Sparkbrook

Today's post-work walk started on the Digbeth Branch of the Grand Union Canal including a short excursion up the main arm back towards Garrison Lane before an about turn just in time to see a narrow boat pass through Bordesley Junction.

I left the Grand Union at Small Heath Bridge making my way, along Henley Street to the Stratford Road. After a short walk in the wrong direction to fill in a gap on the map, I started a stroll along the A34 through Sparkbrook, passing an impressive redbrick school.

Walking under the railway, I was greeted by, none other than, Mohammed Ali. Obviously not THE Mohammed Ali, who passed away on June 3rd, this year, but one of a number of painted memorials, along with quotations, spotted along the Stratford Road.

A little further along, I passed the remains of the once mighty Vale-Onslow empire.

Len Vale-Onslow was born in 1900 and with his brothers, ran 2 garages in Birmingham. Len learnt to ride a motorcycle that his brothers had built. 

Len was too young to serve in the First World War and was declared unfit for the re-match.

At 26, Len designed a motorcycle which was so revolutionary that he took out a world patent on it. The same year, he met his future wife whom he married three years later.

Len and his wife made a formidable team and they built an empire selling motor bikes from their shop on Stratford Road.

Over the years, they bought neighbouring shops and even when he became a millionaire decided not to move from their home above the shops.

Len continued to be interested in motorcycles and was still riding aged 102. He passed away in 2004 just before his 104th birthday.

Further along the Stratford Road, I could not fail to notice the majestic brick and stone church of St. Agatha with it's 37 metre high tower.

This Grade I listed building was consecrated in 1901.

During it's life, this church has suffered at the hands of The Luftwaffe (1940), a fire (1957) and even a tornado (2005).

The building underwent major restoration work, ending in 2005, when it was officially reopened by HRH Prince Edward and the Countess of Wessex.