June/July 2017 Issue 37
10,500 hand-delivered to households & businesses in Worcester East - Barbourne, Battenhall, Northwick, Warndon Villages, St Peter's and in the villages of Tibberton, Fernhill Heath, Crowle & Norton
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Contents
June/July 2017
welcome
24
22
6 Enjoy Local 6 Community News 8 Business News 10 & 11 Reconnections 12 Rugby 14 Local Fairs 16 Wellbeing: Bad Habits 18 Local Talent: Phil Wilkins 20 Roots Recipe: Strawberry Tarts 22 Scaling the Heights for Sight 24 United against Dementia 25 Notice Board 26 What’s On 28 & 29 Classes & Courses 30 Theatre News 30 Competition Theatre Tickets 30 All About Malvern Hills & Worcester Area @allaboutmalvern www.allaboutworcester.com
Although Worcester’s a big place, there’s a real sense of community. In July, we have no less than four local community events to look forward to! Warndon Villages Summer Fete has been taking place for more than a decade and is really popular. In St Peter’s, the parish festival returns to Power Park with fun for all the family. Macca’s Day in Claines is a lovely village event, while Fun on The Brum in Fernhill Heath will be raising money for St Richard’s Hospice. You can read all the details on Page 16. There are lots more ideas for days out on the Noticeboard and What’s On pages, so read on for some inspiration.
Sascha McDonald - The Editor
Cover Photo Worcester City Centre, photographed by All About Magazines.
DESIGN & PRODUCTION: Sascha McDonald (owner & publisher) Colwall, Malvern WR13 6QN sascha@allabout-local.com 01684 252242 | 07906 573352 ADVERTISING Teresa Rooney - 07722 226712 teresa@allabout-local.com EDITORIAL & DISTRIBUTION: James McDonald - 01684 252242 james@allabout-local.com All About Worcester East & Villages is distributed to 10,500 homes & businesses over 2 months CONTRIBUTORS Tracy Reck, Roots, Dave NEXT BOOKING/COPY DEADLINE Monday 3 July for the Aug/Sept edition
Whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of the advert. All artwork is accepted on the strict condition that permission has been given for use in the publication. Adverts are accepted under the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. All About Magazines does not endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system or transmitted in any form - electronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise without prior consent of the publisher. All About Local Magazines Ltd is registered in England and Wales Company No. 7200758
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Enjoy Local Photographed by Alick Cotterill MFY
1. open gardens in fernhill heath Five gardens in Fernhill Heath will be open to visitors during an Open Gardens afternoon this July, promising a range of different gardens to visit. Tea and cakes will be served and plants will be on sale. Fernhill Heath in Bloom began two years ago - the event takes place on Sunday 23rd July between 2pm and 5pm A list of gardens can be found at Mace Stores in the village, on the noticeboard at Fun on the Brum or by calling (01905) 454601
2. summer chamber concert Worcestershire Symphony Orchestra is holding a Summer Chamber Concert on Saturday 1st July. Conducted by Keith Slade, the programme includes Mozart’s Horn Concerto in E flat, Violin Concerto in D Major and Symphony Nr. 31, Weber’s Bassoon Concerto and works by Vivaldi and Reinecke. It starts at 7.30pm at Christ Church on Avenue Road in Malvern. Tickets cost £12 for adults, children are £5 with one free entry for each adult ticket purchased, concessions £10. worcestershiresymphony.org.uk
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things to enjoy local During June & July
3. The Conservatoire Folk Ensemble The Conservatoire Folk Ensemble comes to Huntingdon Hall on 3rd June as part of their 20th anniversary tour. Featuring a stage-busting fifty members, they promise a powerful and joyful live show. Going from strength to strength, the ensemble has a new studio album due out during June and several summer festival appearances. www.worcesterlive.co.uk
4. litter picks along the canal Join volunteers from Worcester Canal Group for one of their regular litter picks along the towpath in Worcester, covering the canal between locks 4 and 5. All equipment is provided, although please wear suitable clothes. The litter pick on 24th June has been postponed to 1st July, to work alongside the Canal and River Trust’s volunteer workboat. Usually taking place on the last Saturday of each month, the group meets at 10.30am in Lansdowne Park off Lansdowne Road. For more info you can email matthewjenkins@worcestershire.gov.uk
5. worcestershire litfest & fringe Now in its seventh year, Worcestershire Litfest and Fringe brings poetry and spoken word to Worcester between 9th and 18th June. From readings and workshops to theatre and social events, there’s a wealth of events to choose from. Once again the festival holds a competition to choose the county’s next Poet Laureate as well as its Young Writers competition. There’s also a poetry and prose walk which takes place on Wednesday 21st June. Tickets and information can be found at worcslitfest.co.uk or the Worcester Live Box Office (01905) 611427
For more ideas and local events: www.allaboutworcester.com
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News
community NEWS
TROTSHILL ORCHARD GROUP Trotshill Orchard Group runs regular volunteer sessions to maintain the orchard and public right of way through the site in Warndon Villages. Everybody is welcome to come and join in, tools and equipment are provided. The group meets on the third Saturday of most months between 10am and 1pm. For dates and details please email greenspaceevents@ worcester.gov.uk
WORCESTER SHOW Entries are now open for the 2017 Worcester Show – the popular annual event in Gheluvelt Park which celebrates the creativity and green fingered skills of local people. There are over 120 competition classes to enter for this year’s Show, which takes place on Sunday 13th August. Classes range from growing giant vegetables to displaying flowers and floral decorations, creating handicrafts and photography, baking and modelling. There is something for everyone and there are now Under 18s classes in every Section. There’s a new Under 18s Trophy for the most points overall in these classes. All the classes are free to enter, you will find full details at www.worcestershow.org.uk
DEAF DIRECT Can’t hear the door or the telephone? TV too loud? Deaf Direct can help! Deaf Direct is your local, deaf-led charity supporting people with hearing loss. If you struggle with hearing loss, we can help with telephone, tv and doorbell equipment, the installation of loops and sound equipment, communication and one to one support as well as information and advice. Contact us today on 01905 746 301 or email info@deafdirect.org.uk to see how Deaf Direct can help you move forward after hearing loss. Hearing loss is invisible – Deaf Direct makes sure the person isn’t.
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SWAN SANCTUARY WORKING PARTIES The Swan Sanctuary Working Parties take place on the third Wednesday of each month alongside the River Severn in Worcester. Volunteers help with work such as cleaning and weeding around steps at the bridge and boathouse, trimming shrubs and other tasks which give swans safer and easier access to the river. Sessions run from 10am and 12.30pm after which you can stay on to help feed the swans. For details contact Marilyn McCarthy via email placeofpeace@tiscali.co.uk or greenspaceevents@ worcester.gov.uk
THE SANLAM GO DAD RUN The Sanlam Go Dad Run is a 5k and 10k run for men and boys taking place on Sunday July 23rd at Pitchcroft. The event is one of a series taking place across the country and is designed to raise awareness of and funds for important men’s health charities. You can find out more at www.godadrun.co.uk
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Business News NEWS FROM SOLV We all know even the very idea of fitness can be off putting. Our combined years of experience both working in and working out in various fitness establishments led to the conclusion that actually gyms aren’t always nice places to be, they’re dirty, they smell (sometimes) and more often than not you spend more time wandering around wondering what on earth you’re doing than you do actually working out. In light of this, at Solv we are attempting to overcome these so called barriers by creating a space that everyone, no matter their age or ability, feels at home in; after all we believe that fitness is life long. So what makes Solv different to other gyms? The biggest difference is that we ONLY operate classes. Whether it’s Bootcamp or CrossFit you’re interested in one thing is for certain, you’re guaranteed a great workout. All classes are led by a dedicated coach who not only observes and demonstrates, but also adjusts workouts where necessary to suit your individual needs; making sure you get a workout that's right for you! The best thing about working out as a group? The
WORCESTER SHED & FENCING LTD It’s no exaggeration to say Worcester Shed and Fencing can tackle any job big or small – they’ve build everything from a 30 foot by 10 foot workshop to a kennel for a Chihuahua! Established 16 years ago, the company prides itself on giving customers what they want, rather than offering a limited range of choices. ‘It’s a bespoke service’ says Caroline Herbert-Carter from the company, ‘and we make sure that everybody who comes through the door gets exactly what they want.’ Whether it’s a garden store, summer-house, workshop or pet kennel, the company offers its services to domestic as well as commercial customers. They will deliver and erect the structure at your property and always aim to complete your order as quickly as possible. The company is also a member of the Guild of Master Craftsmen, which ensures their work is completed to a consistently high standard. They received their accreditation after recommendation from a customer. If you’d like to get in touch with the company you can email info@sheds-direct.net or call (01905) 358750
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support, everyone is there to cheer you on, the camaraderie is great and the post workout high is even better! All classes run at various times throughout the day, Monday to Saturday, so you can get your exercise fix before, during or after work; it really is up to you! If you’re interested in any of our classes, don’t hesitate to get in touch via our website solvworcs.co.uk or our email info@cfsolv.com and we can arrange a free consultation and taster bootcamp session for a time that suits you, the perfect opportunity to make sure we’re the right fit for you.
Find us on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram @solvworcs. Or visit us: Solv, Perrywood Trading Park, Wylds Lane, Worcester WR5 1DZ
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Business News
SOLV FITNESS THROUGH FUNCTION
BOOTCAMP CLASSES FREE TASTER SESSION COFFEE LOUNGE Whether you want to lose weight, get fit or simply get moving, Solv is the place for you. Located Get in Touch close to Worcester City Centre www.solvworcs.co.uk Solv offers a range of fitness email: info@cfsolv.com classes that are suitbale for all abilities and ages. GET IN TOUCH
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ADAMZ PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Whether you are looking to spruce up your home before selling, need repairs or simply want a new look, Adam Z Property Maintenance can help. It’s run by Adam Morse whose ethos is always working to a high standard with a friendly and honest manner. With more than a decade as a double glazing specialist, Adam’s services include fitting windows, doors and conservatories, but as a multi-skilled handyman he carries out other work including loft conversions, extensions, plastering and outdoor work. He works together with gas safe registered engineers and electricians with Part P certification to complete building projects. No job is too big or small and Adam is very happy to chat to you about your plans, with a free, honest assessment and no-obligation quote. You can contact him by calling 07455 052625, by emailing adam@adamz.co or by visiting his website: www.adamz.co
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Feature
reconnections Reconnections is a project helping older people out of loneliness and into their local communities. Running across Worcestershire, more than 1,800 people have been referred to its service in the past 18 months. It helps people to take part in social activities or simply connect with others. The Participant Until recently, Graham led an active life. After a busy career in manufacturing, his retirement has been filled by taking on roles in his local church and parish council. He lost his wife a few years ago and lives alone. He enjoys seeing his daughters and grandchildren, but this has become harder since he stopped driving. He used to enjoy regular walks but problems with his legs mean he can no longer get very far. Since the start of the year Alan, a Reconnections volunteer, has been taking Graham out to local social activities, to the shops and to appointments with his GP. ‘I was stuck at home, which was especially lonely during the long dark winter’ says Graham, ‘until my friend here came along!’ ‘I used to enjoy bowls until it got too hard, but thanks to Reconnections I’ve been to play carpet bowls. I even celebrated my 91st birthday at a social gathering in Evesham!’
Volunteers receive full training for their role, which Alan says was extremely thorough and very useful. ‘Reconnections is not just a befriending service, it’s helping older people to broaden their social network or become involved in local activities again.’ Volunteers usually work with someone for around six months, visiting them at home, helping to set up social contacts and other help which will become self-sustaining once the client’s contact with the project comes to an end. Volunteers come from all sorts of backgrounds and ages. However, the scheme needs more help, so if you have an hour or two spare and would like to find out more call (01905) 740954. If you would like to apply online, it only takes two minutes at www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ RECONNECTIONS
Do you know somebody who might benefit from Reconnections? The service is completely free to use. You can find out more by calling (01905) 740954. The Volunteer Alan got involved with Reconnections just over a year ago after deciding to find a volunteering role where he could help others. ‘Volunteering has opened a door for me’ says Alan. ‘Graham was quite isolated and it’s been very satisfying to see his outlook on life become brighter.’ Alan feels Reconnections is especially rewarding as there are so many elderly people who don’t have contact with others for days at a time.
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tackling loneliness Reconnections is run by Age UK Herefordshire and Worcestershire together with several other partner organisations. You can read more at www.reconnectionsservice.org.uk
advertorial
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of delivering the highest standards possible at all times. ‘Our service is simple. If your double glazing has misted up we can replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window, in any type of frame, and with a new 25 year guarantee. But it’s not just about saving people money, although that obviously helps. Whilst a number of tradespeople perhaps don’t focus on customer care as much as they should do, we make sure we turn up when we say we will, do the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle. Locally Cloudy2Clear service Worcester East & surrounding Villages and
manager Paul Papandreou agrees that this approach is a major factor in his success. ‘The truth is that it’s not just the personal satisfaction that I get from doing a good job but also it makes good business sense. I get a huge amount of business from friends and family of people I’ve done work for, which just goes to show how much a little bit of effort is appreciated as both my customers and, obviously a body as nationally important as Which? now recognise.’ So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Paul a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be happy to help!
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Feature
rugby Worcester Mixed Ability Rugby Team welcomes players whatever their ability. Whether you are returning to rugby after a break, have a disability, or have to take extra care due to injury, it’s a great way to play the sport. The team is part of Worcester Rugby Football Club and coach Tom Reeves tells us more. Within the mixed ability game we have both contact and non-contact players taking part. Noncontact players wear a bib and there are specific rules regarding tackles and scrums. Rucks can be competitive or non-competitive and there are further technical differences, but essentially it means players of widely differing ability can enjoy a game together.
Assembly. They loved it so much that their parting words were that they were going to set up a new team! Nationally, mixed-ability rugby is really taking off and the message is that disability doesn’t stop you from taking part in team sports and physical activity.
Due to disability, some of our players might not have had the opportunity to play sport of any kind until now. One of our team has brittle bone syndrome. Another is autistic and he trains together with his dad. For some parents it’s the moment they finally see their child included in a sports team. I have a back injury and the mixed-ability game gave me the chance to start playing again. You can start as a non-contact player wearing a bib and slowly build your confidence until you might be ready to take the bib off. There is however no pressure at all to do this, people just play at the level that suits them. Adrian Mills from our club got the idea for the team from the Bradford Bumble Bees which was the first mixed ability team in England. Today there are several clubs that we play from around the country. We have between 40 and 50 players on the books but we always welcome more. Some of the players in the mixed-ability team are now feeding into our club’s other teams. We have great support from the club’s other players and generous sponsors. Other clubs visit us to learn about the mixed-ability game and we’ve even played a side made up of members of the Welsh
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The team trains at Worcester Rugby Club on Offerton Lane Tuesday and Thursday between 6 and 7pm. You can read more about them online: facebook.com/WorcsMixedAbilityRugby/ twitter.com/WRMixedAbility instagram.com/worcsmixedability
To advertise please call Teresa: 07722 226712 or email teresa@allabout-local.com
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Enjoy Local
LOCAL FAIRS For more details and events pop onto www.allaboutworcester.com
St Peter’s Parish Festival St Peter’s, Worcester Sunday 23rd July The 2017 St Peter's Festival plans to be bigger and better than ever. This year the organisers have chosen a 4 person climbing wall as the star attraction, giving the chance to climb with highly trained and professional coaches. Other attractions include The Creation Station and How to Cook to provide additional activities for the children of the community, alongside Boing bouncy castle and giant slide, and the ever popular Pampered Ponies and Daisy Face Company. A diverse range of entertainment includes Tappy the Robot, Vox Rox, Monkeys in Motion, Worcestershire Martial Arts, All Sorts of Performing Arts and Worcester 1st Scouts. Brand new to the festival this year is a Relaxation Zone. A Craft Zone will have a number of small and craft businesses selling their products, and the Food Zone will offer a fantastic range of eating options. The organisers of the Festival have also hinted at a special project that all members of the community can get involved with on the day, but details are being kept under wraps at the moment. Situated in the Power Park, the event will run from 12noon until 4pm. Keep up to date by liking facebook.com/StPetersFestival
Macca’s Day Claines Sunday 23rd July Macca’s Day is a charity family fun day with many fun activities that include pony rides, a dog show, music, fairground rides and bouncy castle, lots of cakes and hot food. There’s also a five-aside football tournament with a children’s penalty shootout competition. The day takes places at The Rec on Cornmeadow Lane in Claines and runs between 11am and 4pm.
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Warndon Villages Summer Fete Sunday 9th July This event, which takes place in and around the Lyppard Hub on Ankerage Green, is a fun day out for all the community to enjoy. There will be traditional games like Splat the Rat, Strongman and a tombola - local groups will present demonstrations to the crowds while there’s a circus skills workshop to try out. There’s a climbing wall and play inflatables for the more active plus pony rides. This year, for the first time there will also be a fun Dog Show. It’s the 12th year the event has taken place – last year more than £1,000 was raised for Acorn’s. Money from this year’s event will be donated to local charities and community groups. Entry to the day is free which runs from Midday until 4pm. www.lyppardhub.co.uk
Fun on the Brum Fernhill Heath Saturday 22nd July This popular annual event has lots of stalls and attractions including raffle, go karts, bungee trampoline, inflatables a traditional Punch and Judy show and a raffle. Food, teas and cakes will all be served during the afternoon which runs from Midday until 4pm in the centre of the village. Admission is free. Money raised during the afternoon will be donated to St Richard’s Hospice.
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17
Well Being
when bad habits come back By Tracy J Reck, Exercise & Nutrition Coach in Worcester Sometimes, though, it’s NOT a great thing. Because some habits we create (and yes, you do create your own habits, you just don’t realise you’re doing it) actually have a very funky way about going about solving that problem, completing that task or otherwise getting it done. You know the ones I mean. The ‘glass of wine to wind down’ habit. The ‘packet of biscuits to cheer me up’ habit. The ‘working myself to death to feel secure’ habit. When those habits stick around too long, they overstay their welcome. Here’s the good news. You can tackle ANY habit and make it better. You made the bad ones so it stands to reason you can make some good ones, right! Here’s what you do - chuck a new behaviour in the loop that achieves the same end and repeat, repeat, repeat till it sticks. Like this. Create: a ‘bath to wind down’ habit. A ‘chat with good friends to cheer me up’ habit. A ‘talking about my worries to feel secure’ habit. It’ll take some trial and error to get the right replacement behaviour, but there are MANY roads to get to a destination. That said, here’s the bad news. You can’t actually remove a habit, completely. It’ll never totally go away. Now, it’s important to get this, because it is a HUGE reason that people get frustrated with the change process - you work really hard on changing something only to have your “bad old ways” resurface at some point.
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Habits are sticky. They stick around. This is a great thing, because a habit’s job is to help you complete a task, solve a problem or otherwise get something done without you having to start from scratch every time.
Think about it like this. Every habit is your brain’s preferred shortcut to fixing whatever pain or discomfort you experienced that it was designed to fix. Every time that pain or discomfort comes up, that habit wants to get involved in fixing it. That logical part of your brain will be aware of the amount of work you’ve put in, trying to change this habit. Your emotional brain doesn’t care. It just wants the pain to go away. The greater the pain, the more powerfully that old habit will rear up. None of your rational knowledge about why this behaviour DOESN’T solve this particular problem will help you, if the pain is enough - the old habit is always sat there, waiting to be called on to do its ‘job’. So when this happens and your old habits resurface - and it is a ‘when’ not an ‘if’ - don’t feel bad. All your hard work has not gone down the toilet. It’s just going to take some real time and lots of practice for you to have such a handle on your habits that YOU get to call the shots in extreme circumstances.
Tracy Reck is a fitness and nutrition writer, coach and speaker. You can read more from her at www.exuberanthealth.co.uk
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Music Feature
Local Talent: phil wilkins
It’s funny how if something terrible happens to you, it might just set you off in a direction you had never thought of.
By Dave Webber
t
hat’s what happened to Phil Wilkins. As a teenager he was a gifted musician – playing tuba to Grade 8 and playing brass music with a youth group that toured internationally. Suddenly at the age of 15 things changed when he was involved in a crash with a car while out riding his bike. His face was badly injured, in fact it was so bad fact that he couldn’t play his brass music for many months. Looking for a new outlet for his musical talent, he started picking up other instruments. Whether it was guitar, clarinet, piano or percussion, Phil’s enthusiasm knew no bounds! It set him off making music – and thinking about music differently. Around this time he heard Mike Oldfield’s album ‘Tubular Bells’ for the first time, which opened up the idea of producing music in a different way. Over the years Phil has played with many different musicians and groups, but creating his own music remains his main focus. With his own recording studio at home, he uses technology and software to build layer upon layer of tracks to each song – much of it is performed on traditional instruments, complemented by sounds produced electronically. Phil produces under the name Capas – a nod to the Spanish word meaning ‘layered’ which described the way he creates his tracks. The first Capas album is called ‘Undisclosed’ and has reminders of acid jazz from the late 1980s, mixed in with tracks that have a distinct cinematic feel, mixed in with some great individual performances from people like Richard Clarke and vocalist Eva Trim. Phil likens the sound of some tracks to Björk or Florence and the Machine but it’s hard to label the sound he manages to produce. Phil’s recently returned from a trip to India where he became inspired by – of all things – the
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honking of car horns and the sounds of everyday life. His music-making isn’t confined to following what others have done before him but finding his own path. He’s had some airplay on BBC Radio 1 as well as BBC Introducing, while many others are coming across his music online. Perhaps Phil is showing us where the future of music lies. His fan base isn’t just in Worcester, it’s global, with downloads of his music from everywhere from Japan to Mexico. He’s determined to make a success of it and he’s risking it all to succeed – good luck Phil! There’s a free download of ‘That’s Life’ featuring Richard Clarke on Phil’s website, available until 30th June, visit www.capasmusic.com
MIKE SWAIN
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Recipe
Meg's strawberry tarts Now and again a culinary challenge is a good thing! Maybe it’s “Masterchef season”, or just the inspiration of an early crop of local strawberries? I just couldn’t resist dusting off this recipe and going for it. I hope you will too, enjoy! You will need 8 small 8cm tart cases, fresh strawberries and apricot jam for glazing.
Rich Shortcrust Pastry 140g unsalted butter (softened), 100g icing sugar, 50g egg (1 medium), 250g plain flour, pinch salt, 25g ground almonds Easily made in a food processor, but also possible by hand, start by creaming the butter and icing sugar. Add the egg and salt, then flour and ground almond. Bring the pastry together and lightly knead by pressing the pastry with the heel of your hand. Flatten it to roughly 1” thickness which helps with even cooling and makes for easier rolling. Wrap in cling film and refrigerate, for at least one hour, preferably overnight.
Crème Patissière This will make 800g, more than you’ll need, but it’s difficult to make less. 100g egg yolk (5-6 fresh organic eggs will have a lovely lemony yellow colour), 120g caster sugar, 50g cornflour, 500g milk, 1 vanilla pod, 50g unsalted butter Vigorously whisk together the caster sugar and egg yolk until pale and thickened. Split the vanilla pod and scrape the seeds from it, then add both the pod and seeds to the milk and bring to the boil. Remove the pod and allow the milk to cool slightly, pour it onto the egg yolk mixture, then back into the saucepan, on a low heat, continue to whisk energetically. As the cream cooks, the foam will begin to disappear, the cream will continue to thicken. Keep whisking! This process can take up to ten minutes, or longer
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depending on how brave you are with the heat, but eventually you will achieve a thick cream that sticks to a spoon. When the cream is thick, remove from the heat and whisk in the butter. Tip into a shallow dish or tray and allow to cool. This will keep chilled for up to 3 days. To make the apricot glaze, boil a heaped tablespoon of the jam with a tablespoon of water.
To assemble the tarts... Cut the pastry into approx. 80g balls and roll out each one then carefully lining the tart cases. Return to the chill for 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 160˚C. Pipe a circle of the Crème Patissière into the pastry case and then bake for 25-30 minutes. When the tarts are baked, allow them to cool and then press them out of the rings. Cut the strawberries into halves and arrange them over the tart, finishing by brushing with the apricot glaze.
Kindly provided by Meg of Roots at Rushwick, a Worcestershire Farm Shop on the Bransford Road 01905 421104
Bransford Road, Rushwick, Worcester WR2 5TD
A brilliant farm shop for foodies www.familyfarmshop.co.uk
Friday is “Pizza Night”! Fresh handmade pizza baked in our wood oven, eat in our double decker bus or takeaway Tel. 01905 421004 to book
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Charity event
scaling the heights for sight
Lowering yourself from a high-rise building might not be your idea of fun, but if you’re prepared to overcome your fears this June you can help raise money for a locally based charity.
c
ripplegate House is one of three blocks of flats that has been part of the Worcester skyline since the 1960s. Standing in the centre of St Johns, the building will host a sponsored abseil at the start of June to help raise money for Sight Concern Worcestershire. No previous experience of abseiling is needed as fully trained instructors will take you through everything to keep you safe. Friends and family are welcome to come along and enjoy the spectacle. The event takes place from 9am until 5pm with the last descents taking place around 4pm. There’s a minimum age requirement for participants of 18 years. To take part there’s a £20 booking fee and all abseilers are being asked to raise at least £100 in sponsorship. At the end of your abseil, you’ll
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receive a special certificate as well as a photo of your descent. Based on Sansome Walk in Worcester, Sight Concern Worcestershire is dedicated to improving the lives of people with sight loss across the county, helping them to reach their full potential and giving the opportunity to play an active role in society. They’ve expressed their thanks to Fortis Living for allowing them to use the tower block for the abseiling on Sunday 4th June. For further information about the abseil event you can call (01905) 723245 or email p.weir@sightconcern.co.uk You can also book online at www.sightconcern.co.uk/abseil
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Garden Waste Collection Service
Fortnightly Collections! *per year Only
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We will collect your garden waste in wheeled bins & recycle it. Contact us at panddgreenwaste@gmail.com or 07565 633 532
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t: 01905 22604 m: 07565 633 532 * Plus £7.00 one off registration charge.
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Volunteer
united against dementia Alzheimer’s Society Side by Side Hospital Service at Worcestershire Royal Hospital. For the last two years, Alzheimer’s Society has been providing support for people living with dementia who need hospital treatment at the Worcestershire Royal Hospital through its Side by Side Service. People living with dementia who need hospital admission for a medical or surgical need, for example after a fall, often experience feelings of loneliness and social isolation. To help people cope, Alzheimer’s Society run their Side by Side service to support them. Volunteers will go onto the wards and spend time with people living with dementia, having conversations with them, or helping them engage in some enjoyable activities such as reading a paper, doing a jigsaw, or listening to music. This
provides much-needed company and stimulation for people. The service currently has about 30 active volunteers, who all volunteer for a minimum of an hour a week. Both the people supported and the volunteers gain a lot from the experience.
If you are interested in knowing more, and possibly becoming a volunteer with the service, please contact Ade Couper, Side by Side Coordinator, on 07885 228891 or email him at ade.couper@alzheimers.org.uk
Showroom open at Malvern Business Centre, Betony Rd, Malvern
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Notice Board newtown green project
WATCH OUT WORCESTER
Thursday 1st June 10:30 - 15:00 Tuesday 6th June 10:30 - 12:30 Newtown Green, meet at the Community Centre, free entry Get involved with the Newtown Green Project, join us for the Launch Party on 1st June, a fun family event and the next volunteer day on 6th June where we'll be improving the pathways
Theatre, dance, music, spoken word and visual arts in outdoor and unusual spaces in a new, free event for the city
For info contact Paul Edwards from Fortis Living on 01905 670270 or Worcester City Council at greenspaceevents@Worcester.gov.uk
park warden healthy walks
Saturday 22nd July from Noon in the city centre and at the Hive
www.dancefest.co.uk/watch-out-worcester
WORCESTER CATHEDRAL IN FOCUS Photographic Competition 2017 Prizes to be won plus be part of the Cathedral Autumn Exhibition! Closing date Monday 31st July
www.worcestercathedral.co.uk
get outside, enjoy the benefits of a walk in the fresh air, meet new friends NATURE TOTS BANDS Fort Royal and Commandery – IN THE PARK At The Pumphouse Environment Tuesdays, 10.30am Centre (next to Gheluvelt Park) meeting at the Commandery Enjoy an afternoon of live music 2 - 4pm on Sundays On the third Tuesday of the Warndon – Thursdays, month between 10.30am meeting at Warndon Gheluvelt Park: Sunday 11th & 10.30am and Noon 25th June, Sunday 9th & 23rd July Community Centre in the bandstand Gheluvelt Riverside Walk – A great way for early years to Friday, 10.30am Fort Royal Park: Sunday 18th June get messy and engage in the with refreshments provided by meeting at the Pump House on outdoors! £2.50 per child Friends of Fort Royal and Waterworks Road Booking essential: (01905) Commandery Gardens Free events, no need to book.
For details call (01905) 722233
bbq for heroes
754919 worcswildlifetrust.co.uk
Small Message? ! It’s free for groups
al.com james@allabout-loc 01684 252 242
15th – 30th July Raising money for Help for Heroes
For a fundraising pack call (01980) 846459 or visit bbqforheroes.org.uk
Go wild about gheluvelt park Thursday 1st June from 10am to 3pm Family fun including guided bug hunts and pond dipping to trails and crafts. No booking required Free activities (donations welcome)
Pump House Environment Centre WR1 3EZ (01905 734934)
hardy plant society Saturday 10 June - 2 - 4pm Peopleton Village Hall, WR10 2EG.
Sale of Plants lovingly grown by members, including some from our Chelsea Flower Show display. Free entry and advice. Plant supports and refreshments available Saturday 8 July - 2pm Crowle Parish Hall, WR7 4AZ. A report on our Chelsea Flower Show adventure, followed by ‘Late Summer Flowers’ presented by Marina Christopher. Plant sales, raffle and refreshments. Visitors welcome at £3.
www.worcs-hardy-plant.org.uk
Aug/Sept deadline: Tuesday 4 July
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To advertise please call Teresa: 07722 226712 or email teresa@allabout-local.com
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What’s On
June
July
Wednesday 7 June VIVA! Juliet Gellately - Why we don’t need milk and eggs. 7pm at The Old Rectifying House, North Parade, an event organised by Worcester Vegans and Veggies www.worcsveg.org.uk
Saturday 1 July Animal Agents, Summer Reading Challenge 2017 is launched at The Hive between 10am and 3pm, find out more and join lots of free activities or book in to meet the real Animal Agents! www.thehiveworcester.org
Friday 9 June Worcestershire Litfest Launch watch the finalists compete for the title of Worcestershire Poet Laureate 2017/18. Doors open 6.30pm at The Grandstand, Worcester Racecourse For details see worcslitfest.co.uk
Sunday 2 July Race The Dragon the annual charity regatta of Worcester Dragon Boat Racing Club, all day on the River Severn in Worcester www.worcester-dragons.org.uk
Sunday 11 June A craft fair raising money for Guide Dogs at the visitor centre at Worcester Woods Country Park, with produce and items from local crafters including handmade crafts, Jams, Jewellery, Woodcrafts, Needlework & soft toys 10am until 4pm
Wednesday 5 July Walkways Sensory Strolls for people living with dementia and their carers, friends or family. 10.15am at The Pump House Environment Centre, Gheluvelt Park, cost £2 (carers/ family free) – booking essential on (01905) 420805. Fortnightly in July and August
Sunday 11 June The 22nd Worcester Pitchcroft 10k and Fun Run (2.75k) A fast flat three lap traffic free course run on the perimeter tracks and footpaths. Unique medal to all finishers plus prize list. Raising money for Acorn’s Hospice For details call 01905 28395 or see worcester-ac.co.uk Saturday 17 June The Battle of the Somme Centenary Tour Concert by The British Police Symphony Orchestra, 7.30pm at Worcester Cathedral, tickets £20/£15 from (01905) 611427 www.Somme100film.com Saturday 17 June Great Witley Operatic Society presents The Music of Noel, Cole and Friends with an Afternoon Tea at St George’s Church Barbourne, 2.30pm. Tickets £12.50 including afternoon tea from (01905) 422789 www.gwos.net Monday 26 June Android Tablet for Beginners 9.30am to Noon, £23.00 – part of a series of business and workplace skills workshops at The Hive www.thehiveworcester.org
Saturday 8 July Worcester Repair Cafe Bring your broken household items at STARS Adult Day Care Centre, Stanley Road from 11am to 2pm On the second Saturday of each month Tuesday 11 July Charley’s Aunt outdoor theatre in the gardens at The Commandery with The Worcester Repertory Company at 7.30pm. Various performances until Sunday 23rd July For details and booking see www.worcester-rep.co.uk Friday 14 July Bryan Adams in Concert at Sixways Stadium Worcester, playing tracks from his new album as well as some of his earlier classics www.sixwaysstadium.co.uk Saturday 22 July The Three Choirs festival a week of music and events at Worcester Cathedral and venues across the city. Box office (01452) 768928 www.3choirs.org
Promote your Aug & Sept events: email james@allabout-local.com or call 01684 252 242 by Tuesday 4 July 2017 at the latest.
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FREE
for groups
What’s On
To advertise please call Teresa: 07722 226712 or email teresa@allabout-local.com
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Theatre News FIRST MAJOR REVIVAL
Competition
CELEBRATING THE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF Willy Russell’s
shirley valentine Willy Russell’s heart-warming comedy Shirley Valentine premiered in 1986 and took the world by storm. In celebration of its 30th Anniversary the first major revival of this national treasure will embark on a UK tour starring much loved actress Jodie Prenger as Shirley. Jodie Prenger is perhaps best known for winning the role of Nancy in the West End production of Oliver! through the BBC television series I’d Do Anything. Most recently Jodie toured the UK in the classic musical Tell Me On A Sunday. She also played the title role in the national tour of the musical Calamity Jane and has starred in One Man, Two Guvnors both in the West End and on tour and as Lady of the Lake in Spamalot. Jodie is also a regular presenter on BBC Radio 2 Shirley is a Liverpool housewife. Her kids have left home and she makes chips and egg for her husband while talking to the wall. Where has her life disappeared to? Out of the blue, her best friend offers her a trip to Greece for 2 weeks and she secretly packs her bags. She heads for the sun and starts to see the world and herself very differently. Shirley Valentine will be appearing at Malvern Theatres from Monday 24th to Saturday 29th July. Tickets are on sale at the Box Office 01684 892277 and online at malvern-theatres.co.uk
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Win a pair of tickets to shirley valentine Win a pair of tickets to this show at Malvern Theatres. Please answer the following question: In what year did Willy Russell’s Shirley Valentine premiere on stage? Email the answer plus your name, postcode and phone number to competition@allabout-local.com by Tuesday 27 June 2017. The winners will be drawn from the entries and notified by 28 June.
Good luck! *For terms & conditions see our website www.allaboutworcester.com Postal entries: All About Magazines, Colwall, Malvern, Worcestershire WR13 6QN
/allaboutmalvernhills Classes & Courses
TAI CHI & QIGONG Improve your health & boost your energy Thursday evenings 7:30 - 9:00pm St Nicholas Church Barn, Worcester, WR4 0SL Contact Marc - 01905 811123 or marc@obelison.co.uk www.obelison.co.uk
MONDAY 24th - SATURDAY 29th JULY Box Office: 01684 892277 | malvern-theatres.co.uk To advertise please call Teresa: 07722 226712 or email teresa@allabout-local.com
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“Dear Shaun, We just want to say ‘Thank You’ for the magnificient drive & pathways that Pave-Drive have laid for us.
Before
The design & finished work are superb. The workmen were efficient and didn’t waste a minute of their time. It was money well spent. Yours sincerely Mrs Wright”
01684 770086 • 07867 910377 32
After