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local communities across the borough will be hosting their own communal street parties around VE Day on Thursday 8 May 2025
A number of activities and events are taking place across the borough
A flag raising ceremony outside the Council House in Walsall takes place at 9am on Thursday 8 May 2025
This will be hosted by the Mayor of Walsall and attendees will include Group Captain Ian Sargeant OBE KHS DL
Deputy Lieutenant of the West Midlands.
Libraries will be marking the anniversary too with VE-Day related events and activities in the seven libraries in the borough including Aldridge
Willenhall and the Lichfield Street Hub in Walsall town centre.
https://ve-vjday80.gov.uk/
https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/get-involved/events/remembrance-events/remembering-the-end-of-the-second-world-war
For Government advice on organising a street party
Your guide to organising a street party - GOV.UK
Community events funded or partly funded by Walsall Council include:
Bentley Lane WS2 8SP Open to all
Darlaston Sons of Rest - VE Day Celebration
Holy Ascension Place of Welcome - Community Coffee Morning VE Day 80 Celebration
Bloxwich Community Partnership - “Songs that Won the War” - Funtime Theatre Singalong Show
Moxley Peoples Centre - 80 Years of Remembrance’
Collingwood Centre Ltd - VE Day Lunch followed by entertainment
Darlaston All Active - VE Day Celebration; community event with live 1940s entertainment
Preservation of Pelsall Remembrance - VE Day Celebrations with the Lighting of the lamp at 9.00pm service/gathering at the Cenotaph at 9.15pm
Old Hall Peoples Partnership - VE Day Celebration
Mossley Community Connections CIC - VE Day Celebration
Aldridge Community Centre - VE Day - Entertainment and Afternoon Tea
Walsall for All CIC - VE Day - Celebration in the Garden
Willenhall CHART - VE Day Celebration Afternoon
Rotary Club of Aldridge - VE Day Commemoration
Short Heath Lest We Forget CIC - Lamp of Peace Evening
Preservation of Pelsall Remembrance - VE celebrations
Aldridge Royal British Legion - VE Day Gathering
Ryecroft Neighbourhood Resource Centre - Street Party
St Michaels and All Angels Church - Celebration
Proud of our past our present and for our future
Road closures are planned in Walsall as residents come together to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day
Watch more of our videos on ShotsTV.comand on Freeview 262 or Freely 565
to remember the lives lost during the conflict
Walsall Council has listed all the road closures across the borough due to street parties taking place
12-26 Beddows Road & 15-29 Beddows Road (Arbury Grove to Rutland Street)
10am to 4pm (car park at Railway Inn car park to Victoria Road)
Stewart Road (junction of Salters Road & Coronation Road) Sunday
said: “I’m very proud of the fact we have waived the usual fees for road closures to help our communities mark a poignant event
“VE Day is an important occasion for our nation
providing us the opportunity to come together and celebrate our shared history.”
A number of activities and events are taking place across the borough including a flag raising ceremony outside the Council House in Walsall at 9am on Thursday May
The council has also funded or part-funded 22 VE events across the borough over the coming days
Birchills Agenda 21 – VE Day celebration (Saturday 3 May 2025
Willenhall Royal British Legion – VE Day anniversary (Sunday 4 May 2025
Darlaston Sons of Rest – VE Day Celebration (Tuesday 6 May 2025
Holy Ascension Place of Welcome – Community Coffee Morning VE Day 80 Celebration (Wednesday 7 May 2025
9.30am to 11.30am at Holy Ascension Community Church
Bloxwich Community Partnership – “Songs that Won the War” – Funtime Theatre Singalong Show, performed by the Funtime Theatre Company (Wednesday 7 May 2025, 11am to 12 noon at Stan Ball Centre, Abbotts Street, Bloxwich
Moxley Peoples Centre – 80 Years of Remembrance’ (Wednesday 7 May 2025
Collingwood Centre Ltd – VE Day lunch followed by entertainment (Wednesday 7 May 2025
Darlaston All Active – VE Day Celebration; community event with live 1940s entertainment
afternoon tea and raffle (Thursday 8 May 2025
Preservation of Pelsall Remembrance – VE Day Celebrations with service/gathering at the Cenotaph at 9.15pm (Thursday 8 May 2025
all day celebration at Pelsall Village Centre
The Hothouse – VE Day Celebrations (Thursday 8 May 2025
Aaina Community Hub – WW2 Memorial Day (Thursday 8 May 2025
Old Hall Peoples Partnership – VE Day Celebration (Thursday 8 May 2025
Mossley Community Connections CIC – VE Day Celebration (Thursday 8 May 2025
Aldridge Community Centre – VE Day – Entertainment and Afternoon Tea (Thursday 8 May 2025
Walsall for All CIC – VE Day – Celebration in the Garden (Thursday 8 May 2025
Willenhall CHART – VE Day Celebration Afternoon (Thursday 8 May 2025
Rotary Club of Aldridge – VE Day Commemoration (Thursday 8 May 2025
Short Heath Lest We Forget CIC – Lamp of Peace Evening (Thursday 8th May 2025
Aldridge Royal British Legion – VE Day Gathering (Saturday 10 May 2025
Streetly Dementia Support Group – Streetly VE 80 celebration (Saturday 10 May 2025
Ryecroft Neighbourhood Resource Centre – Street Party (Saturday 10 May 2025
St Michaels and All Angels Church – Celebration
Remembrance and Thanksgiving (Saturday 10 May 2025
said: “VE Day is a reminder of our nation’s resilience and courage
and honour and pay tribute to those whose sacrifices made peace possible
“The council will be flying the official VE Day 80 flag outside the Council House and I’m sure the raising of the flag will be a moving start to the day.”
Rose Martin (centre) with Clare Maltby (centre right)
Once a railway line, the McClean Way
has been used by people walking and cycling for some time
but it’s about to become a much safer and more accessible greenway for all
The improvements to the route will also contribute to the expansion of the National Cycle Network
We will planting along to route to connect people to nature and to give the local biodiversity a boost
The work is likely to be delivered in stages
The first phase of the scheme will create a new three-metre-wide sealed surface along around a mile-long stretch from Station Road to Ryders Hayes Park
Ditches will be created to manage the areas of the path which suffer from water overflowing.
The route will also benefit from improved access to enhance inclusivity
Further planned phases will be subject to funding availability.
Sustrans has been working closely with Back The Track volunteers to develop the McClean Way
a visionary in the development of the South Staffordshire Railway
the greenway has been cherished by the community since its opening as an unsurfaced greenway in 2017
The route’s rich history and local importance make its upgrade a proud moment for both Sustrans and its partners
The upgrade wouldn’t be possible without the tireless work of local volunteers from the Back the Track group
who have maintained the greenway over the years
Sustrans’ England Director for the Midlands and East
“This project highlights the power of collaboration and community
fully accessible greenway that connects communities
"We're thrilled to see the McClean Way’s transformation begin."
The current surface is muddy and uneven with limited access points
Local businesses have also stepped up to support the project
Rails Wood Tractors have provided a compound area to aid construction
Local councillors have also been involved in the process after planning permission was secured in September 2024 from Walsall Council
The scheme has been funded National Highways and the Active Travel England who have provided around £1.75m
Head of Customer Journeys at National Highways
"We are delighted to support this excellent scheme
which promotes sustainable and healthy travel.”
With thanks to our partners at National Highways and Active Travel England and from Walsall Council
Local firm Crown Highways have been appointed to carry out the improvements
Crown Highways will deliver the upgrades by March 2025
there will be restrictions between Station Road and Ryders Hayes Park with a short period of closure
Public Rights of Way crossings will remain open and accessible throughout the works
completing the entire route depends on securing additional resources
the full route would provide an extra three miles of continuous
safe and direct off-road path between Pelsall and Brownhills - helping to connect residents to schools
We’ve been working with local volunteer group
Back the Track to transform the McClean Way in Walsall
In 2018 we took an honest look at the condition of the National Cycle Network and have been delivering improvements through our Paths for Everyone programme in response
As custodians of the National Cycle Network
we are dependent on the support of others to make these improvements to this vital infrastructure
which passes within one mile of around half of the UK population
It provides a vital backbone to the country
connecting communities to each other and helping neighbourhoods come to life
Helping local people cycle and walk more in the West Midlands
Route 5
Find a route on the National Cycle Network
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Sustrans is a registered charity in England and Wales (326550) and Scotland (SC039263) and a company limited by guarantee registered in England (1797726) at 2 Cathedral Square
which will see a road bridge installed on Norton Road
the bridge will provide a safer route for all road users
including a two-way traffic bridge and dedicated footway.
To allow this work to be carried out safely
a continuous road closure will be in place on Lime Lane and Norton Road from March 10 to March 21
This means there will be no access to these roads at any time throughout this period
a traffic diversion will be in place.
The road closure will also be used to allow for the excavation and widening of the northeast carriageway of the site.
The existing bridge dates back to the mid-1800s
but due to deterioration is now subject to a 7.5 tonne weight limit.
The York’s Bridge project will also deliver parking bays to facilitate access to the nearby common and create a pond and several new embankments north of the new bridge.
delivered in partnership with McPhillips (Wellington) Ltd
will be complete in late 2025.
A lucky Black Country school's morning assembly was joined by two football aces today (March 27)
The visit was due to record amount of tickets being sold by the school for Walsall FC's School Partners initiative - an initiative by the Walsall FC Foundation which offers local schools tickets at one-off reduced prices to encourage the next generation of fans
1,982 tickets were sold through the initiative across a mixture of schools in the region, but topping the charts was St. Michael's C of E Primary School, in Pelsall
who knocked out 138 of them to this weekend's game against AFC Wimbledon
Walsall FC's first-team players Brandon Comley and Taylor Allen spent time in each class meeting the children
Held at St Michael and All Angels Church and attended by the Lord-Lieutenant of the West Midlands
Dr Derrick Anderson CBE and the Mayor of Walsall
the service offered time and space for remembrance
led the service which featured readings by Nasar Iqbal (Black Country Innovate) and Pastor Monica Anderson (Walsall Faith Forum)
as well as reflections from several faith and community leaders and representatives
creating an inclusive environment of reflection for all.
Anaesthetics and Critical Care at Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust shared reflections on the journey through COVID-19
along with Jan Davies and Sue Evans from Walsall Community Network paid tribute to the voluntary and community sector for their contributions during the pandemic.
The Lord Lieutenant and Mayor of Walsall led a symbolic act of candle lighting to remember loved ones lost during the pandemic
This was accompanied by a performance from Councillor Keir Pedley and Councillor Edward Lee
Inter-faith also played a significant role in the service
with the Chaplaincy Team from Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust leading a time of prayer and reflection
followed by closing remarks from Reverend Linford Davis
Pastoral and Religious Care at the Trust.
A popular community pub in Pelsall has been granted a variation to its premises licence
allowing an extension to its operating hours
The Queens pub on Norton Road submitted an application to Walsall Council to amend its existing licence in order to provide more flexibility for private events or major sporting matches
The existing licensing conditions allowed entertainment and alcohol sales until 12:30am on Fridays
but the pub’s application proposed extending that by an additional 30 minutes Monday to Saturday until 1am
In its original application, the Marston’s Brewery pub requested to licence the sale of alcohol in the car park and to allow use of the beer garden until 10.30pm
Four objections were received from neighbours of the pub about the application
But since the pub withdrew the requests relating to the car park and beer garden
three out of four objections had also been withdrawn ahead of the hearing on Thursday January 9
The pub has been operated by Grace Billingham as the Designated Premises Supervisor since July 2021
It was heard that the pub has had a strong record of community engagement through fundraisers
supporting local football teams and local events including the Pelsall Carnival
The committee noted that the pub has operated extended hours through temporary event notices in recent years without any issues
In response to concerns submitted in the objections
the pub voluntarily agreed to several additional conditions
These include a commitment to record any noise complaints from residents
and limiting the late trading hours to a maximum of 50 occasions per year
presented by the Preservation of Pelsall Remembrance Service (POPRS) and supported by Walsall Council
will bring together the community in an act of remembrance with a stunning red-light display.
will start at 5pm and see Pelsall’s Clock Tower and Cenotaph lit up
will be in attendance on the evening.
Future colour-changing displays will take place to represent key festivals and seasons
including Christmas and Diwali.
POPRS funded the project with the support of Walsall Council’s Crowdfund Walsall Programme
More than £11,000 was raised from 55 backers
which included a £5,000 pledge from the UK Shared Prosperity Programme.
The project seeks to create opportunities to bring the community together
POPRS intends to align the display with key events to create social opportunities and raise awareness of good causes
Each time the lights change and are switched on
it will create the opportunity for charities and organisations to host community days and events
encouraging people to come together and socialise.
“ This project brings joy to the people and village of Pelsall
It supports our local traders and puts the village on the map
Join us behind the memorial gardens ready for 5pm
To find out more about Crowdfund Walsall please go to Crowdfund Walsall - Home (spacehive.com)
This project is part-funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The UK Shared Prosperity Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills. For more information visit: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-shared-prosperity-fund-prospectus
Sim Mayou dedicated his life to public service and tirelessly campaigned to make sure Pelsall remained a safe
Last week, on Friday, February 21, the streets of Pelsall were lined with locals to watch on as a legend of the area took his final trip through the streets before being put to rest by family, friends and former colleagues.
just a couple of months after celebrating his 100th birthday when a party was thrown and he was the first person on the dance floor
Also known as 'Mr Pelsall' due to his civic pride for the place where he had lived all his life, he survived the Second World War, served as a Walsall councillor and retired as a businessman
He grew up in the Wood Lane area of the village and his father Bertie Mayou was a miner
In the war he served as a radar operator with the Royal Navy Patrol Service from 1942 to 1946
he organised numerous trips to the war graves in France and Belgium and was a member of Normandy Veterans' Association
The former Liberal Democrat councillor was born in Pelsall on August 31
then went on to become a tireless campaigner for all things Pelsall
built up a family hardware business which is now run by his son Geoff
The civic service will be held at St Michael and All Angels Church
It will be led by the Reverend Alison Morris
Vicar at St Michael and attended by the Lord Lieutenant of the West Midlands
Derrick Anderson CBE and the Mayor of Walsall
The service will remember those who lost their lives to COVID-19
reflect on the personal and collective experiences during the pandemic and give thanks to the health and social care staff
key workers and volunteers who supported their communities
Over 100 invited guests from different organisations
businesses and faith and community groups across the borough are expected to attend the service
and a symbolic act of candle lighting to honour loved ones.
the Lichfield Street Hub in Walsall town centre will light up yellow on the weekend of the COVID-19 Day of Reflection (8-9 March)
Leader of Walsall Council reflects on Walsall’s involvement in and response to the COVID-19 pandemic
“ We are delighted to be hosting the COVID-19 Day of Reflection memorial service in Pelsall
This will be dedicated to all those whose lives were lost during COVID-19
"I've not travelled anywhere as pretty as here," says the irrepressible war veteran Sim Mayou is now a grand 100-years-old
Also known as 'Mr Pelsall' due to his civic pride for the place where he has lived all his life, he survived the Second World War, served as a Walsall councillor and is a retired businessman
And he as been celebrating his milestone birthday in style
1924 was treated to a big party at Fishley Golf Club by his family to mark his special day
A tireless campaigner for all things Pelsall
He grew up in the Wood Lane area of the village and his father Bertie Mayou was a miner
Fortunately my father was miner because work was very scare in the years before the war
In Walsall, the Remembrance Day parade through the town centre and service at the Cenotaph in Bradford Place will take place on Sunday 10 November 2024. Residents can come along and watch the parade and take part in the service, which is attended by military veterans and armed forces representatives. Visit this link to view the order of service
The Mayor of Walsall, Councillor Anthony Harris
will lead the Remembrance Day tributes on behalf of Walsall Council
vicar of St Paul’s and St Luke’s in Walsall
“ Remembrance Sunday is an important time for us to come together to pay our respects as a community to those who have served in the armed forces
I am honoured to be taking part in the service in the town centre and I hope many people in our communities will come along and attend one of the many services taking place across the borough
Walsall Council was awarded a Silver Award in the Ministry of Defence’s Employer Recognition Scheme (DERS) for its commitment to service personnel and the armed forces
Today is a chance to remember and reflect as we pay tribute to their bravery and sacrifice
The parade will begin at 10.25am in Hatherton Road and Hatherton Street and it will take a route past the Council House
arriving at the Cenotaph in Bradford Place at 10.35am
Music will be provided by the Staffordshire Band and the parade will feature representatives from 159 Theatre Support Company
Queen Mary’s Grammar School Combined Cadet Force and various uniformed youth organisations
The service commences at 10.40am in the Cenotaph Garden and the service will be amplified
and a sign language interpreter will relay it for the hard of hearing
The two-minute silence will be observed at 11am.
A bugler from the Staffordshire Band will sound ‘The Last Post’ and the ‘Reveille’
Wreaths will then be laid at the Cenotaph.
the parade will return via the same route to the Council House
where the Mayor of Walsall will take the salute and mace bearers and standard bearers will flank the saluting base
The Mayor of Walsall will then place a wreath at the John Carless VC Memorial
Further information on the road closures for the day are available on the Council's Website
Information about other services and parades taking place across the borough
Motorists will be diverted from a busy Staffordshire-Birmingham commuter road for two weeks due to work to install beams for a new bridge
Construction work is gathering pace to replace Pelsall's historic humpback York's Bridge with a new wider structure straddling the Essington and Wyrley Canal in Norton Road
The next stage will be the arrival of the huge beams on Thursday and Friday this week which will see the B4154
a commuter link between Cannock and Birmingham closed temporarily
On completion the new bridge which is being built at a cost of £3million will carry two-way traffic and a footpath
Walsall Council said Lime Lane and Norton Road will be shut from today (10) until March 21
meaning there will be no access to these roads at any time throughout this period
A signposted traffic diversion will be in place while the beam delivery and installation is carried out by Telford-based contractor McPhillips
Associate council leader Councillor Adrian Andrew said: “This project was much needed to maintain local accessibility
replacing a bridge which was deteriorating
“This is a critical point in the works and to maintain the safety of everyone traffic management arrangements and road closures will be put in place
Every effort will be made to ensure disruption and delays are kept to a minimum
“I would like to thank all residents in advance for their patience as the works commence.”
The council said the temporary closure will also be used to allow for the excavation and widening of the northeast carriageway of the site
The concrete cast beams will be transported from the supply yard in Newark in Nottinghamshire to the site
The old bridge dates back to the mid-1800s
but due to deterioration is now subject to a 7.5 tonne weight limit which is less than the 44 tonnes required for lorries
Some residents have complained that a new bridge would lead to an increase in traffic in Pelsall describing Norton Road as 'rat-run' for commuters heading to Birmingham
Work on the new bridge is due to be completed later this year
The new equipment is now available at Aldridge Airport
An additional set of equipment is scheduled for installation at Walsall Arboretum
with the anticipated completion date set for Spring 2025
Walsall Council’s Healthy Spaces team will be conducting a series of complimentary ‘activation sessions’ during the February half-term
Residents are invited to attend these sessions at their convenience
Qualified fitness staff from the council will offer demonstrations on how to use the equipment and provide ideas for effective workouts
are launching the new groups for mothers to come along and receive help with their feeding journey
The new groups are being set up following the success of the established breastfeeding peer support group currently being offered Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust staff
The new groups will offer information and support for parents
a friendly environment for them to speak about their own feeding experiences with other parents
plus receive advice and guidance from trained peer supporters and access to healthcare professionals
The new groups will run weekly at the following venues:
The three new groups join the existing group which is held at North Family Hub
“ We’re really pleased to be offering more support groups for mothers in the borough
We set up our first group in 2023 and we’ve had great feedback from parents ever since
The groups are a safe space for everybody to come along to and require no booking in advance “
“I have contacted them [the staff] numerous times with different queries and worries that I’ve had
and every time they have been really supportive
I’ve found almost instant results with the practical advice they have suggested
and I’ve already recommended the service to a friend who is in a similar situation.”
For more information about infant feeding, and the help that is available in the borough, please visit the Walsall Family Hubs website.
will introduce more visible community safety officers in Brownhills
The scheme will test the impacts more community safety officers have upon local communities
villagers in Pelsall will have noticed the sudden increase in wooden poles installed in their leafy village
Many residents had flocked to social media over the sudden appearance of the poles
On Walsall Council’s planning portal, a quick search of planning applications between June 1 and September 1 reveals submissions for 35 wooden poles in Pelsall
They vary in height between nine and 13 metres
Telecoms company Openreach has confirmed engineers are carrying out essential works within Pelsall to make full fibre broadband available in the parish
meaning faster and more reliable speeds for villagers
Under planning law known as ‘permitted development’
telecom companies can install communications equipment up to 15 metres in height without needing prior approval from the planning authorities
there is no legal obligation to hold a consultation period with local residents or businesses
The company promised that every pole location is fully assessed
any issues are discussed with the local council
and there’s a process to object if residents are not happy
While many villagers described the poles as an eyesore
just as many said faster internet speeds were ‘desperately needed’
A spokesperson for Openreach said: “Our engineers are currently working hard to bring ultrafast
ultra-reliable full fibre broadband to Pelsall
This will not only bring huge benefits to families and businesses in the area but also a welcome boost to local economy
Work is nearly finished and we’re doing all we can to minimise disruption
we use existing infrastructure (poles and ducts) while building full fibre
there are times when we simply cannot avoid erecting poles to provide services efficiently
safely and in a sound engineering manner.”
A man has been charged after a police officer was assaulted in Pelsall
Billy Stinson, aged 32, from Rushall
has been charged with assaulting an emergency worker and possessing a knife in a public place after officers were called to Allens Lane on 1 January
He has been bailed to appear at Dudley Magistrates Court on February 6
Huge beams have arrived for the new York's Bridge which is being constructed in Pelsall near Walsall
Meanwhile residents are reminded that the Fingerpost Public House overlooking the bridge site is open for business as usual despite the road closure
Drivers can get to the pub car park from the nearby fingerpost junction where Norton Road meets Wolverhampton Road and Lichfield Road
Pub manager Sam Blackwell says: "We are open for trade
We are on day four of the road closure which has already damaged our trade
We're about 50 per cent down on or normal footfall
but cars can actually get to us from the fingerpost junction and pull right up on to our car park
We understand that the work does need to be done fr the bridge
but we'd like to appeal to the community to come and support us or lose us
"The traffic diversion route is from the A5 via Brownhills."
A huge green crane was installed ahead of the beams arriving in Norton Road for the new structure to take traffic over the Essington and Wyrley Canal
It is being built to replace an 1800s humpback bridge which will not be demolished
The work on the new wider bridge is expected to be completed later this year
Workers are set to break ground on a new bridge project in Pelsall - more than three decades after plans were first proposed
Construction will get underway next month on the 40-metre structure
with works estimated to be completed in autumn next year
Walsall Council's planning committee granted permission for the new bridge – which will carry Norton Road over the Wyrley and Essington Canal – in 2020
The local authority said it aims to create a "safer route" for all road users
providing a two-way traffic system and dedicated footpath
It will be built adjacent to the existing York's Bridge
which dates to the mid-1800s and stands near the Fingerpost pub
In 2020, Walsall Council said the historic structure needed to be replaced as it was "deteriorating and unsafe" and could only take a maximum weight of seven-and-a-half tons
said the existing bridge will however be retained for access to existing properties
The construction will get underway following work carried out by the council to relocate great crested newts living near to the bridge site
then come along and grab some bargain holiday clothes at Pelsall Community and Arts Centre
24 January at Pelsall Community and Arts Centre
we are hosting a fundraising fashion show with the opportunity to buy top brand ladies clothing at bargain prices - a great way to get your wardrobe ready for the summer ahead of your fantastic holidays
Our lovely models will be showcasing the clothes on the catwalk for you - so come along and enjoy this fashionable fundraiser
Doors open at 6.30pm with the event starting at 7pm
available from pelsallcommunityandartscentre.co.uk or call 01922 682156
Walsall Healthcare staff will be joining council and community colleagues taking part in a service to mark the fifth anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic
together with Walsall Community Network and Walsall Council
will mark the event on the National Day of Reflection (9 March) with a civic service in Pelsall
The service will be held at St Michael and All Angels Church
More than 100 invited guests from different organisations
and a symbolic act of candle lighting to honour loved ones
Anaesthetics and Critical Care at Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust
said: “The pandemic proved to be an incredibly challenging time for teams in our ICU at the hospital as we worked together to do our best for our patients and their families
“We had never experienced anything like this
and it still seems a surreal time when we look back at everything that happened
I’m proud of the colleagues who were redeployed into ICU to help us and I’m proud of everything our community services did at that time
“The Day of Reflection reminds us all of those we have loved and lost
It also gives us an opportunity to appreciate all we have and to say another thank you to all those in our communities who offered fantastic support too
whether it was making scrubs or supplying food and drinks and sending donations in to keep us all going.”
a minute’s silence will be held in the garden for reflection and remembrance
organisations and many more stepped up to support our communities
from acts of kindness to making sacrifices for others
Their selfless acts of kindness and sacrifice were a phenomenal response to the crisis
and I commend everyone who contributed to supporting our communities during this difficult time
we also remember the many lives tragically lost to COVID-19 since March 2020
My thoughts and prayers are with their families
we will gather to show our support for one another
I encourage you to take part in a way that suits you and how you would like to remember and reflect
said: “We are delighted to be hosting the COVID-19 Day of Reflection memorial service in Pelsall
Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust,Manor Hospital, Moat Road,Walsall, West Midlands WS2 9PSSwitchboard: 01922 721172Contact form
See our CQC Certificate here
A disused railway line is set to benefit from a ‘multi-million-pound’ upgrade making it available for pedestrians
Plans for the greenway were approved by Walsall Council to improve the McClean Way, a 4.89km route linking Pelsall and Walsall
The route stretches from Station Road in Pelsall through Clayhanger to Miner’s Island in Brownhills
It has retained several historical remnants
including railway signals and portions of the old railway track bed
The project aims to maintain these features while upgrading the path for modern use
said the project has been made possible thanks to a funding package of around £1.75 million from National Highways and the Department for Transport
The organisation said the scheme is likely to be delivered in stages
with the first phase focusing on a one-kilometre section from Station Road to Ryders Hayes Park
Further planned phases will be subject to funding availability
the parts of the route can’t be used following heavy rainfall due to poor drainage
Volunteer groups had maintained the route over the years
but the wear and tear on the track has made it difficult to use
The development will include new access ramps
and ancillary improvements aimed at making the route accessible for wheelchairs
mobility scooters and pushchairs all year round
The path is named after John Robinson McClean
a pivotal figure in the development of the South Staffordshire Railway
It runs through Pelsall Common Conservation Area and Railswood Area of High Historic Landscape Value
It also passes two Grade II-listed structures
the Brownhills railway aqueduct and a canal bridge southeast of Back’s Bridge
Essential maintenance works will be carried out
No alterations will be made to the bridges
said: “We’re thrilled that planning permission has been granted to these transformational improvements on the McClean Way
They will help to provide a safe and accessible route for everyone to enjoy the benefits of walking
it’s more than just an active travel route
“The McClean Way also helps to improve local biodiversity and creates a space for people to appreciate nature
making it more inclusive for people who might need a breather
These improvements help to deliver our ‘Paths for Everyone’ programme
bringing us closer to a National Cycle Network that is safer and more accessible for all
Thousands of people turned out for Pelsall carnival this year
Last Saturday, volunteers from the Pelsall Carnival Association began preparing the site for when doors opened at midday
as well as the main spectacle – the procession
The fun and games were all for a good cause
but this year marked his first one as chairman after being a committee member for four years
The exact amount raised is not yet confirmed but it will be in the thousands
which they will split between local charities
Construction work is set to commence on the long-awaited York's Bridge project in Pelsall
It follows the careful relocation of great crested newts
Contractors McPhillips Ltd will construct a new bridge over the Wyrley and Essington Canal
The new bridge will accommodate two-way traffic and a pedestrian footpath
unlike the existing York’s Bridge which as a single track only can become congested
The new road will run parallel to the historic York’s Bridge
with the anticipated completion date for the project being late 2025
He said: "The new bridge will carry two-way traffic
"It will be flat as opposed to the existing humped bridge
meaning improved visibility for motorists and cyclists
and include a two-metre-wide footway making life better and safer for pedestrians
There will also be improvements to street lighting
a new access for the nearby Fingerpost pub and local homes
and new parking bays for people using the nearby common land.”
Deputy leader of Walsall Council
said: "It is good to see that this congestion pinch point is finally being fixed with this major infrastructure investment in Pelsall
“It is recognised that York’s Bridge has been somewhat of a ‘marmite’ project
the improvements will become clearer to see
It was really important to the people of Pelsall that the old bridge be kept – and their views were listened to – but it simply wasn’t fit or safe for purpose and there was no other suitable engineering option other than building a new bridge
“The current historic bridge will remain as part of Pelsall’s proud heritage
but the new bridge will improve congestion in the village
“As with any major civil engineering project involving the highway
traffic management measures will be in place to protect both the travelling public and site workers
Every effort will be made to minimise any disruption and I would like to thank all residents in advance for their patience as the works commence."
Pelsall Community and Arts Centre are holding their annual Spring Craft Fayre on Saturday
With over 40 stalls of handcrafted goods and amusements
this is always a busy and successful event
For the children there is a hunt the letters game
Refreshments available - including breakfast of bacon or sausage sandwiches
doors open at 10am and the fun continues until 3pm
Adults £1 entry with accompanying children free
Pelsall WS3 4BQ - further details at pelsallcommunityandartscentre.co.uk
Pelsall students met members of the community to talk about the history of the area as a church at the centre of it celebrates 180 years in existence
welcomed pupils of all years from St Michael's Church of England Primary School and also opened its doors to people who came in to talk about their experiences of years gone by
The school children have been doing a project on the history of the area and interviewed visitors of all ages to see how things were different in years gone by as well as viewing photo albums and memory books
Parish priest of St Michael and All Angels Reverend Alison Morris said the project
the churches' celebrations and the Walsall Borough 2040 strategic plan were all coming together to highlight what a wonderful place Pelsall is to live
She said: "From our point of view we are celebrating 180 years in 2024 but for the youngsters to come together today and ask questions and enjoy themselves doing so was heartening
heritage and legacy of the community and passing it onto the younger members as sometimes it will go with the people who leave this earth
parishioners and all members of the Pelsall community and I was so pleased we could host this event which was a great success."
Furious Rushall councillors say their community has "had enough" of a "horrendous" junction where accidents and near-misses are a regular occurrence
Pelsall Lane and Station Road meet Lichfield Road is well-known for congestion
confusing lanes and drivers jumping red lights
Lorna Rattigan and Jade Chapman say action needs to be taken to tackle the "unbelievable" amount of accidents at the junction
In a joint statement they said: “The residents and councillors of Rushall-Shelfield have had enough
The number of accidents and near-misses on the Rushall junction is unbelievable
The traffic which builds up during rush hour on a daily basis is chronic and motorists attempt to jump the lights due to the time they must wait in the queues
and Barns Lane wreak havoc on the already busy Lichfield Road
There’s also additional traffic from the busy McDonald’s restaurant on Daw End Lane
Councillor Vera Waters called the box junction in the area ‘no man’s land’
She said: “Motorists will cross over onto this box junction to try to jump the lights
Last month Rushall resident Michelle Brookes was involved in a car crash which left her with a broken hand and bruising
Her car was written off in the crash - and in the days before it was due to be picked up by the insurers
Michelle also called for action to address the dangerous junction
portfolio holder for street pride at Walsall Council
said: “The council wants local roads to be as safe as they can possibly be at all times
“Road safety affects everyone in our borough
those behind the wheel and those who aren’t
and we’re committed to improving the safety of our roads so Walsall is a safe place for residents and visitors
“The council’s highways team are investigating ways to improve the safety of Rushall junction
all of which would be subject to relevant processes to ensure improvements are viable
and that there is sufficient delivery funding available in the medium-to-long-term future
“We also continue to work in partnership with West Midlands Police who are the authority empowered to tackle speeding and red light offences.”
which is responsible for red-light enforcement
Enjoy the wonderful music of Tina Turner presented by Justine at Pelsall Community and Arts Centre
who returns to Pelsall Community and Arts Centre on Friday
Justine and her dancers put everything into the show to bring Tina's image and sound to life with lots of moves and costume changes
Doors open at 7.30pm so you can get that quick drink from the bar before curtain-up at 8pm
Come and enjoy a great evening of entertainment
A community is getting ready to celebrate marriage later this month
and the church in the centre of it will mark two special anniversaries - including a TV wedding ceremony
Not only will October 19 be marked as the 180th birthday of Pelsall's parish church of St Michael and All Angels
but Alex and Sue Tatham who found fame on national television in 1991when they met on ITV's Blind Date will celebrate their 33rd wedding anniversary by renewing their vows
The TV couple will also be performing the official opening of a wedding fair being organised by the church as part of the weekend celebrations
They got married at the church as Sue's parents lived in the village and celebrity show host Cilla Black attended the wedding along with the television cameras
The programme was watched by 14 million viewers nationwide
New photos have shown the work going on to construct a new road bridge which will accommodate more traffic and ease congestion
Fencing can be seen all around the area of the Wyrley and Essington Canal next to York's Bridge in Pelsall
where the work has begun to build a new bridge over the canal on the Norton Road
The work began last week and will see contractors McPhillips Ltd construct a new bridge
which will allow for two-way traffic and a pedestrian footpath
said: "The new bridge will carry two-way traffic
"There will also be improvements to street lighting
made from thousands of seized knives and guns
is visiting more than 20 schools in Walsall
to encourage discussions with young people about the dangers and consequences of carrying a knife
West Midlands Police has worked with the council to bring the monument to Walsall
and schools have been able to book the bee for a day
Many are hosting assemblies and creative activities such as drawings around the symbolic monument
The bee’s visit builds upon the legacy of the successful Knife Angel visit to Walsall in December last year
Reducing serious youth violence is a priority for Walsall local policing area (LPA) and the Safer Walsall Partnership
It is hoped the bee’s visit will provide an educational talking point and catalyst for discussion about knife crime with young people
Drainage and foundation work is gathering pace for a replacement canal bridge being built near Walsall to replace a historic hump structure
Construction work is underway to replace Pelsall's historic Yorks Bridge with a new £3 million bridge over the Essington and Wyrley Canal in Norton Road
Excavation started in the autumn and large wooden moulds were being made for the base for the new structure
When the concrete is set the mould will be removed
The work is been carried out by Telford-based contractor McPhillips on behalf of Walsall Council which wants to improve road safety
The team is also working on a brand new drainage system to ensure that rainwater will not cause flooding on the carriageway
Nearly half the population of Pelsall turned out to watch the beautiful wedding of Alex and Sue Tatham back in 1991
And 33 years later the happy couple - who met on the TV dating show Blind Date hosted by Cilla Black - have returned to St Michael and All Angels Church for a very romantic reason
Alex reminisced about the magical day when he and Sue tied the knot after their unusual introduction on the telly - in front of millions of viewers
The couple live in London these days and Alex is clearly as smitten as ever with Sue who he referred to as “my beautiful wife” - while admitting he was “very nervous” on his big day
Alex added: “But there was someone who was just as nervous as the groom
whose upcoming work was not only going to be judged by God
Alex and Sue were back in Pelsall to join the celebrations to mark St Michael’s 180th anniversary and its wedding fair
The couple regularly visit Pelsall to see Sue's mum Barbara and other family
Alex continued to reminisce about his big day with Sue saying: “And on the dot of 2pm
“You remember the owner of Household Hardware store
and there was a vision coming down the aisle of a beautiful bride at the top
“If the Church of England had wanted a better showcase for a wedding
when Council once again showcases all that is fabulous and beautiful about a church wedding
but lit up this church and the whole country
“This is a wonderful church into a wonderful community village
And I can think of no better place for a couple to be married
It has celebrated weddings now for 180 years.”
go for the arrival of huge concrete beams being delivered for the £3 million York's Bridge replacement project in Walsall
A huge green crane is currently towering over Norton Road in Pelsall ahead of the arrival of the beams for the new structure being built to take the place of a former humpback bridge to take traffic over the Essington and Wyrley Canal
Regular traffic is being diverted from the B4154 Norton Road and Lime Lane this week for the installation work for the new wider structure which will allow two-way traffic to comfortably pass for the first time
The concrete cast beams are being transported over two days from a supply yard in Newark in Nottinghamshire
the contractors are also taking advantage of the road closure to carrying out widening work on part of the the nearby carriageway
The work is being carried out by Telford-based contractor McPhillips which posted on Facebook: "The team is really excited as it's one of the biggest parts of the build
"We've been putting the finishing touches on the bridge beam bearings
These are like cushions that sit under the main parts of a bridge to help them move slightly when necessary
Walsall Council's associate leader Adrian Andrew said: “This project was much needed to maintain local accessibility
Every effort will be made to ensure disruption and delays are kept to a minimum."
Hotshots went level with the Aldridge & District Snooker Premier League defending champions Pelsall Social after a 4-1 triumph against Beechdale Social
Neil Beckley and Jamie Brown took the lead
before Dave Ball narrowly pulled back the third frame to keep Beechdale in the running
while Hasan Hussain won the final frame to see Shots go level with Pelsall Social A
Pelsall did win 3-2 against third-bottom Rushall Labour A
Lee Cross took the lead for the titleholders
however Paul Harrison and Adrian Rosa sealed the win for Pelsall
Dartmouth Central enjoyed a narrow 3-2 win after Liam Wright and Andy Hickman both took the lead against Landywood A
having climbed from second from bottom just a month ago
Poets Corner A enjoyed a whitewash victory against Bloxwich Sports
Chris Lane and Adam Hartshorn all won their frames
Wednesfield Cons went four ahead against Poets C
Lee Bannister and Andy Price put them ahead
Old Hall B also won 4-1 thanks to efforted from Chris Jones
Stafford Institute slipped to 14th after losing 4-1 to Poets B
while Old Hall A won 3-2 against Bloxwich Memorial A
Division One’s top two both took home perfect wins this week
as runaway league-leaders Aldridge Cons C extended their lead ahead of second place to 14 points
Cons beat Old Hall C 5-0 thanks to efforts from Lee Dennant
while second-placed Charlemont’s 5-0 whitewash against Rushall Labour B came courtesy of Alex Stevens
The result saw Charlemont overtake Bentley Moor B in the division
after they could only beat third-bottom Q Bar A 4-1
Relegated Q Bar B lost 3-2 to Bloxwich Memorial B
Darlaston Cons took a 3-2 win from Amery and Aldridge Cons A and B both won 4-1 against Old Hall D and relegated Norton Vic respectively
Lidl has announced the opening date for its newest store in the Black Country
The new store will open on Walsall Road, Walsall Wood
It sits on the former site of the Horse and Jockey pub and will be the first Lidl store to open in the area
To help mark the occasion, Lidl has announced that a ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place on the day
Lauren Porter presents 'So Taylor' at Pelsall Community and Arts Centre on Friday
The show starts at the earlier time of 7pm for the younger audience
Join us for a fabulous evening at Pelsall Community and Arts Centre to hear the music of the Take@That
17 January Take@That - one of UK’s leading tributes to Take That - will be returning by popular demand to Pelsall Community and Arts Centre
Hear all the hits from Gary and co in this wonderful local venue - the show promises to be a great uplifting event to see you through the dark nights of January
Doors open at 7.30pm and the show begins at 8pm
Tickets are available from Ticketsource or the centre on 01922 682156 at £16
With free parking and a full bar on the night
Garry Perry has been a lifelong resident of Walsall
having been born at Walsall Manor Hospital in 1976
His deep connection to the community began at a young age
Garry became involved in local groups dedicated to uniting the community
and finding local solutions to community issues
One of Garry's significant contributions has been his nearly 30-year tenure as a school governor at Pelsall Village
His impact on the school is widely recognised
particularly the promotion of the ethos "every child
Councillor Perry represents Pelsall and has served on several important committees
including the Education and Children’s Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee and the Planning Committee
His long-standing commitment to the Cabinet includes roles as Portfolio Holder for Community
and Portfolio Holder for Communities and Partnership
Garry served as Mayor of Walsall during the 2011-12 municipal year
Before his current role as Leader of the Council
he was the Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Resilient Communities
where he was instrumental in co-leading the borough's response to the Covid-19 pandemic
His work in this role earned him a strong reputation for building capacity within third-sector organisations and fostering integrated and inclusive communities
The family of a man who was killed by a young driver last year has called for changes to be made to the 'dangerous' road
The 58-year-old, who was a member of Pelsall Cycling Club
was knocked off of his bike by Alfie Swann who had only just passed his test
Alan's wife and son have called for action to be taken to improve safety measures on the road
with Aldridge and Brownhills MP Wendy Morton backing the family
he was a member of Pelsall Cycling Club and he helped raise a lot of money for charity by cycling
"He was travelling down the hill and the driver stopped and looked on both sides
but he [the driver] just didn't see him when he went onto the junction."
The 19-year-old driver had only passed his test in November 2022
He claimed he didn't see the cyclist before being sentenced to two years of community service at Wolverhampton Crown Court in June this year
There have been four crashes here since 2002
I want traffic lights here just to make it safer
I don't want any other family going through what we have been through."
MP Wendy Morton also joined the protest with a number of other residents
backing the call for more safety precautions to be taken on the road
Ms Morton said: "I've known Jayne and her family for a long time
so when she approached more for support I was very keen to help with this
we don't want to see any more families go through this again."
then it could mean more traffic lights on the stretch of road
making it safer for passing cyclists and drivers who are using the lanes junctions
A train enthusiast has spent more than 30 years building a stunning working miniature railway track - in his own back garden
created the 272-yard line around the edge of his 40ft (12m) wide garden at his home in Pelsall
The train-mad OAP travels around the track in eight mini engines he built himself and has spent thousands of pounds on his hobby since 1993
Derek constructs everything from a workshop at the end of his garden where he can spend hours on end each day building and restoring old engines
His garden also features a host of railway memorabilia - including a 100-year-old signal he reclaimed from a level crossing which now sits in the middle of his lawn
The track is made from timber and aluminium while he has a mixture of electric and battery-powered engines as well as petrol-driven hydraulic ones
Grandfather-of-two Derek said he decided to build his own garden track as it had always been a life-long dream of his since falling in love with trains as a child
He said: "It gave the neighbours a bit of a surprise when they saw I had my own railway track but it's something I've always wanted to do
With just one week to go until dedications close
St Giles Hospice is inviting the local community to remember their loved ones by dedicating a vibrant orange gerbera in support of their Celebrate Lives Lived campaign
This heartfelt initiative has already seen many dedications
Dedications can be made until midday on Wednesday 16th April
supporters can personalise an orange gerbera with the name of a loved one they have lost
These flowers will then be placed in the hospice’s Celebrate Lives Lived gardens throughout May at their site in Whittington
has made yearly dedications to celebrate her mum’s life
her tribute carries even deeper meaning as she also remembers her father
who spent his final weeks at St Giles Hospice in 2023 after being diagnosed with a terminal illness
Ann is urging the community to support St Giles Hospice so others can experience the same level of care and dignity her dad did
Funds raised through Celebrate Lives Lived will help the hospice continue its vital work for patients and their loved ones
Ann said: “The care my dad received was exceptional
I want other families to have that same comfort.”
said: “Celebrate Lives Lived offers a special way to remember your loved ones each spring and everyone is welcome to join us as we commemorate those we have lost
"You can come along to visit the garden throughout the month of May and at the end of the month you can take the Gerbera home as a special keepsake or to plant in your own garden.”
To make a dedication, please visit: stgileshospice.com/celebrate-lives-lived