17 nov mag web

the

c connection

Around Alcester, Bidford & the Villages

magazine

November ‘17 No. 122

RECIPE

Chilled Orange Mousse

GET PLANTING

With The Heart of England Forest

LOCAL AWARD WINNERS

Warners Budgens Alcester Nursery Studio

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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rs Priory Road,

Hair & Beauty & Barbe 01789 766222 or 766333

Alcester, B49 5DY

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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”

“All things good for wood!”

Tel: 01789 778628 www.agwoodcare.co.uk d k

Wellington Road, Waterloo Industrial Estate, Bidford on Avon, B50 4JH

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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

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: Friday 10th November

Welcome

... to the November Connection.

Phew, what a month October was! Our busiest in years.

People are clearly starting to think about the impending festivities (I won’t mention it just yet - I’m all for ignoring it until Advent begins!). However, there are parties to be booked and dates to be made in diaries, so please pore over the pages of this edition to get yourself prepared for the big day next month.

November starts with a bang, quite literally, as firework and bonfire displays light up the local towns and villages. Visit Bidford on 4th of the month to behold their offering - 2016’s event was a fantastic effort and I can’t wait to see this year’s too (p. 26). Let our front cover serve as a reminder to check your homemade bonfires for our spikey hedgehog friends!

November 11th is, of course, Remembrance Day, with many services being held in churches across the area on Remembrance Sunday, 12th. Details of Alcester’s British Legion events can be found on page 56, the first of our Community/What’s On pages, which also feature plenty of other local groups, events and activities.

Nature lovers can find out more about The Heart of England Forest on page 46 - why not get stuck in and volunteer for some tree planting? Or if you prefer fauna over flora, perhaps you’d be interested in joining Stratford Beekeepers? Find out more about their taster day and beekeeping course on page 24.

Our usual articles include tips for getting your garden winterready (p. 20), a motorbike review (p. 34), a zesty orange dessert (p. 10), words of wisdom from Christopher Spriggs (p. 14) and a congratulatory nod to both Alcester Nursery Studio (p. 28) and Warner’s Budgens of Bidford (p. 8), who have each won awards recently.

We’ll be back again next month, with plenty of seasonal merriment no doubt, but in the meantime, we hope you enjoy all our fantastic communities have on offer for November. And, if you do happen to get start your festive shopping, don’t forget to buy local!

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.

General Dental Practice •

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New Patients Welcome LOCATED OFF WAITROSE CAR PARK, TO THE LEFT OF ‘THE NAIL COMPANY’ Market Place, Alcester, Warwickshire, B49 5AE

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

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Tel: 01386 421700

Sudoku

Selection of Wood Flooring, Carpets, Laminates, Vinyls & Karndean BOOK YOUR FREE QUOTATION TODAY! 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

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Not so easy grid

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COTTAGE OF CONTENT COUNTRY PUB

DON’T FORGET OUR HALLOWEEN, FIREWORK & BONFIRE NIGHT!

Saturday 28th October from 4pm

OPEN FROM 12 NOON EVERY DAY

Extensive menu offering home cooked food every lunchtime and evening as well as roast meals on Sundays or now available how about a Lavazza coffee and cake in the afternoon?

CASK MARQUE ALES • NEW, SPECIALLY SELECTED WINE LIST • GREAT RANGE OF CIDERS FAMILIES & DOGS WELCOME WELC • AMPLE CAR PARKING • KIDS’ PLAY AY AREA • BEER GARDEN SENIOR CITIZENS SPECIALS* *Senior citizens lunch specials available from 12 till 2 pm, Monday to Saturday and for October and November, also available in the evenings from 6pm to 7.30 pm, Monday to Thursday

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

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

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

Post Office move wins prestigious award for Warner’s Budgens!

W

arner’s Budgens has won the ‘Post Office Retailer of the Year’ award at the recent Retail Industry Awards, held at the Grosvenor Hotel in London.

The prestigious event is dubbed the ‘Oscars of the retail sector’, and Warner’s Budgens faced stiff competition from some big names in the supermarket world to earn the award.

The award went to the Warner’s Budgens store in Bidford-upon-Avon, where the village Post Office has a new home after it was ear-marked for closure when the previous sub-post mistress decided to retire.

By relocating the Post Office to its Bidford store, Warner’s Budgens has given the village Post Office a new lease of life, offering longer opening hours and more convenience for users.

“Being recognised at a prestigious awards event such as the Retail Industry Awards is hugely satisfying,” said Guy Warner of Warner’s

Budgens. “It is doubly rewarding for our Bidford store to take home the Post Office award after we campaigned to prevent the loss of the village post office by relocating it to our store.”

The Post Office Retailer of the Year award was accepted by Jack Cross, manager at Warner’s Budgens Bidford-upon-Avon store and Steve Neale, operations director.

The Local Computer “Doctor” Over 15 years in the area fixing computers 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 8

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L EXC

IV E N E W H

E OM

US

BIDFORD ROAD • BROOM

SIX 2, 3 & 4 BEDROOM LOCAL MARKET HOMES FOR SALE IN THE PICTURESQUE VILLAGE OF BROOM

EXCLUSIVE SALES PERIOD FOR LOCAL PEOPLE FINISHES ON 1st DECEMBER 2017 Located in the beautiful villa age of Broom, Little Aspley’s superior, local market homes are availa able exclusively until 1st December 2017* for people with a local conn nection n to the Parish of Bidforrd-on-Avon (which includes Broom, Ba arton, Marlcliff and Bidfo ord).

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PRICES FROM £245,000 - £495,000 *SALES WILL OPEN TO THE FULL MARKET ON SATURDAY 2ND DECEMBER 2017

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Estate Agents, Letting Agents & Chartered Surveyors Telephone 01789 852180

Cake and Bake Chilled Orange Mousse with Fresh Orange Glaze A light, creamy and refreshing dessert that can be prepared a day in advance. Serve with crisp butter biscuits or shortbread fingers.

Ingredients: • • • • • • • •

3 gelatine leaves 150ml fresh orange juice 250g ricotta cheese 250g full fat soft cheese 100g caster sugar 2 tsp orange zest 300ml double cream 2 egg whites

FOR THE ORANGE GLAZE • 1 gelatine leaf • 150ml fresh orange juice • 2 oranges, peeled, segmented and flesh chopped • Fresh mint sprigs, to decorate

Serves 8 Ready in 1 hour, plus cooling and chilling

TIP Stir a spoonful of warmed fine-shred marmalade into the orange glaze before it cools for an extra tangy flavour.

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1. Soak the gelatine leaves in a shallow bowl of cold

water for 5 minutes until soft. Heat the orange juice in a small pan until almost boiling then remove from the heat. Squeeze the excess liquid from the gelatine leaves and stir into the hot juice until dissolved. Cool for 15 minutes.

2. Beat the ricotta and cream cheese together in a

large bowl until smooth, then beat in the caster sugar and orange zest. Fold in the cooled gelatine.

3. Whip the cream in a bowl until softly peaking and in

a separate bowl whisk the egg whites until stiff. Fold the cream into the orange mixture followed by the egg whites.

4. Spoon the mixture into a 20cm square baking dish that is at least 5cm deep. Gently level the surface and chill in the fridge for 3 hours, or until set.

5. To make the orange glaze, soften the gelatine in

cold water as in step one. Heat the orange juice in a small pan until almost boiling then remove from the heat. Squeeze the excess liquid from the gelatine leaf and stir into the hot juice until dissolved.

Cool for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally until beginning to thicken. Pour over the chilled mousse then top with the diced orange flesh. Chill in the fridge for 2 hours, or until the glaze has set. Serve cut into squares decorated with fresh mint sprigs.

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Christmas Collection

Lots of great gift ideas from stocking fillers to something for that special someone

Cards • Stationery • Jewellery & Accessories • Toiletries Toys & Baby • Kitchenware & Furnishings • Clothing • Mens Gifts Dunnington Heath Farm • Alcester • B49 5PD Tel: 01789 490991 • Email: info@hillers.co.uk • 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 tak king book kings for the festive season.

Our Christmas fayre menu is

£19.95pp

We can cater for groups both large and small, in our bar or dining room.

Our Christmas Day 5 course menu is only £65pp, with canapes and bubbly on arrival.

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.

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.

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Watching what we say

ometimes words spill from our tongues so easily and unconsciously we forget to question them or their impact. We just pick up the lingo and throw it back into conversation without asking: What is it we are actually communicating?

An example: having worked in the sphere of young people and mental health for over 20 years, there is a word I hear more times a day than I have cups of tea. And it bothers me. That word is: “intervention”. (A cup of tea is a very special kind of intervention of course).

This week I’ve heard: Early intervention.

Relentless intervention. Strategic intervention.

Diagnostic intervention. As if young people weren’t real people we were talking about but photocopiers which need tampering with.

The meaning of “intervention” includes: to intercept, oppose, come between, hinder, interrupt.

“Intervention”, used in relation to a concern about a young person’s mental wellbeing, I fear, presupposes there is something fundamentally wrong with them which needs fixing. *Pass me a spanner* I suggest this way of thinking may be part of our problem: Are young people machines, or are they part of nature?

Think about that word - “intervention” - if you were a young person on the receiving end of it. If you were experiencing anxiety, low moods, grief emotions or maybe OCD, would you warm to the idea of getting ‘early opposition’ or ‘strategic hindrance’ or ‘relentless interruption’?

I think there is an alternative which nudges us back towards talking about young people as if they really are People *said in hushed tones* and that is “Attention”. Early attention; relentless attention; strategic attention. Of course, “attention” is just one alternative, maybe you have a better suggestion? It’s just “intervention” is so, well, mechanical, whereas attention is

personal.

After all, what if there is something basically right with young people? What if they each have, as Nancy Kline, a pioneer in the personal development field over the last four decades, describes it, a “dominant inherent capacity for good”? Are you aware of this capacity - this sense of being “mostly-okay-actually” - inside you? What about in those around you? People’s fundamental goodness is an interesting thing to notice, and it grows when we give it attention.

Most of us are better humans than even we give ourselves credit for.

Findings within the field of neuroscience show that giving this kind of “non-judging” attention shown in simple ways such as gentle eye contact, not immediately interrupting one another and dropping the judgements in the privacy of our own minds - doing all this has its own healing properties. Attention itself has an intrinsic power which helps young people to think things through for themselves, helping them develop an “internalised locus of control” which is a key to not giving up, to becoming resilient, to growing through difficulties. Attention of this kind (and it is indeed ‘kind attention’) calms the amygdala (the “fight-back” or “run-for-it” alarm system in the brain) as well as improving decision-making (in the pre-frontal cortex). What I’m saying is the quality of attention we give one another is a key to enjoying good mental health. It’s not magic, or more drugs we need, it’s looking toward each other realising we are each humans sharing a tiny planet all trying to find our way home.

Now for a cup of tea…

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

Stratford upon Avon

Membership from £50 per month Short term memberships available

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MAVERICKS Hair & Beauty You deserve it!

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Going somewhere special?

BLOWDRY BAR £10

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

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A Stunning New Retirement Village for Worcestershire VILLAGE FACILITIES • Large 1 & 2 bedroom apartments • Wellness Spa with pool & gym • Transport service Redefining retirement living, Richmond Wood Norton is a new luxury retirement village located in the beautiful countryside between Evesham and Pershore in Worcestershire.

Providing more than just retirement living, Richmond Wood Norton will offer an aspirational lifestyle. Live free from the stresses of modern living, in a community filled with social opportunities, surrounded by like-minded neighbours who also want to get the most out of life.

Independent Living | Assisted Living | Care & Support 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

• Hair & beauty salon • Library • Arts & crafts room • Restaurant, bar & café • Landscaped gardens • Care team on site 24 hours a day

T

he Three Horseshoes, Wixford

A wonderful place for fine country dining in a beautiful setting.

T

he Three Horseshoes in Wixford is a country pub & restaurant offering locally sourced products. The recipes are passed down by the owner’s grandmother, who had a large family and spent her whole life in Bidford. The Three Horseshoes is the perfect restaurant for either daytime lunches or evening meals. Whether you would like to have a drink outside in the sunshine, in our beautiful outdoor garden, or eat dinner inside in our ambient restaurant.

We also have a tea shop at our site, that has just debuted; “Nanny Marj’s Tearoom”.

Offering everything from home made cakes and cream teas, to specialty teas and coffees.

In our restaurant, we have an excellent daily carvery, with a selection of quality meats and vegetables, butter-basted turkey, honey mustard glazed gammon, and prime roast beef as well as pies made from scratch.

As part of our weekday specials, we have slow cooked lamb dishes on Tuesdays, that

Our Carvery

Come down and experience our award winning carveryy With a choice of three succulent meats or pies locally sourced fresh vegetables and our signature giant fluffy and crispy Yorkshire puddings with rich gravy.

We also have a salad bar every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

ha a ou st dis alo ho

PUTTING THE GREAT BACK INTO BRITISH FOOD

have been cooked to perfection. Wednesdays we offer a selection of steak specials which are displayed on our steak counter and on Thursday, fresh fish served straight from the land famous Billingsgate market, displayed on our fish counter. All specials are offered alongside our extensive main menu with our 50 home-cooked meals and our award-winning carvery.

We also have a variety of exciting weekend specials. Our menu can be viewed online at www.greatbritishinn.co.uk.

The bar is well stocked with premium lagers, craft beers and ciders, alongside a wide selection of wines from around the world. We also offer a vast array of spirits featuring our whiskey wall and premium gins, vodkas and rums.

The Three Horseshoes is a superb example of how Great British Inns have managed to combine the effectiveness of a restaurant chain and the genuine warmth of a family-owned establishment, our general manager Bella, looks forward to welcoming you.

Visit us on w facebook/Thethreehorseshoeswixford Or call us on q01789 608016 and book a table.

Alcester Road, Wixford, Alcester, B49 6BG

Book NOW the PERFECT CHRISTMAS PARTY IDEAL FOR A PARTY OF 6-200 PEOPLE

The Three Horseshoes

A Busy November

by Pippa Greenwood

Despite the seasonal slowdown there are lots of jobs which, if done now, could end up saving you time and money later on - so here are the top November gardening tasks to get to grips with.

Hoe off weeds that are around now, as some might still set seed during mild, damp periods. Provided they have no seed pods their top-growth can safely be composted, but bin, burn or rot down fleshy weed roots to prevent them growing in the compost heap!

Cut back or pick off obviously diseased leaves and stems to neaten flower beds and borders, and remove some of the foliage that is dying back purely due to the time of year.

Leave some deteriorating but healthy foliage in place to provide protection for the crowns of more fragile plants.

Rabbits become more of a menace as natural food supplies reduce, so make sure that rabbit netting is not damaged and that trees, especially those that have been planted recently, are fitted with tree guards.

If there is a sizeable tree near your lawn, rake up fallen leaves on a regular basis to prevent damage to the grass beneath.

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Trees, shrubs and climbers that have been planted recently may need protection from frost and cold winds over their first winter. Use a layer or two of horticultural fleece draped over the plant and pegged in place; it can be removed on warmer days. Fleece ‘jackets’ with a drawstring and in various sizes are available from my website, see www.pippagreenwood.com/ products/protect-your-crops.

If you’re planning on hedgeplanting, remember that many hedging plants are cheaper if bought ‘bare root field grown’, meaning lifted from their nursery field without being potted on. Order now to make sure you get the pick of the bunch. Bare root plants are not feasible once the leaves start to appear next year.

Use seed catalogues and websites to help decide what you want to grow next year.

Many suppliers offer seeds and young plants of many vegetables, so order now and you can relax, knowing that you have got your first choice selection. Check out my website, www.pippagreenwood. com/grow-your-own, for a Grow Your Own package perfect for the less experienced vegetable grower - the plants you choose come with weekly advice

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emails telling you exactly what you need to be doing.

Established clumps of bamboo should be thinned out now. The extra space that the remaining canes will have will allow them to grow away better, and also gives them more freedom to move about in that way which makes bamboos so very appealing.

Less tender bulbs such as nerines and many of the agapanthus will winter better if you give them a little protection now. Mound dry chipped bark or other mulch over the area in which they are planted.

And last but not least, before water butts fill up with autumn rain grab a sturdy brush and clean each one out thoroughly, removing deposits of algae, soggy bits of plant and general gunge! Rinse out and then re-install ready to collect some rain.

Visit Pippa’s website www. pippagreenwood.com for a gorgeous selection of useful gardening items, perfect for gifts too, including growing frames, SpeedHoes, SpeedWeeders, fleece jackets, cloches, fruit cages, raised bed kits, Nemaslug and other nematode controls, copper tape, pull-out EasyTunnels, signed books and lots more besides.

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Gates & Railings

by Phil

I make gates and railings

Pest Control serviCe ✓ 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 BOOK YOUR MOWER IN FOR WINTER SERVICE 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

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

OPENING TIMES MONDAY - FRIDAY 7AM - 5PM SATURDAY 7AM - 1PM

DAILY DELIVERIES TO YOUR AREA - CAN BE DELIVERED LOOSE OR IN BULK BAGS OPEN TO THE TRADE & PUBLIC

COMPLETE RANGE OF SAND & GRAVELS, ROCKERY STONE, WATER FEATURES DECORATIVE CHIPPINGS, RECYCLED & QUARRIED STONE, TOP SOIL, TURF, BARK & CEMENT. READY MIX CONCRETE & CPCS TRAINING ALSO AVAILABLE ON SITE 01527 893343 • Sandhills Farm, Edgioake Lane, Astwood Bank, B96 6BG www.sedavis.co.uk

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

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

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NEW

NSIE A P NG

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IL - TRA

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 w www.ridgewaynurseries.co.uk Open Mon-Sat: 9-5.30, Sun: 10-4

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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

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

Phone 07814 949292

• • • • • •

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

DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL ELECTRICAL WORKS

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

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To Bee or Not to Bee...

I

nterested in Beekeeping but not sure exactly what is involved?

Find out if beekeeping is for you by coming to Stratfordupon-Avon Beekeepers’ Taster Day at Luddington Village Hall on Saturday 27 January 2018, 10-4pm.

The Day provides an informal and low-cost opportunity to find out more about the craft before spending money on courses and equipment. With practical demonstrations (but no live bees!) our experienced beekeepers will be on hand to give advice. This could be your first step to a most rewarding hobby. The cost is £15 for the day, including light refreshments.

knowledge, why not join our Introduction to Beekeeping Course? The course held on alternate Tuesday evenings from mid-February at Luddington Village Hall, also includes two hands-on sessions at the Association Apiary in Hampton Lucy. The cost of this course is £75.

For more information/course syllabus please visit our website.

www.stratfordbeekeepers.org.uk or Tel: Mike Osborne 01789 731745

For those with more serious intentions of becoming a beekeeper, but with little or no

Grooming At Ferns

YOUR FRIENDLY LOCAL VETERINARY SURGERY

McGettigan’s Lissadell, 106 The Ridgeway, Astwood Bank, B96 6NA

• Fully qualified d C&G Levell 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

24 connectionmags.co.uk

Only 4 miles from Alcester

PETS

Consultations by appointment

24 Hour EMERGENCY COVER

TEL: 01527 893016 FAX: 01527 893008

/theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

These durable and attractive aluminium structures are available with a range of roofing panels and post sizes, allowing you to choose the structure that is perfect for your setting and budget.

• Full 10 Year Guarantee

• High Speed Installation

• Fully Aluminium System

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• Wide Range of Colour Options • Unlimited Strength

A RANGE OF VERANDAS CANOPIES & CARPORTS WHICH HAVE BEEN DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY TO ADD STYLE AND PRACTICALITY TO YOUR HOME AND GARDEN CONSERVATORIES & ORANGERIES WINDOWS & DOORS Unit 1, Waterloo Industrial Estate, Waterloo Road, Bidford-On-Avon, Warwickshire, 8504JH

FASCIAS SOFFITS & ROOFLINE PRODUCTS GUARDIAN WARM ROOF

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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

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

25

Bidford Pharmacy

1177 H Hiigghh SSttrreeeett,, BBiiddffoorrdd oonn AAvvoonn,, BB5500 44BBQ Q bbiiddffoorrdd..pphhaarrm maaccyy@ @nnuum maarrkknneett..ccoom m w ww ww w..bbiiddffoorrddpphhaarrm maaccyy..ccoo..uukk  0 1 7 8 9 7  01789 77722443333 Cold weather can make

you more likely to catch a winter illness that could become very serious

So if you start to feel unwell, even if it is just a cough or cold, seek advice from your pharmacist before it gets more serious

OPENING HOURS Monday-Friday 9am–6pm Saturday 9am–1pm MEDICINE USE REVIEW STOP SMOKING SUPPORT

NEW MEDICINE SUPPORT EMERGENCY HORMONE CONTRACEPTION

26 connectionmags.co.uk

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Designed by

FOR MORE INFO WWW.VISIT BIDFORD.COM

HONEYBOURNE ROAD CLOSED APPROX 7.30PM FOR 30 MINUTES

PAY ON THE GATE

ADULTS 4 UNDER 16 S 1 UNDER 5 S FREE

GATES OPEN 6 P B ONFIRE.00TOPBME LIT AT 7 5 PM FIR EWORK S 7.1

OW O N THE MEAPMD

Saturdmber Nove

bidford s

big

bonfiarye4th

H OT FO OMDENANTDS REF RESH

Y OUR C OMMUNITY P HARMACY IN THE V ILLAGE

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- Sausages We are now stocking our own, homemade sausages after a successful tasting event.

Amongst our delicious range are some specially made low fat, high protein and low calorie bangers – perfect for those on weight management programmes.

a

- Rare Breeds Locally sourced within a few miles of the shop, we now sell rare breed beef, lamb and our own pork.

We continue to work with Annie Perkins of Annie’s Market Garden, and look forward to selling her award-winning pies.

a

- Christmas Christmas orders are still being taken.

Last orders by 9th December.

We’ll be serving up some treats at the Bidford Christmas Light switch on Sunday 26th November.

Come and see us!

Now offering a FREE home delivery service on orders over £30 within an 8 mile radius

Alcester Nursery Studio

Recognised with W.Inc.K.S.

I

t was a proud day for Alcester Nursery Studio when they were presented with the Warwickshire Inclusion Kite-marking Scheme (W.Inc.K.S) award – the first time the accolade has been granted.

Nursery Head, Debi French, and SENCO (Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator), Penny Williams, attended the presentation ceremony at the end of September alongside a number of other childcare providers, “We are delighted to receive the award, which we will hold for two years before we apply for it again.

It highlights our continuous dedication to ensure that all our children reach their full potential during their time at our nursery.”

Under the award criteria, the nursery, which remains the only childcare provider in Warwickshire to hold the Makaton Friendly Award, will now continue to deliver accessible and all-inclusive practice at all times – not only when they have a child with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities).

It is another great achievement for Alcester Nursery Studio, who last year were also recognised as an Outstanding Early Years Provider for their continuous high standards of care within such a warm, friendly and encouraging

environment.

Pictured: Nursery Head, Debi French & SENCO, Penny Williams

ALCESTER NURSERY STUDIO PRESENTS...

B

Bingo Night

I

N

34

Come and join us on

G

O

6

Friday 17th November

for our fun-filled bingo fundraising evening.

RAISING MONEY FOR BIRMINGHAM CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL

11

In aid of 2 year old Meadow White, who attends Alcester Nursery Studio.

Lots of great prizes to be won! Refreshments available.

VENUE: Our Lady’s School Hall, St Faiths Road, Alcester TIME: Doors open at 7pm, first game starts at 7.30pm COST: £1.00 entry, to include a raffle ticket

For more information contact Debi on 01789 765780

28 connectionmags.co.uk

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stylish corner

S C

Ladies hairdressing Tel: 01789 763052

1 Church Street, Alcester

Up-to-date styling Wedding hair

SEWING • KNITTING • CROCHET

Come To One Of Our Workshops •

Browse Our Beautiful Fabrics, Yarns & Haberdashery •

Gift Vouchers Available MARKET PLACE, ALCESTER, B49 5AE

HarryandFloss oss

079 9310950 052 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 From m nail clipping to the full pamper, cliip & style for your breed of dog.

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

Based at Bidford Boatyard, with ample free parking.

FULLY INSURED TRA D 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

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

29

Answers on page 58

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

07999 337172 hvschooloflanguages@gmail.com

CHIROP PODIST Yvonne Hartley D.S.Ch, M.Inst.Ch.P, HCPC Reg

Over 20 years experience Surgery based in Badsey

01386 833520 07833 5 95020

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.alcestercleaners.co.uk ww

SALFORD PRIORS MEMORIAL HALL for your special event

• 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 www.salfordpriorsmemorialhall.co.uk /salfordpriorsmemorialhall

School Road, Salford Priors, WR11 8XD

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

31

Book now for

Christmas 2017 at...

Traditional Festive Lunch

Festive Celebration

2 Courses £12.95 3 Courses £14.95

2 Courses £17.95 3 Courses £20.95

Served 12 to 3pm Monday to Saturday

Served 3 to 9pm Monday to Saturday

TO START

TO START

Roasted red pepper & tomato soup (V) with crusty baguette Breaded whitebait tartare sauce & granary bread Homemade chicken, brandy & bacon pate toast & red onion jam

Smoked salmon & dill parcel Ham hock & mustard terrine with piccalilli Pea, spinach & nutmeg soup (V) Duck & port pate homemade chutney

MAIN COURSE

Home roast turkey & gammon ham bacon wrapped chipolata, stuffing & gravy Bacon wrapped pheasant breast apple & leek stuffing, port & mushroom sauce Slow cooked blade of beef shallot, bacon & red wine sauce Smoked haddock mornay oven baked in cheese sauce Beef tomato, ricotta & basil tartin (V)

Home roast turkey & gammon ham bacon wrapped chipolata, stuffing & gravy Slow roasted beef Yorkshire pudding & gravy Sea trout wellington in puff pastry on creamed leeks & peas Wild mushroom & courgette nut bake (V) with vegetarian gravy All served with roast potatoes, parsnips & a basket of fresh steamed vegetables

DESSERT

Christmas pudding with brandy sauce Chocolate orange cheesecake with Chantilly Mulled pear crème brulee

MAIN COURSE

All served with roast potatoes, parsnips & a basket of fresh steamed vegetables

DESSERT

Christmas pudding with brandy sauce Chocolate orange cheesecake with Chantilly Poached pear with blackcurrant sorbet Chocolate brownie with toffee sauce

FESTIVE T MENUS AVAILABLE FROM 22nd NOV thethrockmorton

01789 766366

Coughton Hill, Alcester, B49 5HX

WWW.THETHROCKMORTON.COM

THROCKMORTON . THE F -I -Q D REEHOUSE

NN

Boxing Day Lunch 2 Courses £18.95 3 Courses £21.95

Bookings taken between 12 & 6pm

TO START

UALITY

INING

New Year’s Eve

Full main menu served throughout the day followed by….

Celebration TASTER Menu

Parsnip & ginger soup crusty baguette (V) Smoked salmon & dill parcel Creamy garlic & chive mushrooms (V) Duck & port pate homemade chutney

Arrive from 7.30pm, dine at 8.30pm

MAIN COURSE

Canapes & bubbly on arrival

Slow cooked lamb shank garlic & rosemary gravy Smoked haddock mornay oven baked in cheese sauce Slow roasted beef red wine, mushroom & shallot sauce Home roast turkey & gammon ham Stuffed chicken ballontine topped in Masala sauce Beef tomato, ricotta & basil tartin (V)

Vegetable broth

All served with roast potatoes, parsnips & a basket of fresh steamed vegetables

DESSERT

Poached pear with blackcurrant sorbet Chocolate brownie sundae Toffee crème brulee Individual cheese plate

Chicken Caesar parmesan cups Pancetta wrapped cod on a rich chorizo cassoulet Slow roasted beef dauphinoise potatoes, green beans, port & bacon sauce Triple chocolate cheesecake Tea or coffee with homemade biscuit Followed by dancing into the early hours

7 Courses £45

NOVEMBER - BOOKINGS being TAKEN NOW more great reasons to book with us this year...

Book a party of over 15 people before 9th November and get your meal free Preorder your wine and bubbly and get 15% off the list price Both offers subject to restrictions and t’s and c’s see our festive flyer or website for details

Honda’s Automatic Africa Twin Is A Commuter’s Dream

by James Baggot

Honda has fitted an automatic DCT gearbox to its Africa Twin endurance machine. James Baggott reports on life with the 998cc continent crosser.

Honda’s Africa Twin has gained a cult following – and rightly so. It’s a do-it-all enduro bike that’s not only comfortable, but incredibly capable too.

We’ve been riding the firm’s latest model with the revolutionary automatic DCT transmission for a few months now and soon discovered it’s a staple commuting tool.

If you’re already a fan of enduro-style bikes, the seating position and handling characteristics will be very familiar. The relatively small screen does cause a bit of buffeting, but the sit-up-andbeg style riding position works brilliantly in town.

I’ve ridden the 998cc parallel twin cylinder machine to London and back to the South Coast six times now and found that the seat does get a little uncomfortable after an hour or so – at 6’4’’ I am just a little too big for the Honda.

However, that said, when the stop-start traffic bites, the Africa Twin makes for a brilliant gapfinding tool. The light steering and automatic gearbox in ‘sport’ setting transforms it into a

34 connectionmags.co.uk

scooter-like commuter, darting for gaps.

The test bike has the optional hard luggage fitted – both top box and panniers at a cost of £920. Sounds pricey, but they’re impressively capacious, thought they do make the Africa Twin rather wide.

On the road, the Honda handles neutrally. Leaning over hard might make you question the available grip; however, that could be down to the tyres. I’ve also noticed the standard forks on the front dip considerably under braking – if you’re used to BMW’s telelever setup on the GS, this bike’s main rival, it takes some getting used to.

The engine develops 94bhp and 98Nm of torque which feels perfectly punchy enough. The real talking point is the DCT automatic gearbox though. For those of you unfamiliar with the setup, the Africa Twin in this guise has no gear pedal and the lever for the clutch isn’t for the clutch at all – instead it operates a handbrake, and is positioned sensibly far enough away that you won’t end up pulling it unintentionally. Once you’re used to it, you’ll soon be enjoying the break your left arm and foot get. As a hardened biker I never thought it would be something I’d enjoy riding quite as much as I do.

There are a few niggles though.

/theconnectionmag

I’ve found the fuel tank a little on the small side. At just 18.8 litres it’s not nearly enough for a bike capable of long distances, and frustratingly won’t get me the 160 mile round trip to London and back without refuelling. I’ve also found the centre stand a little precarious. It’s hard to get your motorcycle boot-clad foot between the frame and stand to push it down sturdily enough.

That might have something to do with my big feet and correspondingly large boots, but it’s still annoying.

Those minor gripes aside, I’m finding the Africa Twin to be a brilliant companion.

Its combination of solid build quality and capability in a variety of circumstances makes it the perfect bike to tackle our congested roads in pretty much all weathers. And if you’re doubting that automatic transmission – give it a try, you might just like it as much as me.

FACTs AT A glAnCe Model: Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin DCT Price: £10,499 engine: 998cc, Parallel twin Power: 94bhp, 98Nm Top speed: 115mph MPg: 48mpg (estimated)

@connection_mag

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

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

W AIR RIFLES FROM Da e also sell Da rt B rts, BROCOCK, B.S.A., oard s, Flig S.M.K., WEIHRAUCH hts & Sh afts We a .

Pellets, Targets, lso R e-st Tele Sights, Silencers, Tenn ring is, Sq uash Gun Cases, Etc. Badm & inton Rack We are here to give you B ets. ank card help and advice on your s acc epte requirements. d

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

alcester sports & tackle

Established 1979

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

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

35

F

BACK OF THE NET

ollowing hot on the heels of my comment last month about managers getting sacked too early, Leicester City only went and sacked Craig Shakespeare just a few months into his permanent contract. What is wrong with these club owners? (That’s meant to be rhetorical so don’t be writing to me. I know what you were thinking).

Having also written last month about the Blues, I feel I should now wax lyrical about the lighter blues of Man City. Manchester City.

The great Manchester City. At last, Josep “Pep” Guardiola Sala (to give him his full name) seemed to some that he might have been struggling to come to terms with the English game last season after he had joined from Bayern Munich in the summer of 2016.

They still managed third place. Now it seems that he was just feeling his way..

Come on you Citeh!!!

City’s start to this season has been amazing, incredible, Barcelona-like. With seven wins and a draw from their first eight league matches (and they dominated the 1-1 draw against Everton with 65% possession and nineteen attempts on goal!), they scored 29 goals, conceding only 4. So apart from the draw against Everton, they are averaging FOUR goals a game!

Of course, this has cost a few quid, that’s the way football is going these days, but they really are a delight to watch. Even the game at home to Napoli, top of Italy’s Serie A with eight wins from eight games, looked like it might be all over in the first half.

One of the stars of their show at the moment is Kevin de Bruyne (I’m glad he’s in my fantasy team). It will be interesting to see how the season progresses for them. There will be plenty of competition from the usuals but my money is on City this season (not real money, of course. I’m not that stupid).

See you next month...

Back of the net!

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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@connection_mag

FOR A STRESS FREE LOCAL CAR BUYING EXPERIENCE…

ALCESTER

Visit us now At Our New Site:

Tything Park, Tything Road East, Alcester, B49 6ES

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

AUTUMN OFFERS

FREE FITTING ON TYRES

Offers end 30 November 2017

Keep safe on the road this autumn!

FREE SEASONAL For peace of mind before winter HEALTH CHECK arrives!

20% OFF BATTERIES

Let us check your battery!

Unit 1, Tything Park, Arden Forest Industrial Estate, Alcester, B49 6ES

Monday - Friday 8am - 6pm

/

Saturday 8am - 12pm

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

37

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

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

• 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

www.chartel.co.uk pete@chartel.co.uk

38 connectionmags.co.uk

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

@connection_mag

BIDFORD HARDWARE 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

Computer Trouble-shooter Graham Smith For Domestic and Business Users

* 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

NO FIX, NO FEE

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

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 Unfortunately, as the evenings draw in, it becomes easier for the burglar to identify empty houses and those where the occupants are not back from work until after dark. The use of timer switches on a table lamp and the radio will give the impression someone is at home.

If every house were to have a light coming on at dusk the burglar would have great difficulty in identifying an empty house. So please don’t allow your house to stand out from the rest.

The dark nights produce other dangers also, so if you are walking or cycling after dark please take extra care. Make sure you can be seen by wearing something light or reflective, and if you are driving please take care especially at the start and finish times of the school day. Many of us have an elderly or vulnerable person living next door or close by. Please encourage them to use a safety chain on the front door and to send strangers away. Why not offer to receive their callers and confirm their identity on behalf of your neighbour? If you think you are at risk then call the Police, dial 101, but if you are being actually threatened dial 999.

Solar Panel Owners warned of rogue traders ‘Cleaning Services’. Owners of solar panels are warned to beware of rogue traders door knocking in the Warwickshire area offering to clean their roofs. The rogue traders give the false impression that they are working on behalf of the solar panel installers and suggest to the home owners that their roof is due a clean because of the length of time the solar panels have been installed. The rogues are reported to be charging between £1300 and £1700 for work that is overpriced and is more likely to damage the roof (and the solar panels) than clean it. Homeowners are advised not to allow people to pressure wash their roofs.

Pressure washing roofs can lead to the roof tiles lifting. The rogue traders may also be involved in other forms of criminal activity and may be taking the opportunity to scope people’s homes for burglaries. NEVER

buy goods or services from an unexpected doorstep trader. Keep your door closed.

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.

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 15p per call (landlines and mobiles).

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.

PS 542 Bob Shaw (Team Sergeant) 01789 444815.

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

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@connection_mag

Unit 21, Weston Ind. Est., Honeybourne, WR11 7QB

office@broadmark.co.uk

www.broadmark.co.uk

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

Wed 1st - 8pm A Child of 6 Could Do It - EDFAS Thurs 2nd - 8pm Folk in the Foyer - Tir na nOg Fri 3rd - 7.30pm Colin Stone - Solo Pianist

HaHAhA!!

Tues 14th - Sat 18th - 7.30pm 9 to 5 The Musical Fri 24th - 8.00pm Raw Comedy: Fresh stand-up!

NOVEMBER

Sat 25th - 7.30pm Bye Bye Baby: Oh What a Night!

FOLK FOYER in the

Full details of all acts at eveshamartscentre.co.uk

Box Office: 01386 446944

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

BIDFORD RURAL CINEMA HAMPSTEAD

DESPICABLE ME 3

has great pleasure in presenting

Film Certificate: PG Running time 90 mins + interval

Film Certificate: 12A Running time 102 mins + interval

Ticket price: £2.50 per person

Ticket price: £2.50 per person

Friday 10 November at 7pm

Friday 24 November at 7pm

All films showing 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

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@connection_mag

YEW TREE FARM COUR RTYARD SHOP PPING

A styllish h and d conttemporary sh hoppiing viillage mad de up off siixtteen beauttifull barrns and coffee shop in a courtyard setting, offering a wide range of unique quality products from around the world.

MEET - GREET - SHOP - EAT

With something for the whole family, Yew Tree Farm Shopping Village comprises the following units:

WINTER WARMER SATURDAY 18th & SUNDAY 19th NOVEMBER

Yew Trree Farm Shop Home Baking & Local Produce 015 564 795688

Beyond the Blue Lifestyle Clothing 01564 792025

Cowshed Eaterie Bruncches, Lunches, Afte ernoon Tea 015 564 792979

Yew Tree Salon Hairdressers 01564 795429 The Cardio Shop Home Fitness Equipment 01527 854554

The Antiques Shop Collectables, Antiques an nd Vintage 015 564 898200 Giftivity Home Acccessories & Gifts 015 564 793030 The e Wild Hare Handmade Cards & Jewellery 015 564 792785

Le Grenie er English and French Antique Furn niture 01564 7954 401

The Garde en Furniture Ce entre Garden & Conse ervatory Furniture e 01564 7936 652

Henley Chocolates Chocolaterie 01564 794718

Bizarto Design & Tra aining 01564 7933 366

Gosh Boutique 01564 793355

Della and Ja ames Lingerie and Sw wimwear 01564 7942 255

Greys Teas Speciality Teas 01564 792295

H for Hatts Hats & Hat Hire 01564 7927 785

JOIN US FOR OUR WINTER WARMER ON SATURDAY 18th & SUNDAY 19th NOVEMBER. Many of the shops will be offering complimentary drinks and nibbles. There will be discounts and offers, as well as tasty samples in the farm shop.

Kick off your christmas shopping or just treat yourself!!

With a relaxed fun atmosphere and free parking, this is courtyard shopping at its best.

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Trees Are At T The Heart Of T The Forest

By Sophie Leszczynska, Heart of England Forest

Photo Credit: Charlotte Wright Photography

I

n the Heart of England Forest, we want to help reverse centuries of woodland decline by planting England’s largest new native broadleaved woodland, which is accessible to local people and where nature can flourish and, now Autumn is here, it’s time for the forest team and volunteers to get on with putting more trees in the ground.

November the 1st heralds the start of the tree planting season, which takes us through until March and the onset of Spring. This year we plan to increase your forest footprint by a further 280 acres – that’s over 140,000 new native trees of more than 26 different species – and you can follow our progress through our free monthly e-newsletters; sign up on the website to receive yours.

Photo Credit: Charlotte Doran Davies Photography

We plan our tree planting to mimic the local dominant woodland type – lowland broadleaved woodland with ash (in the south of the Heart of England Forest) or oak (in the north), the dominant species respectively. These woodland types refer to mature woodland and include ground flora as part of the classification description. We cannot, of course, create all

46 connectionmags.co.uk

aspects of a mature woodland, but aim to plant the major and minor tree species in suitable proportions to kick-start the process, allowing the woodlands to develop naturally and take on a character of their own.

Where oak woodland is the dominant type, such as around Spernal, it will be no surprise that 40% of the trees planted are oak. The other species include birch, alder, sycamore, small leaved lime, field maple, cherry, hornbeam, aspen, sweet chestnut, rowan, whitebeam, white poplar and willows. We also plant shrubs including privet, guelder rose, wayfaring tree, spindle, holly, hazel, dogwood and buckthorn.

Woodlands are also designed with a high proportion of open space in the form of wide grassy ‘rides’ between woodland blocks.

These rides can be up to 20 metres wide with additional, more open, areas 50 metres across.

The woodland margins along these rides are very important in any mature woodland as this transition between open ground and high woodland canopy is a ‘super highway’ where biodiversity is at its peak. We help this by planting flowering trees and shrubs in this zone, providing cover for all manner of creatures, nectar for insects and fruits for birds and mammals to feast on.

The majority of the planting this season will take place on land in Sheriffs Lench, which sits atop a plateau overlooking the Vale of Evesham.

With its underlying limestone geology, ash is the dominant tree type for tree planting but herein lies a problem. Due to ash die-back we are not allowed, by law, to plant ash as part of our woodland so substitutes need to be used.

Current research shows that sycamore is an alternative, so this will figure in our mix. Although to some, sycamore is an aggressive weed tree

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and non-native, so should not be planted as part of a native broadleaved mixture, we see it as helpful in making sure some of the species that rely on ash have an alternative tree to use.

As ash disappears from our landscape in the short term, as a result of ash dieback, we are hoping that resistant ash will come back into the landscape in the long term.

Since 1996 we have planted over 1.6 million trees across an area of 3,400 acres in the Heart of England Forest, as well as protect over 600 acres of established and ancient woodland, but we have a long way to go to meet our vision of creating 30,000 acres of ideally contiguous native broadleaved woodland. If you would like to take part in planting up the Forest, why not join one of our Volunteer Saturdays or midweek volunteer working parties? Do get in touch by email: volunteer@hoef.co.uk We would love to hear from you.

A Tree-mendous gift this Christmas!

In the Heart of England Forest, not only can you enjoy walking amongst the trees and get involved in planting them, you can also dedicate a tree.

Leave your mark in the Forest by dedicating or tagging one of our young, but more established trees for a special occasion or to remember a loved one. It’s already a popular way to donate; when you visit Dorothy’s Wood in Barton, take a walk through the tree dedication area and read the individual messages on the trees all around the woodland. There are trees dedicated to pets and parents, trees for the bugs & birds, christening trees, family trees, birthday trees, anniversary trees and of course the ‘not your usual’ Christmas trees!

Tree dedications do ma ake e wonderful gifts

Attach your own dedication message.

for Christmas and throughout the year. They can provide a focal point for family walks, a symbol of a celebration and everyone can get involved with following the route and then looking for their special tree in the area shown on the map provided. With three different types of dedication there really is something for everyone. From a simple tree dedication with a certificate, to tagging a tree with a personalised message and location map, or how about a tree planting experience when you and your family and friends can join a member of the forestry team for a special visit to the Forest to create an everlasting legacy.

Dedicating a tree not only helps create native woodland, it also makes a unique, long lasting and green gift for friends and family to enjoy, through all four seasons, year after year.

Visit our website: www.heartofenglandforest.com/dedicate to see the dedication options available and place your order. To receive your tree dedication in time for Christmas, please order by Sunday 17th December.

How can I get involved?

•B Become a Friend of the Forest

G ving you access to regular updates, magazines, a car park permit, Gi exxclusive events and a say in the way the Forest develops.

• Donate your time here are volunteering opportunities whatever your experience.

Th a tree • Dedicate D To mark a special celebration or give as a special gift, even adding a T with your own message. tag gw urther information visit www.heartofenglandforest.com For fu

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

47

Come and explore Christmas at Coughton this Add some Court colour towinter

Christmas at Coughton, Sat 25 Nov - Sun 3 Dec, 10am - 4pm Seasonal cheer for all the family awaits at Coughton this winter. With festive shopping, the house dressed for a Throckmorton family Christmas and a Go crunching through fallen leaves and discover a forest traditional market bothcolours, weekends; teeming with wildlife and autumn with walking routes for all ages and abilities. there's something for everyone to enjoy.

your weekend this autumn at Gibside

nationaltrust.org.uk/gibside Call 01789 400 777 for details nationaltrust.org.uk/coughton-court When you visit, donate, volunteer or join the National Trust, your

helps usTrust to look 2017. after special <in the region> <like ©support National Theplaces National property property Y and Proeprty Z> in for ever, for everyone. registered Trust isX,an independent charity, number 205846. © National Trust 2016. The National Trust is an independent registered charity, number 205846. Photography © National Trust #nationaltrust Photography © National Trust Images. #nationaltrust Images.

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Alcester Town Council NOVEMBER 2017

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

Full Council Meeting - Tuesday 7 November Community Care - Tuesday 14 November Community Facilities - Tuesday 21 November Planning - Mondays 13 and 27 November 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.

Alcester Town Council Contact Details: 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).

Tel: 01789 766084 Town Clerk - Vanessa Lowe: clerk@alcester-tc.gov.uk Planning & Communication: administration@alcester-tc.gov.uk Facilities: reception@alcester-tc.gov.uk Community Care: office@alcester-tc.gov.uk Health & Wellbeing: wellbeing@alcester-tc.gov.uk or info@alcester-tc.gov.uk More information found on our social media pages: www.facebook.com/alcester www.twitter.com/AlcesterTown Introducing Alcester’s Second Health and Wellbeing Coordinator Hello, I’m Wendy Sherwood and I am a new Health and Wellbeing Coordinator, sharing the role with Suzette Wright. I have previously worked at Age UK, looking after services for older people such as befriending, and organising events and activities including afternoon tea parties and trips out.

As a Health and Wellbeing Town, Alcester Town Council is committed to the goal of enabling older people to lead healthy, independent and stimulating lives. My role is to support older people in identifying what provision or service they would like to see in Alcester that is not currently available and help

50 connectionmags.co.uk

shape these new activities so they can meet their needs and therefore improve their health and wellbeing.

There are already many groups and organisations in Alcester that deliver some great services for older residents, such as Silver Surfers, gardening/craft clubs and Elderberries, which meets every Wednesday at Jubilee Court for a delicious two course lunch, refreshments and activities. Feel free to come along by registering your interest through the contacts below.

Fancy some company while you exercise?

Why not join our new Walk and Talk group, starting on Monday 16 October at Malt Mill Lane Community Centre at 10am. There will be a 30/40-minute stroll around the grounds followed by refreshments. A good opportunity to meet other people in your local area.

Perhaps there is something that you would like to attend that is not currently available? Maybe you would like to help influence local services for older people or have an idea of something you would like to develop but need some help to get a group going? Perhaps a singing group or exercise class? If so, please get in touch so we can discuss in more detail.

Wendy Sherwood, Health and Wellbeing Coordinator Tel: 07483 149732 Email: info@alcester-tc.gov.uk Suzette Wright, Health and Wellbeing Coordinator Tel: 07484 082030 Email: wellbeing@alcester-tc.gov.uk

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

51

Bidford on Avon Parish Council in the County of Warwickshire

MEETINGS BIDFORD RURAL CINEMA Friday 10th November @ 7.00 pm DESPICABLE Monday 13th November, 7.30pm, Planning Consultative Committee Meeting.

ME 3 (Cert U). Animated film for all the family.

Monday 20th November, 7.30pm, Parish Friday 24th November @ 7pm HAMPSTEAD Council meeting.

(Cert PG). Starring Diane Keaton and Brendon Monday 27th November, 7.30pm, Parish Gleeson a feel good film based on a true story Council meeting at Broom Village Hall.

An American widow finds unexpected love with a All meetings, which are open to the public, man living wild on Hampstead Heath when they are held at the Parish Council Meeting Room, take on the developers who want to destroy his Bramley Way, B50 4QG. home.

BIDFORD EMAIL INFORMATION All films are screened at the Crawford Memorial As fewer residents have the time to read Hall, Salford Road. Ticket Office opens at Noticeboards, the Parish Council is looking at 6.30 pm and prices remain at only £2.50 ways to keep the local community informed of Refreshments are available courtesy of your what it (the Parish Council) is doing, but also local Warners Budgens. See page 42 for more of other village events. If you to keep abreast on the Rural Cinema. of local information, you can sign up by simply emailing the Clerk at info@bidfordonavon-pc.

DOG FOULING gov.uk and your name will be added to the list.

This continues to be a problem throughout the Your email address is not disclosed and you village and, with days becoming shorter, things can request to be removed at any time. Many will get worse not better. Not picking up after registered residents may have noticed they are your dog is not only illegal (it carries a penalty no longer receiving these emails – this is due to of up to £1,000 plus a criminal record) but also some servers no longer existing – if you are one inconsiderate. Our village is blessed with a of these and have changed your email address, number of footpaths which are used daily by please email me your new email address. residents, including parents taking children SOCIAL MEDIA to school: finding dollops of dog poo on your Please follow us on Facebook (Bidford on Avon) way is definitely off putting and, for children, and Twitter (@Bidford_PC) to keep informed dangerous. So, next time you walk your dogs, locally. ensure you carry poo bags and use them BE A CONSIDERATE RESIDENT: IT DOESN’T PARISH COUNCIL CONTACTS COST MUCH. Clerk to the Parish Council – Mrs. Elisabeth Uggerløse.

LITTER Parish Council Office is located in Bramley Way, is the other, continuous, problem. Litter on the in the same building as the library. The Office streets and, especially, in the play areas. The is open to the public 10.00am – 3.00pm daily Parish Council has provided bins PLEASE USE except Thursdays, when opening hours are 1.30 THEM. Youngsters TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR – 4.30pm. If you are unable to attend during PLAY AREAS AND KEEP THEM CLEAN – USE these hours, please contact the Clerk to arrange THE BINS PROVIDED. a mutually convenient time.

REMEMBER, REMEMBER Tel No. 01789 778653 / 07718 628 925 email Bonfire Night is on Saturday 4th November n the info@bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk website address: Big Meadow. Gates open at 6.00 pm – Bonfire www.bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk. will be lit at 7.00pm and Fireworks display starts Parish Councillors – a list of Parish Councillors at 7.15pm. contact details is posted on the notice Please note Bidford Bridge will be closed, for boards, and can also be found online www. safety reasons, for 30 mins from 7.30 pm. 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

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Alcester Flowers

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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 Alcester Gardening Club Thursday November 2nd, 7.30pm at the Centre, Jubilee Court (off Lea Close). John Page talking on 'Gardens of the RHS.' All are very welcome. Members free and Guests £2.50 to include tea/coffee. No December meeting but it may still be possible to book a place for the Christmas lunch on 3rd December.

Alcester Flower Club

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

Next meeting is Monday 6th November, a flower arranging demonstration by Dawn Keightley with Christmas theme ,Touch of Sparkle'. Visitors welcome.

Contact Chairman, Mrs Brenda Kirkman 01789 778669.

Our Annual Open Meeting is at St Benedict's School, 7.30pm on Wednesday 22 November. A colourful demonstration of Christmas flower designs by National Demonstrator, Katherine Kear, entitled 'Myths - Mincet - Merriment'. Tickets £10 available from Wendy Beesle y 01789 762865 or Alcester florists. Parking in front of school. Parking for disabled visitors close to hall.

Salford Priors Ladies Group

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

Wednesday 8th November, '400 years of Stourbridge Glass Making', by Ian Dury. 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, followed by a Speaker. We are a friendly social club for ladies of 55 plus and will be delighted for visitors and new members to join us. Our next meeting is on 8th November, 12.15 for 12.45, when speaker Robin Hill's subject is 'Collection of Collections'. For details contact Secretary Cynthia Hill 01789 763446.

Alcester WI

Our November meeting is at Jubilee Court Community Centre, 7.30pm on Thursday 9th. It's AGM time, plus, if you can imagine it, a silent auction!

A harvest supper is also on the agenda. Members and interested visitors are most welcome.

Bidford on Avon WI

Bidford on Avon will be holding their Annual meeting on the 9th November 7.30 for 7.45 at the Bidford Methodist Church. Do come and enjoy this evening.

56 connectionmags.co.uk

A supper, prepared by the Committee, will be served.

If you would like more information, contact Shirley 01789 773366 or Pauline 01789 773390.

Alcester British Legion Armistice Day Parade and outside service, Saturday 11th November, 10.30 to 11.30am, High Street and St Nicholas Church Green.

Parade will march from Guys Menswear to the church at 10.45am, ready for the 11am service and two minutes silenc. Town centre roads will be closed for the full hour.

Remembrance Sunday Parade and church services, Sunday 12th November, 10.30am till 12.30pm, town centre and St Nicholas Church.

Parade will march from Bleachfield Street at 10.40am to the church for the wreath laying and services. At approximately 11.40am the Parade will march from the church to Henley Street for dispersal. All town centre roads will be closed for the full two hours.

Bidford & District History Society

Friday November 17th, 7 30pm. St Laurence's Church Hall, Church St Bidford, B50 4DA. 'Ancient Troy - a three way look', by Ray Aspden.

St Nicholas Church Christmas Festival The annual festival will be held this year in St Nicholas Church and Church House on Saturday 18th November from 10am until 1.30pm.

Coffee and mince pies as well as soup and a roll will be available. Admission is free and there are many stalls to enjoy, including tombola and a raffle, as well as face painting for the children.

Please come along and enjoy this annual seasonal event and bring your family, friends and neighbours.

Shakespeare Hospice Bath Christmas Market Coach Trip Friday 1st December, £25 per person. Known as the "most magical Christmas market". The centre of Bath is transformed inti a Christmas shopper's paradise with over 170chalets packed with Christmas gifts. Tickets include luxury travel with Johnsons Coaches.

01789 266852. Registered charity no. 1064091. www.theshakespearehospice.org.uk/Event/215/ bathcoachtrip Alcester Singers are performing Haydn's 'St Nicholas Mass' and J.S.Bach's 'Christmas Oratorio' on 16th December, 7.30pm at St Nicholas Church, Alcester. Tickets £12 (under 14s free) from 01789 762718 / 488401 / Humphries Shoes, Alcester.

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This is the beautiful Holly outside St Nicholas Church, Alcester

Sunday 26th November 4 – 5pm

The tree will be lit during the switching-on ceremony for Alcester’s Christmas Lights by ABLE (Alcester Bunting & Lighting). For a truly special start to the Christmas season, please join ABLE & us on St. Nicholas Church Green & enjoy carols played by the Alcester Victoria Silver Band followed by mince pies & mulled wine in the Town Hall. You can write the names of loved ones & a message, in a ‘Tree of Light’ Remembering Book.

This will be placed just inside the main entrance to St Nicholas Church.

For information about Rotary in Alcester, Bidford & Surrounding Area, please email sue@invictusuk.com or call Sue Matthewman on 01527 854 723 www.facebook.com/AlcesterandBidfordRotary 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 12th of the month Events at The Alcester War Memorial Town Hall in November

Every Tues Every Thurs Every Thurs Fri 17 Sat 25

10 am -11 am 6.45 pm - 9 pm 8.15 pm - 9.45 pm 7.00pm - 12.00pm 7.30pm - 11.00pm

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

Tai Chi Classes - Jane Bowen, 01789 763866.

High Bailiff’s Dinner - Steven Brown, 01789 764876.

Black Country Night - 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.

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.

Bidford Christmas Lights Switch On

Sunday 26th November, Bidford High Street, from 5pm.

Sing! Sing! Sing!

Come along and sing with us in the Stratford Choral Society. New members always welcome.

No previous experience necessary. Make great music with a great choir! Sing CPE Bach, Vivaldi, Carmina Burana and carols at Christmas.

Rehearsals on Mondays at 7.30pm. To join us contact Carol Jackson, membership secretary, at stratford.choral@gmail.com or go to our website www.stratfordchoral.org.uk and click on JOIN US.

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 10.00am and 12 midday.

Cupcake Café at Salford Priors

Saturday 4 November, 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.

Children’s answers: Henry picks up ‘9 toffee apples’ taking the correct route around the firework maze.

Sudoku solutions

Easy grid

Not so easy grid

(see page 6)

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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

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

59

D R I V E W AY & L A N D S C A P E S O L U T I O N S Specialists in

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

DriveCoLtd@gmail.com Head OfďŹ ce: Forward House, 17 High Street, Henley-in-Arden, Warwickshire B95 5AA

Branches throughout the West Midlands

www.DriveCoLtd.com

60 connectionmags.co.uk

/theconnectionmag

Company Reg No 6010375

@connection_mag

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

Painter & Decorator

Interior and Exterior BRIAN SMITH

Call 01789 772077 or 07790 087219 for a free estimate

THE CARPENTRY COMPANY INKBERROW

CALL HUGH ON

QUALITY IS OUR STANDARD

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

WWW.CARPENTRYCOMPANY.CO.UK

fs oo 50 r t 6 la £

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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.com

48 Arrow Crescent, Alcester, B49 6BE

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

61

CPM

• Landscaping • Building Work • Patios PROPERTY • Brickwork &GARDEN MAINTENANCE • Fencing • Carpentry • Turfing • Flooring • Hedge cutting • Painting & Decorating • Tree Care • General Property Maintenance FULLY QUALIFIED & INSURED

• FREE QUOTES

Call us now on:

07544 330103

Sanders&Sanders ESTATE AGENTS

LOOKING TO SELL OR LET THIS AUTUMN?

MAKE THIS THE SEASON FOR CHANGE WITH SANDERS & SANDERS

www.sanders-sanders.co.uk

Tel: 01789 766771 Email: alcester@sanders-sanders.co.uk

SOLD

01789 766771

www.sanders-sanders.co.uk www.sanders-sanders.co.uk

Burton House, High Street, Alcester, Warwickshire, B49 5AB

Burton House, High B49 5AB T:Street, 01789Alcester, 766771Warwickshire E: alcester@sanders-sanders.co.uk

MAGIC

AT WARNER’S BUDGENS

WE ARE PROUD TO BRING YOU THE BEST CHOICE OF LOCAL QUALITY MEATS THIS CHRISTMAS ORDER BY 15th DECEMBER* INSTORE OR ONLINE

Pick up an order form or visit warnersbudgens.co.uk for more details and to place your order *Orders taken after this date are subject to availability.

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

warnersbudgens.co.uk

£5 OFF

WHEN YOU SPEND £40 IN STORE

To the customer: Redeemable at Warner’s Budgens Bidford on Avon, Broadway, Moreton-in-Marsh and Winchcombe 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 not acceptable. Offer only valid if presented with this coupon. £40 must be spent in one transaction. Valid until 30th November 2017.