17 dec mag web

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Around Alcester, Bidford & the Villages

magazine

December ‘17 No. 123

Choosing Your Perfect Christmas Tree Alcester & District Lions Celebrating Christmas in Your Community

WIN!

A Special Christmas Hamper!

Sanders&Sanders

See inside back page for your local Sales & Lettings

T: 01789 766771

www.sanders-sanders.co.uk

ESTATE AGENTS

You deserve it

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01789 766222 or 766333

Priory Road, Alcester, B49 5DY

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Showroom opening times: Mon to Fri 9-Spm Sat 10-1pm We are a locally owned family business established in 1992

Call us today on: 01789 262590 Send us a email: enquiries@centurionhi.co.uk or visit our website: www.centurionhi.co.uk

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Upgr a det oI mpr es s i on® f orf r eeons ec ed el t Rodens t oc kl ens es Nov ember&Dec ember

Raz or s har pv i s i on atal l di s t anc e s I ndependentOpt omet r i s t andi nal l l i g ht i ng ondi t i ons f r i endl yper s ona l s er v i c e c Ca l l t obooka n a ppoi nt menton 01789 549409

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 d k

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 The Arrow 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

763060 763293 773372 111 08457 909090

01527 503030 205831 01926 495321

999 or 112 444816 08008 00151 08004 04090 08001 11999

0300 555 8171 773239 0844 855 2322 07771 616189 766750 762450 766200 270744 01386 871777 262889

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

766084 778653 267575

December Copy Deadline: Thursday 7th December

Welcome

... to the December Connection. and I think that means we’re officially allowed to mention Christmas! The Christmas lights are now up in many of our local towns and villages, and don’t they make everything so pretty and picturesque now the days are so short? One of my favourite events to enjoy the lights is St Nicholas’ Night in Alcester, which is fast approaching on the 6th December - a bustling evening for the whole community (p.16).

If, like me, you’re wondering what type of Christmas tree to choose this year, turn to our gardening pages (p.20).

Our artificial one has definitely see better days, thanks to adventurous cats and toddlers, so I’m glad to have a few tips to choose our first real one this year.

We also have a festive baking recipe (p.10), tips for driving in colder conditions (p.36), and advice on finding a “safe space” (p.14) - particularly helpful if things get a bit too much in the lead up to Christmas.

Our local communities and groups are as busy as ever. Read more about who the Alcester & District Lions are (p.8) and what Alcester Alauna Rotary group have been up to this year (p.57). To really get into the festive spirit, take a trip to see Bidford Area Community Choir perform their Winter Concert on December 2nd (p.46).

We’ve not had a competition for a little while, so we’ve gone all out this month with a Christmas hamper as our prize - with goodies from a few of our fantastic local businesses. Find out how you could win on page 59.

Keep your eyes peeled for special offers from Sebastian’s Butchery, Greig Lifestyles, David Lees and Evesham Self Drive - our advertisers are a generous lot in the lead up to Christmas!

Finally, we want to wish all of our customers and readers a very happy Christmas.

Seasons greetings,

Amy Facebook.com/theconnectionmag Twitter.com/connection_mag Connnection circulation 7,700 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.

COTTAGE OF CONTENT COUNTRY PUB

Christmas Menu

Book your Christmas party celebrations with us now!

Christmas menu available lunchtime & evenings every day from 1-24 December

Starters

All starters served with a selection of breads & butter Cream of mushroom soup Smoked Salmon parfait Red pepper soufflé Traditional port laced prawn Marie Rose cocktail Duck, chicken & wild mushroom terrine

Mains

(All mains served with new potatoes, seasonal vegetables and peas) Traditional roast turkey crown Roast 28 day aged Herefordshire beef Pan seared fillet of sea bass Gressingham duck breast Wensleydale cheese, roasted leek & clotted cream, pastry crown with wild cranberries

Desserts

Traditional brandy laced Christmas pudding Prosecco & raspberry cheesecake bar Salted caramel profiteroles Belgian chocolate melting pudding Three scoops of champagne sorbet Apple & mulled wine fruit crumble Cheese & biscuits

To Finish

Coffee or tea and a mince pie (Upgrade your coffee to an Americano, Latte, Cappuccino, Hot chocolate or Mocha for just £1.00)

1 COURSE £13.95 2 COURSES £16.95 3 COURSES £19.95

OPEN FROM 12 NOON EVERY DAY Extensive menu offering home cooked food every lunchtime & evening as well as roast meals on Sundays.

Or now available, how about a Lavazza coffee and cake in the afternoon?

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Entertainment Saturday 9th December from 9pm Live music from the band Risky Business

New Years Eve from 9pm

Join us to welcome in the New Year with an evening of music and karaoke.

FREE ENTRY • ALL WELCOME

Book to eat with us or just come along and join in the fun from 9pm into the early hours of New Years Day.

QUIZ NIGHT - Thursdays from 9pm ry Our popular quiz runs every Thursday evening from 9 pm.

Bring along a team of up to 4 people p

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

www.cottageofcontent.com 01789 772279 • cofcontent@gmail.com • TheCottageofContent

Alcester Flowers

More than a Florist

Free local delivery • Ample free parking • Wrapping service available

We would like to wish our customers a

Very Merry and Peaceful

Christmas

Festive Arrangements And Wreaths

Bespoke Funeral Ser vice • Christenings • Weddings Home visits available for funerals and weddings Unit 3, Bull’s Head Yard, Moorfield Road, Alcester, B49 5DA 01789 400633 • 07766 270506 • ciennamaria@icloud.com

John 3v3

/alcesterflowersshop

Sudoku

(answers on page 58)

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

Easy grid

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Not so easy grid

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Merry Christmas & Happy New Year Priory Road, Alcester,Warwickshire B49 5DY 01789 766222 or 766333 • www.maverickshair.co.uk Blowdry Bar Appointments Still Available - £10 Gift Cards Available – The Perfect Present For The One You Love

W Wishing all our patients a Merry Christmas and a M Happy New Year LOCATED OFF WAITROSE CAR PARK, TO THE LEFT OF ‘THE NAIL COMPANY’ Market Place, Alcester, Warwickshire, B49 5AE

We are here

T: 01789 762567 E: tilehousedental@ymail.com To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

7

Alcester & District Lions

A

lcester and District Lions are a part of the organisation ‘Lions International’, which is celebrating their centenary this year. We raise money in the Alcester area, and over 90% of the money raised is spent locally, with none spent on administration.

We are always pleased to receive requests from local individuals and groups to support their efforts to improve the quality of life in our communities (contact details to follow).

We hope local people will support our fundraising so that we can make a difference.

On 6th December we will be at the St Nicholas’ Night event in Alcester as well as bag packing in Waitrose on 23rd December. In early March we will be supporting the Marie Curie appeal at Budgens in Bidford.

Alcester and District Lions are always looking for volunteers to join and help us to make a

Fundraising at a car boot sale

difference in the local community. We are holding an informal information evening on Saturday 27th January 8.00pm at the Unionist Club, Alcester. Anybody interested in finding out more about our work is welcome to come along and meet us.

For further information contact local members: Roger 0845 833 2794, Dave 01789 764708, or Lizzie 01789 772082

Get a 10 year guarantee* with any Greenstar gas-fired CDi condensing boiler installed by a Worcester Accredited Installer between 1st January 2017 and 31st December 2017. *

01789 270744 www.flushheatingandplumbing.co.uk

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CLIVE CAMPION & SON LTD Painters & Decorators

Are you ready for the

?

Calor Gas • Rock Salt Snow Shovels • Logs Electric and Calor Gas Heaters Coal & Smokeless Coal • Candles Kindling Wood • Picnic Stoves Paraffin • Screen Wash Anti Freeze • Sledges…

Interiors, Exteriors & Exhibitions Over 28 years experience Free Quotations

Delivery service available

Email clivecampion@sky.com

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

01789 762464

Swan Street, Alcester, Warwickshire, B49 5DP

Established 18 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

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

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

9

Cake and Bake Chocolate & Walnut Biscotti These crunchy Italian biscuits are perfect for dunking into a festive coffee or serving as an after dinner treat. They also make a great foodie gift packed into clear gift bags and tied with ribbon and a Christmas label!

Ingredients: • 50g unsalted butter, softened • 100g golden caster sugar • 1 medium egg, beaten • Finely grated zest from 1 orange • 50g dark chocolate chips • 50g walnut pieces • 1/2 tsp baking powder • 175g plain flour, plus extra for kneading

Makes 20 Ready in 1 hour, plus cooling time

TIP

The biscotti will keep in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. You can change the nuts – try pecans, toasted almonds or hazelnuts, if preferred.

10 connectionmags.co.uk

1. Preheat the oven to 180C, fan 160C, Gas 4.

Cream the butter and sugar in a large mixing bowl until pale and fluffy, then beat in the egg and orange zest. Stir in the chocolate chips and walnut pieces.

2. Sift over the baking powder and flour and stir well until combined. Turn the mixture out onto a lightly floured surface and knead to a soft dough, adding a little more flour if necessary.

3. Divide the dough into two pieces and shape each to an oval shape roughly 20cm x 10 cm. Place on a large baking sheet and flatten slightly. Bake for 20-25 minutes until firm and light golden. Cool for 5 minutes.

4. Transfer the two pieces of semi-baked dough to a chopping board and, using a sharp knife, cut each piece into 10 slices.

5. Return the slices, cut-side down, to the baking sheet and bake for a further 8-12 minutes until crisp and golden. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes then transfer to a wire rack and leave to cool completely.

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We would like you and your friends to join us in the farm shop for our...

FESTIVE TASTER

EVENT Friday 1st December 2.00pm - 7.00pm

Come and meet many of our suppliers and sample delicious festive products.

We will also have a fantastic range of Hillers hampers for sale.

The Garden Restaurant and Gifts & Interiors Shop will also be open

Dunnington Heath Farm • Alcester • B49 5PD Tel: 01789 772771 • www.hillers.co.uk

THE GOLDEN CROSS The Golden Cross, Wixford Road, Ardens Grafton, Warks, B50 4LG The Golden Cross, Wixford Road, 772420 Ardens Grafton, Warks, B50 4LG Tel: 01789 goldencross@treasureinns.co.uk

Tel: 01789 772420

www.thegoldencross.net www.golden-cross.co.uk

We open from 12 noon every day and serve food from 12-9pm

Festive Bookings We are now taking g booking gs fo or the festive season.

Our Christmas fayre menu is £19.95pp We can cater for groups both large and small, in our bar area or dining room.

Cosy up around our open fireplaces and let The Golden Cross team make the day a special one, for the whole family, in our festively decorated pub.

NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS

Welcome in 2018 and celebrate New Year’s Eve with us.

Our delicious New Year’s Eve menu is £25pp and is available from 6.30pm.

Live music from the ‘China Lights’.

Please pop in or contact Claire for a copy of the menu at goldencross@treasureinns.co.uk or call 01789 772420 for information.

Daily Deals Are Back!

Back!*

MONDAY - SATURDAY Two Meals From Only £12

MONDAY MADNESS

Enjoy any 2 Golden Cross favourites 12-6pm

BURGER TUESDAY

Burger and a pint Choose your burger then add a selected pint or small house wine for an extra £1

FIZZ THURSDAY

Two pizzas and a bottle of prosecco for £25

Choose from a selection of meals Two for £10 or Two for £15 Minimum of two people must be dining.

WEDNESDAY

Children eat for £1 Choose a selected children’s meal for £1 when an adult meal is purchased

STEAK FRIDAY

Two steaks and a bottle of wine from £25

SUNDAY ROAST

3 courses for £15.95.

Choose from beef, half a roast chicken or guest roast. Vegetarian option available. *D Daily deals cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Not available on Bank Holidays.

- We've been busy! We’ve been working hard this month to continue getting the very best locally sourced produce to our customers.

On a day off from the shop, Sebastian enjoyed presenting a butchery demonstration to some eager-to-learn students at Stratford College.

a

Our hard work is definitely starting to pay off, and we’re excited to have received two award nominations for: ‘Countryside Alliance Rural Butcher of the Year’ ‘Stratford on Avon constituency Best Independent Village Shop’

a

We had a very successful ‘National Sausage Week’ Many thanks to all those who supported us.

It was great to hear all the positive feedback about our tasty bangers!

a

We’ve had further trips to see Annie Perkins at Clink Cottage, and there’s now new fencing for her lovely, home-reared Gloucester Old Spots.

a

Last reminder for Christmas orders, to be in by Saturday 9th December.

Don’t forget our FREE home delivery service on orders over £30 within an 8 mile radius.

THIS COUPON INTO 10% OFF IN DECEMBER BRING THE SHOP ON YOUR NEXT VISIT

This coupon can only be used in Sebastian’s Butchery, Bidford-on-Avon. Only one coupon can be used per transaction. Photocopies will not be accepted. Valid until 30th December 2017.

Finding Safe Places

C

an you remember a time in the past when you found a safe place? Perhaps it was upsetting news, an argument, or sheer exhaustion that led you there. *slumps on sofa* But can you recall the strength, relief and clarity you found? You recovered your mo-jo, and no, it wasn’t down the back of the sofa.

I wonder what comes to your mind when you think of ‘safe places’: A physical place - like a walk by the river - or perhaps a face? Or something else? Notice what comes up for you.

You know, we are not supersonic machines with Instant Answers to every problem we face.

Some life situations wrench us back and forth for months. We are humans who seek and stumble our way through the week, making coffee, friends, mistakes. So, we all need safe places sometimes to get a different perspective and figure out what-on-earth we are going to do to cope with whatever dilemma looms large.

What do I mean by ‘safe places’? According to the work of Dr. Trevor Griffiths, which helps people understand the intelligence of their emotions, a ‘safe place’ can be: (1) something you do; (2) somewhere you go; (3) someone you’re with; or (4) something in your mind - an idea or image.

Not complicated, right? But you may not have had time to think about this until now.

So, having safe places - knowing what, where and who they are - is essential to being able to bounce forward from day to day, and get less tangled in worry or walloped by stress. Stress just lurves to wallop the joy out of your day. It’s useful to have a few of each of these types of safe places. You’ll have ideas already - but other ideas can be refreshing and empowering, and perhaps a welcome break from the sofa.

Below are examples of each type of safe place.

There are over 40 ideas on my website (see address at bottom of page, and click ‘BLOG’. You’ll find more there).

(1) Something safe you can do - to either distract you from stress or give you a breather: stare at the sky; organise your diary; go to bed an hour earlier; listen to birdsong or favourite music; sigh or take long deep breaths… What do you do for a breather?

(2) Somewhere safe you can go – to rest or think something through: hide under your duvet for an hour; potter in the garden; walk by water (not just a puddle); visit a certain café, shop or art gallery; stick with a club you belong to. Where do you go to recharge?

(3) Someone safe to be with – having people who listen gently are a treasure indeed: do you text a certain friend; go out with a group; meet a coach or other helper; get in touch with a grandparent; use a helpline like Samaritans? There are always people who will listen, somewhere. Who are your safe people?

(4) Something safe in your mind: a positive memory from a holiday (can you picture one?); a favourite song (hum it in your head?); notice what you like about yourself in the mirror; have questions to respond to, such as: what is in your control that you can do (not what you can’t do)?

There’s no copyright on useful questions. What you hold in your mind affects your posture, breathing, emotions and behaviour. Powerful stuff huh?

These are just ideas to get chatting and thinking about safe places which might refresh you and provide clarity about a next step. My work as a coach is giving people breathing space so they do their best and clearest thinking, to feel better, solve problems and grow through changes.

Contact me if you want to find out more.

Christopher Spriggs is a dad, coach and author, working principally with secondary schools to promote positive mental health and resiliency in the next generation.

FIND OUT MORE: @ThinkSpriggs

www.christopherspriggs.co.uk h

Bidford Pharmacy

1177 H Hiigghh SSttrreeeett,, BBiiddffoorrdd oonn AAvvoonn,, BB5500 44BBQQ bbiiddffoorrdd..pphhaarrm maaccyy@ @nnuum maarrkknneett..ccoom m f o r d p h a r m w w w . b i d www.bidfordpharmaaccyy..ccoo..uukk   0011778899 777722443333

Season’s Greetings to all our customers

CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR OPENING rd

9am-1pm m Saturday 23 December Sunday 24th Christmas Eve CLOSED Monday 25th Christmas Day CLOSED Boxing Day CLOSED Tuesday 26th th th Wednesday 27 - Friday 29 9am-6pm m Saturday 30th 9am-1pm m st New Year’s Eve CLOSED Sunday 31 New Year’s Day CLOSED Monday 1st Tuesday 2nd January 9am -6pm m your prescription can be directed straight to us s by your GP for immediate dispensing we are able to re-order your prescription for you ou simply leave your repeat requests either via our website or in person and collect your medication when dispensed

thinking of quitting in the New Year? we offer FREE NHS Stop Smoking support

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

local pharmacy delivery service healthcare ad dvice & supplies

Y OUR C OMMUNITY P HARMACY IN THE V ILLAGE

Wednesday 6th December High Street - Alcester 5.45 pm - 9.00 pm Christmas shopping, Santa s grotto, Parade of classic & rally vehicles, children s rides & a host of other attractions.

5.45 p.m. - St. Nicholas Night opening 6.00 p.m. - Musical entertainment 7.00 p.m. - Parade of the Boy Bishop, classic vehicles & town organisations 7.15 p.m. Alcester Victoria Silver Band 8.00 p.m. White Hart Morris Men 8.30 p.m. - Fireworks extravaganza 9.00 p.m. - Compline service at St. Nicholas church Further information available at stnicholasnight.org.

And via our Facebook pages

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

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YEW TREE FARM COURTYARD SHOPPING

A stylish a and contemporary shopping village made up of sixteen beau utiful barns and coffee shop in a courtyard setting, offering a wide range a e of unique quality products from around the world.

MEET - GREET - SHOP - EAT

With something for the whole family, Yew T Tree Farm Shopping Village comprises the following units: u Open until 7.30pm every Wednesday throughout December in most shops Yew Tree Farm Shop Home Baking & Local Produce 01564 795688

Beyond the Blue Lifestyle Clothing 01564 792025

Cowshed Eaterie Brunches, Lunches, Afternoon Tea 01564 792979

Yew Tree Salon Hairdressers 01564 795429

The Antiques Shop Collectables, Antiques and Vintage 01564 898200 Giftivity Home Accessories & Gifts 01564 793030 The Wild Hare Jewellery, Repairs & Accessories 01564 792785

The Cardio Shop Home Fitness Equipment 01527 854554

Le Grenier English and French Antique Furniture 01564 795401 The Garden Furniture Centre Garden & Conservatory Furniture 01564 793652

Henley Chocolates Chocolaterie 01564 794718

Bizarto Design & Training 01564 793366

Gosh Boutique 01564 793355

Della and James Lingerie and Swimwear 01564 794255

Greys Teas Speciality Teas 01564 792295

H for Hats Hats & Hat Hire 01564 792785

FRESH CHRISTMAS TREES on sale from 1st December.

Buy any tree and receive discount vouchers for all participating shops/coffee shop in the courtyard shopping area.

YEW TREE FARM COURTYARD SHOPPING, STRATFORD ROAD, WOOTTON WAWEN, WARWICKSHIRE B95 6BY GENERAL OPENING TIMES TUESDAY- SUNDAY 10AM- 5PM. SOME UNITS NOW OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

WWW.YEW-TREE-FARM.CO.UK

KARL STALLARD FURNITURE K E FABULOUS CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS FOR THE HOME LOVER IN YOUR LIFE.

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

LOVELY FURNITURE ITEMS IN STOCK TO HAVE DELIVERED OR TAKE AWAY.

Please come and take a look around our showrooms at Blackminster Park and Greenhill Street

Blackminster Park festive week.

Friday 1st - Friday 8th December Fri ber During this week’s festivitie D es we are offering 20% off our Christmas gift items. ems

Look out for the sprigs of Holly!

And while you’re wandering, treat yourself to mince pie and glass of mulled wine.

38 Greenhill Street, Stratford upon Avon, CV37 6LE 01789 269476 Herbery Courtyard, Blackminster Park, Nr Evesham, WR11 7RE 01386 830420

www.looksnice.co.uk

Stratford upon Avon

Membership / Spa Days / Gift Vouchers

wildmoorspa.com

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

19

Get Real This Christmas

by Pippa Greenwood

Christmas is well and truly just around the corner and whilst your thoughts may be on gifts, meals, crackers and cards, don’t forget the tree.

And I mean a REAL Christmas tree not a tinsel one; a real tree complete with needles and, if you go down the really traditional route, that wonderful aroma that only a proper freshly-potted or freshly-cut Christmas tree can bring.

I’ve heard people say that a ‘real’ tree is bad for the planet; after all we’re meant to be planting trees, not felling them!

But don’t forget, British-grown trees are most definitely not an ecological disaster zone - think of them as a crop plant rather like a field of cabbages, except that on the whole a field of Christmas trees will be given less fertiliser and fewer chemicals than many classic crop plants. So go on, make sure you get one this Christmas!

There are a few things you ought to think about before you buy your tree - it can be really daunting when faced with rows of different types at very varying prices, so what would

20 connectionmags.co.uk

suit you best?

The Norway spruce (Picea abies) is the traditional tree, definitely my favourite but perhaps not ideal if you are more house-proud. It has gorgeous, short dark green pointed needles and that unmistakable Christmassy aroma, but sadly it is the most likely to drop its needles.

Having said that, if you treat it well it won’t perform badly and you can enjoy the lowest-priced of the real trees complete with the traditional look.

The Serbian Spruce (Picea omorica) is quite similar to the Norway spruce and has long been the favourite festive tree in central Europe, with a distinct blueish tint to the underside of the needles.

As it is fairly slender it is a good choice for smaller sitting rooms, and is good-looking with decent needle retention… but of course no Christmastree smell!

The Nordmann fir (Abies nordmanniana) has become increasingly popular in recent years and is now the biggestselling Christmas tree in the

/theconnectionmag

UK. As its shiny green broad needles are quite soft (making it a good choice if there are small children around) and are almost impossible to shift, it is certainly a good choice for those who hate any mess!

The Fraser fir (Abies fraseri) is less widely available, but the combination of its good looks and needle-holding ability makes it well worth considering. It has a narrower base than the Norway spruce so is also useful in smaller houses.

So, with all these tempting choices, hopefully you’ve been persuaded to take the plunge?

But how do you make sure you buy the best tree of the type you’ve decided on? And how do you make it keep its needles and its appearance for as long as possible?

• It is important not to buy a real tree too early, as the longer they hang around after they’ve been cut the more likely they are to go downhill.

• I always try to buy a tree produced by a member of the British Christmas Tree Growers Association – the Continued on page 22...

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Open Mon-Sat: 9-5.30pm, Sun: 10-4pm To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

21

BCTGA logo should be on the tree or clearly displayed nearby.

• Take time to choose the tree – check that it has a good, full shape and that it is not too gappy or lopsided (or if it does lean, make sure that this will be hidden when the tree is in your house). Check the needles - they should be glossy (for those varieties where this is a characteristic) and the correct colour for the type of tree you’ve chosen.

They also need to be free from pests and diseases - basically anything yellowed or inclined to shed, or with white fluffy bits should be avoided at all costs. Never buy a tree that has already been netted as this makes it a real lucky dip situation

since you can’t see what you’re getting!

• If you do buy one quite early then the most important thing is to keep it outside - just recut the end of the trunk and put the tree in a bucket of water in a sheltered spot outside. If it was in a net when you bought it, remove this as it is important to get air circulating around the needles.

• When you bring the tree inside, try to avoid putting it anywhere too warm or close to a heat source , and make sure that you use a stand with a water reservoir and that you keep the water levels topped up - if kept supplied with water then even the notorious Norway spruce Christmas tree

should hold its needles well.

When Christmas is over and it is time for the tree to come down, complete the green loop and make sure you recycle it - they’re not the easiest thing to recycle or compost at home, but many councils and garden centres now offer a re-cycling and Christmas tree chipping service.

Visit Pippa’s website www. pippagreenwood.com for great gardening gifts: a stylish ‘Grow Your Own with Pippa Greenwood’ gift card (a perfect Christmas present, where the recipient receives their chosen garden ready vegetable plants in the spring and every week Pippa emails with topical hints, tips and advice), gardening tools, raised bed kits, GrowerFrames, signed books and more!

Gates & Railings

by Phil

I make gates and railings

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

22 connectionmags.co.uk

/theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

WINDOW CLEANER Pest Control serviCe Gutters cleared Professional service All work invoiced & insured you can pay online local & long established

Phone 07814 949292 THE CARPENTRY COMPANY INKBERROW

QUALITY IS OUR STANDARD

✓ Wasps ✓ Rats/Mice ✓ Moles ✓ Insects ✓ Other Mammals & Birds

• Fully qualified and insured • Excellent rates • Friendly discrete service • Short and long term contracts available

Call Nick on 01789 764433 or 07552755202 E: stratfordpestcontrol@aol.com www.stratfordpestcontrol.co.uk

FENCING Andrew Smith

No job too small or big 30 years experience

WWW.CARPENTRYCOMPANY.CO.UK

Eric Williams Electrician 07974 228835

No job too small Estimates free eric@whippletreecottage.co.uk Whipple Tree Cottage Coughton Fields Lane Alcester, B49 6BX 01789 765877

BOOK YOUR MOWER IN FOR WINTER SERVICE

SALES • SERVICE • REPAIR • HIRE

PHIL BASFORD GARDEN MACHINERY

incl. Chainsaws & Hedgecutters Blackminster, Evesham, WR11 1 7RE 7 www.philbasford.co.uk

For your servicing needs, Tel/Fax: 01386 830283 Collection and delivery service

Mobile 07789 721303 Home 01386 793248 Based in Inkberrow thesmiths@mearselane.co.uk www.inkberrowservices.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

Painter & Decorator

Interior and Exterior BRIAN SMITH

Call 01789 772077 or 07790 087219 for a free estimate

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

23

OTown Little

Carol Services

Dec 9

th

TIME Waterloo Road Bidford-on-Avon B50 4JN

& 10

th

6pm

thebarn.org.uk

Doors open 5.30pm • Refreshments served afterwards • Everyone warmly welcome

CHRISTMAS 10 till 11 DAY am

Christmas is our favourite day of the year!

We’d love to celebrate it with you here at theBarn.

DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL ELECTRICAL WORKS

ALL ELECTRICAL WORKS

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•

07796 990309

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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

ow g s N rin lie ffe pp O Su t

Pe

Bidfo ord’s Dog Grooming Parlourr is n now stocking pet supplies!

FREE DELIVERY TO LOCAL AREA

Unit 19, Weston Industrial Estate, Honeybourne, Worcs, WR11 7QB

01386 841899

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

Carpets • Vinyls Rugs • Carpet Edging Natural Flooring

Based at Bidford Boatyard, with ample free parking.

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

Flooring supplied and fitted. Choose from 100’s of samples in store or in the comfort of your own home.

From m nail clipping to the full pamper, cliip & style for your breed of dog.

07765 385282

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

www.riversidepetsupplies.co.uk

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

info@grinnallcarpets.co.uk

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

25

Jacksons Jewellery Repairs BEFORE

AFTER

ALL JEWELLERY REPAIRS AND CLEANING DONE ON SITE

Opening Times

Selection of Wood Flooring, Carpets, Laminates, Vinyls & Karndean

Tues & Weds 9am - 4pm Thurs, Fri & Sat 9.30am - 1pm

01789 766611

BOOK YOUR FREE QUOTATION TODAY!

www.jacksonsjewellery.co.uk

01789 400050

1 Priory Road, Alcester, Warks, B49 5DX (off Globe Island)

3 Swan Street, Alcester, B49 5DP

ASK OUR PHARMACY TEA AM ABOUT

FLU VACCIINATION SERVICE AVAILABLE PROTECT YOURSELF AND YOU UR FAMILY THIS WINTER. GET YOUR FLU JAB AT

Hopkins Pharmacy y

Alcester Primary Care Centre

01789 764 874

Fields Park Drive, Alcester, B49 6QR www.hopkinspharmacy.co.uk

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

27

Is your child nearly 2?

Come along to

Alcester Nursery Studio’s OPEN DAY Saturday 9th December, 10am-2pm Have a look around our successful nursery.

Meet our inspirational & long-serving staff.

Fun activities & light refreshments will also be available.

Alcester Nursery Studio St Faith’s Road, Alcester, Warwickshire, B49 6AG 01789 765780 www.alcesternursery.org /alcesternurserystudio 28 connectionmags.co.uk

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@connection_mag

Balloons Bubbles and Bouquets Presents

MINI CHRISTMAS

MARKET & PAMPER NIGHT FREE ENTRY & FREE PARKING

Friday 8th December from 4-9pm Join us for a night of fun.

Enjoy a glass of wine and shop local craft stalls, including: jewellery, candles, soaps, a raffle, balloons and cakes.

Unwind with a facial, manicure, and/or massage.

Have a tarot reading or reiki treatment.

Tea and cakes will also be available Bring your children to visit Santa in his grotto.

/localhandmadegifts The Cottage of Content Pub

15 Welford Road, Barton, B50 4NP 07920 474497

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

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

Calling all embroiderers, crocheters, knitters, illustrators, crafters of all disciplines!

Craft Club Alcester

An informal free monthly meet up on the second Monday of the month.

Bring along whatever you are working on for a couple of hours of inspirational chat and crafting with likeminded souls!

Where:

The Hollybush pub, 37 Henley Street , Alcester, B49 5QX

When:

The second Monday of the month from 7-9pm Follow Craft Club Alcester on Facebook for updates & more info.

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

29

Answers on page 58

M u s i c Tu i t i o n Andrew Swinn MA, ARCM, ARCO

Piano, Music Theory, Exam Accompaniment

01789 763 954

CLEANING & IRONING Hassle Free House Cleaning Services One-off deep cleans • Ironing Service End of Tenancy cleans Fully Insured • DBS Checked For a fast, efficient and convenient service, call Fiona Lilly

07796 992980

Clean Shine and Buff with Fee Fee Fluff

www ww w .alcestercleaners.co.uk

Lifeguard Computer Care For Home & Small Business

p g

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

lifeguardcomputercare.weebly.com Alcester based since 2009

WiZ pan we buy & sell

Good Old Fashioned

Junk Shop ... browse online!

Look us up on

Furniture, Curios, Bric-a-Brac, Antiques, TM 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

SEWING • KNITTING • CROCHET Come To One Of Our Workshops • Browse Our Beautiful Fabrics, Yarns & Haberdashery • Gift Vouchers Available MARKET PLACE, ALCESTER, B49 5AE

HarryandFloss

07931095052

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

31

shop locally Say Something Good

Invest In Your Town

share on social media

Walk In That Door You Always Pass

Be A Tourist In Your Own Town

Support Local Events

Eat Food Grown Within Walking Distance

use the independent shops See Whats On Your Doorstep

Discover Your Community

Find A Favourite P lace & Tell Everyone

Love Where You Live use the free town wifi

Beautiful Boutiques, Cosy Cafes,

Gorgeous Gifts, Fresh Fish, Kitchenalia, Ironmongery, Antiques, F lowers & Bouquets, Feather Pillows, Buttons & Bows, Spectacles,

Dry Cleaning, Personalised Printing, Great Coffee, Gentleman’s Attire, A Roman Museum, Fabulous Knickers, Balloons, Get A Tattoo, Cute Organic Dresses, Very Good Barbers, High Tea For Two, A Pint Or A Brew, A Doggy Groom, Book A Jolly Holiday, Hair Cuts & Colours, Model Trains, Fresh Cream Cakes, An Osteopath, Rather Good Junk, Post Your Mail, Pop To The Bank, Nip To A Chemist, Interior Design, A Fabulous Pet Place, Carpets, Buy Diamonds & Pearls, A Friendly Accountant, Little Wooden Toys, Specialist Greengrocer, Get A Great Takeaway, A Twice Yearly Festival Of Food, Fine Tailoring, Purchase A House, Legal Advice, Treat Your Feet, Birthday Cards,

Stationery, Free Town Wi Fi,

Beautiful Beauticians,

Free Parking, Get The School Uniform,

Reiki,

Freshly Baked Bread, Scrumptious Pub Food

MercedesAMG GT C Coupe Edition 50

by James Baggot

What is it?

The Mercedes AMG GT C Coupe Edition 50 is the secondhottest model in the sports car line up and sits slightly below the utterly bonkers GT R. Only available currently as a 500production ‘Edition 50’ special run, it features a monstrous engine, thunderous soundtrack and super GT looks.

What’s neW? The engine steals all the headlines, but technical refinements include active rear axle steering, electronicallycontrolled locking differential and a wider track than its lesser powered GT and GT S siblings.

What’s under the bonnet?

All GT models feature the same 4.0-litre V8 with a ‘hot inner V’ – a compact engine design that places the turbos on the inside of the engine’s ‘V’, so they spool up quicker. Power output for the GT C is a whopping 549bhp backed up with 670Nm of torque, which means 060mph in 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 197mph.

What’s it like to drive?

On the road, it feels big and wide. Visibility isn’t great and placing it takes practice. It’s got fantastic levels of grip though and despite those tyreshredding performance figures, it puts those huge lumps of power down impressively well, aided smoothly by a quick seven-speed auto gearbox.

34 connectionmags.co.uk

The steering feels heavy, perhaps even a little slow at times, but it’s communicative.

As the name suggests, this is definitely a performance GT rather than a lithe and supple sports car. On paper, it might be a rival to an Audi R8 or Porsche 911 Turbo S, but both of those would feel far more sports car than this. The GT C is muscle; more raw power and less finesse. hoW does it look?

That muscle car look might be exactly what buyers are looking for, though. Its long, blunt nose, tight rear and low stance will win the most buyers. It’s a unique look – something that’s pretty unrivalled on the road – and one Mercedes is pegging a lot of the GT’s success on.

What’s it like inside?

Inside the driver is surrounded by a focused cabin. A large, somewhat intrusive transmission tunnel is littered with buttons and dials and the multimedia system is frustrating.

The touch-sensitive trackpad is clunky and the graphics look dated, especially when compared to the likes of Jaguar Land Rover. The interior feels incredibly cramped too. Taller drivers will find their knees butt up against the bulkhead and the seats don’t recline far enough.

What’s the spec like?

Standard spec on the GT C

/theconnectionmag

includes 19-inch front and 20-inch rear alloy wheels, Burmester sound system, parking sensors and camera, keyless go and an AMG performance steering wheel finished in nappa leather. It’s topped off by red brake calipers with AMG lettering. verdict If you can see past the complicated naming strategy to pick the right model, you’ll be rewarded with a technologically advanced, blisteringly fast and characterful GT. It’s cramped inside for taller drivers, and some of the multimedia system can be infuriating, but there’s no denying the GT C is staggeringly quick, exciting to drive and looks the muscle car part. Buyers will have a tough choice between this and the very capable alternatives from Audi, Porsche and McLaren, though – while Mercedes will be hoping its AMG heritage and booming soundtrack will pull in the punters.

Facts at a glance Model: Mercedes-AMG GT C Coupe Edition 50 base price: £139,855 engine: 4.0-litre V8 twin turbo power: 549bhp, 670Nm top speed: 197mph 0-60mph: 3.5 secs Mpg: 20mpg emissions (g/km): 259

@connection_mag

WINTER OFFERS

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Don’t be caught out in the dark!

Keep a clear view of the road!

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01789 507500 • WWW.1CARCOMPANY.CO.UK A Family-Run Business Supplying Carefully Selected Pre-Owned Vehicles Committed To Providing You The Very Best Service For Over 25 Years To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

35

Winter Driving Tips

Iain Betson passes on some winter driving tips stop!

When snow is falling fast, don’t drive unless you really have to. In terrible weather, putting things off until conditions improve is best.

Winter ailments can leave you exhausted and sluggish. If you don’t feel like you can drive safely, don’t risk it. car maintenance Keeping the car well maintained is doubly important in winter. Worn tyres won’t hold the road in wet conditions as well as those with a good, deep tread. Make sure all exterior lights are working and that windscreen wiper blades are in good condition. Check the oil, coolant and washer fluid levels. in the wet Take simple precautions when driving in heavy rain. Slow down: the wetter the roads, the longer your braking distance, and the

heavier the rain, the worse your visibility. Drive cautiously and leave a good distance between you and the vehicle in front. in snow and ice Again, slow down and leave plenty of room between you and the vehicle in front. Use your headlights if necessary. Brake and accelerate gently.

It’s not always easy to tell if you’re driving on ice, though if your tyres are making less noise than usual you may well be. If you do skid, don’t brake – you’ll lock the wheels and lose control. Instead, depress the clutch and steer into the direction of the skid. When the car straightens, steer as normal. emergency stopping Apply the brake, without locking the wheels. If the vehicle starts to skid, ease pressure from the pedal and then reapply. Press the clutch in just before you stop. safe winter motoring!

By Iain Betson

Special Offer!

10% off all vehicle hires* *Valid Monday to Wednesday only

VANS • LUTONS • MINIBUSES • CARS

01386 833700

www.eveshamselfdrive.co.uk /EveshamSelfDrive 36 connectionmags.co.uk

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VEHICLE SCRATCH & SCUFF REPAIRS

Bumper & Wing Mirror Scuffs Paintwork Scratches Leather & Vinyl Repairs Alloy Wheel Refurbishment Paintless Dent Removal Vehicle Graphics ’s OAP nt ou Disc able l i Ava Call STEVE for a FREE, no obligation quote

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

Local Plumber ALL PLUMBING WORK UNDERTAKEN

OPENING TIMES Monday - Friday: 8.30am - 5.30pm Saturday: 9am - 1pm Sunday: closed

No job too small • No VAT Reliable Friendly Service

CALL HUGH ON

Call: 07768 360 420 hughducksss@gmail.com References Available On Request Fully Insured

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

37

BACK OF THE NET

A

ll is well with English football. Or so it seems, following nil-nil (yawn) draws against the two best (?) country teams in the world.

I know, I shouldn’t moan about two bore draws, but there was little excitement, particularly against Brazil. The team played well against strong opposition, with many younger players drafted in after the usual withdrawal of some of the ‘better’, more senior players. The defence was exceptional and perhaps we can expect a better future for the senior team as the youngsters get more experience. In my opinion, we need a stronger central midfield and more options up front, but Gareth Southgate should be commended for the job he is doing... so far.

It was such a shame to lose Northern Ireland in the World Cup play-offs. They have a lot of

38 connectionmags.co.uk

Happy Christmas!

sympathy from many who believe they were robbed by two poor decisions by the referee in the first leg against Switzerland. Their neighbours down the road in the Republic were given a right hammering by Denmark.

But the shock of the qualifying rounds must be Italy going out, thereby missing the World Cup for the first time since 1958. When their new coach was installed, the president of the Italian Football Federation announced that they would make history together. Job done, eh!

And so we get back to the domestic games for a few weeks, and the ridiculous number of matches that are played over our festive season. Well, I suppose that’s one of the reasons for having so many squad players.

It always seems like the top teams moan most about the number of games that are played when they have the biggest and most expensive squads. Perhaps that mirrors life in general - those who have most wanting more.

Or is that me being a little too controversial? ;) See you next month...

Back of the net!

/theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

For all your

FISHING TACKLE & AIR RIFLE supplies from most of the top brands DRENNAN, LEEDA, WYCHWOOD, SENSAS, PRESTON INNOVATIONS, DAIWA, DYNAMITE BAITS, ETC

Quality fresh maggots, castors, pinkies, pellets for feed and hook

We a lso se ll Dar Dart ts, Boar ds, F light & Sh s afts We a .

Pellets, Targets, lso R e-st Tenn Tele Sights, Silencers, ring is, Sq uash Badm Gun Cases, Etc. & inton Rack We are here to give you Ba ets. nk c ards help and advice on your accep ted requirements.

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Phone: 01789 762200 Unit 10, Tything Road East, Arden Forest Industrial Estate, Alcester, B49 6ES

DELANCEY DEVELOPMENTS.COM Professional Local Builder Specialising in all aspects of building: • Kitchens & Bathrooms • Carpentry & Roofing • Extensions & Alterations • Rubberbond Flat Roofing System • Landscaping & Water Features For a free, no bligation quote, call

01789 773767 or 07909 913014 To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

39

NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH ALCESTER A Very Happy, Peaceful and Safe Christmas from NHW. As the Christmas period approaches we would ask you to be extra vigilant. Crime statistics show that burglary and theft increase during the darker nights and the festive season.

• Have lights on timers to make your house appear occupied when darkness falls.

• In the evening, close the curtains so that your belongings are not on view, especially if you live near playing fields, open ground or alleyways.

• When walking or cycling after dark, wear something reflective.

• Don’t leave anything in your car if it is parked on your drive or in the road.

• When shopping, especially in the larger towns and cities, please be aware of pickpocketsand keep your purse or wallet secure.

• Do not leave your shopping on view in the car.

• If you leave your house empty over Christmas please tell your neighbour and ask them to make sure any deliveries are not left on the doorstep.

• Do not leave Christmas presents on view through windows to passers by, eg around the Christmas tree.

Simple Advice to avoid becoming a victim of Vehicle Crime • Double check that your door is locked and windows and sun roof are closed.

• Don’t leave anything on display in the vehicle such as sat navs, loose change or bags.

Even if there’s nothing valuable in the bag, a thief doesn’t know this and by the time they’ve smashed your window to get it, it’s too late • If you have a garage, use it. So many garages are full of everything, but not the car.

• Consider installing security lighting.

• When parking always choose a well-lit area, preferably with CCTV coverage.

• Keep your vehicle ownership documents in your house not in your car.

• Think about who you leave your keys with. Do you trust them? Valet parkers, car washers and even some garages have been known to

make copies.

• When at home keep your car keys away from doors and windows and out of sight.

• Check that your alarm or immobiliser is enabled when you leave the car.

Remember - before any crime, there is usually suspicious activity! Always report suspicious activity around your home, your vehicle or your area, to Police, on 101 The next meeting of NHW Alcester will be held on Tuesday 6 February, 2018, 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.

The Police non emergency number: 101 to be used to report crime and other concerns that do not require an emergency response.

101 diverts to your local Police. Calls cost 15p per call (landlines and mobiles).

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.

PS 542 Bob Shaw (Team Sergeant) 01789 444815.

PC Robert Davies (Beat Manager) robert.davies@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk Rebecca.morris@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk James.squire@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk Thomas.bagg@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk 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.

Contact Warwickshire Trading Standards 01926 414040. Website, Facebook & Twitter. Make a scam/rogue trader complaint toTrading Standards via Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0345 4040 506. Sign up to receive scam alerts at www.warwickshire. gov.uk/scams. You can also report a fraud or cyber crime to Action Fraud on: 0300 123 2040 or visit www.actionfraud.police.uk.

Avoid rogue traders - use Warwickshire Trading Standards “No Rogue Traders Here” approved trader scheme.

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

/theconnectionmag

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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

41

HaHAhA!!

Phill Jupitus: Juplicity Friday 1st December - 8pm We Wish You A Merry Christmas Wednesday 6th December - 7.30pm Folk in the Foyer: Jim Moray Thursday 7th December - 8pm The Nutcracker: Vienna Festival Ballet Saturday 9th December - 7.30pm Bretforton Silver Band Xmas 2017 Sunday 10th December - 7.30pm

DECEMBER

The Collection of Napoleon & Josephine Tuesday 12th December - 8pm

FOLK FOYER in the

Full details of all acts at eveshamartscentre.co.uk

Box Office: 01386 446944

BIDFORD RURAL CINEMA has great pleasure in presenting

DUNKIRK Film Certificate: 12A Running time 106 mins + interval Friday 1st December at 7pm (to be confirmed) Ticket price: ÂŁ2.50 per person All films show at The Crawford Memorial Hall, Salford Road, Bidford on Avon. For further information, call 01789 778653 / 07718 628925

Refreshments sponsored by your local 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

42 connectionmags.co.uk

/theconnectionmag

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THE THROCKMORTON - FREEHOUSE - INN - QUALITY DINING Coughton Hill, Alcester, B49 5HX info@thethrockmorton.com

01789 766366 thethrockmorton

BURNS’ SUPPER

6 Course Taster Menu, Bagpipes and Readings Tuesday 23rd & Wednesday 24th January 2018 £29.95 per person Arrive 7pm for Grace at 730pm - Bookings Only

RABBIE BURNS’ TASTER MENU Cock a leekie soup Smoked Scottish salmon on homemade oatcake with horseradish creme fraiche A wee dram to toast the haggis Haggis with bashed neeps & tatties Home roasted beef with whisky & mushroom sauce on skirlie mash with roasted root vegetables Clootie dumpling with Drambuie whipped cream Coffee or tea served with a shortbread biscuit All accompanied by live bagpipes, readings, singing and toasts by Piper J Moore and your Host Bookings Only, £10 per person deposit to secure booking, full payment required by 09/01/2018

WWW.THETHROCKMORTON.COM

Canada Glimpses of Toronto Toronto, CN Tower and Rogers Centre on Harbourfront, seen from the lake.

Through the leafy gorge of the river Don the city rises like a mirage on the horizon, a gleaming cluster of buildings dwarfed by the slender silhouette of the CN Tower. At just over 553 metres, Toronto’s communication tower is the tallest free-standing structure in the Western hemisphere and the city’s most iconic landmark.

Lifts take you to the observation platform with its glass floor said to withstand the weight of 14 hippos and provide access to the SkyPod 100 metres above. The view takes your breath away, from the wooded ravines and sprawling city to the meandering shore of Lake Ontario and the lush ribbon of islands where town folks can escape and connect with nature. In clear weather the spray from Niagara Falls, over 70 km away, is visible.

But before making your way to the Falls, as most visitors do, it is worth spending time in this ‘most lovable’ North American city with record temperatures of highs and lows but on the same latitude as the French Riviera. Trams glide through the streets at a leisurely pace, tulips nod in the parks and hundreds of rooftop gardens, now compulsory in all major

44 connectionmags.co.uk

developments, freshen up the air.

The original settlers, known as First Nation, had long lived in the area when Europeans arrived in the early 17th century.

The French set up a fur trade but were later replaced by the British, who bought the land from the First Nation for the princely sum of £1,700 plus merchandise. Yet it was only with the arrival of the railway in the mid-19th century that the city truly blossomed.

According to BBC Radio, Toronto is ‘one of the world’s most diverse cities’, home to 230 nationalities, speaking 160 languages and accounting for an inner city population of 2.8 million. So Ontario’s provincial capital is larger than Ottawa or any other Canadian city. But laid out as it is on a grid pattern, it is surprisingly easy to explore on foot, from the business centre to Little Italy, China Town, Portugal Village or the bustling Dundas Square on Yonge Street, the place for casual eating, nightlife and cheap theatre tickets. Old and new mingle effortlessly: here the historic Parliament and University buildings, there the old City Hall with a clock tower reminiscent of Big Ben,

/theconnectionmag

By Solange Hando the stylish harmonious complex of the New City Hall, just steps away, the multi-purpose Rogers Centre, home to the Blue Jays baseball team and concert venue - think Madonna or the Rolling Stones - or the Union Station opened by the Prince of Wales in 1927.

Markets beckon with local colour, St Lawrence for fresh produce, Kensington for all things hippy, arty and cool, while the ultimate shopping therapy is found in the vast Eaton Centre. For top designer wear or celebrity spotting, however, it’s the Mink Mile in the Bloor-Yorkville district. Then you can wander the cobbled lanes of the Distillery Historic District, lined with bakeries and micro-breweries, visit the Royal Ontario Museum or the Ripley’s Aquarium where you can pet a stingray, or chill out under pink parasols on the imported sands of Sugar Beach.

Then there are restaurants and ice cream parlours, coffee and cake shops, but sooner or later the lake calls you back with ferries to the islands and boats cruising nonchalantly along the harbour front, past the mighty CN Tower which dominates the skyline wherever you are in Toronto.

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Indulgent Escapes Looking to escape the in-laws for a couple of hours? We may have found you the perfect book to indulge in. the one – John Marrs Imagine a world where a simple DNA test can help you to find your one true soulmate. Would you take it, even if you think you’ve already found love?

The One follows five people in their search for their DNA match. One is desperate to start a family. One is head of a global company. One is already engaged. One is prepared to travel to the other side of the world to meet her match. And one is a killer. A real page-turner that will keep you reading until late into the night.

the prime of Ms dolly greene – e. v. harte Dolly lives in a tiny house in London, with her 21 year old daughter. So far, so ordinary.

But the way Dolly makes ends meet is anything but ordinary.

Dolly is a tarot reader and when she hears about the discovery of a dead body, she can’t help but remember a recent client she had a very bad feeling about. But will the police listen to her suspicions? A lighthearted read that combines crime, humour, fantasy and romance in one engaging tale.

all the little children – Jo Furniss A family wild-camping trip turns into a fight to survive in this gripping debut novel. Marlene and her sister-in-law have taken their children to a forest for a short holiday before the start of term. When they spot columns of smoke in the distance, and not an electric light in sight, they start to suspect something has gone badly wrong. As the enormity of the situation unfolds, and Marlene finds more children in need of protection, she needs to decide how far she’ll go to protect her family.

Gripping.

how hard can it be? – allison pearson Teenage kids, ageing parents, a next-to-useless husband, menopausal woes – Kate Reddy has them all. And now she needs to get back into working life – a decade after leaving her stressful job as the manager of a hedge fund.

No easy feat when you’re approaching 50. This is the sequel to the bestselling I Don’t Know How She Does It, but works just as well as a stand-alone novel. A brilliant read, it’s laugh-out-loud-funny in its depiction of the trials and tribulations of the sandwich generation.

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the betrayals – Fiona neill Sometimes there are four sides to a story. Daisy has just got her life back together after battling through years of OCD. But then a letter arrives addressed to her mother, which threatens to open old wounds and reveal the secrets Daisy has tried so hard to keep hidden. The Betrayals was awarded the Richard & Judy Book Club 2017 Thriller award, and it’s easy to see why. An emotive novel about the complexities of family life, mental illness, betrayals and the fallibility of memories. dark Matter – blake crouch Jason Dessen hasn’t achieved all he planned to with his life, but on the whole he’s content.

So when he’s kidnapped and escapes to find his home has changed, his wife isn’t his wife and his son doesn’t exist, he’ll stop at nothing to put things right. But is he the college professor he believes himself to be, or the genius scientist others seem to think he is?

A really intriguing book, with a fast-paced storyline, lots of twists and turns and a very clever narrative. You won’t want to put this one down.

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20 P E N I N 19 G

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A Stunning New Retirement Village for Worcestershire • Large 1-bedroom & 2-bedroom apartments • Restaurant, bar & café • Transport service • Library Providing more than just retirement living, • Activities & events team Richmond Wood Norton will offer an aspirational lifestyle. Live free from the stresses of modern living, • Wellness Spa with pool & gym in a community filled with social opportunities, • Hair & beauty salon surrounded by like-minded neighbours who also • Landscaped gardens want to get the most out of life.

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Redefining retirement living, Richmond Wood Norton is a new luxury retirement village located in the beautiful countryside between Evesham and Pershore.

For more information contact:

01386 897388 www.richmond-villages.com/woodnorton The Marketing Suite, Suite 2, Tadcaster House, Keytec 7 Business Park, Kempton Road, Pershore, Worcestershire WR10 2TA

Alcester Town Council DECEMBER 2017

Town Council Meetings All Town Council meetings are held at Globe House at 7pm.

Full Council Meeting - Tuesday 5 December Community Care - Tuesday 12 December Community Facilities - Tuesday 19 December Planning - Monday 11 December 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.

for the Jubilee Centre with the assistance of a kind donation from Church Street Properties. It is hoped that this system will provide useful evidence for the local police when investigating vandalism and other illegal activity in the local area.

Keeping your home warm and safe during cold weather The Keep Warm and Save Money event on 1st November was an opportunity to find Alcester Town Council Contact Details: out how to keep warm for less this winter. A Alcester Town Council offices: Globe House range of agencies attended offering useful via the Seggs Lane entrance first floor (lift advice. If you missed the event you can still available) Monday - Friday 9am–1pm (or call get specialist help and advice on keeping to make an appointment). warm and ways to help reduce your energy Tel: 01789 766084 bills, including switching your energy supplier.

Town Clerk - Vanessa Lowe: There may be grants available for boiler clerk@alcester-tc.gov.uk Planning & Communication: replacements and loft insulation for certain administration@alcester-tc.gov.uk households, depending on income and health Facilities: reception@alcester-tc.gov.uk conditions.

Community Care: office@alcester-tc.gov.uk To check eligibility and for more information Health & Wellbeing: wellbeing@alcester-tc.gov.uk please call Act on Energy on the Free Phone or info@alcester-tc.gov.uk Advice Line: 0800 988 2881 More information found on our social media Here are a few other hints and tips: pages: • Make sure your loft and cavity walls are www.facebook.com/alcester insulated (there should be 27cm or 10.5 www.twitter.com/AlcesterTown inches of insulation in the loft) to help keep Alcester Community Speedwatch your home warm.

The Community Speed Watch initiative in • Fit draught proofing to seal the gaps around Alcester has been running for some years doors and windows. but with the recent acquisition of a dedicated speed gun and recruitment of new volunteers, • Read your gas and electricity meters and the group are running sessions more regularly give the readings to your energy suppliers.

Check your gas and electricity tariffs to check and in additional locations around the town. if you could be paying less.

All volunteers have been trained in using the • Save energy and money by switching off equipment and the scheme is an excellent example of how residents and the Town unused appliances and lights.

Council can assist the Police in keeping our • Get your heating serviced annually by a roads safe. qualified central heating engineer and have your chimneys swept at least once every year CCTV at the Jubilee Centre to reduce the risk of chimney fires.

The Town Council is pleased to announce that it has purchased a new CCTV system

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51

Bidford on Avon Parish Council in the County of Warwickshire

BIDFORD RURAL CINEMA

Friday 1st December @ 7.00 pm DUNKIRK (Cert 12A) – we are trying our very best to get this film for our December screening but please bear in mind it is a very special early release and we are dependent on the DVDs arriving on time. SO PLEASE CHECK THE WEBSITE FOR CONFIRMATION Don’t forget you are now able to see a trailer online of the film being screened – just click and watch! 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 We wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and look forward to welcoming you back on Friday 12th January 2018 (later date due to Pantomime). See page 42 for more on the Rural Cinema.

Bidford Community Library

It’s that time of year when we will all be popping into Budgen’s on a regular basis. Don’t forget that an easy way to support your community library is by collecting your tokens (1 for every £10 spent) and putting in in the appropriate collection box. If the cashier forgets to offer you the tokens don’t be shy and ask for them.

CHRISTMAS WREATHS

A large number of wreaths were stolen from Salford Road Cemetery last year around Christmas. To minimise the risk of it happening again, the Parish Council has installed a gate near the entrance and the Police are looking at crime prevention. In the meantime we would ask that you are mindful of the situation and report ALL suspicious behaviour to the Police IMMEDIATELY on 999 if the act is taking place or, if not an emergency, 101.

MEETINGS

Monday 11th DECember, 7.30pm, Planning Consultative Committee Meeting.

Monday 18th December, 7.30pm, Parish Council meeting.

All meetings, which are open to the public, are held at the Parish Council Meeting Room, Bramley Way, B50 4QG.

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 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. This method of keeping the community informed received good press at a conference I attended on Communications. Many registered residents may have noticed they are no longer receiving these emails – this is due to some servers no longer existing – if you are one of these and have changed your email address, please email me your new email address.

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 on Facebook (Bidford on Avon) and Twitter (@Bidford_PC) to keep informed locally.

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.

Please note, the Parish Council Office will be closed from Friday 22nd December 2017 to Tuesday 2nd January 2018. However, if needed I am contactable by email or mobile, see below.

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

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The Local Computer “Doctor�

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BIDFORD HARDWARE 01789 772324

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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 12th of the month Shakespeare Hospice - Santa Run 2016 Bidford on Avon WI

Happy Christmas to everyone! Bidford on Avon will be holding their December meeting on the 14th, 7.30 for 7.45 at the Bidford Methodist Church.

The speaker will be the brilliant Dr Gillian White and her talk, "The Story of the Huggable History of the Teddy Bear". Do come and enjoy this speaker and the Christmas refreshments. If you would like more information, contact Pauline 01789 773390.

Bidford & District History Society

Run or walk the 5K course, starting at 11am on 9th December from the Stratford Recreation Ground. Mini Claus are also encouraged to get involved, either as an individual or pushed by Mr or Mrs Claus in their buggy! Tickets £15 adults and £10 under 16s. All adults will receive a free Santa suit and hat! Children under 12 can come in fancy dress and a prize will be awarded to the best dressed. Hot and col refreshments will be available from 9.30. Tickets can be bought at www.theshakespearehospice.org.uk or on the morning of the event.

Salford Priors Ladies Group

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

Wednesday 13th December. Entertainment - June Herbert presents 'The Gilded Lillies', . New members and visitors always welcome and first visit is free.

Contact Pam Sharpe on 01789 773746 or Pam Seville on 01789 772540.

Alcester Ladies Probus

We are a friendly ladies club who meet for lunch every 2nd Wednesday of the month at Kings Court Hotel, Kings Coughton. Our next meeting is on 13th December, 12.15 for 12.45, when we will be celebrating Christmas with a lunch of turkey with all the trimmings, followed by Christmas entertainment.

We welcome visitors to join us to enjoy our Christmas festivities. For details contact Secretary Cynthia Hill 01789 763446.

Alcester WI

Our December meeting is at Jubilee Court Community Centre, 7.30pm on Thursday 14th.

Come and get in the Christmas party mood with The Stratford Strummers, a "bring and share" supper and a secret Santa. All members, friends and visitors are welcome to the last meeting of 2017.

Friday December 15th, 7.30pm, Crawford Memorial Hall, Salford Road, Bidford, B50 4EZ. 'The Way We Were'. The Society's Research Group.

Bidford & District Gardening Society

"Bushes with Berries" is the subject of a talk by Reg Moule on Thursday, 21st December. There will also be a raffle. All meetings are held on the third Thursday of the month at 7.45 pm in the Crawford Memorial Hall, Bidford. Visitors are very welcome at only £3.00 including refreshments. For further details please ring 01789 268974 or go to www.bidfordgardens.com.

Bidford Pantomime Crawford Hall, Bidford, B50 4EZ Friday 5th January, 7.30pm and Saturday 6th January, 2.30 and and his Merry Men! 7.30pm. Tickets £5 each.

Alcester Art for All

We are a group of friendly, like minded people who enjoy painting and drawing. We meet at Alcester Scout & Guide Association Hall, Moorfield Road on Monday afternoons from 1.0pm - 3.0pm.

Alcester Flower Club

We meet on the first Monday of the month at the Methodist Church, Priory Road, Alcester at 7.30pm.

There will be no meeting in December and January, the next meeting being on Monday 5th February, 2018. Contact Chairman, Mrs Brenda Kirkman 01789 778669.

Arrow and Arden Nordic Walking

Whether you want to get fit or lose weight, walking with poles can help you achieve your health goals in 2018.

Join one of our free January Nordic Walking sessions and improve your health & fitness together with like-minded people. Contact Kathrin 07875 609324 / NordicWalkers@ outlook.com / www.arrowandarden.co.uk

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.

Another event & fun-packed year!

Four BIG Breakfasts (Alcester & Bidford), Slumdog Millionaire with its Oscar winning screenwriter, ‘Kids Out’ at Drayton Manor, Bulldog Bash, Mablethorpe Children’s Holidays, Pimms Stalls. An event packed & successful year & we have so much fun supporting community events & fund-raising for charities at the same time. Huge thanks to all the Alcester & Bidford area businesses for their wonderful support, the Bulldog Bash organisers & all the people who attended our events.

As always, Connection Magazine for their unstinting support.

What now for December? The Tree of Light Switch On, St Nic’s Night, Santa’s Grotto & Waitrose bag pack for Parkinsons still to come. AND, after much experience on St Nic’s night, our ELVES are honoured to have been asked to help with Santa’s Grotto at The Ragley Hall Frost Fair!

Please come & see us at Ragley, make some Reindeer food & meet Santa To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

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community events & what’s on...

To publicise any community events, email info@connectionmags.co.uk by 12th of the month Events at The Alcester War Memorial Town Hall in December

Every Tues Every Thurs Every Thurs Sat 9th Mon 1st Jan

10 am -11 am 6.45 pm - 9 pm 8.15 pm - 9.45 pm 7.30pm - 11.30pm 10am - 12am

Flexible Friends - Ms. D Gray, 01527 401674 Arrow Action Group (Special Needs) - Mrs J. Appleby, 01527 893684.

Tai Chi Classes - Jane Bowen, 01789 763866.

Ricky Cool & The In Crowd - rickycoolandtheincrowd.co.uk.

Hunt Meeting - Steven Brown, 01789 766484.

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.

Craft Club Alcester

Calling all embroiderers, crocheters, knitters, illustrators, crafters of all disciplines!

An informal free monthly meet up on the 2nd Monday of the month. Bring alond whatever you are working on for a couple of hours of inspirational chat wth likeminded souls.

Walking for Health - Health Walks

This National Scheme is run by the Ramblers and Macmillan Cancer Support. The local group meets at 10.30am every Monday (except Bank Holidays) on the High Street, at the bridge in Bidford. Walks are led by trained walk leaders and last for 1 - 2 hours, varying in length between 2.5 and 4 miles, with the reward of a drink either en route or at the end of the walk.

New walkers are always welcome. Please note that all participants are required to complete a simple outdoor health questionnaire. For more information, go to www.walkingforhealth.org.uk.

Children’s answers: The fish thare the same are A and E.

Sudoku solutions

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.

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 10am and 12 midday.

Cupcake Café at Salford Priors

Saturday 2 December, 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. No meeting in August.

Knit and Natter Group

Bidford Comunity Library has a Knit & Natter Group which meet every Wednesday afternoon from 1.30 to 3.30. Team, coffee & biscuits are included in the cost of £2. Beginneres to experts welcome.

Local Art Club, Alcester

Open to anyone who is insterested, any ability. We meet every Thursday, 7pm - 9.00pm at Church House, Alcester High Street. A small attendance fee. We are small group of people who like painting, without a teacher, other than each other. We occasionally have a demonstrator, which is paid for out of our subs. We are a friendly group who have a love of painting. All are

welcome to join us.

There are 6 ‘Igloos in the grid.

Easy grid

Not so easy grid

(see page 6)

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Enter our competition to win a

Christmas hamper

full of goodies from some of our fabulous advertisers!

To enter, email info@connectionmags.co.uk type ‘CHRISTMAS COMP’ in the subject and tell us, in less than 10 words, what you are hoping for this Christmas.

Also leave your name, address and phone number.

The competition closes at 6pm on Friday 15th December 2017, when the winner will be drawn at random so that the hamper can be delivered in time for festivities to begin.

Happy Christmas and good luck!

Only one entry per household will be accepted.

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