Community News

The holiest month Ramadan has fast approached us. Based on current predictions, the 1st of Ramadan is most likely to be May 16 in the UK.

The ninth month of the lunar calendar, Ramadan is when the Qur’an was revealed to the Prophet Mohammed (saw). In celebration of this, Muslims around the world will embark on a month of fasting and sacrifice, regarded as one of the Five Pillars of Islam.

‘The month of Ramadan [is that] in which was revealed the Qur’an, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion. So whoever sights [the new moon of] the month, let him fast it; and whoever is ill or on a journey - then an equal number of other days. Allah intends for you ease and does not intend for you hardship and [wants] for you to complete the period and to glorify Allah for that [to] which He has guided you; and perhaps you will be grateful.’ (Qur’an 2:185)

The Muslim lunar calendar consists of 12 months, six of which have 29 days and six of which have 30 days. As a result, the lunar year is 354 days long; meaning the start of Ramadan varies by around 11 days each year. Also, since the sighting of the new moon varies from country to country, the dates of Ramadan can differ all around the world.

Amongst the runners who were pushed to the limit in the hottest marathon on record, was animal-lover Lucy Williams. She was shocked to receive a proposal from her partner Gary Mitchell when she crossed the finish line.

Lucy, who lives in Solihull, said: “I had no idea it was going to happen. Gary had an injury beforehand and I kept telling him to defer but he was convinced he was going to do the marathon no matter what - and now I know why.

“All my family knew already and he’d picked the ring from the jewellery quarter in Birmingham in January.

“When we finished he was so jumpy and adamant we had to meet up with our family and friends right away. He was limping so when he dropped down on one knee I thought he was about to collapse - and then he proposed!

“It was very emotional, we were both crying!”

Gary added: “I carried the ring around for the whole race constantly thinking I would drop it or lose it.

“The idea of carrying it around was a symbolic gesture of relationships. There will be times you’re loving it and certainly times where you would rather be somewhere else but with perseverance and commitment anything can be achieved.”

Lucy decided to run and raise money for the RSPCA as she has always been an animal lover and had dogs in the family ever since they found their first dog Patch, a collie cross, who was in need of a home.

Lucy, who passed the finish line in 4 hours and 47 minutes, added: “It was an amazing experience and I raised a lot of money for a really good cause.”

Nicky Ifould, head of events at the RSPCA said: “A huge congratulations goes to Lucy and Gary after their heartwarming proposal after crossing the finish line. The atmosphere on Sunday was incredible and we would like to thank all of our 20 runners for putting themselves to the test and raising so much money for the RSPCA.

“It was a huge achievement, especially in such tough conditions. We'd also like to say a huge thank you to Liforme for supplying the yoga mats for the stretch zone at the post race reception, and to their wonderful yoga instructor Sarah for helping our runners stretch out after the race.

“Thanks also to all our volunteer cheerers, which included staff from DogBuddy, for coming down and supporting our runners at our cheer point.”

From amateur programmers, arcade subcultures and industry pioneers, to iconic titles such as ‘Dizzy’, ‘Simon the Sorcerer’ and ‘Tomb Raider’, the UK’s Midlands region has played a pivotal role in the history of computer games.

On Wednesday 9 May, Birmingham City University is bringing together a group of industry experts to celebrate the Midlands’ important contribution to this global industry and pastime, and give members of the public the chance to play some of their favourite games created in the region.

Level Up: A History of Computer Games in the Midlands will take a gathered audience on a lively audio-visual trip across the last four decades, focusing on the iconic characters, developers and companies that helped create a regional industry that is still growing today.

Featuring on the panel will be Louise O’Connor, Executive Producer at Leicestershire developer Rare. Louise will bring her wealth of knowledge and experience of the industry from her extensive career at the Twycross-based company – known for creating ‘Banjo-Kazooie’, ‘Donkey-Kong’, ‘Perfect Dark’, ‘Viva Piñata’ and ‘GoldenEye 007’, the later considered one of the greatest computer games ever made.

She said: “I’m delighted to be involved on this panel, not just because I love talking about the games industry, but especially because I think the Midlands is a key part of our thriving industry – full of exciting and talented developers.”

The event will also welcome gaming journalist Damien McFerran, Editorial Director of Nintendo Life.com, who has written for magazines, websites and television programmes such as Eurogamer, IGN UK, Pocket Gamer, ‘Retro Gamer’, ‘SFX’, ‘Stuff’, The Gadget Show and US Gamer.

Also speaking on the panel is Zuby Ahmed, a veteran games developer offering over 20 years’ industry experience with companies such as Digital Image Design, Warthog Games and EA Games. Today, Zuby is a Senior Lecturer at Birmingham City University and is Programme Director of the University’s Video Game Enterprise, Production and Design postgraduate course, as part of the internationally recognised Gamer Camp finishing school.

Zuby is also one of the founders of the University’s first set of two-year FastTrack undergraduate degrees and has taught graduates who have gone on to have successful careers, working for companies which include Sony, Ubisoft, TT Games and Rockstar North.

Completing the panel will be Birmingham City University’s Dr Alex Wade, a Senior Research Fellow who has written extensively on the history of computer games.

He said: “From Codemasters in Birmingham to Core Design in Derby, ‘Donkey Kong’ in Twycross to ‘Dizzy’ in Southam, the Midlands is a sandbox of video games which are played and respected all around the world.

“Home to bedroom coding and international imports, controversial magazines and cheat cartridges, James Bond and Lara Croft; if you've ever played, or even heard of video games, the chances are that the Midlands has had something to do with it.

“The event at Birmingham City University will be a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the rich gaming heritage we have in this region by looking back at – and playing – some iconic games, as well as look forward to exciting future developments within the local industry. As an avid gamer myself, I can’t wait!”

Birmingham’s own 8bit Lounge will be joining the event, creating an opportunity for guests to relive some old classics, with a selection of retro games available to pick up and play before and after the City Talk, including several made within the Midlands region.

Level Up: A History of Computer Games in the Midlands forms part of Birmingham City University’s City Talks series. The series features a programme of high profile speakers who share their views and insights on a range of topics, promoting the institution’s ambition and aim of being a ‘university without walls’. The talks are free of charge, and open to the public.

The computer games event will also host the launch of Dr Alex Wade’s new book, ‘The Pac-Man Principle: A User's Guide to Capitalism’. Published by Zero Books on Friday 27 July, Dr Wade’s work focuses on one of the world’s most famous characters, who has appeared in over 60 video games on virtually every games platform ever released since 1980.

Pac-Man, with its avowed commitment to non-violence was a videogame of many firsts, including being designed to appeal to children and females, and providing the first narrative interlude in a videogame. According to the Davie-Brown Index (DBI), 94 per cent of Americans were able to recognise Pac-Man in 2008, which gave the character greater brand awareness than Super Mario.

Although iconic, Pac-Man has not been subject to sustained critical analysis. Dr Wade’s book helps to fill that gap, providing an extensive but accessible analysis of the influence of Pac-Man on the way that we live in contemporary western societies.

The work also includes an afterword by Toru Iwatani, the Japanese video games designer who created the original ‘Pac-Man’ game and will be available to purchase at the event for a reduced price.

Following on from his first book looking at the UK games industry in the 1980s, Dr Wade is now researching into economies around games, with a focus on the influence of individual publishers such as Robert Maxwell and a subsequent book is planned for publication in 2021.

From skipping to scooting and face-painting to frisbee, children and families across Haringey had fun in the spring sunshine at this year’s Weekend of Play.

Streets were closed to traffic to encourage people to play outdoors, while special events were staged at schools and parks around the borough.

Highlights included adventure play at Somerford Grove Adventure Playground Palace, football skills with Tottenham Hotspur at Lordship Recreation Ground and a picnic on the ball court at Wood Green’s Commerce Road.

Alexandra Palace saw the biggest turnout, with more than 200 participants enjoying a treasure hunt and explorers’ trail around the park, organised by Friends of Alexandra Palace and volunteers.

The Weekend of Play is supported by Haringey’s Obesity Alliance, which aims to tackle childhood obesity in a fun and practical way by promoting healthier living. Read more about Haringey’s Obesity Alliance.

Celebrate VE Day with the special Fabulous 40s event at Haden Hill House and Park in Cradley Heath on May Day (Monday 7 May).

Jane Hanney, Sandwell Council's museum services manager, said the event, which kicks-off at 12 noon, will have some fantastic activities for people to see and do throughout the afternoon.

She said: "There will be loads of costumed characters, a tea van which visitors can take a peep at and a World War II soldier’s display.

"There will be a uniform display but beware of the spiv who may try and sell you some black market goods!

"Visitors will also be able to enjoy historic vehicles out in the park with some lovely examples from the period and learn about food rationing inside the house. Try some wartime recipes and see some real wartime objects."

Outside in the park, there will be fantastic rousing live music with the Steve King Big Band which is guaranteed to get visitors doing the Lindy Hop.

And Alison Hyatt, visitor services officer, added: "We are encouraging people to bring a picnic blanket or chair to picnic and enjoy the afternoon listening to the music.

"For younger visitors there will be traditional entertainment with a Punch and Judy show and street magic for people to be amazed at."

Haden Old Hall will also be open for visitors to look around and see the evacuees bedroom. It is believed evacuees stayed on site before they were found homes locally during the war.

The tearoom will also be open selling a variety of drinks and snacks courtesy of the Friends of Haden Hill Estate.

"This is a great community event to kick start this year of wartime commemorations and should be a fantastic family day out with lots of people of all ages to enjoy," added Alison.

Entrance to the event is free. The event runs from 12-4pm.

New research has found that careers in construction trades are not being considered by women despite a strong public desire to see more females in the sector. Shockingly almost three quarters of the East Midlands (85%) have never encountered a female in any of the main construction trades roles of plumber, electrician, carpenter or builder even though almost nine in ten (88%) the East Midlands would like to see more women in such roles. Yet, more than eight in ten (94%) of women surveyed from the region have never even considered a career in the industry.

The survey commissioned by Able Skills, specialists in construction training, found that only one in ten (15%) of the people surveyed from the East Midlands had encountered a female in these roles. Of those, (88%) described the service received as positive and would recommend the service to others. None reported a negative experience.

However, why are there so few women considering a role within the construction trades industry? Women reported that the career was never highlighted as an option for them to pursue. Furthermore, more than three quarters (87%) of women said no family, friends, careers advisors or teachers had ever discussed a career in the construction trades industry with them. While 73% of men in the region said their family discussed this occupation with them, this was the case for only 16% of women.

The biggest factors holding women from The East Midlands back from pursuing a career in a role traditionally associated with the opposite sex were concerns about: not being taken seriously (53%), facing prejudice in the job role (40%), and finding it intimidating (40%).

However the shortage of women in construction trades could be a trend on the way out, as overall British women aged 25-34 were the most likely to consider a career in the construction trades (35%).

Gary Measures, Managing Director of Able Skills says: “The public want to see more women in the construction trades industry and trust them to deliver a good job. Proving that women’s concerns about not being taken seriously and facing prejudice are unfounded. We really want to encourage more females to consider a career in construction trades and are really pleased to see that the younger generations may break down some of the barriers. In 2017 only 5% of Able Skills trainees were female but we really want this to change.”

Despite construction trades roles being perceived as male orientated, there is a high level of trust towards women working in the sector. Almost a third (31%) of UK adults said they would trust a female construction trades person more to give them the best and most fair price, compared to just 14% who would trust a male more.

With Saudi Arabia investing billions in high speed rail as it diversifies its transport infrastructure to include more non-oil sources, a Saudi delegation led by HRH Prince Abdulaziz Bin Faisal visited the National College for High Speed Rail in Birmingham. He was accompanied by Andrew Hammond Managing Director of Riyadh based International Transport company Future Solutions and the Group CEO Mohammad Mutabagani.

The Saudi representatives visited the campus on Lister Street to discover best practice in technical training and see first-hand the cutting-edge equipment available to learners at the National College – the world’s first dedicated high speed rail college.

The Saudi visit is one of several international delegations that have been invited to tour the college this year, with previous visits from representatives of rail projects in Malaysia, Singapore and Bulgaria, as well as a recent delegation from the 2018 International Seminar for Railway Education and Training (ISRET).

As the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) looks to reduce the nation’s reliance on crude oil and promote the entire Middle East region as part of its Vision 2030 programme, it is already investing heavily in its railway network with Haramain High Speed Rail, a 281-mile line between Medina and Mecca, due to open later this year.

The Prince requested to see the college - the largest of five new national colleges created by the Government to ensure British workers can learn world-class skills - as part of his British visit, to see how training is being delivered through innovative technologies.

He met with some of the college’s learners and experienced how the world-class learning facilities which include Virtual and Augmented Reality headsets, and 3D printing technologies, are helping to prepare a new generation of railway engineers and leaders.

It is intended that similar methods will be used for future training in Saudi Arabia: the Haramain High Speed Rail project has been developed by a Spanish consortium on a build, operate and transfer (BOT) basis. With this project now nearing completion and the Spanish team preparing to conclude operations, Saudi Arabia is looking to train its own workforce to deliver future high speed rail projects.

Clair Mowbray, chief executive of the National College for High Speed Rail, said: “As we begin to provide Britain with a talented workforce that has the skills to deliver pioneering infrastructure, fit for the 21st Century, it’s fantastic that our innovative training methods are already generating international interest.

“High-speed rail has the potential to be a Great British export industry in the coming years. As such, it’s just as important that as we continue to partner with employers here in the UK, that we develop and maintain strong international links so that we can learn from, and share best practice with the global community of railway leaders, experts and professionals.”

HRH Prince Abdulaziz Bin Faisal al Saud, said: “Everything we’ve seen at the college has been impressive – from the design to the way of teaching with new technologies. We already had high expectations before arriving but what we’ve seen here has exceeded those expectations. Our understanding of how things are working here will definitely help to inform future projects in Saudi Arabia.”

Charlotte Webster, an apprentice with WSP studying on the college’s Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship Course for High Speed Rail and Infrastructure, said: “I started with the college in September and it’s been a very different experience to previous education pathways I’ve been through. The college has high-spec, state-of-the-art technology which isn’t available anywhere else. We can apply the knowledge we learn in the classroom here and bring it forward in a practical manner when we’re out working in the field. The high level of technical education will be incredibly useful for delivering future plans and projects such as HS2.”

The Prince is in the UK following his meeting in Jeddah with the Transport Minister the Rt Hon. Chris Grayling along with senior officials from DfT.

A new opera premières in Birmingham (UK) this week that takes an audience on a musical journey through time and space to the end of the universe as we know it.

Staged in Birmingham City University’s Royal Birmingham Conservatoire on Thursday 26 and Friday 27 April, ‘Entanglement! An Entropic Tale’ is an opera in three acts and is described by its creators as “the ‘Romeo and Juliet’ of particle physics”. The production centres around the love story between an electron and a positron who are stuck in a quantum quandary arising as a result of the unstoppable, chaotic destruction of our known universe.

The story is based on traditional operatic themes such as impossible love – in this case between an electron and a positron – and the meddling of god-like figures in human’s lives. The timeless tale also explores issues of identity, free will and destruction.

The opera is being presented by Infinite Opera company, a troupe formed of postgraduate students from Royal Birmingham Conservatoire who wanted to develop a platform for their own expression and creativity, but also divulge the wonders of both science and opera.

Their first production is being codirected by the company and Aleksandar Dunđerović, Professor of Performing Arts at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire. Born in Belgrade, Serbia, Professor Dundjerović is an award-winning professional theatre director and throughout his career has worked on major productions in his home country as well as in Brazil, Canada, Columbia, Iran, the USA and the UK.

The starting point for this project came from librettist and soprano Roxanne Korda’s interest in different fields of human creativity, bringing together physics, philosophy and music. Now an MMus student at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, she graduated in Physics and Philosophy (King’s College London), and has previously worked on raising awareness around women in physics, a traditionally male-dominated field.

Royal Birmingham Conservatoire student Roxanne Korda from London, said: “This is an opera which describes theories from physics that are not commonly discussed and presents them in a new manner, filled with emotion and connected to the human spirit. Not only does it highlight these fundamental ideas that are in fact repeated throughout history, it also exposes the art form of opera to a wider audience, ensuring it can continue to be relevant to contemporary society. 

“I wrote this libretto in order to disseminate the theories of physics that I love to think about so much, and help people feel connected to them in a way that is very approachable. I hope that this story will inspire the imagination of the audience to learn more about the universe and how we as humans perceive the world around us.”

Taking place in The Lab, a cutting edge, completely flexible black-box studio space, the set has been designed in conjunction with students from Birmingham City University’s Interior Architecture and Design course, who created inflatable structures for the show.

Spanish composer and performer Daniel Blanco Albert has composed music for several Royal Birmingham Conservatoire productions since he began studying at the college in 2015. On composing ‘Entanglement! An Entropic Tale’, he said:

“Creating an opera about physics – which I studied while preparing for university – was a project that really pushed me to do something completely new and original. The music is heavily inspired by the libretto, which mixes a very human story with science and physics, creating a sort of Greek mythological drama, but led by the elements and forces that surround us.

“Although challenging – mainly fitting an opera around the student’s education commitments – the collaborative nature of our production has been hugely rewarding and has given many of those involved their first professional experience.

“Away from Birmingham, there has been strong interest from festivals in London, Madrid and Valencia, as well as several universities, who would like to stage ‘Entanglement! An Entropic Tale’. We are also having conversations with venues in France, and even Serbia and Canada, who may wish us to take the opera on tour in those countries too.”

The Conservatoire was granted a Royal title by Her Majesty The Queen in September 2017, with the bestowment following the HRH The Earl of Wessex becoming the college’s first Royal Patron in March 2016. The Earl officially declared the building open on Sunday 11 March this year prior to the Royal Opening Gala Concert in his honour.

Featuring the Royal Conservatoire’s Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, and conducted by the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra’s (CBSO) Music Director, Mirga Gražinytė-Tyla, the Royal Opening Gala Concert marked the beginning of the college’s Opening Festival, which continues with ‘Entanglement! An Entropic Tale’.

Alongside ‘Entanglement! An Entropic Tale’ the Opening Festival will welcome a wealth of world-class artists to Birmingham, including Julia Donaldson, Peter Donohoe, Orkest de Ereprijs, Laura van der Heijden, Nigel Kennedy, Roderick Williams and Jacqueline Wilson. Birmingham City University Chancellor, Sir Lenny Henry, will also be narrating ‘Peter and the Wolf’ on Friday 4 May.

Not only will the festival see international stars grace the Conservatoire’s five performance venues, there will also be a focus on the rising stars and grass roots artists of the local music scene, as per the institution’s commitment to nurturing talent and providing a hub for performing arts in the city.

The demolition of old buildings on the Heath Town estate remains on track – with work on the first new homes to emerge in their place expected by the end of the year.

Around ten weeks remain on the demolition programme, which includes the removal of garages, a disused underground car park, 36 maisonettes and other buildings that have been vacant for some years.

The demolition will pave the way for the development of more than 300 brand new homes for sale and rent, including new council homes, across several sites as part of the revised Heath Town Masterplan.

City of Wolverhampton Council hope to appoint architects next month (May) for the first phase of 30 homes on Hobgate Road.

Director for Housing, Kate Martin, said: “Excellent progress is being on the demolition programme at Heath Town.

“Real change is happening and we are fast approaching the exciting prospect of seeing new homes being built on the estate, the majority of which will be new houses with gardens.

“This is a major regeneration programme in the city that will make a huge difference to the quality of life and housing choice for our residents.”

The new homes across Heath Town will be a mixture of one and two-bedroom apartments, and two-bedroom bungalows, as well as two, three and four-bedroom houses. All of the new homes will have their own car parking space provided.

Phase one of the enabling works at Heath Town saw the demolition of walkways and garages in the Hobgate Road area of the estate, and other works included disconnecting and re-routing the district heating pipework and the refurbishment of the ground and lower ground floors of Ling House to provide new office, meeting and activity space for the Hope Family Centre.

The demolition works will also create an interim car park of 50 additional spaces on the site of the former Chervil Rise blocks. This will be available for use by Heath Town residents by the middle of May.

Heart in a Box, a revolutionary machine that could increase the number of heart transplants carried out at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham (QEHB) by up to 50% has arrived at the hospital following a successful fundraising campaign.

The machine keeps a retrieved heart alive outside of the body, by pumping blood around it, and irrigating it ready for transplantation. This radically increases the amount of time that surgeons have to perform the transplant, compared with the more traditional method of storing the heart in ice.

Heart in a Box is now ready and waiting for its first use at QEHB, following the £265,000 campaign by QEHB Charity to raise funds for the machine. Heart Research UK generously donated an incredible £132,500 towards the Heart in a Box campaign, with the rest of the money being raised by QEHB Charity’s fantastic supporters.

The arrival of Heart in a Box was marked with a special event, put on by QEHB Charity and Heart Research UK, to thank some of the inspirational fundraisers who helped to raise money for this important cause. Justine Davy, Head of Fundraising for QEHB Charity said: “I am immensely proud of all of the hard work and dedication of our fundraisers who have helped to bring Heart in a Box to the hospital. I am delighted that the machine is now at the hospital, ready to help the incredible heart team to save more lives than ever before. Huge thanks go to Heart Research UK in the West Midlands, and all of their supporters for their wonderful donation that helped make the campaign such a huge success.”

John Lloyd, Regional Executive at Heart Research UK in the Midlands, said: “The Organ Care System has the potential to allow surgeons to carry out 50% more heart transplants every year. This new technology will increase the number of suitable organs and the chance of survival for so many patients.

“Heart Research UK has always been committed to make surgery safer, and ‘heart in a box’ will help patients live healthier, happier and longer lives in the Midlands and nationwide.”

Present at the event was Sarah Codling, 31 year old mother of one from Woodgate Valley, who received a heart transplant at QEHB in 2015. Since her heart transplant, Sarah has worked tirelessly to fundraise for heart patients at the hospital, and was delighted that heart in a box is now at the hospital. Sarah said: “Heart in a Box is an astonishing piece of technology, I am really proud to have played my part in helping to fundraise for it. Since my heart transplant, I’ve wanted to give something back to the amazing hospital that saved my life. I know that Heart in a Box will completely change the way that heart transplants are carried out at QEHB, and the heart team will be able to change even more lives in the future.”

Businesses and organisations around Wolverhampton are being invited to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War by supporting the Royal British Legion’s Silent Soldier campaign.

100 years ago, the guns fell silent on the world’s first truly global war. The Royal British Legion believes it is time to think about all of those who lived through this tragic and remarkable time, and to say thank you for all they did.

The Royal British Legion is asking groups and individuals to sponsor and display metal or polymer Silent Solider silhouettes on buildings, in gardens, offices or the home as part of its nationwide thank you campaign.

The City of Wolverhampton Council will be among those displaying a Silent Solider in memory of those who did not return home and those who did and went on to lay the foundations for the society and the freedoms people enjoy today.

Following the end of the war in November 1918, the long process of demobilisation and discharge began. The Silent Soldier represents soldiers arriving back to England who were given a railway ticket to their home station.

From there they were on their own, and would be seen across the country, walking back home, down the roads and across the fields, returning to their families, but they represent the whole society of the nation that changed.

Alison Bates, Community Fundraiser for the Royal British Legion in Wolverhampton and the Black Country, said: “Companies, community groups and individuals can donate to receive and display a Silent Soldier as part of our nationwide campaign to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War.

“We want people to remember the conflict, but also to acknowledge that it was a moment in time which changed our collective futures forever. For instance, women played a huge role in the First World War and this, in turn, helped to change the role of women in Britain. The armed forces included Hindus, Sikhs, and Muslims from our Commonwealth Nations whose descendants contribute to life in the UK today.

"Pioneers in the First World War also had to innovate and find new solutions; doctors and nurses vastly increased our understanding and use of x-rays, blood transfusions and reconstructive surgery, not to mention the treatment of traumatic shock.

"And arts and culture reflected the experiences of the generation involved in this conflict thanks to the work of poets, artists and composers that we still enjoy today like Wilfred Owen, J R R Tolkien, Edward Elgar and many more."

Dozens of activities will be taking place in Wolverhampton over the coming months to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War. They are being organised by the City of Wolverhampton Council and partner organisations across the City and include events, exhibitions, displays and services of remembrance.

More information about the commemorations will be announced in the coming weeks, and the council is developing a dedicated website which will detail activities taking place locally which will enable organisations and individuals to share their events.

Keith Ireland, Managing Director of the City of Wolverhampton Council, said: “We have a duty to educate today's generation about what the country went through, and it is important that as a City we recognise and thank all those who made sacrifices 100 years ago.

“The Silent Soldier initiative will be a stirring visual way to remind us of the millions of soldiers who returned home from the front, forever changed by the First World War and that they returned to civilian life quietly to have families, careers and create a society for future generations.

“We and our partners are also organising and supporting an extensive programme of events and activities and we hope as many people as possible will get involved.”

An unusual piece of First World War history has been plucked from Wolverhampton City Archives to be showcased in Germany.

A rare white feather - sent to men accused of cowardice for not “doing their bit” for the war effort – has been delivered to the Bundeswehr Military Museum in Dresden for their ‘Gender and Violence’ exhibition.

The white feather is believed to be one of only two known of in the world, with the other located at the Imperial War Museum in London.

Heidi McIntosh, Senior Archivist at Wolverhampton City Archives, said: “We are lucky to hold so many iconic pieces from the past and this incredibly rare ‘White Feather Letter’ is one of them.

“It is a great honour for the Archives that this item from our collection will be displayed internationally.”

The white feather will return to its City of Wolverhampton home to be part of an exhibition commemorating the anniversary of the end of the First World War in November.

It was found in 2011 along with a letter sent to local man William Weller, despite him being excused from military service on medical grounds and because his work in Wolverhampton was vital to the war effort.

Staff made the discovery when they were looking through a collection of material belonging to the Wolverhampton-based Weller firm of architects, which designed many local buildings in the 19th and 20th centuries. William was one of the partners in the firm.

Heidi added: “Arguably William, who was in his early 40s at the time, shouldn’t have been sent this white feather in the first place because he had been excused from service on medical grounds and because he was carrying out essential war work by building homes for steel industry workers, but it seems he decided to keep it along with the letter.

“We’re very grateful that he did as it’s a fascinating artefact.”

The Order of the White Feather was founded at the start of the First World War and aimed to coerce men to enlist in the Army by persuading women to present them with a white feather if they were not wearing a uniform.

The campaign proved very effective, so much so that employees working in state industries had to be issued with King and Country badges indicating that they too were serving the war effort. In addition, a Silver War Badge was presented to service personnel honourably discharged due to wounds or sickness so that they weren’t challenged for not wearing uniform.

The letter, sent in the latter stages of the war and signed by A. Chicken Heart, made the recipient a "Companion" of the "Most Noble Order of The Trench Dodgers" for his perceived "devotion to self regardless of narrow patriotism" – and included a white feather, the insignia of the order.

The Weller papers were bequeathed by family member Brian Weller to the Wolverhampton Buildings Preservation Trust.

Wolverhampton City Archives, situated at Whitmore Hill, houses over 1,000 years of recorded history.

On Saturday 19th May 2018, Harry and Meghan will tie the knot in St George's Chapel of Windsor Castle. Ever the thoughtful neighbour, the Windsor Fudge Kitchen in adjacent Thames Street has spent months perfecting a brand new Lemon and Elderflower fudge recipe to celebrate the occasion.

Lemon & Elderflower …

Inspired by Claire Ptak's Lemon & Elderberry wedding cake, chosen by the couple, this is summer in a slice, combining all natural, fresh whipping cream, lemon zest and natural elderflower; for that classic citrus zing, gently mellowed by the floral sweetness of elderflower, all regally decorated with edible glitter and chocolate crowns.

Like all Fudge Kitchen 'slab' fudge, it is hand made in full view of visitors, using the traditional technique of “slabbing and loafing”, where warm flourishes of fudge are theatrically turned on a marble counter as the fudge cools, breaking up granulation and creating the creamiest, smoothest fudge available. Meltingly soft in the centre, deliciously firm on the edge, a Prince amongst confectionery!

The RSPCA Newbrook Farm Animal Centre and Hospital in Birmingham is one of the busiest RSPCA centres in the country. Last year, the centre took in 1,331 animals, including 267 dogs, and rehomed more than a thousand animals to their new forever homes.

In 2017, the hospital treated more than 15,000 patients from dogs, cats, rabbits and wildlife, and carried out 1,129 neutering operations.

Craig Osborne, RSPCA Newbrook Farm Animal Hospital said: “Our work to protect the welfare of animals is unrelenting.

“Each year more than 10,000 animals are cared for at the hospital - some require minor procedures, although a lot do require life saving surgery and the numbers are rising every year.

“My Big Walkies is a great challenge for both you and your dog. By taking on 10,000 steps a day and raising money to support the RSPCA you can help us rescue, rehabilitate and rehome animals in desperate need of care.”

Data collected by pet tech company PitPat showed that on average people in the West Midlands walk their dog for 53 minutes a day. This is slightly lower than the UK average which is 57 minutes a day.*

Dr Samantha Gaines, the RSPCA’s dog welfare expert, said: “Lots of us know how much our dogs love their walkies. Walking and playing with your dog is a great opportunity to form a strong bond with your pet as well as keeping you both fit and active, as well as raising money for some less fortunate furry friends.

“My Big Walkies is a big challenge - 10,000 steps is about five miles a day - so some dogs will relish the chance to get out for some extra long walks however those with less active dogs due to age or health for example have the perfect excuse to do fewer steps or leave them at home and enjoy a solo stroll.”

A range of outstanding young people aged 15-29 have been honoured with Commonwealth Youth Awards at the Youth Forum of the Commonwealth Summit.  The awards recognise young people whose innovative projects have had a significant impact on their communities. This year’s awards celebrated young people’s contribution towards a fairer, more sustainable, more secure and more prosperous future for the Commonwealth: the four sub-themes of the Summit that is taking place this week in London.

Usman Iftikhar was named Commonwealth Young Person of the Year and received his award from Prince Harry. “The Commonwealth is such an amazing platform to share our ideas and perspectives,” he said.

Usman, 27, was also the regional winner for the Pacific.  He founded Catalysr, a startup incubator that enables migrants and refugees in Australia to start their own businesses and create a sustainable future for themselves and their communities. The company has a four-month incubator programme that offers office space, mentoring sessions, networking opportunities and access to capital. Usman believes that the Youth Forum and the Commonwealth Summit is an opportunity to collaborate on a long term sustainable future for everyone.

The regional winners were presented with their awards by the UK’s Secretary of State for Education, Damian Hinds.

Jonathan Barcant, 29, the regional winner for Caribbean and Americas, is from Trinidad and Tobago. He founded Vetiver TT, a cost-effective bio-engineering scheme to build climate change resilience. He would like to take the scheme to other nations affected by hurricanes such Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica, and says that “to be part of this network to showcase on this platform is very useful” for expanding his work.

The regional winner for Asia, Vanessa Paranjothy, said that the award will enable her to promote her social enterprise, Freedom Cups, to a wider market.  Vanessa, 29, from Singapore, co-founded Freedom Cups with her sisters. It provides underprivileged women with menstrual products in a buy-one-give-one model.

The regional winner for Africa and Europe, Sherifah Tumusiime, 29, is from Uganda.  She founded Zimba Women, a social enterprise that helps underserved women get internet access.  She said she was deeply humbled to be honoured by the award: “it’s not just East Africa or Africa that I’m working with now, it’s global.”

Layne Robinson, the Head of Social Policy Development at the Commonwealth, said that the Regional Winners and Commonwealth Young Person of the Year “demonstrate real innovation and dedication in working to make the Commonwealth fairer, more secure, more sustainable and more prosperous. Their projects demonstrate the powerful potential of young people all over the Commonwealth and we are thrilled to recognise them during the Youth Forum this year.”

The 20 finalists span every region of the Commonwealth and were shortlisted from more than 400 applications from around the world. The awards are coordinated by the Commonwealth Youth Programme.

Finalists receive a grant of £1,000 to continue their development work.  The Regional Young Persons of the Year receive £3,000 and the Commonwealth Young Person of the Year receives £5,000.

The Pan-Commonwealth adjudication panel included the High Commissioner for Saint Kitts and Nevis, representatives from the High Commissions of Fiji, Malaysia, and Kenya, a trustee of the British Youth Council and a representative of the Commonwealth Local Government Forum.

Independent charity Crimestoppers and the Electoral Commission are urging the public in Birmingham to protect their right to vote by reporting any cases of electoral fraud.

The campaign asks people to tell Crimestoppers if they suspect or have information on someone breaking electoral law. This includes cases of:

·         Personation (people pretending to be someone else in order to vote / at the polling station)

·         Bribery (offer of money or other inducements to vote in a particular way)

·         Intimidation (influencing a voter through the use of threats)

·         More than one person using a polling booth at the same time

During 2017, police forces across the UK investigated 336 electoral fraud allegations. Of these, 104 alleged cases related to voting offences and 36 to registration offences.

Of these, there was one prosecution and conviction for personation. Two suspects accepted police cautions regarding personation when voting by post, and four suspects accepted cautions for registration offences.

The ‘Your vote is yours alone’ campaign materials depict different types of electoral fraud offences taking place in a polling station or in someone’s home as they complete their postal vote. They are designed to empower voters to protect their vote and report any concerns about possible fraud to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, or via our anonymous online form which can be found at crimestoppers-uk.org.

In addition, local authorities have been provided with resources – including videos, posters and a leaflet – which they can use in their local areas.

Mark Hallas, Chief Executive of the charity Crimestoppers, said: “Whilst electoral fraud is quite rare, it’s important for us all to be aware, lookout for it and work together to stop people from jeopardising our tradition of fair and free elections.

“Last year, as a charity, over 400,000 people trusted us to pass on their information about all sorts of crimes – safe in the knowledge that they remain 100% anonymous. Always.

”With elections on the horizon, we are asking people who – for whatever reason may not wish to speak to the police – to contact us on 0800 555 111 or via our anonymous online form at crimestoppers-uk.org. Once you hang up the phone, or click send, you’re done.”

Crimestoppers and the Electoral Commission have been working together since the 2015 general election when they first joined forces to raise public awareness and encourage people to speak up about their electoral fraud suspicions or concerns.

Craig Westwood, Director of Communications and Research at the Electoral Commission, said: “Electoral fraud is a serious crime, and the cautions and convictions handed down in the last year show that the police take reports seriously. No one should feel pressured to vote a certain way whether at the poll station on 3 May or by post. Our campaign seeks to empower voters to protect their vote; anyone who suspects fraud should contact Crimestoppers as soon as possible.”