December 5th – A day of high winds and blustery squalls, I left it until late afternoon to get some shopping in. Choosing Aldridge mainly so the wind would blow me home, I rode up the canal, but the towpath were so muddy form recent rains that riding them was a chore; the cloying mud stuck to my tyres and jammed in my mudguards. A real battle.
These hardy canoeists made up for it though. A beautiful scene.
August 17th – If you listen to many opinions in these parts, Brownhills is ugly, a lost cause; everything is broken and we’re descending into oblivion.
But if you open your eyes, and look around, it’s not quite like that.
How I’ve managed to not notice the old wooden rowing boat filled with beautiful flowers before, I’ll never know. It’s placed wonderfully by the Canoe and Outdoor Centre on Silver Street, and captivated me. My compliments to whoever thought of it and planted it. It’s gorgeous.
Compliments are also due to the local schoolkids who planted sunflowers on the open space between the High Street and Short Street; they are absolutely beautiful, and can’t but make you smile.
Brownhills has more than 99 problems. But a lack of beauty isn’t one of them, oddly enough.
June 9th – I came back from work and into Brownhills on a rather lovely summer evening, which, in contrast to the stormy morning, was welcome and lovely. Even at 6pm Brownhills seemed busy with walkers and folk out and about, and the Canoe and Outdoor Centre on Silver Street was humming with activity.
Summer this year is coming in short bursts. Hope this stormy weather passes soon…
May 12th – Whilst taking my call and being glared at by the local wildlife, something else caught my eye at the canoe club on Silver Street. Tethered out of harm’s way is a mobile work raft. I can’t be certain, but Brian Stringer mentioned that the exterior of the Pier Street Bridge was to be cleaned for the canal festival, and I think that’s probably what the platform raft is for.
They’re a common sight where bridge maintenance work is going on.
April 21st – It was nice to note that Brownhills Canoe and Outdoor Centre seemed to be busy this morning. They were holding an open day, with free 20 minute introductory sessions for those interested in pursuing the activity.
I love to see the place in use, and folks out, enjoying the canal. Their presence made things feel quite summery, despite the overcast weather.
April 13th – Spinning around Brownhills in the rain, it was nice to see a group at the Canoe and Outdoor Centre braving the grim weather. I love to see folk out enjoying the canal and the outdoors, and after recent uncertainty, it’s also reassuring to see the facility in use.
Next Sunday – the 21st April – the centre team are holding a family introduction day, when there will be free taster sessions and fun activities. Why not pop along and check it out?
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