Knowle is 750 years old and what an excellent reason to have a party to celebrate the occasion.
I have lived in Knowle for over 40 years, which means I have been here for approximately 5% of the village’s life. There have been many changes over the years, but it still retains the quiet charm of an English village.
Kim is the face of Visit Knowle and was the lead organiser of the festivities, which took place on a Sunday in June, just before the heatwave. The High Street was closed to traffic, allowing artisan stalls and local interest groups to take over the space. Lyons, the butchers, hosted a BBQ, and dignitaries, including the Lord Mayor and the Deputy Lord-Lieutenant of the West Midlands, were in attendance.
When I arrived, the birthday party was in full swing. My grandson had heard about a game that involved throwing footballs into a toilet. He found the challenge difficult and, after six attempts, had still not managed to land a football in the loo. How do you pick yourself up after that? With a hot dog from the Lyons BBQ, of course.
The High Street was full of people, with not a car in sight. My favourite stall was the football prints display, although there were many others worthy of mention. I was particularly keen to climb the tower at Knowle Church. I had previously visited the bell-ringing room but had never made it to the very top. After negotiating the narrow stairs, the magnificent view was a wonderful reward.
As I looked out across the Warwickshire landscape, I could almost hear The Who singing, “I Can See for Miles.”Unfortunately, I could not see my own house because of the many trees surrounding the village. By this time, I had lost track of my daughter and grandson, so I wandered down the High Street to see what else was happening.
As I approached the Ale Rooms, Viola and Slow Records, I was in for a pleasant surprise. Playing in the window of Slow Records were Chipsum Gravy a lively three-piece high octane punk rock band who were not only rattling the windows but also rocking the High Street.
I know there was much more to take part in, and I did not have time to explore the precinct or visit many of the buildings that were open to the public, such as the library and the church. From what I did see, Knowle was enjoying a wonderful birthday celebration, and both residents and visitors were clearly having a great day.
Well done to everyone who helped organise the event, and I look forward to the 751st birthday party next year!