Coventry Telegraph - CV5

Earlsdon Teacher shows write stuff

2009-07-01T11:19:05Z

A FORMER teacher who says writing helped him recover from work-related stress will be signing copies of his new children's novel in Coventry.

Ian Mallon, aged 48, spent just three months writing his third book, called Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, which tells a story of best friends in their final year of primary school. He decided to pursue writing as a full-time job after 13 years of teaching.

The father-of-two, who lives with wife Kim in Hartington Crescent, Earlsdon, will be signing the books in Borders, Arena Retail Park, on Saturday between 11am and 2pm. The novel is published by Cov Books.

Eastern Green 21st scout Group fund raising day

2009-07-01T11:19:05Z

By Pete Surtees

THE 21st Eastern Green Scout Group held its' annual Spring fund raising event on the local green in Sutton Avenue today.

When I arrived at 11 a.m it was well underway, and if the weather was anything to go by they were in for a good turnout.

I spoke to the organiser and he told me that the funds raised all go towards the equipment at their headquarters in Kenthurst Close.

The group is always looking forward to welcoming new members and you can reach him on 07801 033 585, or at the H.Q in Kenthurst Close.

]]> Many of the attractions were of the traditional type as you can see from my pictures, but apart from these, contributions came also from local business people like a local market trader, a bouncy castle owner and a health and fitness club.

Contributions from all of these people help to boost the scouts funds.

Judging by what I saw today, everybody was enjoying themselves especially the kids, and if the aromas coming from the catering tents was anything to go by they'll sell out.

I wish them well and look forward to their winter event which is a firework display in November, details of which I will post at a later date.

Earlsdon appoint Richard Siveter as coach

2009-07-01T11:19:05Z

By Jason Kinmond

Earlsdon Rugby Club have appointed ex-Coventry prop Richard Siveter as coach.

Siveter brings a wealth of experience from his playing days with Warwickshire and at local clubs (Coventry and Rugby Lions) plus his coaching knowledge as Warwickshire Rugby Development Officer and RFU Community Rugby Coach. Siveter has had to stop playing because of an ongoing back injury.

Earlsdon's backs will be coached by Marc Thomas (Coventry and Nuneaton) and Lee Arbuthnott (Old Laurentians and Earlsdon 1st XV) will be looking after the latest set of Colts to come through Earlsdon's Mini and Juniors section.

The front row union dominates the on-field leadership with Lee Davies continuing as 1st XV Captain assisted by Gareth Beynon and Ali McPheators, the second team will be looked after by Jason Batt and with Steff Kenny leading the 3rd XV.

All the sides are captained by props.

Fitness training has been underway for 8 weeks with conditioning coach Jason Lewis putting upwards of 44 players through their paces, coach Siveter will start pre-season training on 30th June with pre-season games already organised versus Dunlop and Kenilworth.

Any players interested in joining should contact club chairman Yorkie Kinmond on yorkiejk@hotmail.com, or pop along to a training session Tues and Thurs evenings 6.45pm till 8.30pm at Earlsdon's Mitchell Avenue ground.

Green shoots of development at Earlsdon Stage 3 of Earlsdon's £30,000 development plan: improving the playing surface and spectator safety, has been implemented using monies from Earlsdon's development fund plus grants from SITA Trust (through the Landfill Communities Fund) and the Rugby Football Foundation.

]]> The works have been to improve drainage, erect pitch side barriers and lay paths. Additionally, work on the pitches has been undertaken according to recommendations made by RFU Twickenham Head Groundsman Keith Kent following his visit to the club in January.

SITA Trust is a funding organisation that supports community and environmental improvement projects around qualifying waste processing sites owned by recycling and resource management company SITA UK.

Following consultation with SITA Trust and a successful application plus similar work with Ross Baxter (RFU funding and facilities manager) Earlsdon were able to give the go ahead to the latest stage of their development plans at the Mitchell Avenue site.

The Rugby Football Foundation is a Charitable Trust established by the Rugby Football Union. The purpose of the Rugby Football Foundation is to promote and develop community amateur rugby in England The Foundation is responsible for a substantial community rugby programme which includes the provision of rugby development officers, the training and development of referees and the production of coaching and technical material.

The Foundation is responsible for a substantial community rugby programme which
includes the provision of rugby development officers, the training and development of referees and the production of coaching and technical material.

The Foundation also administers a Capital Fund for the financing of capital projects aimed at improving facilities that lead to the recruitment and retention of rugby players.
Development of Community Rugby can be summarised as:

More People

Better Places

Access For All

Enjoyment

The pitch-side barriers and paths have already been admired at the finals of Warwickshire RFU floodlit Double Tops competition and a Development XV game versus Coventry Police. Earlsdon RFC showcased the latest improvements at their annual 7 a side tournament on 9th May 2009 with teams from Coventry and surrounding district invited to take part in one of the largest 7s tournaments in the county with Earlsdon's league rivals Silhillians coming out on top.

Eastern Green Pub in call to help kids

2009-06-30T11:36:50Z

A COVENTRY pub has launched an appeal to help children in Romania as well as kids across the UK.

Under the banner "Home and Away", the Scireborne Tavern, Alspath Lane, Eastern Green, is calling for people to give school supplies and arts and crafts materials.

Half of the goods will stay in the UK going to children's charity, Kids Out. The charity runs a Toy Box Scheme providing essential items to children across the UK when they are re-housed in a refuge after fleeing abuse, violence or neglect.

The other half will be taken to four Save the Children schools and orphanages in the poorest parts of Romania.

Romania is one of Europe's poorest countries where 44 per cent of people live in poverty.

]]> Things the Scireborne Tavern is looking for include education supplies such as school bags, stationery, stickers, arts and craft materials such as coloured paper, paints and glitter, plus fun stuff - toys, costume jewellery, educational games.

Local schools and children's groups are also encouraged to take part, with pupils being asked to draw a picture for children in Romania to enjoy.

The pub says everything is appreciated, from a single paintbrush to a bag filled with goodies. Due to import regulations, all donated items should be new and suitable for children aged five and over.

Landlord Steven McGuffog said: "We hope this project will not only help children living in oppressive circumstances but also educate our local children about how some kids live very different lives and the importance of helping those not as fortunate as themselves.

The deadline for collection is July 15.

Help Myton make fete a big success

2009-06-26T13:12:09Z

WE are busy preparing for Myton's summer fete which will take place on Sunday, July 12.

If you can to contribute in any way, we would be very grateful, but we particularly need fruit and veg, good quality bric-a-brac, tombola prizes, plants and gardening equipment, and cakes for our tea tent and cake stall.

Most important of all, turn up on the day to support us and enjoy a fabulous day out.

And don't forget it's our Coventry Sunflower Walk on Sunday. If you haven't registered, just turn up on the day.

Wanted - shop volunteers. We are currently recruiting for our Myton shops. For details, ask at one of our shops, call Pinky on 01926 838836 or e-mail pinky.sidhu@mytonhospice.org

]]> We have an opportunity for people with three to four hours to spare every month to help us make a difference to the lives of people with progressive life-limiting illness in Coventry. We need people to collect weekly subscriptions from our lottery players in: Ansty, Ash Green, Barnacle, Bell Green, Binley, Chapelfields, Coundon, Copsewood, Earlsdon, Exhall, Keresley, Shilton, Walsgrave, Whitmore Park, Wood End, Wyken Croft, Bedworth. Commission is paid. Call 01926 838810 for details.

Forthcoming Events

* July 12 - Fete in the grounds of Warwick Hospice. Jester Jingles will host a jester academy where all ages can learn plate spinning and juggling. Admission for adults 50p, under-12s free. Fete runs from 12.30-4.30pm.

* August 23 - Coventry Big Fun Run. Myton is registered as an official charity for this event, visit www.bigfunrun.com

* September 19 - Warwick Moonlight Walk. Eight-mile walk starting and finishing at Warwick Castle, commencing at 10pm. For details, visit www.mytonhospice.org or ring 01926 838809.

To speak to a member of the Coventry Myton Appeal fundraising team, call Claire McDowell or Nigel Adams on 01926 838830 or 024 7641 1177.

Donations can be made by sending cheques, payable to 'Coventry Myton Hospice Appeal' to Myton Hospice, Myton Road, Warwick CV34 6PX, or deposited at one of our shops, or online at: http://www.justgiving.com/mytonhospice

Davenport Lodge pupils get visit from Earlsdon Fire crew

2009-06-23T12:23:42Z

CHILDREN were transformed into mini firefighters with a special visit to their school.

A crew from Radford Road Fire Station dropped in to Davenport Lodge Pre-Preparatory School, Earlsdon, to talk to six and seven-year-olds about their jobs.

They also explained the dangers of fire and how children should respond in an emergency before letting them try out the hose and explore the fire engine.

Earlier this year the children were visited by officers from West Midlands Police.

]]> Maureen Martin, principal of Davenport Lodge, said the school is keen to give pupils a good understanding of public service.

She said: "It's very important that children understand the roles of firefighters and police officers in the community.

"The idea is that the children can learn about the emergency services from an early age - and understand the basics about their own safety.

"The fire crew talked about the different types of work they do and got to see all the different equipment. It was a great experience for all the children."

Jennifer White of Earlsdon prepares for transplant

2009-06-19T10:52:10Z

JENNIFER White is being given a lifeline today.

The 45-year-old, of Earlsdon, was yesterday preparing to undergo a life-saving kidney transplant operation thanks to her brother Clive Slater.

Clive, aged 48, has flown to the city from his home in Ireland to give his younger sister the gift of life she desperately needed.

Telegraph readers have been following her story as she counted down to the big day, documenting her daily struggles with chronic renal failure.

They featured her constant battle with tiredness, one of the side-effects of her condition, but her determination to remain upbeat came through her entry for each day.

Speaking from her hospital bed, Jennifer said: "I feel perky and positive.

"I've known about this day for a year, so I've had time to prepare, although it feels really surreal that it's about to happen."

Thanks to her brother's generosity, Jennifer knew the date of her transplant operation, but thousands of people across the country don't have that luxury.

Jennifer has received two kidney transplants in the past after she was diagnosed with lupus.

The first took place in 1994, but only lasted two weeks.

The second was in 1999 and gave her nearly 10 years of "normal" life before it failed and it was back to square one again.

In between waiting for both kidneys, she endured a demanding course of dialysis to rid her blood of harmful toxins.

Determined she wouldn't go through dialysis again, her brother Clive offered to be a live donor.

]]> Her operation at the University Hospital, Walsgrave, is expected to take four hours after her brother's kidney has been removed in the operation theatre next door.

Jennifer, who is married to Michael, 42, and has two step-children, says she has been touched by the messages of support she's received from people she hasn't met.

She is also recognised by other patients who have been following her progress in the Telegraph and online at coventrytelegraph.net/donor

And she has been inundated with text messages wishing her luck for the day ahead.

But even as she lay in hospital, the amazing sacrifice of what her brother was about to do hadn't quite sunk in.

She said: "We've been through health checks together and it really struck me that while I ticked 'yes' in every box to say I had this or that illness, Clive ticked 'no' for each one.

"I thought 'here is this healthy man who's going to be made unwell and he's doing that for me'. It really is amazing."

Clive, who lives in County Clare with his wife Marrianne (corr) and sons Sam, 15, and Robert, 17, has moved his family to the area and rented a house in Warwick for the month in preparation for the procedure which will transform his sister's life.

It meant he had to take leave from his job as a building surveyor and a house-sitter has moved into their home to take care of their cats.

He says it's an inconvenience he's willing to bear for the sake of his ill sister.

Clive said: "I've always known in the back of my mind that this day might come and it has caused a bit of disruption, but I'll be able to get back on with my life.

"This will mean Jenny will be able to get on with hers."

He will return to Ireland in a few weeks after a series of follow-up appointments at the hospital.

Nick West, University Hospital transplant coordinator, said: "I admire anyone who donates an organ for someone else because it's a big decision.

"I know in Jennifer's case that Clive has healthy kidneys and I hope it lasts Jennifer many years to come.

"This is an example of brotherly love really shining through."

Wyken Male Voice Choir perform at All Saints Church

2009-06-17T14:09:53Z

Wyken Male Voice Choir 7.30pm in All Saints Church.

A lively group of soloists and singers with a varied programme.

For more information contact Lesley Grove on 76402067

Allesley Festival takes place at Parish Church

2009-06-17T14:09:53Z

The â€˜hands on celebration of the arts' consists of an opportunity to experience various musical and artistic workshops.

These include drumming, guitars, bell ringing, sculpture, painting and a variety of crafts for
all ages.

Watch, listen and join in. The events take place both in the church and churchyard, from 2pm until 4.30pm Free admission but donations welcome.

For more information contact Paul Payne 02476402017 or Lesley Grove on 76402067

U2 Charist at All Saints Church Allesley

2009-06-17T14:09:53Z

The U2 charist service with the songs and music of U2 has the theme of Millennium Development goals- uniting nations and ending poverty by 2015.

Led by Malcolm Evans and local musicians, this is for everyone who enjoys U2 type music, all ages.

For more information contact Lesley Grove 02476402067 or Malcolm Evans 02476269974

Out and about in Earlsdon

2009-06-12T11:19:35Z

Local photographer Robbie Robinson of Mickleton Road, Earlsdon, added this fantastic collection of photos of Earlsdon to our FlickR CV5 Group pool.

Please click on photos for captions

You can view this and many other wonderful pictures on our FlickR CV5 group by clicking here or to get your pictures showcased on the web please send them to communities@coventrytelegraph.net or join us on FlickR.

What's on in CV5

2009-06-12T10:19:02Z

Saturday 13th of June

Watervole Volunteer Day at Lakeview Park 10.30am-3.30pm
Lake View Park is suffering from an invasion of Himalayam Balsam, a flowering perennial imported by the Victorians, which is taking over the watercourse and preventing native species from growing. We have therefore begun to plan its removal, which has to be done by hand at certain times of the year.

We need volunteers to help us with this project, as it is a big job and will take several years to completely rid the sites of this intruder. This is a free event, and no booking required.

]]>
The volunteer days are being run as a partnership with Warwickshire Wildlife Trust and Coventry City council. The trust will provide tea/coffee and biscuits. Please bring your own lunch if you are intending to stay all day.

Please wear appropriate clothing and footwear for working outdoors in potentially wet and slippery conditions.

For more information please telephone
Michelle Tyrtania, Parks Service Rangers on 024 7683 2720 or Warwickshire Wildlife Trust on 024 7630 2912.

Also the Carers Picnic is being held at the War Memorial Park.

Friday 19th of June

The Fab Beatles at Massey Ferguson Club Broad Lane, Coventry.

This brilliant group Chosen by the BBC as "The Best" & Commissioned by EMI to promote the "Beatles 1" CD, are playing here just 2 days before father's day, so would make a great father's day gift. The Fab Beatles are widely recognised as one of the top Beatles tribute bands.

Performing a show of non-stop Beatles hits. All profits from this event will raise money for the Mercia MS Therapy centre in Coventry. Tickets £10 call Zoe on 024 7645 2425 or buy on line at www.badmoonevents.webs.com
Mercia MS Therapy Centre, Reg. Charity No. 701561.

Sunday the 21st of June

Bands in Parks at Spencer Park 2.30pm - 4pm

The season continues on Father's Day, with a concert in this lovely intimate enclosed half of Spencer Park.

Visitors who fill in a survey form, will be entered into the prize draw on the day. Bring your Dad, and a picnic, and enjoy a lovely relaxing family afternoon.

The entertainment this week will be from The Dene River Jazz Men. For more details of future concerts visit www.coventry.gov.uk/events or telephone 024 7683 2368

Wednesday 24th and 27th of June

Watervole Volunteer Day at Lakeview Park 10.30am-3.30pm

Lake View Park is suffering from an invasion of Himalayam Balsam, a flowering perennial imported by the Victorians, which is taking over the watercourse and preventing native species from growing.

We have therefore begun to plan its removal, which has to be done by hand at certain times of the year. We need volunteers to help us with this project, as it is a big job and will take several years to completely rid the sites of this intruder. This is a free event, and no booking required.

The volunteer days are being run as a partnership with Warwickshire Wildlife Trust and Coventry City council. The trust will provide tea/coffee and biscuits. Please bring your own lunch if you are intending to stay all day.

Please wear appropriate clothing and footwear for working outdoors in potentially wet and slippery conditions. For more information please telephone Michelle Tyrtania, Parks Service Rangers on 024 7683 2720 or Warwickshire Wildlife Trust on 024 7630 2912

Sunday 28th of June

Coventry Fun Run at the War Memorial Park 10.00am - 2.00pm

Coventry Three Spires Round Table invites you to take part in this annual event and raise huge amounts of money for good causes.

It is only £3, £4,or £5 to enter. To enter go to www.coventryfunrun.co.uk or telephone the free adviceline on 0800 181 4031 or email enquiries@coventryfunrun.co.uk

Earlsdon's youngest Councillor joins cycle scheme

2009-06-11T10:43:16Z

Councillor Allan Andrews, who represents Earlsdon on Coventry City Council, blogs about joining the Cycle to Work Scheme.

He writes about the benefits of cycling not only to the climate but how it helps in his recovery from his second hip resurfacing procedure.

Cycling has other benefits too, such as increased fitness, small maintenance costs and reduced risk of heart disease.

]]>
As the Council's youngest elected member at 26, I've joined the Cycle to Work Scheme as part of my recovery following surgery. The scheme is available to all Councillors and Council employees as part of its Climate Change Strategy.

In April, I underwent a second hip resurfacing procedure due to arthritis and have taken to the saddle as part of my ongoing recovery.

This is a fantastic way of regaining my fitness and re-strengthening the muscles that were affected through surgery. Cycling brings with it many benefits such as no running costs and very small maintenance costs, but more importantly it reduces the risk of heart disease and other serious illnesses.

Allan Andrews (left) with Albany Cycles owner Simon Robinson

Cycling is something I used to do on a regular basis but only since the operations have I been able to get on a bike again. I'm very much looking forward to taking part in the scheme and I'd encourage as many city employers and council employees to take part as possible.

I got my bike from Albany Cycles on Albany Road, which is in the ward I represent, following an appeal on my 'I Love Earlsdon' Facebook page for people to support local businesses during the recession.

A Right Royal Event and a Midsummers Eve Concert at St Barbara's Church in Earlsdon

2009-06-11T08:40:34Z

By Jim Griffiths

Family fun and fish 'n' chips supper and social evening will be held on the 13th June from 6.30pm St Barbara's Church in the church hall, to celebrate the Queen's birthday.

Tickets on sale (£6.00 adults, £3.00 children)

There will also be a celebration of Coventry's young musical talent featuring Dixieland Dave, with solo performers from the City of Coventry Youth Orchestra and Castle Sixth Form, Kenilworth.

]]>
Entry is free and donations towards Coventry Youth Orchestra and St Barbara's Organ Fund will be gratefully received.

The concert will be held on Saturday 20th of June at 7pm at St Barbara's Church, Rochester Rd, Earlsdon.

Chapelfields homegrown strawberries

2009-06-10T10:05:01Z

Local photographer Marc Verrall of Chapelfileds took this lovely shot of his homegrown strawberries and uploaded it to our FlickR CV5 Group pool.

If you'd like to get your photos showcased on the website please email communities@coventrytelegraph.net or join our Flickr Group by clicking here.