Church Hill Blog

23/04/2025

We have all been celebrating St George’s Day on the wrong day.

Although St George’s Day normally falls on April 23, this year it’s been officially transferred to Monday, April 28. That’s because April 23 landed right in the middle of Holy Week (the lead-up to Easter), and church rules give priority to major Christian festivals — meaning St George had to politely wait his turn.

So if you’ve already raised a glass today, no harm done — but if you’re waiting for the official date, you’ve still got time to dust off the flag and cook a roast!

Those waking up this morning to celebrate St George's Day will be shocked to realise they have the wrong day.

23/04/2025

Look at all this lovely greenery!
Mappleborough Green Garden Centre – perfect spot to kick-start your own little veg patch. Tastes better, saves air miles, and the kids will love it! And while you’re there, why not pop into the Gardeners Restaurant for a nice cuppa and a slice of cake?

23/04/2025

Sunday Roast at The Oast House

Make Sundays effortless at The Oast House in Redditch – with a fantastic roast and a full stomach. Join them from 12 PM to 4 PM for a traditional Sunday roast, done right.

Choose from slow-roast beef, rosemary lamb, juicy turkey, tender pork leg, baked ham, or a chestnut mushroom bourguignon for our veggie friends. Every roast comes with crispy potatoes, seasonal veg, stuffing, Yorkshire puds, and plenty of gravy.

Small £5 | Regular £7 | Large £10 – yes, really.

For something lighter, try a turkey, stuffing, and cranberry wrap (£6) or a roast pork bap with stuffing and apple sauce (£3.50) – perfect for a quick bite or on the go.

Want to stay in? They offer takeaway options too, that you can call in to collect.

And don’t skip dessert – indulge in sticky toffee pudding, Biscoff cheesecake, chocolate fudge cake, and more sweet treats that are too good to miss.

Location: Paper Mill Drive, Redditch, B98 8JQ
Call 01527 596037

Warning: Post-roast naps are highly likely. Proceed with caution.

23/04/2025

Have an event you want everyone to know about? 📣Not too keen on blowing your own trumpet? Let us do it for you! Whether you're hosting a fete, charity car wash, open day, jumble sale, quiz night, or big band event, we've got you covered.Just drop us a line with all the details, and we'll make sure to SHOUT all about it for you! DM or email details of your event.

23/04/2025

Nigel Farage Pops into Redditch on Campaign Trail

There was a surprise visit in Redditch yesterday as Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, made a stop in town as part of his campaign tour. Having spent the day travelling through Hertfordshire, Gloucestershire, Shropshire, Warwickshire, and Worcestershire, he rounded things off with a visit to our very own Oast House pub.

Pubgoers were quick to notice the political figure stopping in for a drink and a chat.

Our trusty contributor Jarod was out and about, and caught wind of the visit to hear what a few locals had to say afterwards.

“He just got stuck in with the conversation — the place was buzzing,” said one pub-goer. “It’s not every day someone like that turns up.”

Another added: “I was sat in the pub garden and noticed him walking through. I got up, shook his hand — it was all very casual.”

A third said: “He listened to what people had to say. You don’t get that from many politicians these days.”

Farage’s visit comes ahead of the local elections on Thursday 1st May 2025, with Reform UK hoping to gain ground in areas where people are feeling fed up with the usual choices.

Whatever your views, it certainly got people talking.

Did you spot him in town? Let us know in the comments.

Image: © JB/CHB
Available for licence
[email protected]


23/04/2025

Happy St George’s Day 🌹

Today we proudly celebrate the patron saint of England — a symbol of courage, honour, and national pride.

From the red and white of the St George’s Cross to the stories of valour that have inspired generations, this is a day to fly the flag and say it loud:
Proud to be English.

Whether you’re enjoying a quiet cuppa or raising a pint in good company, let’s take a moment to appreciate the traditions, history, and shared identity that bind us together.

Wishing everyone a proud and joyful St George’s Day!

(Feel free to share how you’re celebrating in the comments below.)

22/04/2025

Update on the Leadership Change at Redditch Borough Council.

Following our post last week with regards to the resignation of the leader of Redditch Council, we put in a request for clarification.

Redditch Borough Council has confirmed that Cllr Joe Baker remains a councillor, and is sitting as an independent, but has resigned as Leader of the Council. Cllr Sharon Harvey is now serving as Interim Leader until the Annual Council meeting in May, in line with the council’s constitution.

As for the reasons behind the resignation and Cllr Baker’s suspension from the Labour Party, the Council has stated that “the rest is the business of Cllr Baker and the Labour Party.”

We have also reached out to the Labour Party for further clarification and will share any updates here.

22/04/2025

Looking for freshly made, tasty food in Redditch? At The Oast House, they are serving up favourites all day from Tuesday to Saturday – perfect for lunch, dinner, or something sweet in between.

From beer-battered cod and 8oz rump steak to Caribbean jerk chicken, gourmet burgers and breaded scampi, there’s something for everyone.
After something lighter? Their lunchtime menu includes freshly prepared sandwiches, toasted paninis, seasoned chips and more.

And if you’ve got a sweet tooth, don’t miss out on desserts – think chocolate fudge cake, sticky toffee pudding, and apple crumble to finish things off just right.

Book a table to dine in, or call ahead to place your takeaway order.

📍 Paper Mill Drive, Redditch, Worcestershire, B98 8QJ
📞 01527 596037

22/04/2025

The weekly garden update from the Gardening Guru.

It’s a shorter week for many of us, with Easter Monday kicking things off with a welcome extra day of rest (or pottering in the garden, depending on your style!). We hope everyone had a peaceful Easter break.

Weather Notes

This week’s forecast is looking fairly typical for April – a real mix of sunshine, cloud and the occasional shower. Daytime temperatures are expected to hover around 12–15°C, with cooler nights, so do keep an eye on any young or tender plants and protect them from any surprise dips in temperature. A few breezy spells are expected midweek, so make sure anything newly staked or potted is secure.

Jobs for the Week Ahead

Weeding: With the warmer weather and recent rain, weeds are making a strong start. Now’s the time to stay on top of them before they get out of hand.

Lawn Care: If your lawn is dry enough, give it a cut on a higher setting. It’s still early in the season, so avoid taking too much off.

Deadheading Spring Bulbs: Remove spent flowers from daffodils and tulips, but leave the foliage to die back naturally – it feeds the bulbs for next year.

Pruning: Trim back any dead or damaged branches from shrubs and perennials. Early-flowering shrubs like forsythia can be pruned once they’ve finished blooming.

Composting: Turn your compost heap if you haven’t done so recently – the warmer temperatures will help speed things up now.

Planting Suggestions

Vegetables: You can now safely sow beetroot, carrots, spinach, lettuce and radish directly outdoors. If you’re growing potatoes, this is a good week to get your second earlies and maincrop varieties into the ground.

Flowers: Start planting out hardy annuals like calendula, cornflowers, and nigella. Keep half-hardy annuals like cosmos and marigolds under cover for a little longer.

Herbs: Sow basil, coriander, and dill indoors or in a greenhouse. Outdoors, you can sow parsley, chives and thyme now.

As always, we’d love to see photos of your Church Hill gardens in bloom, feel free to share them in the comments below.

20/04/2025

Wishing everyone a very Happy Easter Sunday!

Today is a time for reflection, renewal, and maybe even a bit of peace and quiet (unless you’ve got family round!).

However you’re spending the day, at church, in the garden, out for lunch or tracking down the last crème egg in the local shop, we hope it brings a smile.

19/04/2025

Five Days of Silence: What’s Really Going on at Redditch Borough Council?

It’s been five days since Coun Joe Baker abruptly resigned as Leader of Redditch Borough Council and was suspended from the Labour Party with immediate effect, and yet, there’s still no clear explanation. No detailed statement. No official comment. No answers.

The only reason quietly cited so far? “Personal reasons.” But let’s be honest, that doesn’t cut it.

This isn’t a case of someone quietly stepping back from a committee. This is the leader of the entire borough council, resigning overnight and being suspended from his political party. That’s not a small matter, and “personal reasons” feels like a placeholder, not an explanation.

Why was he suspended? Was there a complaint? A party dispute? A policy issue? Or is there something else entirely going on behind the scenes? And why have the council and local Labour group remained so tight-lipped?

Coun Baker had only been in post since the all-out elections last year. The speed and silence around his departure raises serious questions, and right now, the residents of Redditch are being left to guess.

Meanwhile, discussion is ramping up over on Twitter, with some high-profile accounts picking up on the story and questioning the lack of transparency. The eyes of more than just Redditch are now watching, and the silence is becoming louder by the day. Redditch is getting wide attention.

This town deserves better than vague answers and political silence. The people of Redditch have a right to transparency, especially when it concerns those in power.

The council must respond. So must the local Labour Party.
It’s time for a proper explanation, not just for those watching from the sidelines, but for every voter who put their trust in this leadership.

18/04/2025

Good Friday is here, a meaningful day for many, whether through faith, family, or simply finding a bit of space in the rush of everyday life.

Traditionally, Good Friday marks the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, a day of sorrow and reflection in the Christian calendar. Across the country, churches will quietly open their doors to those who still honour the solemn meaning of the day. It’s a moment to pause, reflect, and remember themes of sacrifice, redemption, and hope.

That said, the world doesn’t come to a stop anymore.

The shops are open, the buses are running, and most people are carrying on with their long weekend plans, whether it’s doing a bit of shopping, stocking up for Sunday’s roast, or nipping out for a few last-minute Easter eggs.

Supermarkets have been ready for weeks, with shelves bursting with chocolate, bright foil-wrapped bunnies, and “buy two get one free” egg offers. Along with spring flowers for those who prefer something floral.  not forgetting hot Cross buns. For many, Easter now blends tradition with treats, and Good Friday is just the start of a weekend that mixes reflection with celebration.

And honestly? There’s nothing wrong with that. Whether you’ll be attending a church service, enjoying some quiet time, preparing a big family meal, or just settling in with a chocolate egg and a cuppa, Easter means different things to different people.

Maybe this year, it’s about slowing down, even just for a moment. A walk through Arrow Valley. A phone call to someone you’ve not spoken to in a while. Or just sitting still with a brew and remembering that not everything needs to be busy.

Whatever Good Friday means to you, spiritual, social, or somewhere in between, we wish you a peaceful and pleasant Easter weekend.

How are you spending your Easter? And while we’re at it… what’s your favourite Easter egg this year? Let us know in the comments.

17/04/2025

Rising Food Prices: Which Supermarket Is Really the Cheapest in 2025?

With prices still on the rise, many people in Redditch are watching every penny on the weekly shop. And according to the latest report from Which? magazine, Aldi has once again come out as the cheapest supermarket in the UK — a title it’s held for several years now.

Lidl came in a close second, with both offering major savings on the basics: milk, bread, fruit, vegetables, and household essentials. Asda was the most affordable of the big four supermarkets, offering good value on branded goods and regular promotions. Tesco followed behind — but only if you’re using a Clubcard. Without one, prices are noticeably higher.

Sainsbury’s and Morrisons were next, with both tending to charge more across a typical basket of goods. Waitrose, unsurprisingly, was the most expensive overall — though some shoppers still rate it highly for quality.

Interestingly, stores like B&M, Home Bargains, Poundland and Iceland weren’t included in the Which? ranking — but we know many of you rely on them for frozen food, snacks, tinned goods and toiletries as part of a weekly mix-and-match approach.

So now it’s over to you:

Where do YOU shop for your groceries these days?
Do you stick with one supermarket — or visit two or three to make it work?

Drop your answers in the comments below — and if you’ve got any tips, tricks or local bargains to share, we’d love to hear them!

17/04/2025

A relaxing way to spend your Good Friday…

If you fancy something a little different this Easter, why not pop over to Mappleborough Green Garden Centre for some live music with talented guitarist Steve Franks?

He’ll be performing from 2.30pm to 4.30pm, setting the mood with beautiful Spanish guitar melodies – perfect with a cuppa and a slice of cake.

Join us for a Good Friday Easter treat with Steve Franks performing for us!
A virtuoso guitarist who specialises in playing many types of music on the Spanish guitar.

We are very much looking forward to him entertaining you again whilst you relax with your late lunch or afternoon tea.

17/04/2025

Join The Oast House for a delicious Easter Sunday Lunch This Weekend.

Treat yourself and the family to a mouth-watering Easter feast on Sunday April 20th, served from 12 noon to 4pm.

Start off with tasty options like Leek & Potato Soup, Brussels Pâté with Red Onion Chutney, or Bengal Spiced Prawns in Coconut Curry Sauce.

For the main event, choose from classic roast favourites including Slow Roast Beef, Rosemary Roast Lamb, Cider Glazed Pork, and more — all served with roast potatoes, baby new potatoes, seasonal veg, Yorkshire pudding, stuffing and rich gravy.

And don’t forget dessert! From Apple Crumble & Custard to Raspberry, Pistachio & White Choc Cheesecake, there’s something to satisfy every sweet tooth.

Adults £8.50 | Children £6

Booking is essential to reserve your table – don’t miss out!

Location:
The Oast House, Paper Mill Drive, Redditch, Worcestershire, B98 8QJ
Call to book: 01527 599057

🐰 Hop to it — tables are filling fast!

17/04/2025

🐣 Easter Weekend in Redditch:
April 18–21, 2025

Looking for something to do with the family this Easter? Here’s what’s happening around Redditch this weekend:

📅 Friday, April 18

Easter Craft & Biscuit Decorating
🕛 12:00 PM
📍 Meadow Farm, Dagnell End Lane, Redditch
💷 £3 per child
Children can get creative decorating shortbread and making Easter crafts.
More info: https://allevents.in/redditch/easter-craft-and-biscuit-decorating/200027990368000

Easter Mini Craft Fair
🕙 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
📍 Forge Mill Needle Museum, Needle Mill Lane, Redditch
🎟️ Free fair entry (normal museum admission for exhibitions)
Browse unique handmade crafts and gifts.
More info: https://www.forgemill.org.uk/web/events/

Freya’s Easter Party
🕝 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM
📍 Beoley Village Hall, Holt End, Redditch
🎟️ Ticketed – fun activities for kids
Tickets/info: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1307092862939

⸻

📅 Saturday, April 19

Social Easter Saturday Shop Ride
🕢 7:30 AM
📍 The Cycle Studio, Redditch
🚴‍♂️ Free group ride (20–30KM route)
More info: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/social-easter-saturday-shop-ride-april-19th-tickets-1314116881969

⸻

📅 Sunday, April 20 – Easter Sunday

Breakfast with the Easter Bunny & Egg Hunt
🕘 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
📍 Meadow Farm, Dagnell End Lane, Redditch
💷 £10 per child – includes breakfast & egg
Booking link: https://allevents.in/redditch/breakfast-with-the-easter-bunny-and-egg-hunt/200027988177622

Easter Egg Hunt at The Duck Inn
🕐 1:00 PM
📍 The Duck Inn, Pheasant Lane, Redditch
💷 Small charge (pay at bar)
A family-friendly community egg hunt.
More info: https://allevents.in/redditch/easter-sunday-egg-hunt/200027886804005

Easter Junior Football Tournament
📍 Redditch United Football Club, Sallie Swan Street
💷 £3 per car
Sunday & Monday tournament for junior teams.
Details: https://redditchunited.co.uk/easter-junior-tournaments-sun-20th-mon-21st-april/

⸻

📅 Monday, April 21 – Bank Holiday

Back to the 80s Party
🕔 5:00 PM
📍 Meadow Farm, Dagnell End Lane
Dress up & enjoy an 80s-themed celebration!
Info: https://allevents.in/redditch/bank-holiday-back-to-the-80s/200028027987341

Junior Football Continues
📍 Redditch United Football Club
💷 £3 per car
Day two of the Easter tournament.
Details: https://redditchunited.co.uk/easter-junior-tournaments-sun-20th-mon-21st-april/

⸻

🐰 Running All Week: April 12–19

Easter Fun at Kingfisher Shopping Centre
🕚 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM daily
📍 Kingfisher Shopping Centre, Redditch
🎟️ Free
Easter maze, egg hunt, and activities for all ages.
Info: https://redditchbid.co.uk/whats-on/easter-fun-at-kingfisher

⸻

Enjoy your Easter break — and let us know what events you’re attending!

17/04/2025

Mixed Views on Redditch Market’s Comeback.

The Redditch market has returned, now appearing on Thursdays and Saturdays, after being revived several weeks ago under the new Labour-run Borough Council. But as the market re-establishes itself in the town centre, residents remain divided on whether it’s a true comeback… or more of a photo opportunity.

So far, the number of stalls has fluctuated between just four and eleven, depending on the week — with some praising it as a positive step in the right direction, and others saying it hardly lives up to the idea of a “proper market.”

“It’s a triumph, I’ve missed the market and I’m glad it’s back,” said one supporter, who welcomed the return of independent traders and the sense of life it brings to the square.

“It’s great I really missed the town having a market”

But others are less convinced.

“Let’s be honest, four stalls and a hot dog van isn’t a market,” said one commenter. “We’ve brought back the idea, but not the scale. Is it really worth investing in infrastructure for something with such limited take-up?”

There’s also a broader question being asked:
Was this return part of a genuine plan to build something sustainable?
Or was it more about appearances, a quick win to say “we brought the market back” without a long-term vision?

To be fair, it’s still early days, and local traders need time and support to build up confidence. But if the market is to thrive, it will need consistency, variety, and footfall, not just good PR.

What do you think?
Have you visited the returned Redditch market?
Is it worth the investment, or does more need to be done to make it a true community hub again?

Drop your thoughts in the comments, we’re listening.

16/04/2025

Residents Angered by Brutal Tree and Hedge Cutting Across Redditch

A wave of tree and hedge cutting across Church Hill and the wider Redditch area has left residents angry and upset, with many describing the work as “brutal,” “careless,” and “environmentally damaging.”

Dozens of once-thriving trees, including cherry trees and green hedgerows have been reduced to stumps and bare sticks, with entire sections of community green spaces left looking like, in the words of one resident, “the aftermath of a chainsaw massacre.”

One resident said “They’ve butchered it. What used to be a full, thick hedge teeming with birds has been hacked down with no care at all. There’s almost nothing left. Just splintered wood and mess.”

Another local shared their heartbreak at the loss of a cherished cherry tree.
“I used to sit and watch that cherry tree blossom every year,” they said. “It was something I looked forward to. Now it’s just gone, cut right down like it didn’t matter. I honestly felt like crying.”

Wildlife enthusiasts and environmental groups are raising alarms about the potential impact on local birds, pollinators, and small mammals. “This kind of cutting should not be happening during nesting season,” said one conservation volunteer. “It disrupts habitats and violates basic environmental standards.”

Redditch Borough Council highlights the cutting is part of routine maintenance to ensure public safety and visibility, in line with seasonal schedules. But residents say the scale, timing, and ex*****on are all wrong and are now demanding greater oversight and consultation.

“This is our environment, and it’s being wrecked without warning or explanation,” one commenter posted online. “We’re not against sensible management, but what we’re seeing isn’t pruning. It’s destruction.”

We contacted Redditch Borough Council for comment and will update readers when a response is received.

Have you seen trees or hedges hacked down near you? Email your photos and comments to us or comment below. 👇🏻