Compton Park and Newbridge

The second of my socially distanced Wolverhampton strolls takes in a corner of the city that I hadn't really explored before (Compton Park) along with the more familiar features of Newbridge...

- The Westacres, Finchfield -

Like the vast majority of people across the country, I've been doing my bit in the battle against coronavirus by staying at home as much as possible. For the time being at least, we are still permitted to exercise outside so on Sunday 5th April 2020 I combine my daily allowance with a little bit of doorstep photography. I'm not taking anywhere near as many pictures as I normally would but having my camera with me is a release valve of sorts, and I start with a quick look at a Westacres pub completely devoid of activity.

- Compton vs Covid-19 -

Finchfield Hill leads me down onto Compton Road West where I soon pass the main entrance of Compton Hospice. These are obviously troubling times for any palliative care provider and banners here advise how the Compton Care charity is stepping up its fight against the Covid-19 outbreak; needless to say, I salute all NHS medics, support staff and community-based professionals who - along with many other key workers - are keeping the country going during the crisis. 

- Compton Park beckons -

Although I've wandered by on several occasions, I'd never previously had a proper look at Compton Park. The complex is home to the Wolverhampton Wanderers training ground (named in honour of former benefactor Sir Jack Hayward) although there aren't any Premier League players gracing the practice pitches at the moment. The Wolves Academy is based here too, providing youngsters with a footballing education through to under 18 and under 23 level.

- St Edmund's Catholic Academy -

Compton Park is also where we can find neighbouring schools of differing Christian demoninations. St Edmund's is a Catholic Academy situated on the site of a former University of Wolverhampton campus, whereas St Peter's is a Church of England Collegiate School that was founded in 1844. Gates at the far end prevent direct vehicular access from Newbridge Avenue but pedestrians can continue unhindered, meaning I'm clear to investigate one half of Newbridge Crescent by the Linden House function suite.

- A Halfway House Homage -

Time now for a Tettenhall Road taster as I pause to ponder the Halfway House, a landmark ex-boozer that has in latter years found a new guise as the Millstream Pharmacy (replacing pints with prescriptions you might say). Wolverhampton Girls High School and St Jude's Church are other prominent features as I begin to head homewards, while the Newbridge pub is a Stonehouse establishment that under normal circumstances would be specialising in carvery roast dinners and stone-baked pizzas.

- Wolverhampton Lawn Tennis & Squash Club -

The other half of Newbridge Crescent needs to be accounted for and there's a distinct air of exclusivity thanks to a posh Preparatory School. Next door is the very elegant Neville Lodge, headquarters of the Wolverhampton Lawn Tennis & Squash Club, and the sunny springtime skies have certainly helped to lift my spirits a little. My walk ultimately comes full circle back to Finchfield (via Linden Lea) and I'll have to see what else I can come up with by way of future doorstep discoveries. Until then, stay safe!