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Life after dark . . .

Posted on December 07 2011 at 5:19:17 0 comments

Sarah Rees enjoys some community spirit on the Parklands/ Oakalls . . .

When the clocks went back and the earlier dark nights arrived, there was a sudden resurgence of outdoor life on the estate. It seemed as if every child living here was dressed up and braving the chill to offer neighbours the option of a trick or a treat on October 31.

Residents entered into the Halloween spirit with the orange glow of candlelit pumpkins seen on most doorsteps. And some embraced the custom wholeheartedly, transforming houses into something more akin to a gothic horror movie set.

“The kids were really good natured. It was super to see them all dressed up and having a great night out,” says Derek Duckhouse, of Royal Worcester Crescent.

Julie Ring, of Valencia Road adds: “My daughter and husband went out and had a great time with all the other children on the road, while I was on sweet duty at home.”

Halloween was a sweet night out for kids but also helped to unite residents across the Oakalls and Parklands as people left the comfort of warm homes. So don’t be tempted to close the curtains and shut out the winter chill. There are some really good reasons to venture forth this month.

Fresh thoughts of Spring

Neil Gow, of Fresh Garden Centre at Burcot, will be giving his time to visit the estate in December to help with a new bulb planting initiative. Funded by county councillor Emma Moffett’s discretionary Divisional Fund, and co-ordinated with the help of district councillors Caroline Spencer and Rod Laight, more than 700 mixed species of bulbs will be planted in a variety of places across the estate. By spring the landscape should be transformed by the colourful explosion of a host of golden daffodils.
 
If this issue of The Village reaches you in time, volunteers can help with the planting – and maybe pick up some useful tips from Neil (above). Meet at the lay-by on Regents Park Road, at 10am on Saturday December 3. Warm clothing, wellies and a spade are essential. Children are welcome if accompanied by an adult.

Christmas in the Community

Step into Christmas with a special festive event, at 5pm on Sunday December 18. Residents are invited to carry lanterns and process to the Green by Trianon Road, where a traditional carol service has been arranged by local residents and Lynn Laight from Bromsgrove’s Primrose Hospice choir. Join in with all-time favourites before enjoying a glass of Tardebigge mulled cider and mince pies. Soft drinks will be available for children.
It’s free for all, but please make a donation towards the cost of the refreshments on the night.

This is a wonderful opportunity for residents to gather together. But if carols and mulled cider are not enough to tempt you there will also be a guest appearance by Santa. Mr Claus will be checking out who has been naughty and who has been nice, just one week ahead of the big day.

The Round Table’s annual sleigh ride will follow the carol service with Santa first visiting revellers on the Green before travelling around the estate.

This popular festive highlight delights young children while raising money for local charities. Those supported in 2010 included Wheely Boat Trust at Upton Warren, the Basement Project and Boccia Boars, with Santa raising £848 from the estate. Can we make it a round £1,000 this year?

Please contact me with your views and concerns about any aspect of life on the estate.

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