Hard-up in Birmingham

So just where in Birmingham would you take your family for an afternoon? And more importantly, is there anywhere that is free and which would keep children entertained for a couple of hours?

I might be wrong, but I reckon you might be hard pressed to find something because there's been so many cut-back in public services. And everything on offer is so expensive.

Many years ago, when I was growing up, I remember there used to be the Natural History Museum in which the centre piece was the life-size model of a dinosaur. Now I can't recall anyone who didn't like to stroll through that section of BMAG - it was truly magnetic.

The same was the case with the Science Museum near Newhall Street which was god-sent to parents looking to keep their children preoccupied for an afternoon or so.

But sadly, in recent times, all that has been taken away. The Natural History Museum - along with the prehistoric model - has been cleared away. And bearing in mind that children love animals, I think it's a travesty.

The Science Museum is, of course, still around but you have to pay. The only thing left is the plush Bullring Shopping Centre marketing the latest electronic gadgets or design-wear clothing - absolutely pointless if you've got no money.

Thank heavens for Cannon Hill Park and the city's canal walkways where a stroll is still free.

But I ask you, is that all we - as the second city - can offer families trying hard to make ends meet whose only source of income might be little more than £57 per week?