007
An old friend of ours, now living in Marlborough, says that he met his wife whilst he was at an army base in Solihull, early 60's. He says they would walk to St Alphege church so were close to the town centre. I know of no army bases in Solihull except for the TA in Shirley. Can anyone shed any light on this please?
David Dagley

Posted Monday, 25 June 2007
Sir: How can I express my personal outrage at the Queen's lack of judgement in agreeing to bestow a high honour on a person who is widely considered to be a scoundrel by UK Muslims and by the vast majority of the entire Muslim world?
Nearly 19 years ago when The Satanic Verses was published, my wife and I skimmed through the book. It is filled with utterly filthy language including four-letter expletives all over the place, not to mention a grotesque portrayal of the personal life of Muhammed. (Read up about him - you will see what a truly wonderful man he was, and why two billion people love him so dearly).
What were the advisers thinking of when they chose to recommend Rushdie for this honour? They surely would have thought about the offence this would cause. But clearly this mattered not a jot. I am deeply disappointed that Her Majesty did not reject this out of hand. Does she not see the news?
I was born and bred in the UK. I am a subject of Her Majesty, whom I have always held in high esteem. Of course I champion the idea of freedoms of speech and expression, but when 'incitement of hatred' in all its ugly manifestations is rightly not tolerable, then surely there must be some thought as to where such emotions may originate. You can't poke at a hornets' nest and expect no reaction.
While the Danish cartoons were produced by someone I consider to be plain ignorant, but caused deep offence, I'm afraid this knighthood to Rushdie cuts even deeper. This is a highly public endorsement by the Establishment of Rushdie's offensive book. I would urge that a precedent be set with Rushdie and that his knighthood be revoked on the grounds that it was a mistake. A very bad error of judgement.
Athar Siddiqui
Solihull
23/06/07

Posted Tuesday, 12 June 2007
Hi, I am looking for anyone that might remember hosting a group of American high school students through a church organization (United Church of Christ) way back in 1966! thanks
Leslie

Posted Saturday, 12 May 2007
Hello, I'm George Driscoll, a resident of Solihull, me and two other friends are going to trek two summits in a week on the Balkan Peninsula in Bulgaria,  and are trying to raise as much money as we can for Marie Curie in the process in memory of my grandfather who died of cancer.
I was hoping you may be able to run a story on it in order to help us reach our target of  £1000, as (thanks to the kindness mainly of family) have only managed to reach 99 so far, all the details are on my sponsorship page www.justgiving.com/georgedriscoll we have all the flights booked up and the guide paid for so any donations go straight to charity, Thank you for your time, I look forward to hearing from you soon,
George Driscoll

Posted Tuesday, April 17, 2007
I'm gathering stories from the second world war years in Solihull and the surrounding areas. Would anyone with information or stories about their experiences please email me- no matter how trivial. Thanks
Simon Harrison

Posted Monday, March 5, 2007
My Dad spent 6 years living in a bus on The Mount, Creynolds Lane from around 1949-54. His Dad bought a bus and converted it and the family lived there until my gran became pregnant with her fourth child and they qualified for a council house. I was amazed to come across this site where other people had lived in converted vans, I thought my family were the only ones to have lived like this which was very strange, it makes more sense having read this.
 I would love to get a copy of Bill Gilbert's book, how do I go about it? This is a wonderful story.
Tracey Haigh

Posted Monday, March 5, 2007
Does anyone remember Bentley Heath Mother and Baby home. Anyone know Norah Sullivan who resided there in Dec/Jan 1955?
Denise

Posted Monday, February 26, 2007
Would be interested on one of the emails regarding WHENS THE FRENCH MARKET COMING IN SOLIHULL.
Joya

Posted Monday, February 12, 2007
Does anyone know how far it is round the duckpond in Brueton Park?  Im trying to organise a sponsored walk (1 mile only) as part of a nationwide walk to raise money and awareness for SIDS during May.  It needs to only be 1 mile though Many thanks
Lisa

Posted Tuesday, January 16, 2007
I was in the orphanage run by nuns in Lode Lane,  Solihull. Is it still there and what is it now? I have fond memories of my time with there and want to go back for a visit. I remember the George Hotel and the Barley Mow. I lived in South Africa for 30 years after coming out of the army, now living in London.  Any info would be appreciated.
Tony Perry

Posted Wednesday, January 3, 2007
Who wants to help me to search for information about Richard John Perry in the Solihull library.  He lived on 188 Gospel Lane, B27 7 AG, Olton with his father Kenneth and mother Winifred Perry from 1971-1976. His father Kenneth Perry owned during that period an off-licence at 184 Gospel Lane. They moved away from Gospel Lane in 1976 If you want to help me please let me know. I live in Holland so research is difficult to do for me. Regards
Eric

Posted Monday, January 1, 2007
Do you know of any information or photographs concerning Francis Way Mother and Baby Home, Dorridge?
Also, does anybody out there have any information on Ann Bridget Dawson who resided at Francis Way Mother and Baby Home around 17-7-58 to 26-9-58!
Frank

Posted Monday, December 18, 2006
I am trying to trace a Maurice White from the solihull area from 1963. I believe there was an optician on Stratford Road called Maurice White Optician. Any information, even if trivial would be grately appreciated.
Sandra Bourne

Posted Monday, December 11, 2006
Did you know the Jet Garage on the Kenilworth Road has applied for an alcohol license?  Is this a good idea?
FACTS. The garage is opposite an old persons residence near a bad road junction, very close to the new children's nursery, close to Knowle Primary School. It is 200 yards from the High Street and the Alcohol selling  news agent One Stop.  Comments welcome
Bill Jones

Posted Monday, November 6, 2006
I am emailing from Australia and I have a request for information. Can you please tell me (or direct me to someone who might help) the names of the Mayors of Solihull over the period 1945 to 1960. I am looking for a name (which I hope I will recognise) of a gentleman who was Mayor and who was (I believe) a childhood friend of my father. This is aimed at filling a gap in my family history.
My thanks and my best wishes.
Peter Platt  279 Lyndon Road - 1940 to 1963.

Posted Monday, October 30, 2006
Hi, I'm going to be in Knowle Thurs - Sun... Do you know of any fireworks displays taking place locally? Thanks
Caroline Clack

Posted Monday, October 16, 2006
Council tax tax has gone up 5%, still no green wheelie bins.  We in Shirley are paying the same council tax as other postcodes and we still have to take out green waste to a dump using our own bags and cars.  Time to remove the Conservatives and make local government understand that we will not be taken for a ride.
I just find it unfair that we have to pay the same to receive less of a service.  What do people do with no transport, catch the bus or a taxi???????
I was told today that Shirley residents will receive a green bin...in 2008.....  I say lets dump our green rubbish on the town hall steps and make them remove it.  I am going to contact the local papers to get their support.  Tories out someone else in...
Andy B

Posted Tuesday, September 26, 2006
I am looking for Janice Anne Bourne of 103 chamberlain cresent shirley solihull from 1963. Please does anyone have information as to her whereabouts? Many thanks.
Sandra Bourne

Posted Friday, August 18, 2006
I have a friend from the US working in Birmingham until Sept4. He thought he would travel to Solihull for information about my Griswold ancestral home or church or what is locally available. what do  you recommend? Thank you for your time
Mary Tabor Griswold

Posted Friday, August 18, 2006
Hi I am an architecture student from sheffield and was wondering how to reach Malvern Hall, which was designed by Sir John Soane
Matt

Posted Tuesday, August 15, 2006
Hi there am looking to relocate my family to solihull in the v near future can anyone tell me what the catchment areas are for langley high and primary schools? Are they oversubscribed? any info would be greatly appreciated
Email

Posted Tuesday, July 11, 2006
Does anybody know if there is a bus from Barston village to the centre of Solihull?
Soph

Posted Thursday, June 22, 2006
Does anyone know who owns the Shelly Farm & Barn buildings?
Ed Jones

Posted Monday, June 19, 2006
Could anyone tell me if there is bus service from Solihull town centre to Barston village (near Knowle) and if so what's the number of the bus? Thanks.
Alun Davis

Posted Monday, June 12, 2006
I am going to spend 2 months in Solihull due to work.  I would like to know how far is Solihull from Willenhall and if there is any public transport to Birmingham.  Thank you very much.
JUDITH ERAÑA

Posted Thursday, April 27, 2006
I am a geography student and am looking at the expansion of Birmingham airport and the social and economic effects that there would be for the airport and surrounding area. I would be very grateful if anyone could reply to me a.s.a.p with facts or plans for the airport, especially a map of the area showing the new runway.
Thanks very much
Faith

Posted Wednesday, April 26, 2006
This is a wonderful web page and full of interest. I found it while researching the age of the spire of St. Alphege church. I am assuming about 1500. Am I right. Can you guide me. Thanks
Nick Ashton-Jones

Posted Monday, April 3, 2006
I was unfortunate enough to be wheel clamped today (31/03/06) while parked at the back of Burger King, unfortunately I didn't see the signs as I was in a hurry running an errand for a person who is house bound & unable to get out to the post office. I couldn't believe the charge of £94 + £4.50 to pay by credit card! What a disgraceful amount, but no doubt I will get my reward in heaven when it is recognised that I was only doing my best for someone less fortunate than me.
Does some of the money at least go to a charity?
Mr Terry Watkins

Posted Friday, March 10, 2006
Could you tell me when the French Market comes to Solihull please? Thank you
Phyllis Newman

Posted Friday, March 3, 2006
I was interested in a letter from Miss McDonald dated august 2004. My uncle owned the bakery at Chadwick End for many years, his name was richard grant {Grants Bakery} I'm sorry I have no photos, but wonder often what chadwick end is like now, as its been 60yrs since I visited there.
Mrs Rita Hinsley {nee Grant}.

Posted Thursday, March 2, 2006
Hi, I'm looking for the Burman 7 Sons who made hair clippers in Birmingham as i was clearing out my late mothers draw and found some, i took them in to college were i do hairdressing and my tutor tried them and they still work ,they are in there original box and would like to find out if they are worth anything which people seem to think they are any help i would be grateful .
Tracy Scrivens

Posted Monday, February 20, 2006
WARNING !!!! Anybody who is thinking about a LearnDirect home study course should look into the course content very carefully. Learn Direct (in connection with Solihull College) are currently selling courses that are out of date and incorrectly advertised, AND THEY HAVE NO PLANS TO UPDATE OR TELL THEIR STUDENTS UNTIL SEPTEMBER 2006. Do not make the mistake that  a lot of others have made (myself included) and believe everything that they tell you in order to get your money, and just you try to get it back !!!!! i have been trying since july 2005, no chance !!!! Check all details BEFORE you sign up and pay.
Mick Connolly

Posted Wednesday, February 8, 2006
I am a Sixth Form Geography student researching the effects the expansion of BIrmingham International Airport will have on housing desirability in Catherine de Barnes. Any responses to this particular topic would be much appreciated.
Geography Student

Posted Monday, January 23, 2006
Local choir, the Fellowship Singers of Shirley, would like to pass on the news that the retiring collection at their successful Christmas concert no 10th December 2005 raised £483 for Edwards Trust.  Thank you for your generosity.
You like singing? Then come and join us. We meet on Sunday evenings and WE NEED YOU! Ring 0121 777 7695
M. Mechem

Posted Monday, January 16, 2006
Re letter posted Monday, August 30, 2004:
Poor cycling and poor driving is what makes roads dangerous.  Unfortunately too many cyclists  insist on using the centre of the lanes causing poor and impatient drivers unnecessary frustration. Cyclists are not totally to blame but many do seem to have the attitude that they own the road.  Cyclists do not pay road tax  neither do they have to have insurance!
Anne
Your first statement is absolutely true!
However, many cyclists certainly do pay road tax. The law in this country allows you to tax a vehicles and still ride a bicycle. Most keen cyclists do pay road tax in this way.
Also, many cyclists have third party insurance. It is automatic if a member of the CTC or BCF.
Other cyclists don't need insurance because they are of sufficiently high character to pay out of their own pocket for any damage that they might cause.
Peter Griffiths

Posted Wednesday, January 11, 2006
Does any one know the regulations regarding smoking and restaurants. I thought smoking was only allowed in private clubs and pubs that did not serve food or where the smoking area was well away from the food area. I was in Nando's in Touchwood and offered "smoking" or "non-smoking". I requested non-smoking and was sat at the rear of the establishment. I could see and smell cigarette smoke and asked if I was in the wrong area. i was told no I wasn't, that row of tables were smoking and mine wasn't. They could not re-seat me so I left. Can any one shed any light on this subject?
Adrian Jones

Posted Friday, December 30, 2005
During the last war, around 1943/44, my mother and I visited and stayed with a couple in Castle Bromwich; their names were Fred and Mabel.  As I recall, there were cows in a field at the rear of the back garden, beyond which was an airfield.  I used to sit on the fence and watch the bombers landing and taking off.  Is this recollection correct?  Is there any way of finding the address of these people from the information I have given?  I don't recall Fred.  But I'd recognise Mabel from a picture if I saw it. I believe they had a son  in the armed forces at the time, possibly the RAF, as I remember there were many model aircraft hanging up in the garage.  These good people were not relations, yet I'm certain I stayed there.  Can any one help?
John Fry

Posted Friday, December 30, 2005
We once bought a product called "Chemico", a cleaner, made in or headquartered in Solihull. Have you any information about this company? Thank you!
Arthur Still

Posted Friday, December 16, 2005
I was born at 19 lode lane...can you tell me what is there now...and if you have any pictures to share
in 1952. Thanks
Jana

Posted Thursday, November 17, 2005
I am looking for info. on the orphanage where my mum was raised. it was in the solihull/birmingham area and was run by nuns. She was there from 1914 until about 1918. any details would be gratefully appreciated. thanks.
Melanie Whitehand

Posted Monday, October 24, 2005
I would like to know whether anybody has any background history and old photographs of Marston Green Maternity hospital Berwicks Lane.  Kind regards
Deborah Smith

Posted Monday, August 29, 2005
re. the hermitage question. it is still there off lode lane, but now elderly peoples flats and bungalows. i remember it as an orphanage.
Gill Ward

Posted Friday, August 19, 2005
Damson Parkway/Damson Lane - Public Meeting
A public meeting is being held on Thursday 25 August 2005 at St Stephen's Church Centre, Coppice Road, Solihull, starting at 7.00pm, to discuss the problem of HGV traffic using Damson Parkway and Damson Lane as a short-cut to the motorway network.  We will be forming an Action Group to put pressure on Solihull MBC to place weight restrictions on these roads.  The Chief Constable and local Councillors have been invited and Lorely Burt MP has accepted an invitation to attend.  If you are concerned about this issue please give us your support and come to the meeting.   
Carol Holden

Posted Wednesday, August 10, 2005
Hi my name's Andrew Lovett and i play for the local baseball team Solihull Storm Basically this is the first year since the team was formed and is also possibly our last. We currently play at Solihull college where our general manager used to work, but since finishing his job at the college they have decided that the team will have to rent the ground that we built. This unfortunately we cannot do as we do not have enough funding to rent the field and supply equipment for training and matches. So at the end of this season we will be ground less which means the team will dissolve I was just wondering if it was at all possible for this to be mentioned in the newspaper or on the website just to try and raise awareness
Andrew Lovett

Posted Wednesday, August 10, 2005
Good afternoon. Are you able to tell me if the French market is coming to Solihull this year, and if so, when? Thank you
Mrs B.J.Bradley

Posted Wednesday, August 10, 2005
We are a group of residents in a rural area in Southern Tasmania and wish to develop "a village green" on some council land between an Anglican Church and a Catholic Church and cemetery. At the moment it is convenient parking for a local orchardist for his trucks and a place for young people to hoon around in cars on Friday and Saturday nights. We are looking for plans of English Village greens that might provide inspiration as the Council will fund the project if we provide the plans and work force to plant and maintain trees. We plan to phase the project, by starting with securing the area with low fencing and then building up to pathways, seating, BBQ facilities, gardens, etc.  Can you help us in any way ith contacts who could help with plans.
Yours Sincerely
Robyn Conway
Tasmania, Australia

Posted Monday, August 8, 2005
Hello!  Firstly, I would like to thank you for using Perry Como's song 'Catch a falling star' on your site - I'm an enormous Como fan and only 16!  Also, I would like to find information about a windmill named under a few titles 'Priory Mill', 'The old windmill' and other names. It is classed as being situated in one of three areas that are very close to each other in this part. They are: Yardley Wood, Shirley and Solihull Lodge. I would be very happy if you could provide me or guide me towards someone who holds information on the mill. I know it was demolished by explosion in 1957 and was situated looking out to 'The Mill Pool' which is still there on Priory Road. The windmill was demolished after being derelict for a long time to make way for a housing estate called 'Coton Grove' - thank you very much!
Matthew Long

Posted Monday, July 25, 2005
To whom it may concern, I am part of a Prince's Trust group (Team 75 at Solihull College, Woodlands Campus) and we are trying to find a location for a funday. We are doing this to raise money so we can carry out a community project or team challenge in and around the local area. If a location can be used we would need it between 12/09/2005 and 21/09/2005. If you wish to contact me please phone 07789 241768. This is the number of the Team Leader (Craig McCauley).
Stephanie Ingram

Posted Friday, July 15, 2005
I'm sure many of you are aware of the M42 Active Traffic Management pilot project and the issue of using the hard shoulder as an extra running lane in congested periods (commencing late 2006). I am an MSc Transport Planning student conducting independent research into public opinion on the idea of Hard Shoulder Running. If you would like to contribute your views to my temporary discussion forum I would be extremely grateful. The forum can be found at
www.1-2-free-forums.com/mf/?mforum=hardshoulder
This forum will be used by many different interest groups and should hopefully prove to be quite interesting!
Many thanks
Paul Chase

Posted Tuesday, May 31, 2005
The Rural Housebound Service is a partnership between the Library and Information Service and Age Concern Warwickshire and offers a free library service to housebound people living in rural areas of the county. A team of thirty volunteers assist with the selection of book and their delivery to readers throughout the county. If you live within rural Warwickshire, do not have access to transport or do not have family or friends who can regularly exchange library books for you and you are unable to visit your local library or mobile library, you may qualify for this service. Two volunteers will visit your  home once a month, bringing a selection of books, stories on tape, music cassettes or jigsaws. You may request any item free of charge and we can also help you with any information enquiries. This is a free service. If you think you are eligible for this service or know of someone who might benefit from receiving it, please contact: Debbie Sly, Rural Housebound Service, Kenilworth Library, 11 Smalley Place, Kenilworth CV8 1QG. Tel: 01926 851031 or email us on: Deborahsly@warwickshire.gov.uk

Posted Friday, May 20, 2005
I wonder if anyone has any information or memories of a company that built very ornate caravans (trailers) for Romany Travellers in Solihull. All I know is the 'make' was Vickers, named I believe after the owner Mr.Vickers. I think the company stopped trading in the 1980's. I would be very grateful for any information!!  Thanks.
Kenneth

Posted Tuesday, April 11, 2005
Am researching into the life and times of West Midlands jazz musician and former member of the Hedley Ward Trio guitarist Jack Mckechnie and would appreciate any info/photos/reminiscences etc of Jack the Trio or his Army background.
Thanking you in anticipation for your help.
Ronald John Saunders

Posted Tuesday, March 1, 2005
I live in Shirley and yesterday I walked down to Dickens Heath Village to see how it was progressing.  It was awful !  Getting more like a town than a village.  I lost count of the cars and vans parked on the pavement, or on grass verges. With the recent snow many verges were little more than mud with deep ruts where people had parked.  The new flats being built are totally out of scale with the rest of the 'village' and block the view from many houses.  While the library and the other building (village hall?) are fine buildings, they are totally out of scale with small houses and flats nearby.

And I hate to think what the traffic problem will be like when all the shops open.  Of course the biggest problem is that there is no by-pass round the village, so all the traffic has to go through it, meaning there is a constant stream of traffic, and many of the roads are too narrow.  How long before there are cries for a by-pass round the village ?.

I think all future town planners and architects should visit Dickens Heath, for an example of how NOT to design a village.
Alan Carpenter

Posted Tuesday, November 23, 2004
Quite by chance I have come across two websites in which a young Brian Williams, who lived near Olton Boulevard East, has transcribed his 1948 and 1950 diaries when he was 12 and 14 years old respectively. Those of you who may like either to recall day-to-day life in those days or simply learn what it was all about 50 years ago should check out http://web.ukonline.co.uk/brian.david.williams/1948.htm or repeat, substituting 1950 for 1948. Enjoy and reminisce!
Alan Moore

Posted Monday, November 8, 2004
Hi does anyone remember or know anyone that was in kelvadon, lode lane in the seventies before the place closed, if so please get in touch.
Patricia Thompson

Posted Friday, October 29, 2004
In reply to Ben's Oct 18th 2004 comment. Yes I have also heard a steam train, but coming from a Westerly direction which places it on the Birmingham to Stratford line. I do believe that Tyseley Rail Museum run steam excursions from Birmingham to Stratford on some Sundays so that might explain things, so don't worry you are not hearing ghost trains!!
David

Posted Monday, October 18, 2004
I'm a uni student looking to start a music based business in solihull.  I'm just looking for some feedback to see if there is any interest.  The plan would be to have a regular monthly gig showcasing local bands to be held at the solihull arts complex.  Any feedback will be great please get in touch  at
James Bradley

Posted Monday, October 18, 2004
Can anyone tell me whether a steam train comes through Solihull station at any time? I didn't think one did, but I'm sure I've heard a whistle.
Ben

Posted Tuesday, September 28, 2004
Hi, can you tell me if any Applejacks tracks have been released on CD. Many thanks.
Gary Spring

Posted Thursday, September 9, 2004
Can anybody help me with old photos of the Golden Acres in Rowood drive? Preferably outside.
Simon Carter

Posted Tuesday, August 31, 2004
Can anyone help me with a photo of 184-188 Gospel Lane, Olton? There is a house/shop called Matthews Wines & Food
Sharon

Posted Monday, August 30, 2004
Poor cycling and poor driving is what makes roads dangerous.  Unfortunately too many cyclists  insist on using the centre of the lanes causing poor and impatient drivers unnecessary frustration. Cyclists are not totally to blame but many do seem to have the attitude that they own the road.  Cyclists do not pay road tax  neither do they have to have insurance!
Anne

Posted Thursday, August 19, 2004
Does anyone have any pictures of Chadwick End? The bakery which is now Bakehouse Lane, The original Orange Tree Pub etc please?
Miss McDonnell

Posted Monday, August 16, 2004
I am looking for information about Phillip Skeltcher who was an architect in Solihull during the 1920's. Can you help please?
karen al-ghabban

Posted Thursday, August 5, 2004
Is the 35th Boys Brigade still going in Shirley ,used to be at the Methodist church and at the school in Haslucks green rd I was a member in the 1950s reached the dizzy rank of L/cpl and several badges Mr Wheeler was Capt and then there was old Mr Shepherd went to several camps. Any old members out there????
Ron West

Posted Saturday, July 31, 2004
Any info please on The Hermitage, Lode Lane. It was a reception home for children (1963) is it still there? what district is it in , what is it being used now etc.  Thank you in anticipation.
Stephan Shuttleworth

Posted Monday, July 26, 2004
Hi, I am trying to find a Bristol band called 'Doing time'. Can you help? Thanx
Mark

Posted Monday, July 12, 2004
I am trying to find details on an open air concert which is held every year in Knowle and was advertised in Brueton Park, Solihull last year.  Last year the concert was held in July...Do you know when it will be held this year. Thanks
Will Moore

Posted Wednesday, July 7, 2004
Can you tell me are Calligraphy courses still held at the Shirley Centre on Thursday afternoons.
Many Thanks,
Julie Harvey

Posted Tuesday, July 6, 2004
Solihull district is split into several areas, how do I find out which roads, lanes or streets form the boundaries for these areas?
Paul Hollis

Posted Saturday, July 3, 2004
Hi there, could some one supply me with the following information please:
CURRENT
Number of houses/dwellings & Population of HOCKLEY HEATH
Thanking you....Anokh
Anokh S Tut

Posted Friday, June 18, 2004
Can anyone give me any information about the history of Ladbrook Hall in Penn Lane please? Thanks
Claire Addison

Posted Monday, April 27, 2004
Does anyone know when rosies nightclub is reopening at all??
Mark

Posted Monday, April 27, 2004
I`ve heard that there is a Celebrity Football match in Solihull this weekend and that people from Pop idol are playing. Does anyone know anything about this?
Roberta
You may wish to check out our What's On page for details of this event.  Ed

Posted Sunday, March 7, 2004
Re the red route Stratford Road Shirley,  in my opinion there was not really a need for the council to cause chaos on the stratford road, there are 6 foot reservations that people rarely walk along complete with 4 foot wooden flower boxes either side of the road, surely a better idea would be to utilise these for bus lanes allowing the traffic to flow.
Walter Savin

Posted Thursday, December 4, 2003
At last a good company ! Used the removal company advertised on Solihull Online (M&G)
They were wonderful. Thanks M&G and thanks Solihull Online
Lawson

Posted Posted Saturday, October 18, 2003
Interested in working for more and better cycle lanes and cycle parking facilities in Solihull? If so, contact chris1395@msn.com and I'll tell you more information.
Chris Williams

Posted Wednesday, October 8, 2003
Can someone tell me where the policing is for the "alcohol prohibited" area in jobs close park, I think the situation with youths drinking alcohol in the park late at night is getting out of hand.
Can anyone tell me why we have park rangers, when one can walk through jobs close park every Saturday morning and fin the area by the kids playground totally strewn with empty beer cans and alcohol bottles.
Di

Posted Sunday, October 5, 2003
FOUND.... One garden ornament - reclining teddy bear, found on our doorstep in the early hours of Sunday October 5th. If you own (owned) him, he can be reclaimed if you contact Lynn Lawrenson via Solihull Online info@solihull-online.net

Posted Thursday, October 2, 2003
Does anyone know the idiot who was setting off noisy fireworks in Shirley between 9pm and 10pm on Thursday 2nd October. If you can let me know because I would love to meet them!!!!
Alan Carpenter

Posted Tuesday, September 23, 2003
Does anyone know of a venue where I can hold a private party on New Years Eve capacity of approx 100 people, with my own catering, Please help.
Hema dilip.chauhan@tinyworld.co.uk

Posted Saturday 13 September 2003
I am looking for information on the development of lawn-tennis in Solihull, particularly on the lawns of its most notable houses during the mid to late 1870's. Also, I am keen to establish the founding date of Solihull L.T.C. in Homer Road.( October 1872 ????)
The ability to copy any existing photographs would be fantastic - all expenses covered, of course.
Sue Elks chris@fortythirty.freeserve.co.uk

Posted  Saturday, 09 August 2003
You have probably heard that Warwickshire, Solihull & Coventry have a joint Local Access Forum and as I am The Ramblers', Solihull Group Footpath Secretary I would be happy to pass on any of your readers concerns on these Rural matters to the members of the Forum that I know my e-mail is
gcd.knowle@btopenworld.com The next Forum meeting is on Thursday 21st August 2002 at Allesley
Warwickshire CC have a link on their web site
www.warwickshire.gov.uk/Web/corporate/pages.nsf/Links/D478179413187CAE80256CFE003A829A
Thank you for all the information on your site.
Geoff Dean

Posted Wednesday, August 6, 2003
Thanks to all those lovely people who put down the barriers blocking off turns on the Stratford Road in Shirley. They did it with no prior warning to the residents of Shirley and no signage to explain how to turn right, unless you want to park in the Saracens Head car park. I expect that the shopkeepers will be more than happy that prospective customers who cannot work out how to turn right to park, will go elsewhere. The "right turn" into the main Shirley car park (when going in the direction of the M42) is to go up a small service road where people reverse and many people cross. Hope the lorries manage to get through. Surely the planners could have had a bit of forward thinking on this project and had some consideration for the locals
Ian C

Posted Tuesday, July 22, 2003
In Reply to Ken Lakin about Shirley Street in 1847, try Solihull Library, they have loads of old maps of Solihull and other local areas.
Alan Carpenter

Posted Sunday, July 20, 2003
I have just finished watching family exchange. I was looking forward to watching my home town of Ellesmere Port on the TV but was horrified at what I saw. The attitude of Ronnie Browse has upset a great many people in this town. The film company, London weekend, has done us a great injustice too in there selective filming. The area where we live was once a council estate, but is now mainly owner occupiers, viewed from the air there is more green areas than housing, unlike the private housing estates that are crammed together for maximum profit. They went to the historic boat museum but chose to show only the shell oil refinery complex. They must have passed Cheshire oaks, the largest outlet village in Europe, but chose to show only factories. One of the largest aquariums in Europe is on our doorstep. The countryside is only a 5min drive away from the estate. There is many beautiful villages in our borough which stretches from the river Mersey to the Dee. They !
showed a set of flats every episode that were boarded up, the reason they were boarded up is that they were being prepared for demolition, behind them is a large grassed playing field, in front is a grassed area with a copse of trees. The road leading to where the Tallis's stayed is a avenue of trees grassed either side. The local community centre has many activities on including computer courses & sign language, for which a local resident applied for a lottery grant to fund it. Most people here are 2 parent families.
I feel bad about the Tallis's experience and assure them that the vast majority are horrified at the way Ronnie & the film company showed us. I think they set out to cause conflict to make the program more "interesting"
I hope that one day they can come back & see us in a true light and see what we have to offer.
Peter Brown

Reply Posted Friday, October 31, 2003
I wonder if `Peter Brown has the names mixed up on his otherwise accurate comments. Gill Browse was the visitor to Elsmere Port, I think. She was bored etc. I was amazed she and her husband didn't explore the town and go walking instead of sitting around!!
Ronnie Tallis who removed the old hops in the barn house seemed full of personality and one of life's characters. She and her husband seemed an extremely likeable pair.
Barbara Steward

Posted Wednesday, July 16, 2003
Does anyone know the home telephone number of the idiot at the council who sanctioned the current night time work on the M42. Using pile-drivers at night near to a residential area - now that's clever!
As I said, I think that this idiot needs a few late night/early morning phone calls so that we can complain whilst the work is underway.
I.N.Somniac

Posted Tuesday, July 15, 2003
The Royal British Legion are running a campaign called "Poppy People" in an attempt to attract more volunteers to help with the Poppy Appeal.
Anyone interested should contact Mr Alan Mallett on 02476 316533
or E-mail - AMallett@britishlegion.org.uk
Alan Mallett

Posted Wednesday, July 9, 2003
I am looking for information about the Obelisk in Umberslade Park.
Can anyone help? Many thanks,
Julian Robinson jm.robinson1@virgin.net

Posted Tuesday, 24, June 2003
On the Birth Certificate of my Great Grandfather in 1847, his place of birth
is shown as Shirley Street, Solihull. It no longer appears to exist, do you know where it was, and are there any maps of the time that will show it's location?
Ken Lakin Kenlakin@aol.com

Posted 20 June 2003
I am trying to find out the name of the hotel at Elmdon Airport was called in the 1950's before it became the Buccaneer.
Rebecca Yarnell hannahandcarl@hotmail.com

Posted Monday, June 16, 2003
Hockley Heath Garden Club
Six women at present plant flowers around the village to give some summer colour - we would welcome any help you can offer, watering, dead heading, planting whatever you would like to do. Each year we enter the Solihull in Bloom competition and have won twice. If you would like to join us and help Hockley Heath Village please call Sandie on 01564 782922
Sandie Bates

Posted Sunday, June 15, 2003
My great grandmother was living at 1 Lode Lane, Solihull in 1905. I would be grateful (not coming from Warwickshire) if anyone knows if this was a private residence...? Any information would be appreciated.
Jayne Westlake jayne.westlake@ntlworld.com

Posted Wednesday, June 11, 2003
Where can I find out about "The Red Route", which I understand will go from M42 to Robin Hood Island?
Philip Spiller

Good question, I cant find anything on the council website but the plan will replace traditional double yellow lines with red lines, new signage and improved enforcement powers, the idea is to reduce illegal parking and loading, thereby speeding up both buses and general traffic. It is said that special attention will be  paid to the needs of local shops where additional parking will generally be provided. A demonstration route is planned for the Stratford Road from the M42 to Robin Hood Island which should be operational within a year.
see http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/2908063.stm for background information and links. I believe the land that was formally the TA centre in Haslucks Green Road will be used by contactors working on the Red Route scheme.

Posted Tuesday, June 10, 2003
Please has any one got a picture of the Salter Street Farm and the Moat House so I can use this information in my presentation at school to finish off my Earlswood project? Thank you very much.
Katie Bull - Age 11 Reply via Solihull Online

Posted Tuesday, June 10, 2003
There is hole in the back of the fence at the golden arrow, youths from gospel lane have been using it as a short cut into Olton hollow. Would the council or the owners of the pub please fix up the hole and maybe it will discourage the kids from walking through and hanging around McDonalds and the off licence.
D Connors

Posted Sunday, June 8, 2003
The Solihull Times front page story about the Tudor Grange plans (6 June 03) mentions that the public consultation which favoured refurbishment was rejected by " a specially created council task and finish group". Is it normal procedure for groups like this to decide matters ? It would be interesting to know what their objectives were as well as who the individual members are and who they are responsible to? does anyone know the answers to this?
Anon

Posted Monday, 26 May 2003
Great site Ian, I've loved reading some of the emails!
Does anyone out there know of any quad bike lessons/sessions in the Solihull/Birmingham area, I have a daughter who would love to have a go.
Many thanks
Helene Jones (nee Winnett formerly of Langley School 1976-1981)

Posted Sunday, May 25, 2003
Your web site is very informative its good to read about an area I have been going to from a very small age 30 year since and no little of it history.
The reason I came across your site is because myself and my wife were today in the Drawbridge pub, which we visit at weekends.
We were talking to friends about pork pies of all things and they mentioned a bakery in or a bout's Cut Throat Lane.
So from pork pies to your site why is Cut Throat Lane so called and did anybody find out who the person found in the lake was.
Steve

Posted Saturday, May 24, 2003
Shirley Residential School
Would like to hear from anyone who was a resident from 1936-1939. My brother Arthur and I lived here during this time. We were then evacuated during to War to Maidenhead.
John Payne

Posted Friday, May 23, 2003
Why is Castle Bromwich not included in Solihull LOCAL FOCUS? It is part of Solihull !!
Mike Timmins
In answer to your question Castle Bromwich does have a page on Solihull
Online at www.solihull-online.com/fo-casbrom.htm however I must admit to being
heavily biased to the South of the borough as this is the only area of
Solihull that I personally am familiar with.

Posted Monday, May 19, 2003
It seems a great shame that no attempt has been made to restore the arboretum of the former New Berry Hall. if this were done I am sure it would prove to be a very popular attraction. at the present time the estate appears run down and neglected.
Who are "Berry Hall Estates" and is the reason for the neglect hiding an ulterior motive, perhaps selling the land at an opportune date for housing.
Stuart Mason

Reply Posted Thursday, June 5, 2003
If a T.P.O can be put on the trees there is a chance that they can be protected from the builders. If there are any rare trees in Solihull they are worth keeping.
Ian Mills

Reply Posted Wednesday, June 4, 2003
What's the History of Stuart Masons mail may 19 on the subject of New Berry hall arboretum. I've never heard of it. Could more info be given. I'm a volunteer for THE TREE WARDENS OF SOLIHULL GROUP.
Ian Mills

The following are extracts from 'Catherine De Barnes Past and Present' by Pete Peters and Betty Simmonds. And refer to the now derelict and abandoned Berry Hall estate in Solihull.

"Old Berry Hall consisted of 185 acres of land consisted of a large house, extensive gardens and an arboretum."

"The main attraction of the grounds was Joseph's arboretum for which he bought expensive trees from nurseries all over the country. the trees are still there today, now in the full majesty of their maturity among the brambles. It is said they include the largest Gincko in the country and the very rare Whitty Pear."

Posted Sunday, May 18, 2003
Earlswood Museum is holding a 'were you there when it happened ' day on the 7th June.

The museum is home to all that remains of a Heinkel bomber that crashed near the village on May 21st 1941. We are seeking to interview individuals who either saw it happen, visited the site after the crash or even just remember hearing about the event. Over a cup of tea and a chat we will record their memories and use them to enhance the museum's display. We hope that they may even bump into some old friends!

Earlswood museum is located in the village hall on Shutt lane and is open from 2.30 pm until 4.30pm on the first Saturday in every month until September.
It contains local memorabilia ,selected parish registers and local census from the 19th century. Admission is free.
The village curator is Val Tonks who can be contacted on 01564 703911.
Julie Roy

Reply Posted Sunday, June 29, 2003
Re Heinkel bomber, I am sorry I'm late in replying, yes I remember it to well, I was in the Home Guard at the time, I lived half a mile away ( as the crow flies ) in Mason lane, Saturday night Sunday morning,( I did not hear a thing ), at about 8am on the Sunday morning my friend came round to tell me to get my Home Guard uniform on, on inquiring what was it all about, he said a plane had been shot down and we were to go to the plane and to stand guard to stop anyone getting by or near the plane, we were told not touch any part of the plane, ( what was left of it, not much ) as it had to be inspected by the authorities, the crash happened in Rumbush lane, between Fulford Hall lane and Norton land, opposite to a cottage, I was on guard from 9.00am till 12.00 mid-day
Dennis Clayton dennis.clayton1@btopenworld.com

Posted Sunday, May 18, 2003
I am trying to find any info on a family called Buckley who lived at a Monkspath Priory before the Great War. I believe a big fire took place at the Priory from which Mrs Bucklet had to be rescued. Any information on this or the family themselves would much appreciated
Pat Quirke patrickquirke@tiscaliu.co.uk

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