Posted in A52s, Events on Thursday December 23, 2010| 1 Comment »
If you’re looking for a spot of pre-Christmas fun, head down to The Sycamore from 8pm on Thursday evening.
The A52s have spent literally seconds learning a Christmas tune or two, so there’s plenty of entertainment on offer watching them struggle to remember the chords!
Posted in A52s on Saturday December 18, 2010| 1 Comment »
The A52s hope you’re able to follow these directions for a proper pre-Christmas bash!
Posted in A52s, British Legion on Saturday October 30, 2010| 1 Comment »
Posted in A52s, British Legion on Tuesday October 12, 2010| Leave a Comment »
Posted in A52s, Memorial hall, Music on Sunday September 26, 2010| 1 Comment »
Despite rumours that their tribute band the B52s were stepping in, everyone was ecstatic when the real A52s took the stage last night.
As our roving photographer commented:
What a professional looking lot. And you’re never too young to start!”
Posted in A52s, Memorial hall on Saturday September 25, 2010| 3 Comments »
Posted in 2010, A52s, Arts, Crafts, Events, People, Posts of Note on Thursday September 9, 2010| Leave a Comment »
Hayley Powell’s first piece of blacksmith art was creating the cuckoo for the field in Monsdale Lane, now better known as the Cuckoo Field. This piece of art was made when she was only 16, studying for her A Levels at QEGS. Hayley grew up in Parwich, she always loved walking around the countryside and could be seen regularly walking the family dog Axel: the Irish Wolfhound.
Not always happy with the conventional methods of learning, Hayley hunted out extra curriculum workshops and events including helping out at art workshops and then becoming heavily involved within an organisation that delivered courses on rural crafts to young people. These included dry stone walling, woodland management at Chatsworth, hedge laying and blacksmithing. Hayley was hooked.
Between studing for a Degree in Design Technology at Derby University she was able to gain work experience with blacksmith Charis Jones, who is still a massive inspiration to her. Once her degree was completed back in June, she decided to follow her heart and really make a difference to preserving the rural skill of blacksmithing.
Hayley, an Artist Blacksmith has called her new business Forever Forged . She is committed to creating hand forged creative, yet functional items, for your home and garden. Inspired by tradition, forged with passion.
Hayley can be seen at the Wirksworth Art Trail this weekend, 10am-5pm. Her venue will showcase a wide range of fun and artistic pieces, filling the courtyard and garden of the Old Tinsmith.
Tickets for the Trail are £5 and free to under 16’s. A fabulous opportunity to see more than 100 artists, including Lewis Noble, exhibiting their work in dozens of different venues throughout the town. There will also be a Makers Market, stalls with food and street entertainment, including the fabulous A52s.
A selection of some of Hayley’s work, more can be seen on her website.
Posted in A52s, Events, People on Sunday September 5, 2010| 1 Comment »
Next weekend, 11th & 12th September, 10am-5pm, sees the annual Wirksworth Arts Trail and Makers Market, an opportunity to explore the town from a different perspective, to see great art in unusual places with over 100 artists displaying their talent. Art really does take over the town. The whole town becomes a gallery with venues in private homes, historic buildings, gardens, shop windows and churches. It is a great chance to buy affordable art, meet the artists and just be nosy having a peek inside some of Derbyshire’s most intriguing interiors!
With plenty of foodstalls, cafes and pubs to relax in and a programme of street entertainment throughout town, Wirksworth offers a brilliant weekend out for the whole family only £5 a ticket (under-16s free).
Two ‘Parwichians’ will be exhibiting, Hayley Powell and Lewis Noble with The A52s providing some of the street entertainment.
Hayley, was brought up in Parwich and finished at Derby University in June. She has set up as an Artist Blacksmith and called her new business Forever Forged. Forever Forged is committed to creating locally hand forged creative yet functional items, for your home and garden. Inspired by tradition, forged with passion.
The big debut for Forever Forged will be at the Wirksworth Festival and she can be found at the Old Tinsmiths. Her work will showcase a wide range of fun and artistic pieces taking over the courtyard and garden. Come and fuel your creativity and support a dying skill.
The new website is up so that you can follow Forever Forged on this wonderful journey! Click here to listen to Hayley talking on Radio Derby, last Wednesday, just fast forward to 14.25 minutes to hear the interview (only available until Tuesday night).
Lewis, well known in the art world, lives in Parwich and has been working in Derbyshire since 1996. Over this time he has built a reputation as one of central England’s foremost artists. His focus lies in the physical and emotional impact of the landscape on the senses and how it the experience of being in landscape effects us as human beings.
The result is a body of work that speaks to the very heart of what it means to be part of the environment around us.
For a map of Wirksworth click here.
Posted in A52s, Events, Memorial hall, Music on Thursday August 19, 2010| Leave a Comment »
Posted in A52s, Music, Wakes on Monday June 28, 2010| 1 Comment »
For those of you interested in the background behind the yellow submarine that sailed round Carnival last Saturday, The A52s have a write-up on their official website www.thea52s.co.uk.
Click on the picture below to go there.
Posted in A52s, Events, Ornithology on Thursday May 6, 2010| 2 Comments »
Got nothing planned for Saturday, why not do something amazing this year and join in on the Ashbourne Breast Cancer Walk, 8.5 miles, open to walkers of all ages.
The starting point will be the Carsington Water Visitor Centre, leaving at 2.30pm therefore early arrival is recommended for all walkers, registration is required from all walkers including children – £10 adults and £5 for children. Click here for the registration form.
All the money raised from the 2010 walk will go towards funding for equipment for the Breast Cancer Unit at Royal Derby hospital.
Whilst enjoying this walk there’s plenty to see. Our resident ornithological photographer, (not sure if you can say this) JF-S, went to Carsington Water, especially to see what bird life might be spotted during the big walk – birds include: tufted ducks, great crested grebes, redshanks, lapwings, godwits, barnacle geese and The A52s. They may not be birds, but they will be entertaining everyone with their “tweeting” from about 4.15pm.
p.s – I know the A52s don’t tweet, they sing with manly gusto, but it flowed with the bird theme!
Posted in 2010, A52s, Church, Photography, Posts of Note on Sunday April 25, 2010| Leave a Comment »
This afternoon saw the very successful Fair on the Green, fundraising for the Church Restoration. There were lots of people enjoying a really fun afternoon. It was super to see Andy, our new vicar, prominent in the fundraising effort – Well done Andy and everyone else for organising a super afternoon. Further thanks to all involved in this morning’s events.
Below is a random selection of shots, taken by Jane & JF-S.
Posted in A52s on Tuesday April 13, 2010| 2 Comments »
Our thanks to Debbie W for uncovering this rare video footage of Parwich’s leading folk-tinged rock band, which dates all the way back to 1992. Don’t they all look different without the hats!
Posted in A52s on Friday March 12, 2010| Leave a Comment »
Posted in A52s on Monday March 8, 2010| Leave a Comment »
Your Friendly Neighbourhood Parwich Band are on the radio today. The A52s popped into the Ashbourne Radio Live Lounge last week to record a short interview with DJ Heather Cairney to promote their upcoming world tour. They also played an acoustic version (all very unplugged) of one of their many catchy tunes.
Don’t miss it so you can tell your grandchildren you were there at the beginning!
You can listen online (at ashbourneradio.co.uk) or on 96.7FM . 11.40am and 7.40pm today.
Posted in A52s on Sunday March 7, 2010| Leave a Comment »
There’s another chance in a lifetime opportunity to see the fabulous A52s in action at The Miners Arms in Brassington at 8.30pm on Saturday 13th March. Click on the picture for further info.
Posted in 2010, A52s, Posts of Note on Sunday February 28, 2010| 1 Comment »
The A52s would like to say ‘thank you’ to everyone who turned up for the gig in the Legion last night and especially to Social Sec Carl. It was an evening of great fun.
The band’s sound was enhanced greatly by the addition of ace guitarist Wyatt, who joined the group for a few numbers!
Well done Wyatt – you played very well!
Posted in A52s on Saturday February 27, 2010| Leave a Comment »
The A52s have been practising hard, trying to work out the difference between their augmented, suspended and diminished chords.
They think they’ve cracked it and are looking forward to playing for you at The Legion this evening, starting around 8.30pm. Admission free!
The band will be in full 5-piece configuration and will be featuring Bongo Rob on drums at this gig. He used to play in a Metallica covers band, but will try and tone it down a bit for this gig!
Click here for more information on the band.
Posted in A52s, British Legion, Music on Thursday February 25, 2010| Leave a Comment »
Posted in A52s, Events on Monday February 8, 2010| Leave a Comment »
Posted in A52s on Saturday January 23, 2010| 4 Comments »
The A52s are playing a gig in the Barley Mow in Bonsall this evening (Saturday 23rd January) starting around 9.00pm.
Come on down for an evening of folk-tinged rock!
Posted in A52s, Events on Sunday January 10, 2010| 9 Comments »
This is the sight of The A52s trying to locate the historic mining village of Bonsall.
The band are madly trying to remember the songs they knew so well just before Christmas. So many sherries…..
Hope they get their act together as they are to play a massive gig in the Barley Mow in Bonsall on Saturday 23rd January around 8.30pm. The pub is a brilliant place for live music with a great atmosphere. It is also world famous as the number one location for UFO-spotting….so you might get a double dose of entertainment if you come along! Turn left off the Via Gelia just before Cromford to get there. The full five-piece will be playing. Free admission!
The lads would love some local support so make a note in your diaries/ iPhones/ National Trust wall calendars!
Posted in A52s on Saturday December 5, 2009| Leave a Comment »
Here’s The Fabulous A52s playing The Big Acoustic last Wednesday in Matlock.
Of course it was only a warm-up for this evening‘s extravaganza in The Sycamore at 8.30pm. The lighting rigs have started to arrive, the spaceship themed set is being constructed and the skip full of dry ice has been filled.
The band hope you can make it!
Posted in A52s on Thursday November 26, 2009| Leave a Comment »
Parwich’s foremost indy rock covers band will play in The Sycamore on Saturday December 5th around 8.30pm. Click on this picture for more information.
This will be a special event as the band has recruited a new member: Stan The Bass Man, who will be providing the low notes on the night. Entrance fee: £45 £25 £10 £3 £0.
The band will be warming up on Wednesday 2nd December at The Big Acoustic evening. The event takes place in The Rendezvous, Matlock. Several artists will be playing that night.
Come along and have some fun!
Posted in A52s, British Legion, Music on Saturday October 31, 2009| 1 Comment »
Posted in A52s, British Legion, Events on Tuesday October 27, 2009| 1 Comment »
Posted in A52s on Friday October 9, 2009| Leave a Comment »
If you’re looking for up-to-the-second news on Parwich’s foremost folk-tinged indie rock covers band, look no further! A gleaming new website has been launched to cover all things A52.
Click on the picture below or click on www.thea52s.co.uk to visit the site.
Posted in 2009, A52s, Memorial hall, Posts of Note on Friday September 11, 2009| Leave a Comment »
Posted in A52s on Friday September 11, 2009| 2 Comments »
Posted in A52s, Arts on Thursday September 10, 2009| 1 Comment »
Yes! The A52s are playing the festival circuit again this year and will be coming to a town near us this Sunday – see them at the Wirksworth Festival in the Stable Block from 1.00pm til 1.30pm and again from 3.20pm til “close”. Local artist Lewis Noble will be exhibiting some of his work in the same venue.
Posted in 2009, A52s, Church, Posts of Note on Tuesday April 28, 2009| Leave a Comment »
Here is some footage from the Church Fete last Sunday. Didn’t we have a lovely time….and wasn’t the weather kind. Great to see the village out in force practising for Wakes!
Many thanks to Mike G for his camerawork and Martin C for his production skills.
Posted in 2009, A52s, Church, Cyberscouts, Oddfellows, Photography, Posts of Note on Tuesday April 28, 2009| 4 Comments »
The Parwich Odd Fellows set in motion a very successful day. A big thank you to everyone, including the organisers, especially Mick Edge without whose vision, ideas and determination, the day would not have happened, all the helpers and those who came along and supported the day.
The morning’s march by the Odd Fellows and the Derbyshire Dales Cyberscouts, led by Doveholes Brass Band, followed the route of the Wakes March, though with fewer refreshment stops!! The Cyberscouts (including beavers, cubs and scouts) were particularly smartly turned out for their first parade in Parwich. It was very well supported and by the time the Church was reached for 11am there were more people than pews.
Andrew took the service of celebration: rousing hymns with the organ and brass band, dedication of two new kneelers commemorating the British Legion and Norman Edge; and the dedication of the four new banners for the Cyberscouts. Andrew’s address drew on St. George, the Good Samaritan and Jesus as examples of the importance of service to our communities.
The march continued around the village, finishing at the Memorial Hall for lunch and the chance to enjoy some live music.
The celebrations continued into the afternoon with the Church Fete. The afternoon was interspersed with Winster Morris Dancers and the well-known band the A52s.
Posted in A52s on Saturday April 25, 2009| Leave a Comment »
The A52s played a triumphant warm-up gig at El Gringo Stadium in Mexico City last night. Their song is ready.
Time for the lads to head home now. Next stop….the Green!
Posted in A52s on Thursday April 23, 2009| 10 Comments »
The lads still haven’t found their way to Parwich Village Green.
This photo shows them popping into an Aldi in Barcelona to ask directions. A sultry individual with a curly lip showed them where to find the frozen peas and explained the secret of rock ‘n’ roll.
Time is running out for the fab three. They better get back before they forget how to play their songs!
Posted in A52s on Tuesday April 21, 2009| 2 Comments »
I hope my legs don’t break etc………
Posted in A52s on Monday April 20, 2009| 2 Comments »
Looks like the lads have headed to the ‘coast’ for some of that surfin’ inspiration. Carsington Water sure provides great entertainment!
Good news though, they’ve torn themselves away from the golden sands, the white tops and a cool surfer chick called Debbie. They may be heading back our way. You never know though, their sense of direction is not their primary strength…..
Posted in A52s on Sunday April 19, 2009| Leave a Comment »
The A52s appear to be lost. Maybe they can busk enough cash for the bus fare back to blighty…….
Posted in A52s, Roads on Friday April 17, 2009| 4 Comments »
…..and they’re off!
Following months of practice, the A52s have mastered their new tune and are now ready to play it in public. Offers to headline Glastonbury have been turned down in favour of the much prized afternoon slot at the Parwich Church Fete, Sunday 26th April.
The tour bus has broken down so the band have been using their initiative, taking whatever transport they can find and following all the useful road signs spread around the village. If they get lost, take pity on them – give them some food plus a beverage then point them towards the Village Green. Hopefully they’ll make it on time.
Whilst the band may appear to be a trio, be prepared for a couple of special guests. Bet you can’t stand the suspense!
Posted in A52s, British Legion, Church, Cyberscouts, Events, Oddfellows on Friday April 17, 2009| Leave a Comment »
As we have seen from earlier posts there will be a fun packed day on Sunday 26th April, starting with a Procession at 10.15am from The British Legion to the Church, led by the Oddfellows, Cyberscouts and Doveholes Brass Band, everyone else is then invited to join in. Hopefully there will be lots of children dressed up as St George or The Dragon on their way to the Church Service at 11am.
During the afternoon the Winster Morris Men and the A52’s will be entertaining us with live dancing & live music whilst the Church Fete is being held on The Green (if wet in The Church).
There are lots of attractions including Face Painting, Local Handmade Candles, Jewellery, lots of games including Famous Faces, Hoop-la, Box & Beanbag, a Crown Derby Raffle and Tombola.
A fete wouldn’t be complete with a Home-produce stall, so all cakes, jams, chutneys etc would be gratefully received. The Second Hand stall also needs plenty of bits, so you have a week to rake out those cupboards, lofts & garages for all those bits that you really don’t need, but others would love – Go rumaging!!
There will be an icecream van on The Green whilst Teas are available in The Church, whilst there you can enjoy seeing the Model Railway which has been especially set up for the ocassion.
What is needed – Home-made produce, Second Hand goods & Tombola Prizes
Posted in A52s, Church, Events, Music, Oddfellows on Sunday April 5, 2009| Leave a Comment »
On Sunday 26th April Parwich village will be celebrating St George’s Day with a day full of events. It starts at 10.15am with an Oddfellows parade from The British Legion, accompanied by Doveholes Brass Band. Everyone is invited to join in this procession, and children are encouraged to dress up either as St George or the dragon!
At 11am there is a special service in the Church, and we are all invited to join the Oddfellows and Cyberscouts.
The procession continues around the village stopping at various points.
Between 1.30 & 3pm the Winster Morris Dancers will be performing. Lunches are available from the Sycamore Inn.
From 2pm there will be a Church Fete with stalls on The Green. Cream Teas will be available during the afternoon.
There will be live music in the Village Hall and the A52s (well known local band) will be on The Green.
The children’s Fancy Dress costumes will be judged by The Oddfellows.
Here is part of a video created by Martin C taken at last year’s Oddfellow’s parade at the start of Wakes Week, in June.
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