16 oct mag web

the

connection

Around Alcester, Bidford & the Villages

magazine October ‘16 No. 110

Autumn at Coughton Court Local Community Groups & Events Recipe

Sweet Potato & Chickpea Curry

01386 244379 www.littletonauctions.com

You deserve it

Experience the THRILL of The Auction!

See page 12 for details and dates of upcoming auctions

Mavericks Hair & Beauty & Barbers www.maverickshair.co.uk

01789 766222 or 766333

Priory Road, Alcester, B49 5DY

2

connectionmags.co.uk

/theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

Experience the Rodenstock Colormatic Effect for Free !

Independent Optometrist friendly personal service

Upgrade to Call to book an Colormatic IQ intelligent appointment on light-sensitive 01789 549409 lenses

15a High Street, Bidford-on-Avon, B50 4BQ www.richardfantomeyecare.co.uk

RE-VAMP YOUR KITCHEN AT A FRACTION OF THE COST OF A NEW ONE! Choose from a clear finish or any colour you would like.

• Everything from floors, kitchens, stairs & tabletops • All finishes, new furniture to old, from deep shine to trendy shabby chic • Bring in pieces for expert repair & restoration • Suppliers of Oils, Waxes, Polishes - “all things good for wood”

Tel: 01789 778628 www.agwoodcare.co.uk Wellington Road, Waterloo Industrial Estate, Bidford on Avon, B50 4JH

“All things good for wood!”

AGW

To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

3

Useful phone numbers Doctors / Health

Alcester Health Centre Arrow Lodge Surgery Bidford Health Centre NHS Direct Samaritans

Hospitals

Redditch Hospital Stratford Hospital Warwick Hospital

Emergency

Emergency services Alcester Police BT Fault Electric power loss Gas Emergency

Others

Alcester library Bidford Library Citizens’ Advice Bureau Electrician Funeral Services Locksmith Plumber/Heating Plumber/Heating Plumber/Heating Volunteer Drivers

Schools

Alcester Academy Alcester Grammar St Benedict’s High Bidford-on-Avon Primary Coughton Primary Dunnington Primary Great Alne Primary Haselor Primary Our Lady’s Primary Salford Priors Primary St Nicholas Primary Temple Grafton Primary

Councils

Alcester Town Council Bidford Parish Council Stratford Dist Council

Welcome

... to the October Connection.

It’s my favourite time of year. With fair skin, hayfever and ginger genes, summer is lovely in principle but never 763060 destined to be my best friend. Autumn, however, with its 763293 knitted jumpers, crunchy leaf-jumping welly boot walks, 773372 comforting stews with dumplings, and hot puddings with 111 PLENTY of custard will win me over year on year. This is 08457 909090 no time to hibernate, though, as there’s still lots of fun to be had out and about in our charming part of the world.

So, deep breath... here’s what we’ve got in store for you 01527 503030 this edition...

205831 There’s a recipe for warming vegetarian comfort food (p.

01926 495321 10), a trip to Vatican City (p. 44), a review of a bright, shiny new Renault Clio (p. 34) and advice on what to look for in gardening tools (p. 20).

999 or 112 We take a look at what’s happening at Coughton Court 444816 now summer is over (p. 48), there’s information on the 08008 00151 Alcester 10k, Rotary Big Breakfasts, Alcester Food Festival 08004 04090 and Artisan Market, as well as plenty of other events and 08001 11999 meetings in Community Events & What’s On (p. 56 & 58).

Are you (or do you know of) a student from Bidford area who has started university or college this September? Then 0300 555 8171 turn to page 59 to find out how you can apply to receive a 773239 grant to help to buy those expensive text books.

0844 855 2322 As well as all of that, our Community Focus returns to take 07771 616189 a look at the Bidford Area Community Choir and the concert 766750 they’ll be performing in November (p 46).

762450 Don’t forget that the clocks go back on Sunday 30th 766200 October. An extra hour in bed for all of those parents 270744 exhausted by the previous week’s half term break (Monday 01386 871777 24th - Friday 28th)! And, of course, Hallowe’en on Monday 763117 31st.

762285 762494 762888 773201 762444 772200 488247 488211 762555 772497 762578 772384

766084 778653 267575

And, before I forget, congratulations to the winners of last month’s £50 vouchers, J. Escott and N. Short! We hope you enjoy spending them with Mavericks and Sacred Life.

Amy Facebook.com/theconnectionmag Twitter.com/connection_mag Connnection circulation 7,550 Editor: Amy James Phone 01789 491005 Email: info@connectionmags.co.uk www.connectionmags.co.uk Printed by Warwick Printing Ltd 01926 883355 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 an advert. All artwork is accepted on the strict condition that permission has been given for use in the publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. The Connection Magazine does not officially 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 the prior consent of the publisher.

barton web design company T: 07534 112899 E: shaun@bartonwebdesigncompany.co.uk www.bartonwebdesigncompany.co.uk

Stylish, affordable websites One-to-one service

THE COTTAGE OF CONTENT COUNTRY PUB

Christmas Menu available all through December.

Book now to avoid disappointment.

SUPERB CLASSIC PUB MENU CASK MARQUE ALES AMPLE CAR PARKING GREAT RANGE OF CIDERS KIDS’ PLAY AREA SENIOR CITIZENS’ LUNCH SPECIALS

barton village fund charity race night Friday 30th september 8-11pm

tickets £5 in advance from the pub or £6 on the day

HALLOWEEN & BONFIRE NIGHT Saturday 29th October 6pm

Bonfire lit at 7pm • Fireworks from 7.30pm Hot food • Bar • Live bands

Welford Road, Barton, Nr Bidford on Avon, Warks, B50 4NP

www.cottageofcontent.com 01789 772279 • cofcontent@gmail.com • TheCottageofContent To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

5

1 Priory Road, Alcester, Warks, B49 5DX (off Globe Island) • 01789 766611 www.jacksonsjewellery.co.uk Open Tues - Sat 9.30am - 4pm

Sudoku

01789 400050

3 Swan Street, Alcester, B49 5DP

(answers on page 58)

Each row, column & 3x3 box must contain the numbers 1 to 9

Easy grid

6

connectionmags.co.uk

Not so easy grid

/theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

•

Looking for a new home for your family?

•

Speak to Jeremy McGinn & Co about selling your property...

The independent agent that’s giving their customers what they want – a SALE!

Get MOVING by talking to us today.

Free floor plans No withdrawal charges

NO SALE – NO CHARGE NO RISK

Competitive fees - DON’T choose your agent until you’ve spoken to us www. jeremymcginn.com

49 High Street, Alcester, Warkwickshire, B49 5AF 01789 868587

• • • • • • • •

Gifts and Terracotta Cookware

dawn@jeremymcginn.com

The MALT HOUSE BARN

Ladies Handbags Scarves Throws Candles Bowls Dishes Terracotta Casseroles Tagines in three sizes ... and much more at Great Prices!

Free and easy parking and relaxed shopping Open 10am to 4pm Tuesday to Saturday

Tel: 01789 778188

A warm welcome awaits you at your independent out of town Gift Shop

Welford Road, Barton, Nr Bidford on Avon, B50 4NP

To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

7

• Aga Servicing • Boiler installations • Boiler repairs • Boiler replacements • Boiler servicing • Central heating installations • Energy efficient advice • Heated towel rail fitting • Landlord safety certificates • Leaks • Pump repairs Tel: 01386 871777 Fax: 01386 871776

Linden Lea, Station Road, Harvington, Evesham, Worcestershire WR11 8NJ

email: info@glb-services.co.uk www.glb-services.co.uk

&

GAS, ELECTRIC, LPG Appliances, Cookers, Fires & Fire Surrounds

NATURAL GAS AND LPG BOILERS, CENTRAL HEATING AND BOILER CHANGE

ALL SIZES & ALL MAKES SUPPLIED

PLENTY OF FREE PARKING

services

Oil Fired Central Heating Specialists Installation, Service & Repairs, Aga C & Rayburn Servicing

Brought to you by your local independent family business Find us at:NEWLANDS GARDEN BUILDINGS, EVESHAM ROAD, NR. NORTON, EVESHAM, WR11 4TW

Tel: 01386 421700 or 01386 49579

Established 17 years and built on recommendation.

We are extremely competitive.

Challenge us to beat your existing quotes!

kitchens l bathrooms l bedrooms

bespoke, traditional and contemporary showroom T: 01789 491100

E: AandAKitchens@btconnect.com Units 1 & 2 Smallbrook Business Centre, Waterloo Ind, Est., Bidford on Avon, Warwickshire, B50 4JE

8

connectionmags.co.uk

www.aakitchens.co.uk OPENING HOURS Mon - Fri 8.30am to 5.00pm Saturday (by appointment only) 10am to 1pm

/theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

CLEANING & IRONING Unit 19, Weston Industrial Estate, Honeybourne, Worcs, WR11 7QB

01386 841899 Carpets • Vinyls Rugs • Carpet Edging Natural Flooring Flooring supplied and fitted. Choose from 100’s of samples in store or in the comfort of your own home.

Open Mon to Fri 10 - 5, Sat 10 - 1.30

info@grinnallcarpets.co.uk

www.grinnallcarpets.co.uk

Fully Insured • DBS Checked Hassle Free House Cleaning Services Ironing Service also provided from our Arden Industrial Estate unit.

For a fast, efficient and convenient service, call Fiona Lilly on

07796 992980.

Clean Shine and Buff with Fee Fee Fluff

www.alcestercleaners.co.uk • • • • • •

CHERRY PICKER HIRE CCTV CAMERA SURVEYS POWER SWEEPING BRUSH & VACUUM SWEEPS ROOF & CHIMNEY MAINTENANCE WOODBURNERS CLEANED & INSTALLED • BIRD GUARDS & COWLS FITTED • FULLY INSURED • FREE QUOTES

Pete Roderick

For all your Chimney & Flue requirements call

01789 766953 16 Henley Street, Alcester www.acleansweepmidlands.co.uk 07970 692817

To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

9

Sweet Potato & Chick Pea Curry Serves 4

Ready in 45 minutes

A quick and easy vegetarian dish full of Indian flavour. If you don’t have all the spices just use 1-2 tbsp medium curry paste. Serve with boiled basmati rice or warmed naan breads, if liked.

Ingredients: • 1 - 2 tbsp vegetable oil • 2 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed • 3cm piece fresh root ginger, peeled and grated • 1 large onion, peeled and chopped • 1 aubergine, cubed • 2 tsp ground cumin • 1 tsp ground turmeric • 2 tsp ground coriander • 1/2 tsp hot chilli powder • 3 medium-sized sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed

Heat the oil in a large deep frying pan and fry the garlic, ginger and onion over a medium heat for about 5 minutes until light golden.

Stir in the aubergine and fry for a further 2 minutes.

Add all the spices to the pan and cook, stirring, for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the sweet potatoes, the passata and 150ml water and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes or until the sweet potato is tender and the sauce has thickened.

• 1 tsp garam masala

Stir in the chick peas and garam masala and season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Simmer for a further few minutes. Serve in warmed bowls garnished with chopped coriander.

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

TIP

• Freshly chopped coriander, to garnish

For a chunkier sauce use a 400g can of chopped tomatoes and add 250ml water.

• 500g carton passata (sieved tomatoes) • 400g can chick peas, drained and rinsed

10 connectionmags.co.uk

/theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

Fortnightly sales throughout the year offering you a local service with a global reach Auction Dates in October: Saturday 8th & 22nd

Try us First!

If you are considering selling your Antiques, Artwork, Gold & Silver Jewellery, Porcelain etc, please consider us first. Our well publicised fortnightly auctions attract not only local buyers but, since our auctions are broadcast on the internet via the-saleroom.com, attracting live Auctioneer Martin Homer with Flog It! presenter internet bidding from buyers all over the world, Paul Martin at our 16th June sale, we can ensure the best possible price for your to be screened over several episodes later in the year. goods.

Our commission rates are very competitive and we pride ourselves on taking time to dress our auction room to display your items in the best possible way.

We are happy to give free auction estimates and we can also protect your items with a reserve price. We also pay our vendors proceeds after 2 weeks (many other auction rooms take longer to settle).

FOR LIVE INTERNET BIDDING VISIT: the-saleroom.com

Call: 01386 244379

www.littletonauctions.com

Please call us for an informal chat if you would like to discuss entering your Antiques into one of our sales.

School Lane, Middle Littleton, Nr Evesham, Worcs, WR11 8LN

Professional Secretary & Administrator Competitive Rates WORK CARRIED OUT AT MY HOME OFFICE OR AT YOUR PREMISES (ALCESTER ONLY)

• • • • • • • • • •

Copy Typing Audio Transcription Proof Reading Text Editing Data Input Invoice Production Email Distribution Travel Arrangements Diary Management Meeting Organisation

To discuss your requirements please contact: 01789 764819 • 07502 332625 annethornton292@btinternet.com

12 connectionmags.co.uk

/theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

this festive season…

– Develop or continue your career in customer service – Advanced accredited training – Regular coaching – Excellent career progression

– Work with a highly recognised brand – Performance Incentives – Fun working environment – Meet new people

Christmas Customer Services Representatives for one of the UK’s leading retailers We are looking to grow our team of exceptional Customer Advisors this festive period.

Initially being offered on a fixed term basis with the very real opportunity to become a permanent member of the team.

We love our customers and will go out of our way to help them, whether they need a replacement loyalty card or are looking for the perfect Christmas Hamper.

Apply today At Sitel we are proud to support this leading retailer and we place our people at centre stage. We’re one of the world’s leading outsourcing companies specialising in customer contact centres.

If you’d like to join us and represent one of the UK’s leading retailers, then apply here. sitel.com/careers sitel.com/careers

SitelUK

stratfordjobs@sitel stratfordjobs@sitel

@SitelUK @SitelUK

01789 277 01789 277045045

SitelUK

We are known for our exceptional standard of service - a standard we continually strive to achieve for our customers by always going that extra mile.

We’re looking for people that are: • Passionate about delivering the best customer service • Great communicators • Computer literate • Excellent written skills • Proactive and always want to know and do more!

Lifespace Speaks The tide rushed towards him, like a ravenous animal. He persisted. Dig. Dig. Every second was precious as the spade flexed under the weight of sand. DigDigDig. Just keep digging. He glanced up. Was it all worth it? All the effort? CRASH! WHOOSH! Another relentless wave thrust water up the shore and along the channels.

That’s when he stood and laughed. The joy of his work was complete. Five years old and he had successfully hand-crafted a complex (well... random) system of moats on the beach. He had dug deep and earned his sense of satisfaction as the tide swelled the valleys of sand. Job done.

I wonder if my son’s playful outbursts on the beach with a trusty plastic spade will instil any sense of tenacity. Will that ‘never-say-die’ spirit, against a tidal onslaught, somehow translate to the class-room? Will it still be there when he faces his GCSEs in years to come? As moatdigging and sand castle-constructing are replaced by quadrilateral equations and conjugating the verb Être. I wonder... What will help keep his tenacity alive?

The illuminating work of Dr. Carol Dweck has really caught the eye of many schools over recent years. Dweck compares two mindsets - a fixed mindset (which wants to look smart, so avoids challenges and gives up easily) and a growth mindset (which is keen to learn, so persists in the face of setbacks and reflects on criticism). Dweck draws on numerous examples to distinguish between these two subtle drivers of behaviour, including how a perceived genius like Mozart didn’t just come up with the musical goods but laboured for ten years before producing anything remarkable. Thomas Edison, inventor of the lightbulb, had a team of thirty helpers and in his

"DIGGING DEEP"

childhood was forever tinkering with things. (I can imagine his mum yelling, ‘Tom, just leave that alone will you?’) Ironically Edison didn’t have a lightbulb moment, the world-changing invention was the product of multiple reiterations. Not as glamorous, but true.

Scores on the doors?

Teamwork and Tinkering FC 1:0 Genius From Birth United.

“Britain’s Got...A Growth Mindset”? Ok, I admit it’s not as catchy as a name for a TV programme but it could be interesting viewing.

Where tinkering (like Edison) and bum notes (like Mozart) are applauded. Or at least the tenacious intention behind them. A shift from Outcomes to Process.

Yes, I yearn for the day when Digging Deep is just cool. Where failing doesn’t equate to shame.

Where honest mistakes are cheered as proof of effort. Where the word ‘yet’ becomes addictive.

I can’t do it...yet. I don’t know how...yet. I’ve not understood...yet. The word Yet sings with such hope. When, through the repetitive cycle of effort, enquiry and experimentation, cultivating a ‘growth mindset’ becomes as joy-drenched as a day out at the seaside.

We - parents, teachers, tinkerers alike - can each play our part in modelling to the next generation of young people that what we truly create and contribute is the product of our thinking, not our genes or lottery ticket numbers. Learning never sleeps.

So as the next tide of possibility approaches, grab your spade and play with whatever life gives you.

Chris Spriggs, founder Lifespace Trust

You’re invited to support our mentoring work with local young people – Visit www.lifespace.org.uk and click ‘Help Us’ or call us on 01789 297400.

A gift of £3 a month gives a young person facing distress an hour of quality attention and help.

Human contact: 01789 297400

@_lifespace

‘Lifespace Trust’

Holistic Therapies available Colon Hydrotherapy Kinesiology Dowsing Hypno Healing Angel Card Readings Crystal and Spiritual Healing

• • • • • •

Weddings Birthday Parties Children’s Parties Christenings Anniversaries Hen Nights Get in touch now for your spooky

Halloween displays

Call: 01386 41015

01789 774030

92A High Street,Bidford on Avon,B50 4AF

www.valeballoons.co.uk

Mavericks Hair & Beauty & Barbers

You deserve it

Meet Jess,

Mavericks new Beauty Therapist

The New Beauty Room

expands Mavericks Beauty offerings and allows us to offer other complementary beauty services.

50% discount on

ALL

Beauty Treatments in October!

Promotional discount only with Jess

Only 15 minutes from Redditch

Priory Road, Alcester, B49 5DY

Down the road from

Waitrose

www.maverickshair.co.uk

01789 766222 or 766333

To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

15

Meat, Poultry, Game, Fish, Dairy, Pig Roast, Veggie Treats, Wines, Beers, Ciders, Prepared Foods, Preserves and much more.

Autumn Food Festival Saturday 15th October 2016 - 9am to 5pm Alcester High Street, Church Street and Henley Street

Food Festival Dates for 2017 Saturday 20th May | Saturday 21st October

Free Park & Ride with Dudley’s Coaches from Adams Way (Off Arden Road B4089), Arden Forest Ind Estate & return.

For more information visit our website at www.alcesterfoodfestival.org.uk Telephone: 07707 469649

16 connectionmags.co.uk

/theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

Meadow Lane Bakery

70 High Street, Bidford on Avon, Warks, B50 4AB

01789 778005 Traditional Bakery & Tea Room

LOCALLY SOURCED HIGH QUALITY MEAT H O M AV E AI DE LA LI BL VE E! RY

SUPPLYING LOCAL RESTAURANTS & VILLAGES

All types of Breads, Cakes, Sandwiches and Drinks to take out SPECIALITY BREADS FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS

Halloween Goodies in our shop from 1st week in October

High Street, Bidford on Avon B50 4AB

01789 773673

Made to Measure Kitchens Kitchens

At Steven James Kitchens Ltd we specialise in making, supplying and fitting beautiful and functional kitchens from our workshop based in Alcester.

• • • • • • • •

Complimentary 3D Design Service Beautiful Painted Kitchens Stunning Handleless Kitchens All Kitchens Made to Measure Kitchens to Suit all Budgets Full Project Management Supply Only Available Trade Partnerships Welcome

01789 508085 or visit our website www.stevenjameskitchens.co.uk 17 Arden Business Centre, Arden Forest Industrial Estate, Alcester, B49 6HW

To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

17

The Greig Lifestyles Kinwarton Road Alcester, B49 6AD 01789 400073

www.thegreig.org.uk

ÂŁ19.99 per month | free small group training | free off-peak sports | personal training | classes

I CAN I WILL

stylish corner Ladies hairdressing Tel: 01789 763052

1 Church Street, Alcester

Up-to-date styling

S C

Traditional & Friendly Family Jewellers Specialists in Antique, Vintage & Pre-Owned Jewellery.

Wedding hair Unique Pieces. All Jewellery, Watch & Clock Repairs professionally undertaken.

Over 50 years experience.

The Jewellers in the Alley.

3 Market Place, Alcester, B49 5AE

T: 01789 763715 W: www.bonnersjewellers.co.uk

For all your heating and plumbing needs...

Call us on 01789 766200 www.agsgaslimited.co.uk To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

19

Tools Of The Trade

by Pippa Greenwood

Autumn is well and truly here. There is plenty to do in the garden and if you want to make jobs as easy and speedy as possible, it is essential that you have the right equipment. Whether you are just out to buy a few new tools or are setting up a selection of equipment for the first time, it really does pay to choose the right things in the first place.

What you choose is going to depend to an extent on how often you are likely to do any one job and on the size and type of garden you have. It really is worth buying as good a quality garden tool as possible.

Poorly made and badly designed tools can work out a lot more expensive (and frustrating!) in the long run, so start with a few good ones and build up gradually.

Try handling any gardening tools before you buy them, so that you can ensure that they are the right size and weight for you and that the handles are comfortable to

20 connectionmags.co.uk

hold.

If the tools do carry a guarantee then make sure that you keep the receipt and any relevant label from the tool itself or else it may well be difficult to prove precisely when you bought it.

A good quality fork and spade are essential and they need to be sturdily built if they are to do jobs such as digging, turning over soil and so forth. The neck and head of the spade should be moulded from one piece of metal for added strength.

The shaft is usually constructed from wood or metal and make sure that it is firmly attached at both the head end and the handle. Some traditionalstyle garden tools may have wooden handles but most now have D-shaped plastic handles. Choose forks and blades whose metal parts have been treated to prevent rust.

A hand fork and trowel

/theconnectionmag

are essential for smaller jobs such as weeding or gardening in confined spaces, and they are also great for moving and dividing smaller plants, for planting bulbs and for mixing up small amounts of compost. These are a tool where it is definitely worth feeling the handle to ensure that that the grip is comfortable.

Most garden centres offer stainless steel or coated steel garden tools.

Stainless steel does not rust and many people find they move through the soil better, but the price is usually considerably higher.

Coated steel tools are much cheaper and provided you keep them clean and oil them at the end of each season and periodically throughout the year, they last well.

A hoe is useful for weeding between small and established plants and for aerating the surface of the soil. Keep your Contd on Page 22

@connection_mag

Gates & Railings

JD LANDSCAPE & GROUNDWORK CONTRACTORS

by Phil

I make gates and railings

Driveways Patios Fencing & decking

Drainage Footings Oversites

For a free quote please call James 07976 646140 or Steve 07789 325879

www.jdlandscapeandgroundwork.co.uk

All colours available, made to order.

Low cost fitting service available.

Please call me on 07747 032583 or email gatesbyphil@gmail.com to discuss your requirements.

Working in the local area for 25 years www.gatesbyphil.co.uk

01789 774704 07967 506920 LAWN MOWING • GRASS CUTTING • HEDGE TRIMMING • AUTUMN LEAF CLEARING • CHAINSAW CARVINGS

圀椀渀琀攀爀 栀愀渀最椀渀最 戀愀猀欀攀琀猀 愀渀搀 戀攀搀搀椀渀最 瀀氀愀渀琀猀 愀瘀愀椀氀愀戀氀攀 渀漀眀⸀ 䄀氀氀 瀀氀愀渀琀猀 最爀漀眀渀 漀渀 猀椀琀攀Ⰰ 氀愀爀最攀 猀攀氀攀挀琀椀漀渀Ⰰ 挀漀洀瀀攀琀椀琀椀瘀攀 瀀爀椀挀攀猀Ⰰ 漀爀搀攀爀猀 眀攀氀挀漀洀攀⸀

To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

21

hoe sharpened at regular intervals and it will last for ages and slide rapidly and easily through the soil. Most hoes have a 1.5 metre (5 foot) or longer shaft which is comfortable for most gardeners to use. However, if you are very tall, then longer ones may be available from some manufacturers. My favourite is the SpeedHoe, UK designed and with an unusual almost heartshaped head with a blade running around all edges and a pronged rear, making it the easiest and most effective hoe I’ve ever used.

A spring-tined rake is really useful because it has thin flexible wire tines which

22 connectionmags.co.uk

make it perfect for raking up lightweight debris and fallen leaves or, of course, lawnmower clippings.

A garden rake can also be used to rake up leaves although the job is slightly harder, but its main use is to break up lumps of soil and help you to create a fine level area for sowing seed, whilst at the same time removing stones, lumps and other debris. You can then use the head of the rake to help level off the soil.

If you plan to grow vegetables, then a small hoe known as an onion hoe is an invaluable tool and allows you to weed quickly and easily, even between fairly closely spaced crops.

/theconnectionmag

You can also use it to weed in amongst ornamental plants of course. For really tight spaces and weeding between paving, and in gravel in asparagus beds etc, I’m addicted to my SpeedWeeder, a small redhandled tool l which is the best I have used for hoiking out dandelion roots in one piece too!

Visit Pippa’s website www. pippagreenwood.com and book Pippa for a gardening talk or peruse the really useful selection of Pippa’s favourite gardening items including Nemaslug to control slugs, pop-up crop covers, SpeedHoes, SpeedWeeders, pull-out EasyTunnels, biocontrols for vine weevils, leatherjackets and chafergrubs, signed books and lots more.

@connection_mag

Violas, Patiolas, Polyanthus, Sweet Williams, Daisy Bellis, Winter Pansies - all Home Grown

NEW

AN S P G N

I

IL - TRA

IES

Hanging Baskets, Patio Plants, Heathers & Grasses Trees, Shrubs, Roses & Perennials Fresh Cut Flowers & Bouquets National Garden Gift Vouchers Available Seeds from

Evesham Rd (A441), Cookhill Alcester, Warks, B49 5JR Tel: 01527 894 111 www.ridgewaynurseries.co.uk Open Mon-Sat: 9-5.30, Sun: 10-4

To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

23

FENCING Andrew Smith

No job too small or big 30 years experience Mobile 07789 721303 Home 01386 793248 Based in Inkberrow thesmiths@mearselane.co.uk www.inkberrowservices.co.uk

THE AWARD WINNING THE AWARD WINNING AWARD WINNING FEATURED STALLS

1 S T S U N D A Y O F T H E MO N T H

10am - 4PM

HANDMADE / craftS / artists / COLLECTIBLES / craftS / artists / COLLECTIBLES vintage / FINE FOODS / BESPOKE GIFTS / ANTIQUES / live m RISING STAR vintage / FINE FOODS / BESPOKE GIFTS / ANTIQUES / liveAWARDED music trade.cotswoldmarkets@gmail.com in Association with ALCESTER COMMUNITY vintage / FINE TRUST FOODS / BESPOKE GIFTS / ANTIQUES / live music

High Street, Alcester, Warwickshire,HANDMADE B49 5AB Stall enquiries: 01386 840138 supported by

ALCESTER CHAMBER OF TRADE & COMMERCE

24 connectionmags.co.uk

/theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

The Golden Cross Country Inn & Dining House, Ardens Grafton FOOD THAT IS FRESHLY PREPARED & SOURCED FROM THE BEST QUALITY LOCAL SUPPLIERS

À La Carte • Pub Classics Specials Board • Starters Sharing Boards • Sandwiches Sunday Lunch

‘APPLE DAY’ is back on Saturday 1st October from 1pm!

Bring your own apples and help press them into apple juice.

Cider making information, Live music from 7pm, Pig roast, Kids' activities, Competitions: ‘Best Homemade Alcoholic Beverage’, ‘Best Homemade Cake’, ‘Best Homemade Biscuits’ and ‘Best Homemade Apple Product’.

Entries to be in before 4pm on the day.

All produce sold off for Acorns Children’s Hospice.

The Golden Cross, Wixford Road, Ardens Grafton, Warks, B50 4LG

Tel: 01789 772420

www.thegoldencross.net

To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

25

Bidford Pharmacy 1177 H Q BQ B5500 44B Biiddffoorrdd oonn AAvvoonn,, B Hiigghh SSttrreeeett,, B

 0011778899 777722443333 w ww ww w..bbiiddffoorrddpphhaarrm maaccyy..ccoo..uukk

Your Local Community Pharmacy

OPENING HOURS

Monday-Friday 9am–6pm Saturday 9am–1pm

Seasonal flu can be really serious.

Getting a flu jab can protect you all winter Talk to our pharmacy team for advice and to book your flu vaccination appointment The vaccination helps protect against the seasonal flu virus Our convenient service enables you to book an appointment at a time of your choosing throughout the winter months  the NHS service is FREE for eligible patients  OR you may purchase a private flu vaccination [£10 per jab] MEDICINE USE REVIEW NEW MEDICINE SUPPORT STOP SMOKING SUPPORT EMERGENCY HORMONE CONTRACEPTION 26 connectionmags.co.uk

/theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

Family dentistry from the friendly, caring team • • • •

General and cosmetic dentistry Tooth whitening Private home visits for those with limited mobility New patients welcome

Situated in the heart of the village: 11 Church Street, Bidford on Avon, B50 4DA

01789 772 897

www.bidforddental.co.uk

BIDFORD HARDWARE

The Local Computer “Doctor” Over 15 years working in the local area fixing computer problems for home & business.

- No job too small - Home visits and lessons - Remote repair if possible.

To get your computer healthy again call Steve Harris

01789 - 490543 07977 - 599582

SALFORD PRIORS MEMORIAL HALL for your special event

01789 772324

Tools • Ironmongers Paints & Accessories Calor Gas Supplies Household Fuels Gardening Needs Office Stationery & Cards Pet Care • Wool All Household Supplies Dry Cleaners & Alterations LOCAL DELIVERY SERVICE Fancy goods and a selection of gifts for all occasions. You are always welcome to have a look around.

84 High Street, Bidford on Avon, B50 4AD

• Parties of up to 180 • Patio area • Meeting rooms • Large car park • Stage • Well appointed kitchen

Special rates for children’s parties and regular groups

For bookings and enquiries please call 01789 778940 or email patdare2003@yahoo.co.uk /salfordpriorsmemorialhall School Road, Salford Priors, WR11 8XD

To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

27

PANTO PRESS & FAMILY FUN AFTERNOON Saturday 8 October - 1:30 - 3:30pm

The cast will all be present and dressed in costume Interviews with the cast 1.30-2.30

• Aladdin tattoos • Aladdin bouncy castle • Colouring competition for kids Guess the sweets in the jar• Café • Genie fortune telling For full details and the latest news on all our shows please visit our website

www.stratfordartshouse.co.uk

28 connectionmags.co.uk

/theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

29

Answers on page 58

Tรณra Wilson Music Academy

Singing lessons for all ages, styles and abilities with enthusiastic, fully qualified teacher, available in Stratford on Avon and Bidford on Avon.

LOOKING FOR A TUTOR?

I am an experienced teacher, Cert Ed, CRB, offering 1-1 support for English (Basic skills in Reading, Writing and all aspects of Literacy) KS 1, 2 and 3

For fees and advice please call Angie Gowan:

07809 174670

M u s i c Tu i t i o n

100% pass rate for Trinity and Associated Board of Music Examinations

Andrew Swinn

For further details please contact:

MA, ARCM, ARCO

07834 324 969

Piano, Music Theory, Exam Accompaniment

TWMusicAcademy@hotmail.com

01789 763 954

Computer Trouble-shooter Graham Smith For Domestic and Business Users

Classes for children & adults:

* Local (Bidford)

* Reliable

* Reasonable rates

* PCs

* Laptops

* Virus Problems

* Internet & email

* Printers

* How-to tuition

Call 07771 724697 or 01789 774719 or email graham_n_smith@btinternet.com

at Memorial Hall, Salford Priors Tuesdays & Thursdays 5pm

NO FIX, NO FEE

NEW Classes in Bidford on Avon

German & French

at St Laurence's Church Room Starting Monday 3 October with Registration/Information from 4-5pm For information please phone

07946 475980

Find us on Facebook

GCSE & A-Level Revision Informal conversation/lessons for adults & children with an experienced teacher/tutor

07999 337172 hvschooloflanguages@gmail.com

To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

31

DISCO LOC Hayles Fruit Farm ,Winchcombe

Coln Valley Smokery, Northleach

Rose Hamson Flowers, Bid

Salford Road, Bidford on Avon B50 4AW Tel: 01789 773352

warnersbudgens.co.uk

WarnersBudgens

@warnersbudgens

COVER OCAL La Parisienne, Tewkesbury

wers, Bidford on Avon

Fatherson Bakery, Alcester

£5 OFF

WHEN YOU SPEND £40 IN STORE

To the customer: Redeemable at Warner’s Budgens Bidford on Avon, Broadway and Moreton-in-Marsh only. Only one coupon will be accepted per transaction, and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. The offers excludes tobacco, infant formula, e-top up, fuel, concessions (Post Office), stamps and National & Health Lottery. Photocopies are no acceptable. Offer only valid if presented with this coupon. £40 must be spent in one transaction. Valid until 31st October 2016.

Motoring

By James Baggott

Renault Clio dCi 110 Dynamique S Nav

Renault’s Clio has previously been seen as the teenager that refused to grow up. However, with the model celebrating its 25th birthday this year and the French carmaker introducing a host of new styling and design cues, could this be the most mature Clio yet?

We head to Bordeaux to test out the Clio dCi 110 Dynamique S Nav and find out.

What is it?

This is Renault’s facelifted fourth-generation Clio. Originally launched back in 2012, the model has been upgraded both aesthetically and mechanically.

The latter comes in the form of a new diesel powertrain – the 1.5-litre dCi 110 diesel, previously seen in Nissan’s Qashqai – and the option of a manual transmission coupled with the pre-existing TCe 120 petrol engine.

Renault has poured a lot of resources into the styling of the new Clio, which will lead the way for the rest of its range to

34 connectionmags.co.uk

be updated. A new grille, reprofiled bumpers and a cleverly designed LED light signature feature on the exterior of the car, while C-shaped daytime running lights can also be specified on certain models.

While the cabin may appear disarmingly similar to prefacelift Clios, a closer look reveals that quality has improved significantly, with new upholstery, matt chrome trim and soft-touch materials – no more scratchy plastics to be found here.

With the option of 30 different colour combinations, five roof decals, and four exterior customisation packs, it’s little wonder that the model has been dubbed ‘the most stylish Clio yet’.

What’s under the bonnet?

The pokey dCi 110 diesel powerplant is linked to a sixspeed manual gearbox, which puts 108bhp through its front wheels. Reaching 60mph from a standstill takes 11.19 seconds,

/theconnectionmag

while the model tops out at 121mph.

The diesel engine produces the typical grunting noise, which is particularly noticeable when the car is at idle or moving slowly, but fades to an indistinct hum at 3,000 revs. The dCi 110 returns an impressive 80.7mpg, while emitting just 90g/km CO2.

What’s the spec like?

Spec on the £17,755 dCi 110 Dynamique S Nav is extensive, with an updated sound and infotainment system with Bose speakers and the new R-link connectivity system featuring as standard.

However, the new diesel engine is only available in this top-level trim, meaning that drivers looking to spend less are left with the option of one of the preexisting powertrains.

The basic spec Clio starts from £10,495, meaning the range includes both affordable and high-end (for the B-segment) options.

Contd on Page 36

@connection_mag

Collection & Delivery

Highly qualified technicians

AUTO SERVICES

tv aerial & satellite installations • • • • • • • • •

Digital TV Aerials Satellite Dish Installations Sky Distribution Systems Additional TV Points Repairs & Upgrades Freeview HD & Freesat HD FM & DAB Aerials TV Tuning & Setting Up TV Wall Mounting

Free Quotations and Advice Call Pete on 01789 764118 or 07761 348755 www.chartel.co.uk pete@chartel.co.uk

VEHICLE CARE AND REPAIR 01789 765677 - 07952 000860

Why pay main dealer prices?

NEVER OPEN YOUR BONNET? FREE FORECOURT CHECK!

EXTERNAL LIGHTS

UNDER BONNET LEVELS

TYRE PRESSURES

PEACE OF MIND ALL MAKES & MODELS • SERVICE & REPAIR • MOT PEUGEOT - CITROEN - DS SPECIALIST ELECTRIC & HYBRID VEHICLES SERVICED BOSCH SYSTEMS • SIEMENS TYRES • EXHAUSTS • BRAKES • WELDING ALLOY WHEELS REFURBISHED BREAKDOWN ASSISTANCE 26 Arden Business Centre, Arden Rd, Alcester, B49 6HW

To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

35

Any rivals?

Unfortunately for the Clio, the Bsegment isn’t a sparse market.

It is packed with affordable rival superminis including the DS3, Citroen C4 Cactus and Ford’s Fiesta. Drivers wanting a more premium experience can opt for the Audi A1, and try as it might, Renault’s updated model proves no match for this German hatch.

What’s it like to drive?

The Clio has been lengthened and widened, which alongside a sportier appearance and increased cabin space, delivers better handling. New polyurethane suspension bump stops and a quicker steering rack give the car improved agility and body control, but not enough to make the drive markedly different to its predecessor.

The 108bhp engine is powerful enough to allow the small car to dart around, and a spread of

torque across the revs means it can accelerate with ease in any gear.

The stop/start feature, which comes as standard on a number of the Clio grades, is easy to get along with and doesn’t cut out at unfortunate moments - as it does in some of the Clio’s Bsegment competitors.

A driver-activated Ecomode, which is standard on the Dynamique Nav model and above, can reportedly improve fuel economy by up to 12%.

Verdict Renault claims to have developed the B-segment hatch into something much more versatile and mature than its predecessor. However, with the new diesel powertrain only available in the top-spec model, we can’t help but feel that the carmaker is shoehorning itself into the more upmarket end of

the segment.

This facelift does well to refresh the product and keep it relevant amongst constantly improving competitors.

But with 13 million units sold worldwide since it was launched in 1991, and 12,589 sold in the UK alone between January and June this year, we very much doubt the Clio will be going out of fashion any time soon.

The Knowledge Model: Renault Clio dCi 110 Dynamique S Nav Price: £17,755 Engine: Four cylinder, 1.5 dCi 110 Power: 108bhp 0-60mph: 11.19secs Max speed: 121mph Economy: 80.7mpg Emissions: 90g/km

Waterloo Road, Bidford on Avon

“Committed to offering an honest, quality service and repair to all makes of vehicle”

MOT’s £45

Air Conditioning recharges from £45

36 connectionmags.co.uk

For Service bookings & MoT Testing, phone 01789 773733 or 773200 /theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

CAR SERVICES LTD

All makes and models at very competitive prices

SPECIAL OFFERS

Free Fluid check with all MOT’s Free Brake Safety Check All offers subject to vehicle, most vehicles included

Interim Service • BRAKES • SERVICING • DIAGNOSTICS £99 inc VAT • REPAIRS • EXHAUSTS • BATTERIES Full Service • WELDING • AIR CON • TYRE SALES £180 inc VAT • HEAD GASKETS AND MUCH MORE Free Courtesy cars available upon request

(subject to availability) MOT’s £29.95 0 1 7 8 9 4 0 0 8 4 8

Free re-test within 10 days

Arden Forest Ind. Estate, Find Arden Road, Alcester, us at...

Warwickshire, B49 6HN Opening Hours: Monday Friday 8:30 Sat: to 5:30 Mon - Fri:- 8.30 - 5.30; 9.00 - 1.00

To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

37

Back of the Net

With the new season over a month old, it’s about time I was given space. I was considering whether to rename this column “Jumpers for Goalposts” to fit more with my thoughts about how the beautiful game is ‘progressing’ (not to mention the photo above).

With all of the technology available to the game’s governing bodies the men in suits still seem incapable of seeing, after numerous video playbacks, what fans all over the world see at first hand.

Don’t get me wrong, I love the game of football.

When it is played fairly and within the rules of the game. But rules is rules and they are being broken to pieces in every game, with little or no punishment handed out to players and clubs alike.

I was rather hoping that the new season might

38 connectionmags.co.uk

Early rant and predictions

see less diving, shirt pulling, complaining to referees, etc, etc... It seems the FA and others are happy to let players and clubs cheat and just to blame referees for inconsistency.

OK, early season rant over.

My league predictions for this season after only a handful of games: Manchester to win the league (probably City); Burnley and Sunderland for the drop (sorry Sunderland, Big Sam’s busy now), with any one of a number of others, including (unfortunately) West Brom.

Newcastle are looking good to bounce straight back and their recent hammering of QPR must fill them with confidence, while Birmingham currently look the more likely of the local sides to make a promotion challenge from the Championship.

Coventry have had an awful start to the season in Division 1 and any confidence can only come from their four early draws.

Not a good start for the locals! Here’s hoping for a better report next month! ... Back of the net!

/theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

Lifeguard Computer Care For Home & Small Business

contact Mark any time on 07981 158 507 visit website for client comments

lifeguardcomputercare.weebly.com Alcester based since 2009

Painter & Decorator

Interior and Exterior BRIAN SMITH

Call 01789 772077 or 07790 087219 for a free estimate

VEHICLE SCRATCH & SCUFF REPAIRS

Bumper & Wing Mirror Scuffs Paintwork Scratches Leather & Vinyl Repairs Alloy Wheel Refurbishment Paintless Dent Removal Vehicle Graphics We come to you at work or home ’s OAP nt u o Disc able l i a Av Call STEVE for a FREE, no obligation quote

07701 053640 or 01789 774700 www.wizard-on-wheels.co.uk

To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

39

Warwickshire Ebay Sellers targeted by Fraudsters Warwickshire Trading Standards has received a number of complaints from sellers on Ebay that they have become victims of fraud. In one case an Ebay seller was advertising sports equipment. The equipment was purchased and paid for using PayPal. They were then collected in person by the buyer. Some time later the seller then received an email from PayPal stating that a chargeback was being made and the payment for the equipment was being removed from their (the sellers) account.

The reason given by PayPal was that the buyer had claimed they had not received the goods, despite having collected them and telling the seller that he was happy with his purchase.

To further cover his tracks, the purchaser had claimed that he was experiencing problems with his Paypal account. This is an example of chargeback fraud. Fraudsters purchase goods on Ebay and other auction websites and pay using PayPal. As soon as they have received the goods they claim they were never sent and seek to get their money back via a Paypal chargeback, leaving the seller without his/her goods and payment. Sellers can help protect themselves by shipping to a confirmed address using a trackable service. Fraudsters will seek to target sellers who send their goods via untracked services or try to collect the goods in person. Sellers are strongly advised to send high value items via recorded delivery. If the buyer is collecting the goods, consider asking for payment in cash on collection. Sellers should also scrutinise the buyer’s feedback carefully, to see if there is any previous evidence of chargeback activity, especially before sending high value items. Make a scam/rogue trader complaint to Trading Standards via Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 03454 040506.

Sign up to scam alerts at www.warwickshire. gov.uk/scams Door to door rogue fish sellers warning Stratford upon Avon and South Warwickshire residents are warned to beware of rogue traders selling fish and shellfish door to door in the local area. Reports have been received that the sellers were using high pressure/ aggressive selling techniques. These are not local traders with regular rounds. These fish sellers load up often un-refrigerated vans with fish from ports many miles away before driving them to other areas to sell. The experience of Trading Standards is that fish sold in this way

by rogue doorstep sellers is often misdescribed (cheaper fish sold as more expensive species), overpriced and not properly weighed, leaving consumers to pay over the odds. The fish may not even be edible.

The next meeting of NHW Alcester will be held on Wednesday 26 October 2016 at 7.30pm at St Nicholas Church House. Contact details: nhwalcester@gmail.com or telephone Dorrie Manders on 01789 762999 Communicating with the Police Emergencies dial 999.

Report a crime or serious incident 01926 415000.

Stratford Police Station 01789 414111.

101 is the national police non-emergency number in England and Wales which diverts to your local Police. Calls cost 15 pence per call (landlines and mobiles) no matter how long a member of the public is on the phone.

General enquiries: Alcester library now has a ‘Police Contact Point’ during library opening times.

Call Crimestoppers anonymously with information about crime on 0800 555 111.

Crimestoppers is a charity that will pass on information to police without revealing any details of the caller.

Alcester South Safer Neighbourhood Team dial 101 or 01789 444816.

Please feel free to contact the team direct: Email: alcestersouth.snt@warwickshire.pnn. police.uk.

To leave a Voice Mail (VM) message tel 01789 444816.

PS 542 Bob Shaw (Team Sergeant) 01789 444815.

PC Richard Lambert (Beat Manager) Mobile: 07979704373.

Rebecca.morris@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk Mobile: 07979 704373.

James.squire@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk Mobile: 07979 704373.

Thomas.bagg@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk Mobile: 07979 704373.

Contact Warwickshire Trading Standards 01926 414040 to report a suspect rogue trader. For general advice on scams and rogue traders contact 0345 4040 506. For access to latest information on scams go to www.warwickshire. gov.uk/tradingstandards or www.warwickshire. gov.uk/scams You can also report a fraud to Action Fraud on: 0300 123 2040 or visit: www.actionfraud.police.uk.

Alcester is a relatively crime free area. We work together to keep it that way /theconnectionmag @connection_mag 40 connectionmags.co.uk

Evesham Self

STORAGE AT BLACKMINSTER 24 HOUR DIRECT ACCESS

8ft x 10ft Unit

8ft x 20ft Unit

ONLY

ONLY

£65 £120 per Month

per Month

Ideal for:- Personal Property, Furniture, Commercial Goods, Builders Materials, Archive & more!

24/7 ACCESS... SURPLUS STOCK... CREDIT CARDS TAKEN... AVAILABLE NOW!

HOUSEMOVES... DE-CLUTTER... ARCHIVE... SHORT/LONG TERM... CCTV...

Secure Storage Units

FOR ALL ENQUIRIES CALL

FOR ALL ENQUIRIES CALL

01386 834422 01386 9111 834422 47 or 07538 911147 www.blackminster.uk.com Now on Facebook

BLE AVAILA W!ABLE AV OAIL

N

NOW!

or 07538

www.blackminsterbusinesspark.co.uk

THE RUBBER ROOFING CO. FIT ONCE AND FORGET!

Whatever your roofing requirement, you can be confident that a RubberBond FleeceBack installation will give you a flat roofing solution that not only looks good, but is proven to last over 50 years.

Chosen by hundreds of thousands of home owners, RubberBond FleeceBack is used for conservatories and orangeries, house extensions, green roofs & roof terraces, dormer roofs, garages and porches.

Before

Call 01789 773767 or 07909 913014

RubberBond Fleeceback may only be installed by approved contractors and is BBA approved.

After

brendandelancey@yahoo.co.uk

To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

41

WHEN MARNIE WAS THERE

FINDING DORY

BIDFORD RURAL CINEMA

has great pleasure in presenting

Friday 7 October at 7pm

Film Certificate: U Running time 103 mins + interval

Film Certificate: U Running time 97 mins + interval

Ticket price: £2.50 per person

Ticket price: £2.50 per person

All films showing at The Crawford Memorial Hall, Salford Road, Bidford on Avon. For further information, call 01789 778653 / 07718 628925

42 connectionmags.co.uk

Friday 28 October at 7pm

Refreshments sponsored by

Ticket office opens at 6.30pm. Films are subject to availability and may be changed.

Please check the following website for updates www.bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk/events.htm

/theconnectionmag

your local

@connection_mag

RACE ENTRY:

For more info go to: www.raceways.eu

CHARITY RACE ENTRY:

PRICES: FROM £22.00 COURSE: FAST AND UNDULATING, CLOSED ROADS, LOCAL SUPPORT PRIZES: • CASH PRIZES AND TROPHIES FOR 1ST, 2ND & 3RD Get MALE & FEMALE OVERALL • RACEWAYS VOUCHER FOR 1ST MALE & FEMALE IN S p o n s o r e d and Run EVERY 10 YEAR AGE GROUP F or Free!

• FREE MEDAL & T-SHIRT FOR ALL FINISHERS

The Seco Alcester 10km road race is returning for a second year. Run on closed roads around the spectacular Warwickshire countryside, this undulating course will be runn in the opposite direction to last year.

High Street, Alcester, Warwickshire, B49 5AD

Sun 9 th October 2016, 10am

ALCESTER 10 K

THE

CHIROPODIST Victoria Avenue

z

Evesham

z

Worcestershire

OCTOBER 2016

Thu 6 WIZARD OF OZ: -Sat 8 Phoenix Theatre Juniors

7:30pm + 2:30pm Sat. £12

Wed 12 Sat 22 Thu 27 Sat 29

z

WR11 4QH

100%

LIVE

THE STORY OF EVESHAM ABBEY:

EDFAS expert talk 8pm. £7 at door

Yvonne Hartley

D.S.Ch, M.Inst.Ch.P, HCPC Reg Over 20 years experience

Home Visits & Surgery Based in Badsey 01386 833520 07833 595020

SINATRA - HIS WAY:

The story & the songs 7:30pm £16/£14

FOLK IN THE FOYER:

Kim Lowings+Greenwood 8pm. £10

INTO THE SHADOWS:

The unique guitar sound 7:30pm. £18/£16

BOX OFFICE: Evesham Almonry 01386 446944 &

www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk

HalfDay SPADays Includes 30 Minute Swedish Massage Or Refresh & Revive Facial

• Full use of the facilities • Choice of either afternoon tea or salad • Towels, Robes and Slippers for use on the day

£65 Monday to Friday WWW.WILDMOORSPA.COM Wildmoor Spa & Health Club, Alcester Road, Stratford-upon-Avon Warwickshire, CV37 9RJ

Tel: 01789 299666 To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

43

Vatican City

By Solange Hando Most of us know what the Vatican looks like but when you first set eyes on St Peter’s dome at the far end of an avenue festooned in olive trees and obelisks, it simply takes your breath away. Rising to 136 metres, all silvery blue, it holds your gaze and you hardly notice the white line as you cross the border into the Vatican State.

Then, suddenly, the view opens up on St Peter’s Square, where broad semi-circular colonnades topped by 140 statues welcome the world with open arms.

Claiming just 44 hectares on the west bank of the Tiber and a population of around 800, Vatican City is the world’s smallest state and the only one where men can vote but not women, though some hold a Vatican passport. Created by the Lateran Treaty signed with Italy in 1929, it employs over 2,000 people, among them the Swiss guards who still wear full regalia on special occasions.

Traditions are strong but Pope Francis turned down the Papal Palace for a more modest dwelling, while in this ‘Jubilee Year’ millions of pilgrims are expected to pass through the ‘Holy Door’, open only every 25 years.

Pilgrims or tourists, the basilica

44 connectionmags.co.uk

leaves no one untouched with its 186 metre long interior draped in chapels, relics, tombs, statues, medallions and other treasures. One barely knows which way to turn but pride of place goes to the dome soaring above St Peter’s tomb and the papal altar with its canopy of twisted bronze columns sculpted by Bernini in the 17th century. Bernini also designed St Peter’s Square but work had started on the basilica in 1506 on the site of an earlier church. It took around 120 years to complete with plans redesigned along the way by Michelangelo, then aged 72.

He didn’t live to see completion but you feel his presence all around, from the magnificent dome and the beautiful marble Pieta - the only work he ever signed, sculpted when he was just 25 - to the illustrious Sistine Chapel.

In the late 15th century Pope Sixtus IV began to embellish the chapel, now named after him, commissioning some of the best Renaissance artists to decorate the walls with scenes of the Old and New Testaments.

The ceiling was blue with gold stars until 1508, when Julius II ordered Michelangelo to paint the 800 square metres

/theconnectionmag

of vaulted surface. From the Creation to the Fall from Grace and the Last Judgement on the wall, these powerful frescoes send shivers down your spine, restored in their bright original colours and almost threedimensional. Tourists gaze in awe, as no doubt do the red-caped cardinals when they gather in the chapel to elect a new Pope.

But to reach the chapel which is part of the Papal Palace, tourists must first pass through the Vatican Museums, where sumptuous galleries display precious items gathered over the centuries, including rare books and ancient manuscripts.

There is so much to see that the last ticket is sold two hours before closing time.

But after such overwhelming splendour, climbing up to the dome offers plenty of fresh air and unrivalled views: St Peter’s Square at your feet with its obelisk, colonnades and statues, the long avenue leading to the castle of Sant’ Angelo, glowing honeycoloured in the setting sun and beyond the river, Rome, the eternal city, spreading as far as you can see towards the darkening hills.

@connection_mag

ow g s N rin lie ffe pp O Su t

Pe

Bidford’s Dog Grooming Parlour is now stocking pet supplies!

FREE DELIVERY TO LOCAL AREA From nail clipping to the full pamper, clip & style for your breed of dog.

Also now, food and bedding for dogs, cats and small animals.

Based at Bidford Boatyard, with ample free parking.

FULLY INSURED TRAINED TO CITY & GUILDS STANDARD Please call Julie to book an appointment

07765 385282

Email: riversidepetsupplies@gmail.com Boatyard Drive, Holland Close, Bidford on Avon, B50 4JJ

www.riversidepetsupplies.co.uk

Bidford Boat Services Fancy a day on the river?

Narrow Boat Day Hire

Self drive narrow boats for daily hire, carrying up to 10 people

first time boaters.

- Full size gas cooker, fridge & full kitchen - Cruising the Avon upstream you can inventory. head towards Stratford - Hot & cold running water, central heating or downstream you can reach Evesham. & flushing toilets.

- Buoyancy aids in all - Bring your own food for a picnic or stop at sizes on request, highly recommended one of the excellent riverside pubs or for children. restaurants along the - Full boat handling way. and lock tuition for

Self drive day hire - Weekends & bank holidays £160 per day, weekdays £130 per day Daily hire times 10am to 6pm Please ask for winter hire times

Call David Bidwell on 07796 520825 or 01789 772124

CARS • VANS • MINIBUSES Cars from £32.00 Large Vans from £59.99 Luton Vans from £69.99

01386 833700

www.eveshamselfdrive.co.uk To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

45

Community Focus Before Gareth Malone began his series ‘The Choir’, beginning with the military wives, Amanda Oliver had a vision for Bidford. Following her own personal fight against cancer, Amanda set out to bring the community together in a new and unique way.

After the initial production in 2010 of Joseph and his Technicolour Dreamcoat, with the choir then in its infancy providing the chorus, choir members wanted to build on the success and continue to meet as a Community Choir, which has since gone from strength to strength and is now in its seventh year.

Amanda, whose talented husband Darren also provided tutoring to male members of the choir and smaller choral groups, has recently handed over the baton to the new Musical Director, Mary Roberts, while the wonderful children’s choir is led by James Blann. There is also a recently formed special choral group made up of teenagers.

Members of the local community who make up this harmonising choir entertain audiences twice a year and all money raised is given to local

BIDFORD AREA COMMUNITY CHOIR

good causes, with £1,000 recently being shared between Bidford Senior Citizens Christmas Lunch and a piano for Temple Grafton Primary School.

Rehearsing at Bidford Methodist Church every Tuesday evening in the run up to a concert, the choir presents two main concerts annually at The Barn, Waterloo Road, Bidford, as well as volunteering to sing at other local events around Christmas time and supporting various fetes and fundraisers in the area.

The health benefits of singing together are well known, but the social benefits are also important to all members of the choir.

The choirs continue to entertain audiences and thank you all for supporting their concerts.

Please come and see them at their next concert on Saturday 28th November at 7.30pm.

Entitled “Fields of Gold”, the choir will be singing an eclectic mix of songs for everyone to enjoy.

Tickets include refreshments and are free for children under the age of sixteen. They can be purchased on the door or from choir members.

“We would love to see you!”

Bidford Area Community Choir presents

FIELDS OF GOLD The Autumn Concert

Saturday 26th November 7:30pm

The Barn, Waterloo Road, Bidford upon Avon £7.50 to include refreshments Under 16s free Tickets available on the door or by calling Helen on 01789 774719

To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

47

Autumn at Coughton Court From 1 August 2016, the team at Coughton, and external contractors, began the re-servicing of the North Wing. The North Wing is the part of the house where the resident historic family, the Throckmortons, live. When this phase of the re-servicing is completed in March 2018 we will have finished the full rewire of Coughton Court – a project that began with the Gatehouse back in 2012.

The project includes the rewiring of the rooms, the installation of a new fire alarm system and various plumbing jobs, which will ensure that the house meets safety standards, helping to secure the future of Coughton Court.

Although none of the rooms open to our visitors are being rewired at the moment, Lady Lilian’s Room is currently being used to store precious items belonging to the Throckmorton family and the National Trust. This is an exciting opportunity to show items that have never been on display before and in 2017 we will be sharing their stories.

from Room Guides to Retail Assistants and Visitor Reception Volunteers who welcome thousands of visitors a year to the property.

Volunteering is the perfect way to make new friends and give something back to your local community.

The volunteers at Coughton are the lifeblood of the property and without them we simply wouldn’t be able to maintain the property and our visitors would miss out on their valuable contribution; sharing how the stories which surround this fascinating house are brought to life all year round. To enquire about volunteering please call the property on 01789 400 777 or have a look on our website.

Dates for your diary

We’re able to fund crucial work like this thanks to the generosity of supporters through membership, admissions, the restaurant and shop and donations.

If you’re looking for other ways to help conserve this beautiful family home, the team are currently looking to recruit new volunteers who want to learn new skills, meet new people, make friends and most importantly who want to play a vital role in sharing their love of this property with others.

Coughton has over 200 volunteers in varying roles and there are countless ways to volunteer and make an impact. Roles vary

48 connectionmags.co.uk

Family Fun Days – Hallowe’en Sat 22 October - Sun 30 October, 11am-3.30pm Spooky outdoor trail with take-home activities.

Costs £2.50 per trail Christmas at Coughton Sat 26 November – Sun 4 December Festive shopping in the Coach House gift shop, the house decorated for a traditional Christmas, Christmas lunch and homemade mince pies in the cafe, and at weekends a Christmas Market in the Stableyard.

For full opening days & more information please visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/coughtoncourt or call 01789 400777 Follow us on Twitter @NTCoughton or ‘Like’ us at www.facebook.com/CoughtonCourt

/theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

WiZ pan we buy & sell

Good Old Fashioned

Junk Shop ... browse online!

Accounts • Tax Returns • Tax Advice • VAT Farm Accounts • Payroll Bureau Bookkeeping Support • Fixed Fees FREE Initial Meeting

PERSHORE - 01386 552644 The Courtyard, 19 High Street, Pershore, Worcs, WR10 1AA

www.crowther.co.uk

Look us up on

Furniture, Curios, Bric-a-Brac, TM Antiques, Collectables, SELLER ID: WIZPAN All items You’ll also find us on bought & sold sellingantiques.co.uk ... or call in and look around our

Blackminster SHOWROOM Find us at: BLACKMINSTER BUSINESS PARK Nr EVESHAM, WORCS, WR11 7RE

tel: 01386 833894 email: wizpan1@outlook.com

ST C A R P E N T R Y

For a free quotation ring Simon 01789 490276 or 07870 323585

01789 270744 www.flushheatingandplumbing.co.uk

To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

49

Alcester Town Council OCTOBER 2016

Town Council Meetings

All Town Council meetings are held in Globe House. Full Council meetings take place in the Library meeting room 4 and Committee meetings are held in the Council Board Room.

Both rooms are on the first floor accessed via the Seggs Lane entrance (a lift is available).

Full Council Meetings Tuesday 4th October Community Care Tuesday 11th October.

Community Facilities Tuesday 18th October.

Strategic Planning Monday 3rd, 17th & 31st October (Strategic matters on the 17th).

Members of the public are welcome to attend any of the Council meetings. The agendas are published on the Town Council Web site at: www.alcester-tc.gov.uk and copies can be viewed on the Council Notice Boards. In addition, all minutes can be found online once signed.

Town Councillor’s Contact Details

Chris Brannigan (Mayor) 07850 026155.

Yvette Morrison (Deputy Mayor) 01789 400460.

John Bunting 01789 766753. Clive NealSturgess 01789 764416. Jim Kenyon 01789 763975. Eric Payne 01789 762577. Andrew Foster 01789 766708. Alison Brown 07763 492821. Mike Gittus 01789 488027. Mark Cargill 07988 485050. Chris Gough 01789 762307. Lennox Cumberbatch 01789 766940.

Keith Greenaway 01789 766818. Gillian Forman 01789 763828. Julie Styles 07807 894635.

Mary Nash 07780 478459.

Alcester Town Council Contacts

Town Clerk: Chris Wright, clerk@alcester-tc. gov.uk Strategic Planning & Communication: Kate Wright, administration@alcester-tc.gov.uk Community Facilities: Jan Rowlatt, reception@alcester-tc.gov.uk Community Care: Jenny Theobald, office@alcester-tc.gov.uk Tel: 01789 766084 Web: www.alcester-tc.gov.uk Alcester Town Council offices: Globe House via the Seggs Lane entrance first floor (lift available) Monday - Friday 9am–1pm (or call to make an appointment) More information on our social media pages: www.facebook.com/alcester.towncouncil www.facebook.com/alcester www.twitter.com/AlcesterTown

50 connectionmags.co.uk

Introducing Alcester’s Health and Wellbeing Coordinator.

My name is Suzette, I am the Health and Wellbeing Coordinator for Alcester, working specifically with the over 55’s in the town. The purpose of my role is to develop the Supporting Alcester initiative and will aim to help people to remain independent, keep older people active, reduce social isolation and loneliness, and increase social integration and connections.

I aim to encourage people who may not know or have the confidence to attend established groups. I am a point of call for those who would like to try something new but wouldn’t know where to go to find anything of interest.

Alongside established activities I will be identifying through your help where gaps lie, so as we can work together to initiate new groups and activities. I will be working closely with Dr’s surgeries and their coordinators to pin point people who may benefit from my input.

Through visiting the majority of groups that are already running I will be finding out what each has to offer and the positive impacts it has on members, enabling me to then feed this back to individuals and agencies that have been hilighted to me.

I am local, my family were born and raised in Alcester, I attended school here and I have worked within the community with adults. I am passionate about this project, as I know exactly how much of a difference being socially inclusive and active makes to one’s own Health and Wellbeing. I am really looking forward to working alongside you.

Contact Details

Health and wellbeing coordinator : Suzette Wright wellbeing@alcester-tc.gov.uk Tel:01789 766085

/theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

Hopkins Pharmacy Hopkins Pharmacy’s protecting you from flu, So come along and get immunized too.

We provide the NHS and private service, So pop along and don’t be nervous!

CALL NOW OR JUST WALK IN Hopkins Pharmacy

Alcester Primary Care Centre, Field’s Park Drive, Alcester, Warks, B49 6QR

01789 764 874 • www.hopkinspharmacy.co.uk

GRAPHIC DESIGN | WEBSITE DESIGN | LOGO | MARKETING | SOCIAL MEDIA

fundamentalstudios

www.fundamentalstudios.com

@hello_studios

To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

51

Bidford on Avon Parish Council in the County of Warwickshire

BIDFORD RURAL CINEMA Welcome to a new and, hopefully, exciting season of films.

Friday 7th October @ 7.00 pm WHEN MARNIE WAS THERE (Cert U). A highly rated, charming animated film. Upon being sent to live with relatives in the countryside, an emotionally distant adolescent girl becomes obsessed with an abandoned mansion and infatuated with a girl who lives there - a girl who may or may not be real.

Friday 28th October @ 7.00 pm FINDING DORY(Cert U). Disney animated film for all the family- perfect for the Half Term break!

Don’t forget you are now able to see a trailer online of the film being screened.

All films are screened at the Crawford Memorial Hall, Salford Road. Ticket Office opens at 6.30 pm and prices remain at only £2.50 Refreshments are available courtesy of your local Warners Budgens. See page 42 for more details on Rural Cinema.

VISIT (AND BUY) IN BIDFORD September saw the second, and very successful, Bidford Bash, organised by the Bidford Chamber of Trade and Commerce as a way of, not only bringing the local community together (as well as visitors from neighbouring towns and villages) but to highlight what the High Street has to offer.The survey carried out for the Neighbourhood Development Plan, clearly showed that the local community holds the High Street in high regard and wishes the remaining local shops to be protected. The Parish Council and the Chamber of Trade and Commerce are doing what they can BUT, THE ONLY WAY TO KEEP SHOPS VIABLE IS FOR THE LOCAL COMMUNITY TO BUY LOCAL. So, next time you are going shopping, DON’T FORGET TO CHECK THE HIGH STREET. BIG MEADOW As another season comes to an end, the Big Meadow will close to vehicles with effect from 30th September. However, if the weather holds, it will remain open for the weekend of 1st/2nd October (please check the website for confirmation). Please note that all toilets, including the disabled, will be closed during the winter (to prevent the risk of burst pipes).

BIDFORD COMMUNITY LIBRARY is now able to offer its customers an excellent quality 100% cotton carrier bag at the introductory price of £3.99, courtest of Warner’s Budgens. So, next time you visit BCL, make sure you support this vital community asset by buying this very useful carrier bag to help you carry your books and other “stuff”.

BIDFORD EMAIL INFORMATION - As fewer residents have the time to read Noticeboards, the Parish Council is looking at ways to keep the local community informed of what it (the Parish Council) is doing, but also of other village events. If you want to keep abreast of local information, you can sign up by simply emailing the Clerk at info@bidfordonavon-pc. gov.uk and your name will be added to the list.

Your email address is not disclosed and you can request to be removed at any time.

SOCIAL MEDIA - Another way the Parish Council is trying to keep the local community informed is by the use of Social Media. Please follow us via Facebook (Bidford on Avon) and Twitter (@Bidford_PC).

MEETINGS Monday 10th October 2016 @ 7.30pm Planning Consultative Committee Meeting.

Monday 31st October 2016 @ 7.30pm Parish Council meeting.

All meetings are held at the Parish Council Meeting Room, Bramley Way, B50 4QG PARISH COUNCIL CONTACTS Clerk to the Parish Council – Mrs. Elisabeth Uggerløse.

Parish Council Office is located in Bramley Way, in the same building as the library. The Office is open to the public 10.00am – 3.00pm daily except Thursdays, when opening hours are 1.30 – 4.30pm. If you are unable to attend during these hours, please contact the Clerk to arrange a mutually convenient time.

Tel No. 01789 778653 / 07718 628 925 email info@bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk website address: www.bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk Parish Councillors – a list of Parish Councillors contact details is posted on the notice boards, and can also be found online www. bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk/councillors.htm.

Elisabeth Uggerlose - Clerk to the Parish Council email info@bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk 01789 778653 or 07718 628925

52 connectionmags.co.uk

/theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

YOUR FRIENDLY LOCAL VETERINARY SURGERY

Grooming At Ferns

McGettigan’s Lissadell, 106 The Ridgeway, Astwood Bank, B96 6NA Only 4 miles from Alcester

PETS

Consultations by appointment

24 Hour EMERGENCY COVER

TEL: 01527 893016 FAX: 01527 893008 CLIVE CAMPION Painter & Decorator

Interiors, Exteriors & Exhibitions Over 23 years experience Free Quotations Email clivecampion@sky.com

Mob: 07768 104525 Tel: 01527 401427 References available on request

• Fully qualified C&G Level 3 Dog Groomer • Fully insured • Full grooms available (nails included) • Free collection/delivery service within 5 miles • All breeds catered for • One to one service • Quiet & stress free environment

www.groomingatferns.co.uk

01386 792554 • 07790 392641 Ferns Cattery, Alcester Road, Radford, Worcs, WR7 4LS Arfernihough@hotmail.co.uk

&

Professional roofing services

info@darcydemiroofing.co.uk 13a Bidford Road, Broom B50 4HP

To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

53

54 connectionmags.co.uk

/theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

alcester flowers Come and see Marie, a friendly face at Alcester Flowers, for your...

Flowers Balloons Cards Bedding plants Free local delivery (3 mile radius) Wrapping service available Bespoke Funeral Service Christenings • Weddings Home visits available for funerals and weddings Find us next to Waitrose

Ample free parking

Unit 3, Bull’s Head Yard, Moorfield Road, Alcester, B49 5DA J3 v3

Chartered Certified Accountants and Registered Auditors Services include preparation of accounts for sole traders, partnerships and limited companies, registered auditor, self assessment and corporation tax returns, company secretarial services, payroll bureau, company formations and bookkeeping training.

Contact: Helen Vining Grafton House, Bulls Head Yard, Alcester, Warks, B49 5BX

Tel: 01789 764972 E-mail: helen@vinings.co.uk Web www.vinings.co.uk To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

55

community events & what’s on...

To publicise any community events, email info@connectionmags.co.uk by 10th of the month Alcester Flower Club

Monday 3 October, 7.30pm at Alcester Methodist Church Priory Road, Alcester. A Flower arranging demonstration by Julia Mitchell "A Champagne Afternoon Tea". Competition: Flower of the month.

Visitors very welcome.

Contact Chairman, Mrs. Margaret Escott on 01789 763606.

Alcester Gardening Club

Thursday 6 October, 7.30pm at the Centre, Jubilee Court, Lea Close, Alcester. "Raised Beds and No-dig Cultivation", a talk by Mick Poultney. The black country compost man is back again with how to take the digging out of growing.

Broom WI

Thursday 6 October, "Birds and Nature Conservation", speaker Peter Howe. Meetings are held in Broom Village Hall and commence at 7.30pm. Visitors always welcome. Come and hear our speaker, enjoy delicious refreshments and make new friends.

Alcester WI

Alcester WI will meet on Thursday 13 October, 7.30pm, at Jubilee Court Community Centre. Ruth Lowe will take you on a journey back to the 60s by talking about Mary Quant and her influence on the fashion of the time. So shake out your mini skirts and prepare for a trip down memory lane - if you are old enough! Members and visitors most welcome.

Bidford on Avon WI

Do come and join us at our October meeting. We will be meeting on Thuursday 13 October, 7.30pm at Bidford Methodist Church. The speaker is Alan Godfrey who will be talking about "The history of the post in Warwickshire". Looking forward to seeing you. If you would like more information contact Shirley 01789 773366 or Pauline 01789 773390.

Alcester Baptist Church We invite you to our Harvest Thanksgiving Display on Saturday 15 October from 10.30am to 4pm. Coffee and Ploughman's Lunches.

Donations to BMS 2016 Appeal, Syrian Forgotten Familes.

Alcester Ladies Probus

We are a sociable lunch club for the over 55s meeting on the 2nd Wednesday of every month and we welcome visitors and new members. Lunch is at Kings Court Hotel 12.15 for 12.45 followed by a speaker. Next meeting is Wednesday 12 October. For details please contact Sec. Mrs. Cynthia Hill 01789 763446.

Salford Seven Ladies Group

Meet on the 2nd Wednesday of each month, 7.30pm at the Memorial Hall, School Road, Salford Priors.

Wednesday 12 October,“Wainwright's Coast to Coast", with Tony Caldwell. New members and visitors always

56 connectionmags.co.uk

welcome and first visit is free. Contact Pam Sharpe on 01789 773746 or Pam Seville on 01789 772540.

Bidford &District Gardening Society

Visitors are very welcome to join us on Thursday 20 October at 7.45pm in the Crawford Hall, Bidford, when Ross Boarbour, ex Head Gardener at Ragley Hall, will present a talk entitled "Bulbs for the Unusual". Admission £3 including refreshments. For further details please contact 01789 268974 or www. bidfordgardens.com.

Bidford History Society

Friday 21 October, 7.30pm at St Laurence Church Hall, Church Street, Bidford, B50 4DA. "The Zulu war with especial reference to Rorkes Drift". A review of this colonial war will be presented in contemporary uniform and with examples of weapons, from both sides.

Alcester Men's Probus Club

We meet on the fourth Wednesday of each month, except December, at Kings Court Hotel, Kings Coughton. Membership of the Probus Club is open to retired professional/businessmen. For further details contact jackwinder2011@btinternet.com.

Alcester RBL Poppy Appeal Launch Saturday 29th October, 10am till 1pm at Alcester Methodist Church. This will be a new location for our launch but it is a very central one. Other than our usual supporters I hope that those going into the Waitrose and town car parks will also see the event and come and join us. Donations of raffle prizes and cakes would be much appreciated.

Knit and Natter Group

Bidford Comunity Library has a Knit & Natter Group which meet every Wednesday afternoon from 1.30 to 3.15. Team, coffee & biscuits are included in the cost of £2. Beginneres to experts welcome.

Salford Priors Youth Club

Every Thursday from 7pm to 8.30pm in the TOPS building, adjacent to the playing field. Anyone ages 10 to 16 who lives in the parish is welcome and it’s only £1 per session. Activities include indoor and outdoor sports, quizzes, table tennis, cooking, crafts, games, tuck shop and lots more. Come and join us!

Bidford Community Library

Do you enjoy playing board and card games? Come along on Friday mornings between 10.30 and 12.30 to join in. £1 per session, including refreshments.

Bidford Darby & Joan

We meet at Westholme Court, Westholme Road, Bidford, every Thursday from 2pm - 4pm. We have outings every month. Come and join us.

/theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

BIG Breakfasts

(or Brunch if you prefer!)

Saturday 1st October At Alcester Town Hall Saturday 8th October At Bidford Crawford Hall

From 9am to 12 Noon. Tickets - £5, Supersize £7.

Supporting Dementia Care, GAGA & other local charities.

Alcester tickets: Mike & Di Gittus 01789 488 027, or from 5-A-Day, 14 High St., Alcester. Bidford tickets: Nigel Curtis 07877 884 258, or The Gift Box, 94 High St. , Bidford.

Or you can pay on the door at both events

Come and enjoy a delicious breakfast with all the trimmings, using produce from local suppliers. A leisurely treat to start your weekend.

Alcester Inner Wheel Club

The ladies and knitting friends of Alcester Inner Wheel Club have had a very productive year, their knitting tally being: 50 poppies, proceeds to Alcester British Legion. 100 “Twiddle Muffs” for dementia patients, 60 being distributed to 20 local nursing homes, the rest sold to support the Dementia Cafe in Alcester. Many baby items for the Premature Baby Unit at Warwick Hospital. For International Aid, supporting disaster hit areas, they provided a total of 90 bed covers.

A wonderful achievement for this band of knitters.

Everyone is welcome to visit us at our friendly meetings Both Clubs meet at the Kings Court Hotel, Kings Coughton, B49 5QQ Rotary Club of Alcester: 1st & 3rd Mondays, 12-30 pm for 12-45 pm including a light lunch. Contact Martin Hood, 01789 766 854 Rotary Club of Alcester Alauna: Weekly on Thursdays, 7.15am to 8.45am including breakfast. Contact Sue Matthewman, 01527 854 723 To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

57

community events & what’s on...

To publicise any community events, email info@connectionmags.co.uk by 10th of the month Events at The Alcester War Memorial Town Hall in October

Every Tues 10 am -11 am Flexible Friends - Ms. D Gray, 01527 401674 Every Thurs 6.45 pm - 9 pm Arrow Action Group (Special Needs) - Mrs J. Appleby, 01527 893684.

Every Thurs 8.15 pm - 9.45 pm Tai Chi Classes - Jane Bowen, 01789 763866.

Sat 1st 9am - 12midday Rotary Charity Big Breakfast - Edwina Neale 400744.

Thurs 6th 7.30pm - 9.30pm Court Leet Elections - Tim Forman 01789 763828.

Fri 7th 7.30pm - 9.30pm and Sat 8th 2.30pm - 10.30pm Charity Fashion Show - Mary Nash 01789 782169.

Sun 23rd 3pm - 4.30pm Charity Afternoon Tea - Nick Dearling 01789 765070.

Alcester Café

Supports people with memory problems/dementia and their families. Held at the Jubilee Centre, off St Faith’s Road, every Tuesday and Friday from 10.30am to 12.30pm. Drop in and see us or ring Carole or Roger on 01789 488088 for more information.

Bidford Dementia Café

Supporting people with memory problems/dementia and their families, carers and voluteers. Every Monday (except Bank Holidays) between 10:30am and 12:30pm on a ‘drop in’ basis at Westholme Court, Westholme Road, Bidford. For more information, call Wendy on 07713 648716, email secretarybdc@btinternet.com.

Age UK Warwickshire Befriending Service

Age UK Warwickshire provides a countywide Befriending Service for older people who feel lonely or isolated and would welcome a regular call from a volunteer. Many older people live in virtual isolation due to poor health, bereavement or little family contact. Modern living has also contributed to the sense of isolation some people feel as neighbours are often strangers, resulting in fewer visitors.

The Befriending Service aims to provide quality one to one time on a weekly basis in people’s homes giving them something to look forward to, as well as a link to the wider community. The visits are purely social calls and many people like to play games, go for a walk or share a hobby with their Befriender, others just want to chat and catch up over a cuppa each week.

If you, or someone you know would like to use this service please contact the co-ordinator Nikki Gill on 01788 552545 or alternatively email her at nikki.gill@ageukwarks.gov.uk. We are also actively seeking volunteers to help deliver this service so if you feel you are able to commit to a regular weekly visit to someone in your area contact Nikki for a chat.

Visually Impaired?

If you live in Alcester, Bidford or Studley, you might like to meet others in your situation. Alcester Vision Support Club is a social group which meets on alternate Thursdays at Jubilee Court, Alcester. It is an opportunity to chat, be entertained and enjoy tea together. For more information, call Ruth Dutton 01789 763827 or Karyl Rees 01789 400561.

Senior Citizens Action Network (SCAN) meets every other month at Alcester Town Hall and the Jolly Teapot, Church rooms, Church Street, Bidford. The group is run by local people with support from Stratford District Council. The next meetings takes place at 10.30am on Thursday 10 November in Bidford and Thursday 24 November in Alcester. A wide range of topics is covered over the course of the year and the group discuss and campaign on local issues of importance to them. New members are welcome. For more information contact Marie Darwen 01789 260 108.

Cupcake Café at Salford Priors

Saturday 1 October, from 10.00-12.00 at TOPs (behind Salford Priors Primary School). A space for everyone of all ages from the community to enjoy a cup of tea or coffee with some yummy cake.

Bidford Darby & Joan

We meet at Westholme Court, Westholme Road, Bidford, every Thursday from 2pm - 4pm. We have outings every month. Come and join us.

Silver Surfers

New to computing and over 50? Come along to our friendly Silversurfers session at our new venue, Alcester Library and Museum. We specialise in giving help with all tablets and Windows 10. Every Thursday between 10.00am and 12 midday.

Children’s answers: Down: 1. Venice 2.Errors 4. Juliet 5. Gentlemen Across: 3. Shrew 6. Midsummer 7. Ado 8. Tempest 9. Night.

All three true or false answers are ‘TRUE’.

Easy grid

58 connectionmags.co.uk

Not so easy grid

/theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

JUST STARTING UNIVERSITY OR COLLEGE? BIDFORD-ON-AVON PAROCHIAL CHARITIES CAN HELP

The Trustees will again be making grants to people living within the boundaries of the Parish of Bidford-on-Avon (which includes Barton, Broom and Marlcliff) who will be furthering their education at University or College for the academic year commencing September 2016.

If you have lived in the Parish for at least 2 years and would like to be considered for a grant, please write a letter of application (there are no forms) giving full details; Name of University, College, Course subject, nature of qualification, year of study etc.

Send to: The Clerk, Mrs Joy Keeley, 30 Icknield Close, Bidford-on-Avon, Warwickshire, B50 4BZ. Grants will be considered and made in early November 2016.

VOLUNTEER DRIVERS NEEDED We provide community volunteer transport in Stratford District for both medically related appointments and those appointments or activities that help overcome isolation and loneliness.

Many of our clients are unable to use public transport due to mobility or health needs, rurality, lack of bus routes or the expense of private taxi costs.

This means that individuals are at risk of becoming socially isolated and at greater risk of physical and mental health.

We are helping to overcome both health and social inclusion issues by promoting independent living and wellbeing through the provision of a variety of services such as community transport.

If you would like to volunteer as a driver please get in touch.

A DBS check is required and mileage is paid.

Contact: 01789 262886 Email: info@vasa.org.uk

TOGETHER WE’RE STRONGER To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

59

Saturday 1st October 11am-4pm (last entry 3pm) Blindfold activities Sensory tunnel experience Puppy viewing from galleries Meet breeding stock and holders Dog demonstration Children's activities Guide Dogs gift shop & pet products Tombolas and raffle Hog roast, soup, home-made cakes Please note no pet dogs are allowed on this site

Free Parking

For more information contact: Liz.Hinckley@guidedogs.org.uk or call on 0845 3727 432

Free Entry

Guide Dogs National Breeding Centre, Banbury Road, Bishop’s Tachbrook, Warwickshire, CV33 9QJ www.guidedogs.org.uk Registered charity in England and Wales (209617) and in Scotland (SC038979) 7212 02/14

60 connectionmags.co.uk

/theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

F

s of 0 o 5 tr 6 la £ fro

m

Weather Guard Roofing Professionals

Specialists in all types of roofing, Complete Roofs, Ridge Tiles, Lead Work, Chimneys, Fascias, Soffits, Guttering, Gutter Cleaning No job too big or too small Fully guaranteed and insured Written quotes available Phone Andy on 07795 958 245 Office 01789 868506 www.weatherguardservices.co.uk

48 Arrow Crescent, Alcester, B49 6BE

Trade Counter open 7.30am to 5.30pm Mon to Fri Free delivery within 15 miles radius for orders over £50

01789 763727

sales@walls-and-ceilings.co.uk www.walls-and-ceilings.co.uk

For all your: Plasterboard • Plaster • Insulation Pitch Roof Boards • Plaster Beads • Tools Artex • Metal Stud • Suspended Ceilings Decorative Coving & Accessories

31 Tything Road, Arden Forest Industrial Estate, Alcester, B49 6EP

To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

61

Local Plumber ALL PLUMBING WORK UNDERTAKEN No job too small • No VAT Reliable Friendly Service

Hatch a plan to help your business grow by advertising in

Call: 07768 360 420 hughducksss@gmail.com

magazine

Prices start from £21 per edition.

Reach 7,550 homes and businesses in Alcester, Bidford and surrounding villages.

Call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

References Available On Request Fully Insured

www.connectionmags.co.uk

the ELECTRICAL fix • Qualified Electrician, incl C&G 2394 Inspection & Test • Commercial and Domestic • Years of experience • Reliable, friendly service • Fully insured • References available • Repair & service of garden machinery

62 connectionmags.co.uk

connection

the

CALL HUGH ON

For a FREE QUOTE call Mike on 01789 773945 or 07786 440 331

Based locally in Inkberrow Phone: 01386 793248 Mobile: 07789 721303 www.inkberrowservices.co.uk

TRADITIONAL

ROOFING NEW or REPAIRS Fascias • Soffits • Gutters FULL REPLACEMENT SERVICE

Pitched roofs Slate Roofs Flat Roofs Tiled Roofs EPDM Rubber Roofs Fascias & Soffits Barge Boards Cladding

01386 800400

www.gmroofingservices.co.uk

/theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

Nationwide Driveways The Block Paving & Tarmacing Specialists Specialists in

Tarmac Driveways Brickwork Patios Garden Design Lift & Relay Drives Clean & Seal Drives Fences We also have special offers on UPVC Facias & Downpipes

No Deposits Taken - No Subcontractors Used

FREE DESIGN and FREE QUOTATION ALL WORK FULLY GUARANTEED FOR 5 YEARS STRATFORD OFFICE

01789 508 660 SOLIHULL OFFICE

0121 607 8834 HENLEY-IN-ARDEN OFFICE

01564 330616 EMAIL

nwdrives@gmail.com Head OfďŹ ce:

Forward House, 17 High Street, Henley-in-Arden, Warwickshire B95 5AA

Branches throughout the West Midlands

Company Reg No 6010375

www.nationwidedriveways.net

To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

63

Sanders&Sanders ESTATE AGENTS

Your Local Estate Agents

proud sponsors of alcester town football club www.sanders-sanders.co.uk Burton House, High Street, Alcester, Warwickshire, B49 5AB

T: 01789 766771

E: alcester@sanders-sanders.co.uk