Last weekend I was delighted to be invited to visit “When the Canal came to Rushall” – a wonderful display of photographs and memorabilia organised by the Rushall Development Group.  It’s always good to learn more about our local heritage, and there was an excellent collection of photographs, past and present, alongside a display from the Lichfield and Hatherton Canal Restoration Trust illustrating some of their current projects.  There was a good cup of tea and cake on offer too!

Later in the day it was then on to the St Giles Starlight Walk around Aldridge where I joined several hundred ladies, on a walk around Aldridge in the moonlight to raise money for St Hospice, and raise awareness of this very special place we have locally in Walsall and the terrific work they do.  I hope they organise one again in near year. 

The National Citizen Service is a voluntary personal and social development programme for 16 and 17 year olds in England and Northern Ireland.  A few weeks back I had the pleasure of meeting with a local team of young people who were busy planning a project at The Hothouse in Aldridge as part of their summer programme.  I promised I would return and so last weekend I was back with them to see those plans become a reality and watch as the outdoor area was transformed with a boost of colour and some new artwork. Everyone worked really hard – and it was a lot of fun too. I certainly enjoyed being there too.