17 oct mag web

the

c connection o

Around Alcester, Bidford & the Villages

magazine

October ‘17 No. 121

HALF TERM FUN

At Coughton Court

NUTRITION

Improve your diet for healthy bones and joints

ALCESTER CRAFT CLUB

Get their stitch on for GAGA UK

COMMUNITY | LOCAL BUSINESS | ARTICLES You deserve it

Mavericks www.maverickshair.co.uk

rs Priory Road,

Hair & Beauty & Barbe 01789 766222 or 766333

Alcester, B49 5DY

StratfordArtsHouse ArtsH0use

01789 207100

50% OFF SECOND PAIR Independent Optometrist friendly personal service

on selected Rodenstock lenses

Call to book an appointment on 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 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

... to the October Connection.

Brrr... the autumnal days are certainly here! The low humming sound of the central heating coming on in the morning has replaced the sunrise as our alarm clock.

The school run has become a perfect puddle-jumping adventure. It’s my favourite time of year – knitwear season! Summer clothes have been stored away for another year and out come the cozy winter woollies.

01527 503030 Talking of knitwear, we have a great article this month 205831 about Alcester Craft Club’s efforts to dress a tree 01926 495321 for GAGA UK (hence our front cover). They’ve been frantically crocheting and knitting for the Remembering Tree Project, which you can read more about on page 26.

999 or 112 Our local community spirit doesn’t stop there, either.

444816 You can find out more about the fantastic work going 08008 00151 on at the Bidford Dementia Cafe (p.59), and about the 08004 04090 fundraising endeavours of a group of Alcester Academy 08001 11999 pupils (p.28). Alcester Food Festival makes a welcome return on Saturday 21st October (p.16), no doubt showing the town off at its best once again. Don’t forget 0300 555 8171 to support the local shops and eateries on the day 773239 they’ve got some cracking produce on offer too!

0844 855 2322 Nutritionist, Esther Mills-Roberts returns with dietary tips 07771 616189 for healthy bones and joints as well as a special offer to 766750 Connection readers for a free consultation (p.46), and 762450 Christopher Spriggs offers up his own antidote for good 766200 mental health (p.14).

270744 We have been inundated for requests to list various 01386 871777 community events this month, so please cast your eyes 262889 over the two and a half pages of events that are coming your way throughout October (p.56-59). There’s sure to be something of interest for every reader!

And parents, make sure you take a look at what 762285 Coughton Court have to entertain the kids in half term, 762494 over on page 44. There’s some spooky goings on, that’s 762888 for sure!

773201 Wishing you a cracking October. Until next month...

762444 772200 488247 488211 Facebook.com/theconnectionmag 762555 Twitter.com/connection_mag 772497 Connnection circulation 7,700 762578 Editor: Amy James Phone 01789 491005 772384 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 766084 responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of 778653 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 267575

November Copy Deadline: Friday 13th October

Welcome

Amy

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.

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

COTTAGE OF

CONTENT

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

COUNTRY PUB

Celebrate

Halloween, firework & Bonfire Night with us at ‘The Cottage’, with our

Autumn Music Festival SATURDAY 28TH OCTOBER FROM 4PM

Live bands • Indoor and outdoor bars • Hot Food Face Painting • Balloons Children’s Halloween Sweet Stall Halloween fancy dress competition for children and adults at 6.45pm Bonfire lit at 7pm Fireworks 7.30 pm Entry £1.00 per person

OPEN FROM 12 NOON EVERY DAY

Extensive menu offering home cooked food every lunchtime and evening as well as roast meals on Sundays.

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Every Saturday from 9pm

QUIZ NIGHT

EverY THURSDAY from 9pm

CASK MARQUE ALES • NEW, SPECIALLY SELECTED WINE LIST • GREAT RANGE OF CIDERS FAMILIES & DOGS WELCOME • AMPLE CAR PARKING • KIDS’ PLAY AREA • BEER GARDEN SENIOR CITIZENS SPECIALS - LUNCH AND NOW EVENINGS THROUGHOUT AUTUMN TOO!

Close to the beautiful Heart of England Forest Walks and Dorothy’s Wood

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

Sudoku

(answers on page 58)

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

Easy grid

6

connectionmags.co.uk

Not so easy grid

/theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

General Dental Practice •

Family Dentistry •

New Patients Welcome LOCATED OFF WAITROSE CAR PARK, TO THE LEFT OF ‘THE NAIL COMPANY’

We are here

Market Place, Alcester, Warwickshire, B49 5AE

T: 01789 762567 E: tilehousedental@ymail.com •

Looking for a new home for your family?

•

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

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

Get MOVING by talking to us today.

Free floor plans No withdrawal charges

NO SALE – NO CHARGE NO RISK

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

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

dawn@jeremymcginn.com

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

7

supporting

You deserve it

Mavericks Hair & Beauty & Barbers

Mavericks is supporting Breast Cancer Now by having a PINK October We are having a raffle and guests will have the chance to win a GHD PINK styling iron and PINK GHD umbrella.

Breast Cancer Now is the UKs leading cancer charity.

It has a simple statement: “Breast Cancer Now won’t stop until breast cancer has taken its last life; something we are confident we can achieve by 2050 if we get the support we need.”

We are having lots of PINK things happening in October, please come and support us and Breast Cancer Now.

Only 15 minutes from Redditch

Priory Road, Alcester, B49 5DY

Down the road from www.maverickshair.co.uk

Waitrose

Tel: 01789 766222

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

Book online or call 01789 772420

Join Our Team!

Christmas Bookings

We are now taking bookings forr Join our growing team, excellent rates of pay Christmas Day and Christmas fayrre C and 50% discount on food. group bookings.

Full and part time front of house team required.

Our Christmas fayre menu is £19.95pp and Evening and weekend availability essential. y £65pp New starter bonus scheme- full time £125 cash our Christmas Day 5 course menu iss only NEW YEAR EVE MENU £25 for 3 courses bonus after 1 month and an additional £125 with free live music! after 6months. (Part time £60) Chef required, £250 bonus after 1 month then Ple ease pop in or contact Claire £250 after 6 months. Excellent rates of pay. for a copy of the menu u on goldencross@treasureinn ns.co.uk Please call 01789 772420 for details.

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. *Daily deals cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Not available on Bank Holidays.

Beef And Pepper Stroganoff Serves 4

Ready in 25 minutes

This is a fabulously quick and easy supper that is packed full of flavour. Serve with a watercress or rocket salad, if liked.

Ingredients: • • • • • • • • •

350g tagliatelle 1tbsp olive oil 4 flash-fry steaks (each about 125g), cut into thin strips 1 large onion, peeled and thinly sliced 1 garlic clove, peeled and crushed 1 large red pepper, deseeded and thinly sliced 300ml carton half-fat crème fraiche 2tsp coarsely ground black pepper 1-2 tbsp freshly chopped flat-leaf parsley

TIP

Add a spoonful of wholegrain mustard with the crème fraiche for an extra piquant flavour or try a splash of Worcestershire sauce.

10 connectionmags.co.uk

Bring a large pan of lightly salted water to the boil. Add the tagliatelle and cook for 8-10 minutes or according to the packet instructions.

Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large frying pan and stir-fry the steak strips over a very high heat until browned.

Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Add the onion and garlic to the pan and fry for 3-4 minutes until golden then add the pepper slices and cook for a further 2-3 minutes. Return the steak strips and any meat juices to the pan and stir in the crème fraiche and ground black pepper.

Heat through gently.

Stir in the parsley and adjust the seasoning to taste. Drain the tagliatelle and divide between four warmed shallow pasta bowls. Spoon the steak mixture on top and garnish with a little more freshly ground black pepper.

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We would like to invite you and your friends to join us at our

TASTER DAY

Saturday 7th October 2017 10.00am - 4.00pm

Come and meet many of our suppliers and sample delicious products for a real flavour of Hillers.

The Maize Maze • Sandpit Miniature Railway • Pony Rides Gift Shop • Restaurant • Garden Shop Bird Hide • Display Garden Thank you for your continued custom...

Dunnington Heath Farm • Alcester • Warwickshire • B49 5PD Tel: 01789 772771 • Email: info@hillers.co.uk • www.hillers.co.uk Pony rides to be booked on the day at our information point

- Thank You ... for your continued support. We’ve had another great month meeting more new customers from the village and beyond, and we had the pleasure of welcoming back former owner, Andrew, for a brief stint behind the counter.

“I’ll travel far afield for meat, and you don’t disappoint.

You’re brilliant” Angela, Banbury

- Highland Beef From October we’re delighted to offer award-winning pedigree Highland beef.

Locally sourced from Annie’s Market Garden, only 1.5 miles away in Marlcliff, where the animals are expertly looked after.

We will have the meat dry aged to perfection!

And with less cholesterol and fat than chicken this beef is an excellent healthy addition to your evening meal!

- Christmas Christmas orders now being taken.

Last order date for Christmas meats: Saturday 9th December (The shop will be open for regular business until Saturday 23rd December and open for order collections on Christmas Eve.)

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

Meadow Lane Bakery

BIDFORD HARDWARE

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

01789 778005

01789 772324

Traditional Bakery & Tea Room

Tools • Ironmongers Paints & Accessories Calor Gas Supplies Household Fuels Gardening Needs Office Stationery & Cards Pet Care • Wool All Household Supplies Dry Cleaners & Alterations

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

24 hour Rye Sourdough and Italian Tutto Pugliese

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

Halloween Goodies in our shop from October

Bidford Pharmacy 1177 H Hiigghh SSttrreeeett,, BBiiddffoorrdd oonn AAvvoonn,, BB5500 44BBQQ w ww ww w..bbiiddffoorrddpphhaarrm maaccyy..ccoo..uukk   0 011778899 777722443333

Seasonal flu can be really serious Getting a flu jab can protect you all winter

 the NHS service is FREE for eligible patients OR  you may purchase a private flu vaccination [£10 per jab]

Our convenient service enables you to book an appointment at a time of your choosing throughout the winter months

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

NEW MEDICINE SUPPORT EMERGENCY HORMONE CONTRACEPTION

Y OUR C OMMUNITY P HARMACY IN THE V ILLA GE To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

13

”Festival-itis”

A New Mental Health Condition?

Okay, so it’s a made up word. Festival-itis. Along with other not-yet-known words: ‘Flup’ (the state of having eaten too much) and ‘Shelfie’ (a photo of yourself that isn’t very good), ‘festival-itis’ is set to become mainstream vocabulary. But what is it?

Festival-itis is a condition caused by repeated nights of summer camping, combined with excessive late-night jiving to loud music, emptying your lungs by singing along to bands you’ve never heard of.

Festival-itis brings you out in rashes of face-paint and streaks of glitter (to cover up the sunburn) and the purchase of a hat in a style you had never previously contemplated buying. Caution: it’s contagious.

Festival-itis. You may have experienced it first-hand this summer, or witnessed a colleague return to work with it. You can recognise a carrier: they wear their festival wristband for weeks, like a plaster after an injection. It sounds threatening but really it’s good for you, likely to bring on extended bouts of belly-born laughter.

Festival-itis. Ok, but what has this got to do with the topic of mental health, which usually fills this page?

For a few days this August I was swept along with the vibe of the Camper Calling festival, held at Ragley Hall near Alcester. Along with 6,000 others, my eyes were blasted with the vibrant lights of fairground rides, my ears drenched by booming tunes spilling from the main stage. ‘Reef’ sang out their magnificent anthem: “Put your hands up! Put your hands up!” and a kaleidoscope of stage lighting lit up a field of humanity, their arms directed skyward. It was a feast for the senses (washed down with a few pints of Purity’s Bunny Hop). Ah, Festival-itis.

One afternoon sat by the sun-sparkled lake, a copy of my nearly-finished Masters dissertation resting upon my lap like an obedient pet, hungry for editing, I watched people come and go: A man with a fake red mohican strode past. I wondered if

his day job was a solicitor. Then a lady dressed as a pirate, followed by a girl performing backward somersaults on her way to the fairground. Then a group of boys, sparkly war paint on their faces.

Either that or it was multi-coloured acne. Here, in this temporary-perfect existence, I wondered who these people were in their ‘real lives’. Was Festivalitis just a drug to numb the pain? Maybe. Or was it a chance to bring their playful selves to life? Quite possibly.

Over recent years, the subject of mental health has come to the foreground: Prince Harry, Stephen Fry, Bill Oddie, Ruby Wax have all disclosed their experiences of depression and anxiety. Collectively, these and others, have helped us - I think - to take a deep breath and recognise that if you have a mind (put your hands up?), you have mental health. It’s not something to shy away from or be scared of.

Perhaps the bad old days of ‘us and them’, that binary outlook of categorising those who have “got-it-together” and those who really haven’t, are coming to an end? That warped outlook amplifies stigma and generates shame. When you’ve experienced stigma first-hand you can smell it a mile off. It thinks itself immune to Festival-itis.

Mental health - which in simple terms is just a question of “How are you, really?” - can seem like a heavy topic. It matters, for sure. But Festival-itis reminds me of the importance of playfulness in our lives. Of making room for red wigs and glitter, somersaults and out-of-tune singing. In a 21st century world which is taking itself ever-more seriously, the invitation to be open about our own mental health goes out to us all: and laughing at ourselves is a good place to start.

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

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

CLIVE CAMPION & SON LTD Painters & Decorators

Jacksons Jewellery Repairs BEFORE

AFTER

ALL JEWELLERY REPAIRS AND CLEANING DONE ON SITE

Interiors, Exteriors & Exhibitions Over 28 years experience Free Quotations Email clivecampion@sky.com

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

Opening Times

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

01789 766611

www.jacksonsjewellery.co.uk

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

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

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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

17

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 Tele Sights, Silencers, Tenn ring is, Sq uash Gun Cases, Etc. Badm & inton Rack We are here to give you B ets. ank c ards help and advice on your accep ted requirements.

AIR RIFLES FROM BROCOCK, B.S.A., S.M.K., WEIHRAUCH

stylish corner Ladies hairdressing Tel: 01789 763052

1 Church Street, Alcester

Up-to-date styling

S C

Wedding hair

alcester sports & tackle

Established 1979

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

PROMOTION

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TELEPHONE: 01789 766286

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

19

Gardeners In Glass Houses

by Pippa Greenwood

A greenhouse is a purchase you won’t regret, literally transforming your gardening activities and opening up a whole new range of possibilities - but what should you consider?

A greenhouse needs to be sited well away from large trees, to prevent shady conditions within, as well as falling branches or other tree debris damaging the glass and clogging the guttering.

If you are going to want to install any electrical equipment, bear in mind that the further the greenhouse is from the existing supply, the more expensive it will be to install underground armoured cable.

Choose the largest greenhouse your space and budget allows, as many gardeners end up wishing for something larger.

But any greenhouse is better than none, so if 4ft x 4ft is the only option, then still go for it!

Most greenhouses have a frame made from wood or metal (typically aluminium). Many prefer the look of wood, but it will need regular maintenance unless it is western red cedar.

Whichever you choose, make sure it is sturdily constructed, especially if you live in a windprone area.

Plenty of ventilation helps reduce the temperature, particularly in the height of summer, preventing damage

20 connectionmags.co.uk

to plants or even their death. It also improves air circulation, so reducing problems with plant diseases. Consider roof vents, which aid air circulation and efficient loss of excess heat.

Make sure that your greenhouse doorway is wide enough for easy access - ideally wide enough to push a wheelbarrow through, as this makes jobs such as changing the soil or bringing in compost easier.

A greenhouse should be erected on a solid base - perhaps paving slabs, concrete or bricks - or on a skirt or surround of paving or concrete. A solid path up the centre is practical and can be combined with an open bed up one or both sides. A bed has the advantage that it can be filled with quality soil and planted directly, making maintenance of crops like tomatoes straightforward. A solid base means greenhouse crops must be grown in containers.

I recommend greenhouse staging, usually made from slatted wood or metal, as a perfect place to stand seed trays, pots and propagators.

Most greenhouses are fitted with horticultural grade glass, but this can be replaced with safety glass or reinforced glass if the garden is used by children. Plastic, polythene or corrugated plastic ‘glazing’

/theconnectionmag

are also available; these are generally lower cost and less of a potential hazard - but check how long they will last and consider how they will look.

Useful extras include: shading; guttering and a linked in waterbutt; and an electrical supply, which allows heating, lighting, fans and installation of a heated propagator.

My top reasons for getting a greenhouse • You can grow a wider range of crops with ease.

• It provides a longer growing season.

• You can raise plants from seed and save money.

• It will dramatically reduce the risk of problems such as tomato blight.

• Plants get plenty of natural light and are more likely to thrive.

• It makes a perfect gardener’s hide-away!

Visit Pippa’s website www. pippagreenwood.com for her ‘Winter thru’ Spring Collection’ of gorgeous UK-grown gardenready vegetable plants ready for delivery in September.

You’ll also find many gardening items including growing frames, SpeedHoes, SpeedWeeders, raised bed kits, Nemaslug and other nematode controls, copper tape, pull-out EasyTunnels, signed books and lots more besides.

@connection_mag

GARDEN & PROPERTY SERVICES Pruning • Planting Weeding Grass & Hedgecutting Bark laying • Gravelling General property maintenance work Call Mark on

07799 107040

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

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

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

21

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

S

NEW

NSIE A P NG

I

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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Gates & Railings

by Phil

I make gates and railings

JD LANDSCAPE & GROUNDWORK CONTRACTORS • Drainage • Driveways • Extensions • Patios • Footings & Oversites • Fencing For a free quote, please call James 07967 646140 or 01789 778446

www.jdlandscapeandgroundwork.co.uk

All colours available, made to order.

Low cost fitting service available.

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

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

The first step to a beautiful lawn is to call GreenThumb

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

If you’ve been thinking about enjoying a great lawn this year – green, lush and weed-free, why not contact us today and let us bring PRICES FROM your lawn to life.

£15

We provide four PER TREATMENT seasonal treatments, as well as beneficial treatments to keep your lawn in tip-top condition prices start from just £15*.

Simply call: 01905 840 740 or visit: greenthumb.co.uk

*Based on a lawn size of 40m²

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

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YEW TREE FARM RTYARD SHOP PPING COUR

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:

NEW AUTUMN/CHRISTMAS STOCK NOW IN

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 Antiques Shop Collectables, Antiques an nd Vintage 015 564 898200 Giftivity Giftwa are and Interiors The e Wild Hare Handmade Cards & Jewellery 015 564 792785

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Alcester Craft Club gets creative in support of GAGA’s Remembering Tree

T

he Remembering Tree is returning to Stratford upon Avon. You may have seen, over the past 4 years, a tree being wrapped up warm for the winter months in the centre of the town. This was the work of your local international children’s charity GAGA UK (registered charity number 1092028).

GAGA UK (Goodwill and Growth for Africa) have been “yarn bombing” since they were inspired by a project they support in South Africa. They raise both funds and awareness for their work supporting those affected

by HIV/AIDS and poverty in Africa.

The Remembering Tree last year raised over £2,000 for GAGA UK; funds which had a huge impact on those in Africa. GAGA UK’s Woollen Winter Wonderland is set to return again this year.

The Remembering Tree offers a unique way to let people know you love them and to remember those who are no longer here. It’s about celebration, remembrance and charity; three things synonymous with Christmas. By donating, you will also be helping to create a focal celebration for thousands to enjoy over the Christmas period and supporting the work of GAGA UK in Africa (Registered Charity 1092028).

Alcester Craft Club, who meet from 7-9pm on the 2nd Monday of each month in The Holly Bush pub, have taken on the task of creating their very own community knitted tree.

Sarah, from GAGA UK, went along to meet Clare and those at the club back in May. They were excited by this yarn bombing idea, and the prospect of their very own tree. The members of the group have since begun knitting and crocheting up to 30 squares to ensure they can cover their own tree in GAGA’s Woollen Winter Wonderland. Edwina, a GAGA representative, went along to the August meeting to see what the group were up to and to tell them a little more about the project.

26 connectionmags.co.uk

The squares used for the Remembering Tree and the smaller trees come from a variety of sources. Groups like Alcester Craft Club get involved, and others like WI’s, knitting clubs and individuals from all over. Some of the squares also come all the way from South Africa, purchased from ladies living in impoverished rural communities.

It’s a real joining of cultures and communities.

Once the trees are unwrapped in January, the squares can be washed and made into blankets. Some of these will be donated locally to worthwhile projects, and others to projects supported by GAGA in South Africa.

We’re thrilled that the Craft Club Alcester are our first community group to have signed up for their own tree!

If you would like to help create the Remembering Tree or your own tree, please send crocheted or knitted squares of any colours (size 8” / 20cm square), to Sarah Hodgson at 50 Cygnet Court, Timothy’s Bridge Road, Stratford upon Avon, CV37 9NW. If you would like to volunteer with GAGA and assist with creating the tree, please email sarah@gaga-uk.org.

To donate and celebrate a name, please email sarah@gaga-uk.org or visit www.gaga-uk.org Businesses and individuals alike are invited to donate. We are also looking for buskers who may wish to help raise funds and awareness around the tree to get in touch.

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Pictured L-R: Sarah Folkes, Claire Lomax, Heelen Handy, Laura Houel, Anthea Blizzard, Clare Millington, Lisa Benjamin, Joanne Reynolds, Sheila Murrall, Irene Edkins, Katie Darby & Ann Herbert.

Get your knit on!

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27

Alcester Academy Fundraiser After sitting their GCSE’s in July 2018, Alcester Academy students Zack Tate, Beau Dean and Jess Pargetter will be travelling to South India with 14 of their fellow school mates as part of a World Challenge expedition, to help an impoverished community to build a primary school.

Each pupil on the expedition needs to raise £2500 through work and donations to fund their trip. The next fundraising event is a Masquerade Ball on 14th October at the Henley Golf and Country Club.

Local businesses have been very generous in donating auction and raffle prizes. Some

of these include a night in a glamping pod at Wootton Park, paintballing, a pub tour with GoCotswolds, a flight simulation experience and Andy Bennett from Ocean Colour Scene has donated a signed copy of his latest album!

Tickets are £42 but if you book a table of 10 or 12 the organiser can have their ticket for £20.

The students are working really hard to make sure that this is a night to remember! For tickets please contact Del on 07890 535824 or via the contact details on the poster.

Pupils pictured L-R: Beau Dean, Zack Tate and Jess Pargetter

Masquerade Ball over 18’s only

Saturday 14th October 2017 S 7 7pm until 1 am Henley Golf and Country Club We offer a night to remember!

3 Course Meal and Disco

£42

Raffle, Auction and much more.

Mask Essential. Dress To Impress!

In aid of Alcester Academy World Challenge India 2018 For more information and tickets, please call 07962 324962 or visit: themasqueradehenley.my-free.website OR facebook.com/worldchallengeindiasouth2018

28 connectionmags.co.uk

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29

Answers on page 58

M u s i c Tu i t i o n

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offers 1 to 1 support for English.

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31

HAVE YOU SIGNED UP FOR TASTE CLUB YET?

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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 no acceptable.

Offer only valid if presented with this coupon. £40 must be spent in one transaction. Valid until 31st October 2017.

Renault Zoe Impressive Electric Range For A Small Price Tag

by James Baggot

With its new Z.E.40 battery, the Renault Zoe now boasts a realworld range of up to 184 miles.

Simon Davis puts it to the test.

The Renault Zoe could be the Twizy quadricycle’s older sister.

However, the Zoe is a proper family car with five seats, a boot and a useable real-world electric driving range.

It’s also a zero-emissions vehicle, meaning it qualifies for the government’s full £4,500 plug-in car grant, and there is no vehicle excise duty.

What’s neW? The Zoe has been facelifted for 2017 and gains a new battery – the Z.E.40. There’s also the new Signature Nav top-level trim.

This new battery dramatically increases its appeal compared with its rivals. The quoted 250-mile range is based on the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC), however, and Renault says that realistically this will be closer to 184 miles in summer and 124 miles in the winter.

What’s under the bonnet?

Our test vehicle was fitted with Renault’s R90 electric motor, developing 91bhp and 220Nm of torque, giving a 0-60mph time of 13.3 seconds and a top speed of 84mph.

The Zoe comes with a homecharging unit, so you’ll be able to replenish its batteries in as little as seven hours.

34 connectionmags.co.uk

What’s it like to drive?

While the electric motor reaches 30mph in a timely fashion, it takes a long time to reach open road speeds, so the Zoe isn’t ideal for long-distance drives.

Around town, however, the Zoe is perfectly capable. Visibility is good, it’s comfortable, easy to drive and its relatively small size makes for easy parking.

The steering is rather vague, though, and the regenerative brakes are rather grabby. hoW does it look?

We think the Zoe is pretty and very chic, and one of the most attractive-looking EVs on sale today.

What’s it like inside?

That low price point is apparent in the cabin, where you’ll find plenty of cheap and scratchy plastic surfaces. Compared with the likes of the Hyundai Ioniq Electric, the Zoe’s interior is a let-down.

It wins on space, however. Two adults can sit in relative comfort in the back seats as long as the front passengers are not too tall. Boot space stands at a decent 338 litres.

What’s the spec like?

Standard equipment is fairly generous: even entry-level models include Renault’s R-Link infotainment system and satellite navigation. Our mid-range Dynamique Nav specification test car had a

/theconnectionmag

hands-free key card, DAB radio, Bluetooth audio streaming and rear parking sensors.

Prices for the Renault Zoe start at just £14,245, considerably less than its rivals. However, that does not include the mandatory monthly battery hire fee, which costs upwards of £59 per month based on mileage.

If you want buy the Zoe and battery outright, the entry-level i-Expression Nav model is £19,845. verdict The Zoe earns points for being one of the most affordable electric cars on the market. It’s not going to amaze you with its dynamic abilities, but as an urban daily driver its superior range, practical interior and attractive looks make it hard to beat in this segment.

Facts at a glance Model: Renault Zoe Dynamique Nav R90 Z.E.40 price as tested: £19,295 (not including £59 per month battery hire) engine: R90 Electric motor with Z.E.40 battery power (bhp): 91 torque (nm): 220 Max speed (mph): 84mph 0-60mph: 13.3 seconds charge time: 7-8 hours range (nedc): 250 miles emissions: (g/km): 0

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35

BACK OF THE NET

O

h dear! Only a few games into the season and already managers are falling like leaves off autumn trees.

Following hot on the heels of Justin Edinburgh at Northampton and Frank de Boer at Crystal Palace, this weekend saw Michael Brown leave Port Vale, Gary Caldwell leave Chesterfield and Harry Redknapp, possibly the highest profile dismissal, sacked from Birmingham City. The longest any of the five was given to change their club’s fortunes was Caldwell’s 242 days, with de Boer’s 77 days and only FOUR Premiership matches being easily the shortest. How silly is that?!

Many Blues fans on social media are not happy about Harry’s dismissal. Redknapp had recently made a number of signings and had not had long to put his new plans into action. That and the fact that some of the new

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“I guess that’s why they call them the Blues” players will have moved to Blues because of Harry, has made a lot of fans angry at the owners. Again. With their next game being away at Derby County, memories are still fresh of Gary Rowett’s cruel dismissal less than two years ago when Blues were seventh in the Championship. Oh, the managerial merry-go-round!

With so much pressure on managers to produce positive results, I wonder who will be next. Slaven Bilic has probably just given himself a little more time after collecting West Ham’s first points in their last two games.

Ronald Koeman must be hoping for a vote of confidence at Everton, having lost three consecutive league matches, as well as seeing a poor display against Atalanta in the Europa League. Despite a poor start to the season, I can’t see Bournemouth ditching Eddie Howe.

So it’s anyone’s guess who’s next. I’m just hoping I will be here to write another column for November!

Hoping to see you next month...

Back of the net!

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36 connectionmags.co.uk

Monday - Friday 8am - 6pm

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Saturday 8am - 12pm

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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

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

services

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

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

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

37

Classic Cuban Culture To book your award-winning holiday experience, get in touch with Carrick Travel.

I

magine yourself strolling through Havana’s colourful streets, taking a ride in a classic American car from the 50s, dancing to the rhythm of salsa or cha cha cha, and following in the footsteps of Che’s revolution.

Stretch out on a beautiful Caribbean beach, or experience Cuba’s calm waters – there’s swimming with dolphins, kayaking, fishing and sailing to be enjoyed here. The trade winds offer windsurfing opportunities, or you could scuba dive in the spectacular marine parks.

This really is the Caribbean with a twist; a history of communist struggle and a society of citizens that go crazy at the sound of bongos. Music and dancing come as standard throughout Cuba. Live

music pours from virtually every corner in the streets of Old Havana, and visiting unique shows such as the Tropicana cabaret is a must to experience the real feel of Cuba’s exotic dances and rhythms. In the popular beach resorts, you’ll find even more discos, nightclubs and dancing lessons, as well as shows under starry skies on the desert island retreats.

History marks the daily life of Cubans, with figures of the revolution ever present. To fully appreciate the past, visit sites such as the Revolution Square in Havana, the Bay of Pigs in Playa Giron, Che Guevara’s burial site in Santa Clara and Trinidad’s quaint colonial streets. Lovers of jazz will succumb

STRATFORD-UPON-AVON 01789 414040 63 Henley Street, CV37 6PT

to the hypnotising tunes of saxophones, trombones, trumpets and piano in Cuba’s jazz clubs, and a visit to Cuba’s cigar and rum factories will add flavour to any trip.

Enjoying a tropical climate with plenty of sunshine and warm weather all year round, Cuba has an enviable climate. Gentle north easterly breezes take the edge off higher temperatures, making it perfect for a spot of sunbathing or lazing by the pool.

Come and chat to our experts at Carrick Travel to book your Cuban adventure now.

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connectionmags.co.uk /theconnectionmag @connection_mag Visit: www.carricktravel.com Email: enquiries@carricktravel.com

Bidford Boatt Services Fancy a day on the river?

Narrow Boat Day Hire

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

first time boaters.

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

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

Self drive day hire - Weekends & bank holidays ÂŁ160 per day, weekdays ÂŁ130 per day Daily hire times 10am to 6pm Please ask for winter hire times

Call David Bidwell on 07796 520825 or 01789 772124

Fosbroke House

Bidford on Avon

Bed & breakfast accomodation Single, twin and double rooms Self catering cottage sleeps 4/5 Please see our website for rates Phone Mark and Sue for details 01789 772327 Online bookings and details: www.fosbrokehouse.co.uk email: mark.swift@gmx.co.uk To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

39

NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH ALCESTER Charity bag scam Warwickshire Trading Standards is warning householders to beware of scam charity bag collections taking place in Warwick District. The bags, which primarily ask for clothing, claim to support well known cancer charities. However, these charities have confirmed that they don’t use these sorts of bags. If you are giving to charity, ensure that the charity bags you are using are genuine.

Look for the registered charity number and if in any doubt, contact the charity concerned.

Otherwise, donate via a charity shop.

Unpaid Taxes Scam Some Warwickshire residents are receiving threatening phone calls from fraudsters falsely claiming to be HMRC. The bogus callers claim the resident has unpaid taxes and a warrant has been issued for their arrest. The fraudsters then either try and take payment down the phone for the bogus tax bill (often by asking for payment using itunes gift cards) or send someone to collect the money in cash. The fraudsters often use telephone numbers beginning 0203.

These give the impression that the callers are based in London (area code 020). In reality the fraudsters use virtual telephone numbers, (costing just a few pounds a month) that could be linked to telephones anywhere in the world.

Some sellers of virtual numbers (that can be obtained for most UK towns and cities) even make a virtue of this fact on their websites.

REMEMBER, receiving a phone call from someone with what appears to be a local prefix, does not necessarily mean they are phoning from that town or city.

Bogus Netflix email scam Warwickshire Trading Standards advises to be aware of the following phishing scam. “We could not process your latest Netflix bill. Dear... (your email address)The payment for your latest Netflix bill failed. It appears that some of the billing details associated with your account have exipred (note the spelling errors). Your service is pending disconnection on 1 November 2017.

To avoid interruption of service we strongly recommend that you update your billing details now. To update your billing details now click here.” Recipients who click on the link risk exposing their computers to viruses. They may also be directed to a bogus website where they are asked to reveal personal and bank details

which are then stolen by the fraudsters. Never respond to unusual emails, follow any links or open any attachments. Always delete them.

When banking online or purchasing goods or services, always visit the correct website by typing the traders web address in to the web browser.

The next meeting of NHW Alcester will be held on Tuesday 17 October, 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 Richard Lambert (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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Local Plumber ALL PLUMBING WORK UNDERTAKEN No job too small • No VAT Reliable Friendly Service

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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

41

Thurs 5th - Sat 7th 7.30pm (Sat Mat 2.30pm) Bugsy Malone - Phoenix Theatre

Wed 11th - 8pm Foreign Artists in London - EDFAS Thurs 12th - 7.30pm Frankenstein 1899 Victorian Drama Sat 14th - 7.30pm Coldplace- tribute to Coldplay Thurs 26th - Sun 29th 7.30pm (Sat & Sun Mat 2.30pm) Enchantment J Williams School of Dance Box Office: 01386 446944 www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk

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

BIDFORD RURAL CINEMA CARS 3

ALONE IN BERLIN

has great pleasure in presenting

Film Certificate: 12A Running time 103 mins + interval

Film Certificate: U Running time 102 mins + interval

Ticket price: £2.50 per person

Ticket price: £2.50 per person

Friday 6 October at 7pm

Friday 27 October 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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A Stunning New Retirement Village for Worcestershire Opening early 2019, Richmond Wood Norton, near Evesham, will provide far more than just retirement living. The large 1 and 2 bedroom apartments offer an aspirational lifestyle with on-site facilities including; a wellness spa with pool and gym, restaurant, café-bar and landscaped gardens.

SALES LAUNCH

Saturday 28th October | 10am – 4pm at Wood Norton Hall Hotel, Worcester Road, Evesham WR11 4YB • Talk to our Village Advisers and find out what life at Richmond Wood Norton will offer • Find out about the accommodation available, review apartment plans and discuss your purchase options

• Discuss off-plan reservations which can be taken on the day • Meet and talk to the Richmond Villages’ teams from Hospitality, the Wellness Spa, Activities and Care

RESERVATIONS WILL BE TAKEN ON THE DAY For more information contact:

01386 897388

www.richmond-villages.com/woodnorton

Hallowe’en and Fawkes Feast at Coughton Court Join the team at Coughton Court this October half-term for a whole week of fiendish fun and frights for the whole family to enjoy on our Hallowe’en trail between Saturday 21st and Sunday 29th October (on open days).

One of our resident ghosts has taken Coughton’s Crypt key! Naughty ghost…help us find the right key to the crypt by following and completing the trail. Find the right key and it will unlock some fun and tasty prizes to take home with you!

family celebration earlier this year, the evening before Magnus Birch-Throckmorton’s summer wedding.

So join us here at Coughton this autumn for a stroll through the Warwickshire countryside, come along to one of our events or simply pop in for a delicious slice of cake before we close for the winter.

Dates for your diary Hallowe’en Sat 21 – Sun 29 Oct on open days, 11am – 3.30pm Join us for fiendish fun and frights on our spooky outdoor trail with take-home activities and crafts. £2.50.

Fawkes Feast Sat 4 November, 6pm – 11pm Exclusive black tie event with a champagne reception followed by a private tour of the house. A seven course evening meal served in the Throckmorton family dining room with an after dinner speaker. £150, Booking is essential by calling 01789 400777 option 2.

Inside the house see how many of the spooky painted pumpkins you can find and see the dining room table dressed for a spooky Hallowe’en feast.

Join us this November for our exclusive black tie event, the Fawkes Feast. Guests will be greeted with a champagne reception on arrival followed by a private tour of the house and a seven course evening meal in the Throckmorton family Dining Room. Returning for its ninth year, this exclusive black tie event gives visitors a unique opportunity to experience Coughton by night.

Visitors will begin their evening with a champagne reception in the double height Saloon before being taken on a private tour of the house where guests will discover the family’s incredible history. From a position of high favour to one of fear and oppression postReformation, the Throckmortons were leaders in a dangerous age and the family played a pivotal role in the Gunpowder Plot, one of the most controversial political episodes in British history.

Guests will be served an impressive seven course meal in the beautiful Panelled Dining Room followed by an after dinner speaker. The Dining Room itself has witnessed many family, private and public events including a private

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Candlelight Coughton Wed 29 Nov & Thu 30 Nov, 6.00pm-9.30pm Enjoy a traditional three-course Christmas meal in Coughton’s Kitchen café and experience the house decorated for the Throckmorton family’s Christmas before their celebrations start. Walk the festive rooms by candlelight and take a seat in the Saloon whilst the piano plays by a roaring fire. £35, Booking is essential by calling 01789 400777 option 2.

Christmas at Coughton Sat 25 Nov – Sun 3 Dec, for opening times please check the website.

Festive shopping in the Coach House gift shop, the house decorated for a traditional Christmas, locally sourced Christmas lunch and home-made mince pies in the restaurant, and at weekends a Christmas Market in the Stableyard and Father Christmas in his study.

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

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45

Them Bones!

Life’s knocks, strains and stresses, can take their toll on our joints, bones, tendons and ligaments.

Registered Nutritionist, Esther Mills explains.

Bones! They live, but help them out.

When you think of joints, do you think of rigid, dry, rigid, rattling skeletal structures? Well, this view of bone couldn’t be further from the truth. It’s the most amazing, living, structure, filled with nerves and blood vessels, that not only hold us up, but is a fantastic body back-up for minerals levels in our blood and body tissues.

Our joints rely on good dietary sources of calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, boron, supported by good intakes of vitamins D and K. Joints are supported by connective tissue made mostly from collagen - for which vitamin C is needed to ensure correct collagen formation, and carbohydrate gels form the synovial fluid found between the joints to keep them lubricated.

Your diet must contain high quality protein, beans, pulses, nuts, seeds and most importantly, dark green leafy vegetables and vitamin C-rich fruits and vegetables. Vitamin D intakes are vital for laying down calcium into bone, and for controlling levels of calcium and phosphorus in the blood for correct nerve function and blood pressure control.

As we get older….

By the time we’re 30, our bones have typically reached peak done mass. A combination of genetics, diet and exercise all play a part in determining the strength of our joint structures. Thankfully, there are many things that we can do to maintain healthy, strong bones into later years.

Exercise:

helps to maintain joint strength and

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46 connectionmags.co.uk

reduces risk of bone fractures. Exercise also reduces joint stiffness and prevents sarcopenia, which is agerelated muscle wastage.

Mineral supplementation: calcium, magnesium, boron, vitamin D and perhaps, vitamin K. Carbonated drinks: cut them out, as high intakes negatively influence joint mineral stores.

Glucosamine and Chondroitin sulphates: help manage joint inflammation and cartilage damage.

Supplementation has been shown to decrease pain, increase joint mobility and allow healing of cartilage damage.

Fish Oils: have anti-inflammatory properties, and have been shown to increase joint mobility (reduces stiffness) when taken at around 2000mg to 3000mg daily.

Vitamin D –10microgrammes daily is the baseline level (from age 1 onwards) as a supplement, during colder seasons.

Esther Mills-Roberts is a degree-trained nutritional biochemist.

She is a Registered Nutritionist (8445) and well-known health writer.

She is founder of AllaboutNutrition, and has a private practice in Stratford.

Facebook: @allaboutnutritionuk Tel: 07834 227677 Esther is offering all Connection Magazine readers a free 15 minute nutrition consultation in October.

Please email: “Connectionfree15” to hello@allaboutnutrition.co.uk

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47

Vieeww Froom m The Bouunnndddaaarrryy

I

t’s dark, dull and drizzly. Perhaps it is time to let go. The season is over and there’s no amount of sitting around waiting for a miraculous change in weather conditions that will change that. At international level we’ve seen the first ever UK test match in September as England wrapped up a very chilly series against the West Indies. A T20 match on a very autumnal evening in Durham was as cold as you’d imagine and saw the Windies claim some revenge. We’ve still got a whole ODI series to get through. Day/night cricket in late September? Not for me thanks!

Concentrating on the local scene, the Cotswold Hills League wrapped up with Wellesbourne holding on to claim the Premier Division title from Exhall & Wixford. Alcester & Ragley just did enough to avoid relegation by finishing 8th. Temple Grafton achieved their highest ever league position, finishing third in Division Two. Exhall’s second string

ended a testing season finishing bottom of Division Three and failing to field a team for the last two games of the year.

In Division Four, Bidford valiantly held on to retain their position; their 8th place finish an achievement given their struggles to put sides out. Great Alne had a fantastic season in Division 5 losing just three games all year; however this wasn’t enough to see them promoted as circumstances saw them up against two stronger sides. Welford and Alcester’s second eleven both retained their position in the same division for next season with mid table finishes.

So. With that, the kit goes back into the garage or the loft for another 8 months. The Ashes start in December and we’ll all be back out on the field again before we know it. Just one word of advice; make sure you’ve washed your whites!

Until next year.

Alcester High Street, 10-3pm 1ST SUNDAY EVERY MONTH

Household goods Kids rides Clothing, Books, lots of bargains Cafes & pubs open ne!

Something for Everyo 48 connectionmags.co.uk

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ALCESTER COMMUNTY TRUST

Alcester Coming Together

FOLLOW US! alcestermarket

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49

Alcester Town Council OCTOBER 2017

Town Council Meetings All Town Council meetings are held in Globe House which is accessed via the Seggs Lane entrance.

Full Council Meeting: Tuesday 3rd Oct at 7pm Community Care: Tuesday 10th Oct at 7pm Community Facilities: Tuesday 17th Oct at 7pm Planning: Monday 2nd, 16th and 30th October 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 Contacts 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 Alcester Town Council offices: Globe House via the Seggs Lane entrance first floor (lift available) Monday - Friday 9am–1pm (or call to make an appointment).

More information found on our social media pages: www.facebook.com/alcester www.twitter.com/AlcesterTown Alcester Grafitti Project When most people think of graffiti they imagine random scrawled “tags” or offensive language and images daubed on public buildings or railway arches... but graffiti can also be described as a legitimate art form in the right environment and with consent.

Alcester is not unique; illegal graffiti appears from time to time, but Alcester’s young people came together recently to demonstrate that not all graffiti is a blight on the landscape. Quite the opposite in fact!

Alcester Town Council’s Community Facilities Committee kindly gave permission for an art installation on the re-sited youth shelter that

50 connectionmags.co.uk

adjoins the skate park on Jubilee Fields.

We set about searching for a graffiti artist who could help us and we didn’t have to look very far! We have our own artist in residence who had some amazing ideas for improving the youth shelter so we set about organising an inclusive project that would involve young people who use the skate park and go to the youth club.

On Saturday 26th August (the weather was very kind to us!) “Urge” created an amazing artwork for the youth shelter. His completed piece incorporated local references which the young people attending thought were brilliant and they were then given the opportunity to create their own art using spray paint and boards to take home with them.

By demonstrating the value of legal graffiti art, young people took on board the message that illegal graffiti was “pointless vandalism” to quote the artist himself!

It is hoped that this project can be replicated in other areas of the District where appropriate.

If anyone would like more information about potential future projects please email me: alisonmainey@warwickshire.gov.uk

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51

Bidford on Avon Parish Council in the County of Warwickshire

BIDFORD RURAL CINEMA We continue the new season with two further early release films: Friday 6th October @ 7.00 pm ALONE IN BERLIN (Cert 12A). Starring Emma Thompson, Brendon Gleeson.

Friday 26th October @ 7pm CARS3 (Cert U).

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

ADVERTISING GATES In collaboration with the Bidford Chamber of Trade and Commerce and in an effort to cut down on illegal advertising, the Parish Council has installed 4 advertising gates at the 4 entrances to the village.

These will be able to be used by community and sports groups, as well as local businesses holding event in Bidford-on-Avon. Any one wanting to advertise should contact the Parish Council Office to book the gates and obtain details where to obtain the banners. Please be aware that illegal advertising will be taken down.

RURAL EXCEPTION SITE IN BROOM 5 x 2 Bed homes for rent and 1 x 2 Bed shared ownership property will become available in November at the new housing development in Broom, called Aspley Close. The houses will be allocated by Stratford on Avon DC using the “Home Choice Plus” system and you must have a local connection to be eligible.

You can register on the Housing List by visiting www.homechoiceplus.org.uk; emailing housingadviceteam@stratford-dc.gov.uk or phoning 01789 260861. Please ensure you register ASAP and mark the Village as Broom so it can be fast tracked. The bidding cycle will start on Monday 23rd October at midnight for 7 working days only so make sure you register in time to enable you to “bid”.

INDEPENDENT CINEMA EVENT On Friday 13th October the Cert U film “THE 13TH DAY” is being screened at the Crawford Memorial

Hall. Ticket Office opens at 6.30 pm and the film will be screened at 7.00 pm. Ticket prices £2.00 Details at http://www.bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk/ events.htm#e1013.

MEETINGS Monday 9th October, 7.30pm, Planning Consultative Committee Meeting.

Monday 30th October, 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 If you want to keep abreast of local information, you can sign up by 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. 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 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.

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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S

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 9th September to 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).

Call Peter Clarke New Homes on 01789 852180 for a brochure & prices and details of local connection criteria.

AN OPEN AFTERNOON IS BEING HELD IN BROOM VILLAGE HALL ON SATURDAY 30th SEPTEMBER 1.30pm-4.30pm

www.linfoothomes.co.uk

Estate Agents, Letting Agents & Chartered Surveyors Telephone 01789 852180

54 connectionmags.co.uk

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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

Hills Wills HOME VISIT WILL WRITING SERVICE Have your Will written by your local member of The Institute of Professional Willwriters

All meetings conducted in the privacy and comfort of your own home

WILLS from ÂŁ125 (no vat) Also specialists in preparation and registration of

LASTING POWER OF ATTORNEY To arrange a home visit consultation or receive a free guide on making a Will or Lasting Power of Attorney contact MICHAEL HILL (FIPW) Telephone: 01527 850775

Email: info@hillswills.co.uk

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

55

community events & what’s on...

To publicise any community events, email info@connectionmags.co.uk by 12th of the month Alcester Flower Club

Bidford & Districy Gardening Society

Alcester Gardening Club Thursday October 5th, 7.30pm at the Centre, Jubilee Court (off Lea Close). Brian Skeys talking on 'Inspirational Gardens of Essex and East Anglia.' All are very welcome. Members free and Guests 2.50 to include tea/coffee.

Broom WI

Friday October 20th 2017; 7 30pm. St Laurence's Church Hall, Church St Bidford on Avon B50 4DA. "Folklore & Folksongs of Warwickshire and Worcestershire" by Richard Churchley.

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

Next meeting is Monday 1st October, a flower arranging demonstration by Lucy Allan entitled 'Memories'. Visitors welcome. Contact Chairman, Mrs Brenda Kirkman 01789 778669.

Our meeting on Thursday 5th October at Broom Village Hall, starting at 7.30 pm will include a talk by Co-op Finance Services on 'Tax and Toy Boys'. Visitors are very welcome to attend. Delicious refreshments are served. A warm welcome is extended to all visitors.

Salford Priors Ladies Group

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

Wednesday 11th October, 'Talk and display of Birds of Prey', by Danielle Shearsby. 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. Visitors will be very welcome to join us at our next meeting on 11th October, 12.15 for 12.45, when Douglas Eyre will be telling us about 'Fun with Caricatures'. For details contact Secretary Cynthia Hill 01789 763446.

Alcester WI

Our October meeting is at Jubilee Court Community Centre, 7.30pm on Thursday 12th. Bill Goodall will be talking about the work of First Responders. This should be a very important and informative talk for everyone.

Members and interested visitors are most welcome.

Bidford on Avon WI

Our October Meeting will be on the 12th, starting at 7.30 at the Bidford Methodist Church. Peter and Margaret Preece are making a return visit to Bidford WI. Their talk, with wonderful photos is titled ‘Wildlife – Hide and seek'. Do come and join us. If you would like more information, contact Shirley 01789 773366 or Pauline 01789 773390.

56 connectionmags.co.uk

'Gardens and Gardeners of Ancient Egypt' is the subject of a talk by Linda Farrar on Thursday, 19th October. All meetings are held on the third Thursday of the month at 7.45 pm in the Crawford Memorial Hall, Bidford.

Visitors are welcome at only £3 including refreshments.

For further details please ring 01789 268974 or go to www.bidfordgardens.com.

Bidford & District History Society

Alcester Baptist Church Harvest Thanksgiving

Supporting BMS Charity 2017 - 'Wonderfully Made', Hope Home in Thailand. Saturday 21st October, 10.30am - 12 noon refreshments. 12.30pm - 2pm Ploughman's Lunches. 4pm close.

Sunday 22nd October, 10.30am Harvest Festival Service.

Alcester's Poppy Appeal Launch Saturday 28th October, 11am till 1pm at Alcester Methodist Church. Stalls, displays and Poppy Appeal items will be available.

Barn Dance and Afternoon Tea Sunday 1st October, 3pm - 5pm at Alcester Town Hall. Join us to dance to the lively music of Cat’s Whiskers Barn Dance Band and enjoy a scrumptious afternoon tea. Tickets £5 from Town Council offices, Globe House, Seggs Lane.

Part of the 50+ Festival, from 30th September to 8th October, for those from 50 to 100+. Call 01789 268701 for more information, email engagefestival@outlook.com or visit our website engagefestival.org.uk. We look forward to your company - a warm welcome guaranteed!

Cleeve Prior Primary School Family Fun Day, Sat 7th Oct 1pm-3pm. Arts & Crafts, Sports Activities, Refreshments, All are welcome.

Harvington Village Autumn Fayre Sunday 8th October, 11am - 1.30pm at Harvington Village Hall. 50p Entry. Local sellers, gifts, crafts, treats, tea and cake. Come and enjoy!

Open Doors Mums & Toddlers Group

We meet at Alcester Methodist Church, Priory Road, every term time Thursday morning at 9.45 till 11.30am. We have toys, soft play, crafts out for the little ones and do toast for them and cups of tea and coffee for the mums. First session is free and it's £2 per family thereafter.

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Charity BIG Breakfasts Alcester & Bidford Warm up your Autumn Saturday morning with a freshly cooked, Full English Breakfast

Tickets - £6 Large - £8

Thank you for the generous support from businesses in Alcester, Bidford, Broom & Honeybourne

Alcester Town Hall Saturday 7th October 8.30am – 12 noon

Raising funds for Dementia Support in Alcester & other local causes Alcester tickets from: The Turks Head, 4 High St, Alcester Mike & Di Gittus 01789 488 877 / 07854 532 407 or pay on the door

Crawford Hall Bidford Saturday 14th October 9am – 12 noon

In association with raising funds for GAGA; Dementia Respite in Bidford & other local causes

Bidford tickets from: Bidford Hardware, 84 High St., Bidford Richard Fantom Eyecare, 15a High St., Bidford Nigel Curtis 07877 884 258 or pay on the door 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 October Every Tues Every Thurs Every Thurs Thurs 5 Sat 7 Sat 21

10 am -11 am 6.45 pm - 9 pm 8.15 pm - 9.45 pm 7.30pm - 9.30pm 8.30am - 12pm 9am - 5pm

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

Tai Chi Classes - Jane Bowen, 01789 763866.

Court Leet Elections - Ian Whitehead, 764876.

Rotary Charity Big Breakfast - Sue Matthewman, 01527 854723.

Food Festival - Diane Williams 01789 762157.

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.

Goslings Toddler and Baby Group

Open 10 till 11.30am every Thursday at Crawford Hall, Bidford, apart from two weeks over Christmas. £1.75 for first child, 25p for siblings.

Children are PARENTS/CARERS responsibility.

Free play till 11am then we put toys away and have a snack (supplied by Warners Budgens). Children also have a biscuit and a drink. We then sit in a circle with our children and sing songs before the goodbye song at 11.30. Tea and coffee available for adults for a small donation.

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.

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

Friendly group who have a love of painting. All are

welcome to join us.

Children’s answers: Henry maze answer: The skeleton collected the most pumpkins (5).

Sudoku solutions

Easy grid

Not so easy grid

(see page 6)

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community events & what’s on...

‘The 13th Day’

‘A Story of Hope’ - whether your interest lies in historical, factual or extraordinary events, this is a film for you. The true story of events in Portugal (1916-17) leading up to the great phenomena of the sun as witnessed by over 70,000 people of many beliefs and none, which took place on October 13th 1917, exactly100 years ago. Starring three Warwickshire children and suitable for all ages.

Friday October 13th, 7pm, at Crawford Memorial Hall, Bidford, B50 4EZ. Refreshments and free parking.

Alcester Methodist Church

Open Morning every Tuesday from 10am to 12.

We have games, craft, music, but most of all, chat, homemade cakes and tea! There’s no charge, our motto being freely receive, freely give. All are welcome.

Alcester & District Men’s Probus

Meet on the fourth Wednesday of each month at Kings Court Hotel Alcester 12:15 for 12:30 luncheon followed by a guest speaker. Email for full details Club secretary : jackwinder2011@btinternet.com.

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.

Bidford Community Group - Jolly Teapot

Bidford on Avon Community Group hold a get together each Thursday 9.30 to 11.30 am. Why not come and join us at St Lawrence Church Hall? A warm welcome awaits!

Bidford Library - Tablet Computing for Beginners

Join one of our 4 week Saturday morning courses at Bidford Community Library to learn basic skills with a tablet computer, in small supportive groups. Call in or phone the library on 01789 773239 for more information. The project is supported by a SDC Digital Inclusion Grant.

Bidford Health Centre Information Evenings

The Patients Participation Group have two more information evenings organised: Wednesday 18th October at 7pm - an overview of the support available to assist carers and families get help both medically and financially.

Wednesday 22nd November at 7pm - Heart Care, by a consultant cardiologist.

We also intend to hold meetings in February or March next year in connection with women’s health. If you are interested in any of these evenings, please call Bidford Health Centre on 01789 773372 to book your place.

Bidford Dementia Cafe

S

ingers, dancers and musicians alike have all entertained and amused people at Bidford’s Dementia Café on Monday mornings. Alongside endless cups of tea and coffee and biscuits and cakes (all free), people living with dementia, and their carers, are able to enjoy conversation and activities, as well as entertainment and singalongs. Some of the activities have included chair exercises, games, reminiscing, quizzes and painting. There are also the ever-popular fortnightly pampering sessions, when anyone can have a foot or neck massage, or nails treated and painted. In addition, professional advisers are invited to give help with finance or care options. The current programme, which will run until Christmas, includes more singers and dancers with many popular activities.

There will also be special visits from Irish Dancers, Bidford Primary School and the Salvation Army band.

With its committed team of volunteers, Bidford Dementia café meets from 10.30am to 12.30pm at Westholme Court, on Westholme Road in Bidford. It is open to anyone living with dementia and their carer, who could be husband, or wife, or any friend or family member. The café provides a welcome break in the day, together with friendship, stimulus, help and support.

For further information contact Wendy Lancaster on 01789 750968

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

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