18 jan mag web

the

c connection o

Around Alcester, Bidford & the Villages

magazine

January ‘18 No. 124

NEW YEAR NUTRITION DRY JANUARY

Going alcohol-free for the New Year

PARENTING

Children & the digital age

STRATFORD SAMARITANS A Listening Ear

You deserve it

Mavericks www.maverickshair.co.uk

rs Road, Hair & Beauty & Barbe Priory Alcester, 01789 766222 or 766333

B49 5DY

Sanders&Sanders

See inside back page for your local Sales & Lettings

T: 01789 766771

www.sanders-sanders.co.uk

ESTATE AGENTS

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

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3

Useful phone numbers Doctors / Health

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

Hospitals

Redditch Hospital Stratford Hospital Warwick Hospital

Emergency

Emergency Services Alcester Police BT Fault Electric Power Loss Gas Emergency

Others

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

Schools

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

Councils

Alcester Town Council Bidford Parish Council Stratford Dist Council

763060 763293 773372 111 08457 909090

... to the January Connection.

Happy New Year! I hope you had a wonderful Christmas and that you managed to keep safe and warm with the flurry of December snow. Are you sick of the festive food yet, or still happily working your way through stock-piled boxes of mince pies?

Some of you may actually have made new year’s resolutions 01527 503030 on the back of having eaten one too many treats last month.

Well, whatever your resolutions for 2018, and even if you’ve 205831 01926 495321 not made any this year (to be truthful, I haven’t), this edition is bursting at the seams with tips, information and inspiration to keep you focussed.

Esther Mills-Roberts from All About Nutrition has advice for 999 or 112 weight management & sluggishness (p.46), Bidford Pharmacy 444816 offers support for those going alcohol-free in January (p.12), 08008 00151 our technology page suggests some gadgets to help with 08004 04090 “healthy” resolutions (p.24), Christopher Spriggs inspires with 08001 11999 uplifting advice on beginnings and endings (p.14) and we have a special page from Stratford Samaritans on how you can help them or, more importantly, how they could help you (p.38).

0300 555 8171 And there’s so much more besides, you wouldn’t have thought 773239 there’d be room to cram it all in to 64 pages!

0844 855 2322 07771 616189 Perhaps your resolution for 2018 is not so much about health, but about making time for yourself. In that case, how about 766750 reading?

Have a look at our list of ‘must-read’ books for this 762450 year on page 18. You might resolve to make travel a priority 766200 in 2018, maybe to France, and you can find out more about 270744 the fabulous Ardennes region on page 44. Or if you’d like to 01386 871777 pledge more time to volunteering, both Alcester Lions (p.32) 262889 and Alcester & Bidford Rotary (p.57) would love to meet new members.

See, I told you it was a busy month for articles!

762285 Until next month, wishing you all the best with your 762494 resolutions, whatever they may be, 762888 773201 762444 772200 December’s competition winner will be announced 488247 on our Facebook page and in February’s edition.

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

February Copy Deadline: Friday 12th January

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.

It may be cold outside but, as always, it’s cosy at The Cottage

COTTAGE OF

CONTENT

CASK MARQUE ALES • NEW, SPECIALLY SELECTED WINE LIST • GREAT RANGE OF CIDERS FAMILIES & DOGS WELCOME • AMPLE CAR PARKING • KIDS’ PLAY AREA • BEER GARDEN

See in the New Year at The Cottage! Why not book a table for our famous Sunday lunch or enjoy a meal from our main menu on New Years Eve? We will have karaoke from 9pm.

FREE ENTRY • ALL WELCOME

Complimentary snacks and mince pies will be available throughout the evening.

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Mavericks Hair & Beauty & Barbers ericks Team!

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5

services

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

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

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

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Sudoku

(answers on page 58)

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Not so easy grid

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@connection_mag

20 PENIN 19 G

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

• Care team on site 24 hours a day Independent Living | Assisted Living | Care & Support

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

For more information contact:

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The Marketing Suite, Suite 2, Tadcaster House, Keytec 7 Business Park, Kempton Road, Pershore, Worcestershire WR10 2TA

Thinking Holidays?

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We are delighted to be working with one of the Midland’s leading travel agencies, CARRICK TRAVEL. Call into your local branch to find out more about our award winning range of tours and cruises.

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Hopkins Pharmacy

Wishing all of our Customers a

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01789 764 874 • www.hopkinspharmacy.co.uk To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

9

Cake and Bake Baked Pears with NU Cinnamon Oat Topping You can use any pear variety for this winter warming fruity pudding. Serve with custard or crème fraîche and a drizzle of warmed honey, if liked.

Ingredients: • 4 medium-sized firm pears • 150ml apple or orange juice • 50g unsalted butter • 75g rolled oats • 50g Demerara sugar • 25g walnut pieces, chopped • 1tsp ground cinnamon, plus extra to sprinkle

Serves 4 Ready in 1 hour

TIP

This recipe will work just as well with crisp eating or cooking apples instead of the pears.

10 connectionmags.co.uk

1.

Preheat the oven to 180C/Fan 160C/gas mark 4. Halve the pears lengthways and scoop out the cores with a teaspoon. Place the pear halves in a shallow ovenproof dish, cut-side up.

2. Pour the apple or orange juice into the dish

and dot the pears with half the butter. Cover loosely with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Meanwhile, melt the rest of the butter in a small pan then remove from the heat, add the oats, sugar, walnuts and cinnamon and stir to combine.

3. Remove the foil and spoon the oat mixture

over the top of the pears. Bake the pears, uncovered, for a further 20-25 minutes until tender with a crisp topping. Serve warm, sprinkled with a little more cinnamon, if liked.

/theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

NEW YEAR 2018

NUARY SALE JANUARY SALE JANUARY SA

January at Hillers has something for everyone!

SALE time here at Hillers this January with our sale starting at the Gifts & Interiors shop on 27th December with big reductions on clothes, handbags, gifts and stationery.

Come along and enjoy a coffee, lunch or afternoon tea in our Garden Restaurant followed by a walk through our display garden and not forgetting a visit to the bird hide to see a varied selection of birds and local wildlife.

Open Daily. Ample free parking

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

Dry January What have you got to lose?

Facts, Figures & Tips from Alcohol Concern & Bidford Pharmacy to support you if you’re looking to cut down in 2018.

D

ry January is Alcohol Concern’s flagship campaign, which has been changing the conversation about alcohol over the past 5 years. It started in 2011 when Emily Robinson signed up for her first marathon in February. She didn’t like running much, so to make the training easier she decided to give up alcohol in January.

She loses weight, sleeps better and feels like she has more energy, but something else happens everybody wants to talk to her about what it is like to give up drinking for a bit. In 2012, Emily begins working at Alcohol Concern and when she gives up drinking again, even more people want to talk to her about it. Later that year, the charity decides to make Dry January a campaign.

Since then it has grown each year and in 2017, according to a YouGov survey, 5 million Britons took part in Dry January. 79% of participants reported saving money, 62% had better sleep and more energy, and 49% lost weight. So why not join them in January 2018 by visiting their website:

www.dryjanuary.org.uk

Some Facts & Figures about Alcohol 1 unit of alcohol is equivalent to 10ml of pure alcohol. There are roughly: • 2.1 units in a standard glass (175ml) of average strength wine (12%) • 3 units in a large glass (250ml) of average strength wine (12%)

12 connectionmags.co.uk

• 2 units in a pint of lower strength lager, beer or cider (3.6%) • 3 units in a pint of higher strength lager, beer or cider (5.2%) • 1 unit in a single measure of spirits (25ml) On average it takes one hour for your body to break down one unit of alcohol, but this can vary depending on a variety of factors: • Weight • How quickly your body • Gender turns food into energy • Age • Whether you’re taking • How much food you medication and if so, have eaten what type?

• The type and strength of alcohol This means that if you drink a large glass of wine (250ml), your body will take about 3 hours to break down the alcohol as opposed to 2 hours for one pint of beer, or longer if it is a strong lager. Hence, if you have a few drinks during an evening out, you could still be over the legal limit for driving the next morning.

Weight gain from alcohol There are also quite a lot of calories in alcohol.

The average wine drinker takes in around 2000kcal every month and drinking 5 pints of beer a week adds 44,200kcal over a year - the equivalent to eating 221 doughnuts.

Wine, beer, cider, spirits and all our favourite drinks are made from natural starch and sugar.

Fermentation, and distillation for certain drinks, is used to produce the alcohol content, which explains why alcohol contains lots of calories.

/theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

Tips to help give up alcohol for January and beyond • Make a plan – decide how you are going to stop.

• Keep going out with friends and family.

• Start saving the money you would have spend on alcohol.

• Let your friends know that you are stopping and that it is important to you.

• Try to enlist a friend to join you.

• Take it a day at a time.

• Keep a diary to record your success, savings and weight loss.

• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

• Don’t beat yourself up if you do slip – just start again!

The long term benefits of cutting down on alcohol are that your mood will generally improve. There’s a strong link between drinking and depression, and hangovers make you feel anxious and low. You will also feel more rested after a better night’s sleep.

behave aggressively or irrationally when you are drunk, and memory loss can be a problem for regular heavy drinkers. Heavy drinkers also tend to catch more infectious diseases.

So, why not join this year’s Dry January campaign and enjoy all the benefits that it can bring?

We are here to give you extra support and to celebrate your success.

Bidford Pharmacy is a Healthy Living Pharmacy, committed to providing friendly and professional advice to the community of Bidford on Avon.

You can visit them at: 17 High Street, Bidford on Avon, B50 4BQ Tel: 01789 772433 Email: bidford.pharmacy@numarket.com Web: www.bidfordpharmacy.co.uk /bidfordpharmacy

Drinking can affect your judgement, so you may

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Our Stop Smoking Support offers private and confidential consultations, counselling sessions and nicotine replacement products combined with expert advice that can make it easier for you to Stop Smoking for good

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13

One thing leads to another

I

t’s done, then. The recycling bin froths with ripped paper. The fridge puffs its cheeks with half-eaten puddings and nibbles with strange names wrapped in foil. The sparkling hoo-hah of Christmas is Done. And so is 2017.

What did you notice? Did you pause and b r e a t h e ?

What moments of joy still linger?

It’s easy for some of us to lose ourselves in the noise of festive expectation; the pressure to get the right gifts; our own habits of keeping everyone happy; the social urge to make it all look ‘just-so’.

And maybe somewhere within this frenzy and stress we find laughter, or connection, or serenity.

Or whatever it is we are really looking for.

Now 2017 ends. “Too soon” or “At Last”? What’s changed for you between its start and end?

Maybe your year was business as usual: Your hard work last year paid off this time. You reaped the benefits. If so, how did you celebrate? It’s important - I think - to acknowledge moments of success. They become reference points by which we navigate our way through life’s labyrinth.

For some of us, there may have been delightful new beginnings: moving home, or a new little human arriving in the family constellation? A promotion at work perhaps, or a new idea arrived to try out (where do our best ideas come from exactly?). What was new for you in 2017? What began? Oftentimes beginnings are indirect, unimpressive, gradual. It’s easy to miss or downplay them. But they are to be honoured, for they eventually become the juncture between the roots which grow and the fruits which flourish. “It all began when…”

Maybe for others of us there have been endings, expected or sudden, that have brought grief or relief. As Dr. William Bridges says (best known for his work on ‘life transitions’), endings trigger all kinds of questions and painful change: how life “was” gets dismantled; we disengage from longheld routines, roles and relationships; a puzzling disenchantment sets in - “I thought life worked like such-and-such, but now I realise it isn’t so”. Endings create disorientation - which way is up and which

way is down. In fact, our word for ‘grief’ shares the same Latin origins as ‘gravity’. Grief grinds us down to the ground. Sometimes we confuse this for depression and think there is something wrong with us. Strangely however, grief - when we learn to co-operate with it - fosters creativity, internal strength and insight. Success and grief each offer their own gifts. They are polarities on the continuum of life. They cannot exist without each other, like height cannot exist without depth.

Sometimes one thing (a relationship, a role, a dream) has to end for something else more vital and true to emerge. Without endings there is no newness. Without sorrow there can be no joy.

Without devastation there is no innovation. As the poet May Sarton, entering the final act of her life, recited in her journals: “Remember that nothing stays the same for long…Let it all pass. Let it go.”

So, what began for you in 2017? What ended? “Ah, 2017 was the year when….”

The recycling bin will be empty again soon. The leftover trifle will be scoffed. Another day arrives too soon. Life continues to fidget and dance to its own rhythm.

Endings, Beginnings, and In-Betweens.

Whatever 2017 has given you, will you treasure it? Whatever its high points, will you cheer them?

Whatever its depths, will you embrace them? One thing’s for sure: a bunch of things changed for you somewhere between the opening act of 01/01 and the fireworks of 31/12, and if you pause to notice, you’ll realise that was a year of your Life you just lived and the whole thing is for celebrating.

So, as the calendar unveils 2018, may your New Year usher in days of joy and wonder.

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

stylish corner Ladies hairdressing Tel: 01789 763052

1 Church Street, Alcester

Up-to-date styling

S C

Wedding hair

Reliable e Heating and Hot Water D Doesn't Have To Cost The Earth All Gas Worcester t B Bosch hb boilers boil il installed before 28th February ebru uaryy 2018 will receive a free e 10 year Guarantee Pay Monthly available, ask for details.

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

15

- January NewsThe shop will be CLOSED for a week from the 14th January.

Please get your orders in before then to keep you well fed for the week!

a

Thank you to everyone who nominated us for the Countryside Alliance Rural Oscars.

We’re delighted to announce that we have made the list of finalists in the ‘Rural Butcher’ category.

a

If you use social media, please take a look at our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts for photos, shop updates and live feeds.

Keep an eye out for our new YouTube channel in 2018 too!

a

- Thank YouWe’ve had an incredibly busy end to 2017 and would like to wish all of our customers a very Happy New Year as well as a huge thank you for their support, patience and genuine kindness over the Christmas period.

10% OFF IN JANUARY

BRING THIS COUPON INTO THE SHOP ON YOUR NEXT VISIT

This coupon can only be used in Sebastian’s Butchery, Bidford-on-Avon. Only one coupon can be used per transaction. Photocopies will not be accepted. Valid until 31st January 2018.

Are you ready for the

?

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

Delivery service available

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Swan Street, Alcester, Warwickshire, B49 5DP

BIDFORD HARDWARE 01789 772324

Tools • Ironmongers Paints & Accessories Calor Gas Supplies Household Fuels Gardening Needs Office Stationery & Cards Pet Care 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.

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Happy New Year!

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17

Into the New Year Books about awakenings and new beginnings to see you into 2018. the power – naomi alderman Not a new release this one, but well worth a read if you missed it back in 2016. Teenage girls across the world discover they have the power to hurt, and even kill, with just their bare hands. And they have the ability to awaken that same power in other women.

Now that men are the weak ones, how will the gender balance shift? An engaging read that twists modern day happenings and examines the dark side of power. Gripping, thought-provoking and a real conversation starter, The Power is ideal for book clubs.

how to be champion: my autobiography – sarah millican Sarah Millican’s autobiography is like a glorious ramble through her life. The book is split into chapters with headers such as ‘Things I’ve Been Bullied For’, ‘Why I’m Not A Criminal’ and ‘My Love Of Stationery’. It’s part autobiography and part selfhelp guide. Nothing is off limits, so it’s probably not the book for you if you’re not keen on swear words or reading about bodily functions. However, if you want a book that’ll make you feel good about yourself and is snort-your-tea-out-of-your-nosefunny, buy it now.

me. You. a diary – dawn french This book combines writing your own diary with taking a peek into Dawn French’s.

She shares her thoughts each month, along with various insights into her life, and invites you to do the same. The idea is that, by the end of the year, you’ll have a ‘fatter, scruffier book that is written by me but totally personalised by you.’

With various writing prompts, this book makes keeping a diary altogether easier. The perfect start to the new year.

history of wolves – emily fridlund 14 year old Linda lives in an ex-commune out in the woods.

Lonely, socially-inexperienced and left to her own devices by her parents, Linda craves friends and a sense of belonging. When a new family moves nearby, she befriends the young mother and regularly babysits the four year old child. But she soon discovers that all is not right. The choices Linda has to make to keep her new found family could have tragic consequences.

Compelling reading.

18 connectionmags.co.uk

/theconnectionmag

the art of hiding – amanda prowse Nina seems to have the perfect life, but it soon starts to unravel when her husband is killed in a car crash. Left with two children to care for, a mountain of debt, and the growing realisation that her husband wasn’t all he seemed, Nina has to fight to rebuild a life for herself and her family. An enjoyable easy read – perfect for long winter’s nights. mrs osmond – John banville Banville picks up the story of Isabel Osmond (née Archer) from where we left her in the classic The Portrait of a Lady.

While this novel will likely appeal most to fans of Henry James’s work, Banville retells enough of the original story for Mrs Osmond to work as a stand-alone piece. Upon learning of her husband’s betrayal, Isabel has journeyed to London, leaving him behind in Italy. Away from her husband and reunited with her friends, Isabel starts to rediscover her desire for independence. Lively characters, elegant prose and engaging dialogue combine to make this a very enjoyable read.

@connection_mag

STUDIO

44

Thank you to all of our customers for your support over the past 12 months

01789 773774 • 15b High Street, Bidford on Avon, Warwickshire, B50 4BQ

beautiful

pamper

Welcoming new & existing clients to our beautiful, refurbished salon.

Mon: Tues: Wed: Thur:

Opening Hours:

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Fri: 10 - 4.30 Sat: 9-1 Sun: Closed Appointments not always necessary

New for 2018

We’re proud to be able to offer the following new services from January 2018: Ear piercing • Nails Massage (full body, Indian head, back) Hair gems • Pamper parties Get in touch to find out more about our

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Gardener’s Resolve…

by Pippa Greenwood

Happy New Year! Now that 2018 is here, what are you going to resolve to do (or not do!) in the year ahead? I could write a book about what I need to do in the garden, but like those non-garden resolutions, I’ve long since realised that it is best to stick to things you’ve got at least some chance of achieving! So I’ll probably not say I’ll re-turf the lawn or create the much wished for wildlife-friendly pond…I’ve been planning both of these for years with no sign of progress! re-cYcle pots I’m sure that there is virtually no need to buy another plastic plant pot...and I’m sure that landfill sites would breathe a sigh of relief if we could all stick to this resolution: save all the pots you get when you buy new plants, and any plugstyle trays that house bedding plants. Rinse them out and let them dry off, and next time you need a pot there will already be one there, free of charge as well as saving you a trip to the local garden centre. Pots stored away from sunlight will last much longer as they will be protected from the harmful rays of the sun which make many types of plastic disintegrate. cover it up!

Make a resolution to dry off and cover up garden furniture once the summer is over. Left

20 connectionmags.co.uk

out there throughout the worst of the weather, pretty well all furniture will take a serious battering – from rain, cold, ice and, in some cases, even fungi! Shop around for furniture covers that won’t break the bank or, better still, store the furniture in a shed or garage if you have one. Stored properly, it will last much longer and you’ll save yourself a fortune. grow Your own This needn’t mean total selfsufficiency for twelve months of the year, but aim to grow more of your own fresh fruit, vegetables and herbs. It might mean buying yourself a couple of tomato plants for the first time, or creating a small herb planter, or it could be larger scale and more complex plans if you’re already big on grow-your-own...but increase what you do! Don’t forget that if you’d like UK-grown vegetable plants accompanied by my weekly advice and tips emails, you will find a great choice of some of my favourite varieties at www.pippagreenwood.com/ grow-your-own. compost more It is easy to put things that should be composted in the waste bin, but once you get in the swing of it composting will soon become second nature.

Make it easier to compost kitchen waste by putting a

/theconnectionmag

container in the kitchen for vegetable peelings, apple cores and so forth. Empty it regularly and there won’t be problems with smells. The amount of extra compost you’ll generate will be well worthwhile. Many local councils offer a really good deal on basic plastic composters. use that space!

If you have a cold frame, porch, conservatory or greenhouse, put it to use! Far too many of these potentially great gardening structures are left abandoned for much of the year, perhaps just being graced with a handful of tomatoes for the summer months. Any sort of protected growing area has the ability to increase what you can grow and when you can grow it. So raise your own summer flowers in it, force some bulbs in it in the winter or make off-season sowings of salad crops…make it work, but whatever you do, don’t use it as the family rubbish dump! mulch more Make use of any organic matter that is bulky – mulch with it. Whether it is well-rotted manure, garden compost, leaf mould, or the used compost from a seasonal bedding display or growing bag, make it into mulch! Applied a couple of inches or more deep over the soil surface, a mulch like this Continued on page 22...

@connection_mag

Stratford Beekeepers

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 • • • • • •

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

Interested in Beekeeping but not sure exactly what is involved? Find out if beekeeping is for you by coming to Stratford-upon-Avon Beekeepers’ Taster Day at Luddington Village Hall on Saturday 27 January 2018, 10-4pm. The cost is £15 for the day, including light refreshments.

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

Gates & Railings

by Phil

I make gates and railings

All colours available, made to order.

Low cost fitting service available.

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

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

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

21

will improve the soil’s ability to conserve moisture (saving you both watering time and water) and may also help to keep weeds at bay. A win-win situation. pause before You buY When you’re looking through the seed, plant and bulb catalogues, browsing online or wandering around a garden centre, pause before you buy.

I know I’m not alone in having eyes that are much bigger than my plot! It is very easy to order more seeds than you’ll ever be able to sow and plants that you’ll never be able to squeeze into your garden. seasonal saver Make sure you recycle your Christmas tree. Real trees can be recycled at locations up and down the country – many garden centres and councils offer the service. The trees will be shredded and added to other green materials to make

a great soil conditioner and planting mix.

I asked some of my well-known gardening friends on BBC Radio 4’s Gardeners’ Question Time for their New Years’ Resolutions: Eric Robson, our Chairman on the show: ‘I’ve joked about it lots in the past but I’m definitely – and I mean definitely – going to found the Ground Elder Appreciation Society. Great ground cover plant, wonderful as an alternative to spinach and the variegated version should have an Award of Garden Merit. ’ Bunny Guinness, garden designer and Chelsea gold medallist: ‘To reap all I sow.

My pigs have had rather too good a diet this year - copious quince, grapes, apples and even peaches! It is quite difficult to find time to eat or store it all, but at least they were extremely appreciative

reciprocates!’

Anne Swithinbank, panellist: ‘My resolution is to tackle some serious decluttering. In the gardening department, this means sorting a horrid muddle of fleece, netting, twine, hand tools, gloves, propagator lids and flower pots filling my sheds. I’m sure I can throw half of it away, then give everything its special place. It’s silly to waste precious time looking for these things, when it would be better spent sowing, weeding and planting.’

Visit Pippa’s website www. pippagreenwood.com and you’ll find some great gardening things: ‘Grow Your Own with Pippa Greenwood’ (where you receive your chosen garden-ready vegetable plants in the spring accompanied by weekly advice and tips from Pippa) plus gardening tools, raised bed kits, Grower Frames, signed books and more!

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

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

22 connectionmags.co.uk

DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL ELECTRICAL WORKS

ALL ELECTRICAL WORKS

DOMESTIC • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL

FREE QUOTES ON ALL WORKS LED lighting conversions • Full rewires Small electrical jobs • PAT testing • Landlords’ & electrical condition reports • Smart Home enquiries • Electric gate systems, serviced and fitted • Alarm & CCTV installations

01789 773087

•

07796 990309

www.arc-electrical.me.uk

/theconnectionmag

/arcelectricalbidford

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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:

JANUARY SALES IN MANY SHOPS AT YEW TREE FARM

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 Jewelllery, Repairs & Acccessories 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

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BIG WINTER SALE

at several of the shops at Yew Tree.

Avoid the crowds, take advantage of our ample free parking and enjoy some genuine bargains.

Beyond the Blue lifestyle clothing has sale bargains on all your favourite brands: Weird Fish, Lazy Jacks, Pomodoro, Old Guys Rule, Tulchan, Joules, Mudd and Water, Jack Murphy and Kipling bags YEW TREE FARM COURTYARD SHOPPING, STRATFORD ROAD, WOOTTON WAWEN, WARWICKSHIRE B95 6BY GENERAL OPENING TIMES TUESDAY- SUNDAY 10AM- 5PM. SOME UNITS NOW OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

WWW.YEW-TREE-FARM.CO.UK

Technology

2

1

NEW YEAR REVOLUTIONS

The gadgets that’ll help you keep your promises in 2018 It’s that time of year again. The gyms will soon be full of New Year’s resolutions, running like mad on treadmills. People will be signing up for all kinds of self-improvement, but within a few months many of them will have changed their minds. So how can you make sure you stick to the promises you made yourself about 2018?

Technology is here to help.

There’s been an explosion in fitness technology over the last few years. The most attractive fitness gadget is Apple’s Watch Series 3 (£329), which you can keep on while you swim as well as when you run, and thanks to apps it can help motivate you in all kinds of ways: it can deliver workouts or track your everyday fitness, and it can even turn ordinary activity into a game with its steps, distance and calorie tracking. Third party apps can deliver punishing 7, 4 or even 1-minute workouts if you’re short of time, and there’s a whole host of apps for tracking your food intake and other health factors too.

Some of the best fitness gadgets are designed for specific activities, such as TomTom’s Runner 3 (£220). As you’ve probably guessed from the name it’s for runners, with built-in GPS, heart rate tracking and music playback to make your efforts more bearable. It’s suitable for weight training and swimming too, and the battery lasts for about 3 weeks between charges.

If your resolutions were more about mental wellbeing, there are plenty of phone apps to help you. The free Mindfulness App (available for Apple and Android) can help you meditate to escape everyday stress, while Headspace (iPhone and Android, free with in-app subscriptions) has attracted millions of users with its newcomer-focused approach, rewards system and a clever buddy feature that enables you to share progress and motivation with your friends.

24 connectionmags.co.uk

Apps can be great for fitness and healthy eating too. One of the world’s favourite such apps is MyFitnessPal’s Calorie Counter and Diet Tracker.

Available for Apple and Google devices, it’s free, with a £7.99 pro-subscription offer. The big plus here is its database of more than 6 million foods and a barcode scanner: scan your ingredients or the menu and it’ll automatically calculate and record the calories.

If you promised to eat more healthily and/or to waste less food in 2018, we’d love to introduce you to our very favourite gadget: the Instant Pot. There’s a whole community of Instant Pot fans online 3 including popular food blogs such as The Kitchn, and that’s because it’s brilliant: it’s an electric pres-sure cooker that sautes, boils, steams, slow cooks, pressure cooks…if the idea of cooking a whole chicken or pulled pork in half an hour appeals you’ll love it, and it’s great for minimising waste: chuck the leftovers in with some vegetables and water and you’ve got effortless stock or soup. It’s a fantastic time saver too: again and again we’ve gone from can’t-be-bothered-to-cook to eating a healthy and nutritious meal in less time than it takes to order a takeaway. It pays to shop around, though: Amazon in particular frequently offers huge discounts on the Instant Pot, as you can see from sites such as uk.camelcamelcamel.com: you don’t want to be the person who buys it for £155 when it’s usually on sale for less than £95.

1. TomTom Runner 3 GPS smartwatch 2. Apple Watch Series 3 3. Instant Pot cooker.

/theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

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

25

The HR Dept

STRATFORD UPON AVON & EVESHAM Providing outsourced HR advice and support to local SME’s in Alcester, Evesham, Studley, Henley-in-Arden, Pershore and Tewkesbury. with Julie McGovern (FCIPD)

I

f your business is in need of HR support, then look no further. Julie McGovern (FCIPD), director of The HR Dept (Stratford upon Avon & Evesham) is a HR professional with a wealth of senior level HR experience and 25 years as a Chartered Fellow, which she uses to find practical solutions to your HR issues.

Offering a wide range of outsourced HR solutions, tailor-made to suit your business, Julie prides herself on delivering a local, pragmatic service at an affordable rate – more financially viable than recruiting an in-house HR department or HR Manager.

“Small businesses need flexible, realistic guidance, but don’t have the requirement for a full-time, permanent HR practitioner. This is where The HR Dept adds value, by providing the expertise of highly qualified HR professionals at a fraction of the cost of employing a full-time HR Manager. Our approach is to tell you what you can do, rather than what you can’t. Furthermore, in addition to outsourced HR Services, we can provide support to junior HR staff within small businesses and Academy Schools”.

Does Your Business Need Support With Employment Tribunals?

Earlier this year, The Supreme Court ruled that the Government acted unlawfully and unconstitutionally when fees were introduced for Employment Tribunals and Employment Appeal Tribunals. The fees of between £390 and £1,200 were introduced in 2013 and had seen a 79% decrease of cases being brought. Now that fees have been removed, there is the prospect of a significant increase in the number of cases.

Julie says, “Employment tribunal fees have always priced employees out of justice. Fairness and equality are paramount in HR and we’ve always been against the implementation of the fees. A good relationship between employer and employee prevents tribunals, and managing people effectively can help.

However, employers shouldn’t panic. While it’s likely there will be more tribunals, you can easily avoid risk as we give professional, sound advice and our retained clients have the benefit of knowing that they are fully covered in the event of a tribunal.”

26 connectionmags.co.uk

Tribunal Management is just one of a variety of services that The HR Dept offers. Julie provides bespoke expertise and support surrounding each of the following areas: • Employment law • Appraisals • People management • Absence management • Recruitment • Redundancy • Contracts of management employment • TUPE transfers • Employee handbooks • Employee surveys • Disciplinary and • Training and grievance development • Dismissal • Payroll • Performance • Health and safety management Feedback from previous clients is testament to the invaluable support that The HR Dept provides: “We are truly grateful for all the help and support Julie McGovern from HR Dept has given us. She has guided us through so many situations in relation to HR matters and we simply couldn’t have done it without her. She is always helpful, accommodating and goes the extra mile to help us and nothing is too much trouble.

We will continue to use Julie and The HR Dept and for small businesses like us; their support is invaluable”.

Simona Novelli MBE, Managing Director International Trade Shows Link Ltd “We would like to express how grateful we are for your sensitive and empathetic support during a very difficult time. You have gone way beyond the normal boundaries of help and advice, we have felt stronger and more secure because of your input.

Thank you, thank you.”

Rita and Carole [Directors] Midland Care Ltd

/theconnectionmag

For more information on the services provided by The HR Dept, contact: 07387 101975 • 0345 208 1291 Julie.mcgovern@hrdept.co.uk www.hrdept.co.uk

@connection_mag

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

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

27

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

HarryandFloss

07931095052

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

Craft Club Alcester

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

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

Where:

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

When:

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

28 connectionmags.co.uk

/theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

ow g s N r in 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 Also now, food and bedding for dogs, cats and small animals.

Based at Bidford Boatyard, with ample free parking.

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

07765 385282

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

office@broadmark.co.uk

www.broadmark.co.uk

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

www.riversidepetsupplies.co.uk

T: 01789 400344 E: phil@alcesternsc.com

Alcester NSC

All you need d for f Schoolwear S h l & more

Back to school ...and work... ...and play!

• Workwear • Leisure and Sportswear • Printing & Embroidery T: 01789 400344 E: phil@alcesternsc.com

Alcester NSC

www.alcesternsc.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

M u s i c Tu i t i o n

LOOKING FOR A TUTOR? Experienced teacher, Cert Ed. (DBS checked)

offers 1 to 1 support for English.

(Basic skills in Reading, Writing and all aspects of Literacy) KS 1, 2 and 3.

For fees and advice please call

Angie Gowan: 07809 174670 email: angiegowan2016@gmail.com

Lifeguard Computer Care For Home & Small Business

contact Mark any time on 07981 158 507

Andrew Swinn MA, ARCM, ARCO

Piano, Music Theory, Exam Accompaniment

01789 763 954

visit website for client comments

lifeguardcomputercare.weebly.com Alcester based since 2009

Alcester Nursery Studio would like to say a big

THANK YOU

to all who supported our special Bingo Night in November.

We were delighted to raise £1,260 for Birmingham Children’s Hospital

in aid of 2 year old Meadow White, who attends the nursery.

Special thanks to the businesses and individuals that donated prizes to our Bingo Night raffle on 17th November:

Tesco • The Three Horseshoes • Camilla Jones Jewellers • Select & Save • Ragley Hall Mooch • Alcester Reiki • The Nail Company • Haven • Mavericks • Alcester Fish Bar Freemans • Lloyds Chemist • Avon (Allison Parker & Tara Gibbons) • Kings Court Hotel Friends & family of Meadow White and the nursery, who donated: gift vouchers, a corkscrew, dance lessons, a beauty box, wine, a book, and 9 holes of golf Also with thanks to Tom Moulson for baking some delicious cakes to eat on the night and Waitrose for the loan of wine glasses.

WITHOUT YOUR GENEROSITY, THIS WOULDN’T HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE. THANK YOU! To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

31

Make it a Happy New Year

ALCESTER and DIST

Alcester and District Lions Club

engage with your local communities providing a service to improve the quality of life for many.

Having a hands on role in Alcester and District Lions creates fun and fellowship.

As an Alcester and District Lion, you will use your time and talents to make an impact, mainly locally and also – as part of Lions International – around the world.

Volunteering your time, no matter how much, not only helps those in need but also gives you a sense of pride in making a difference.

Alcester and District is part of

Lions Clubs International and has what you are looking for, so join us and

become ‘part of the Pride’.

Because Alcester & District Lion needs of the communit Because Lions International is community challenges

ar for your community with

STRICT LIONS CLUB

Alcester and District Lions make a difference raising money

through supporting events in the community.

Alcester and District Lions

make a difference with every penny collected supporting good causes, and over 90% of this money being spent locally.

No money raised is used for admin purposes.

Do you have a project that needs support or would you like to find out more about joining Alcester and District Lions Club?

Why not come and meet us informally at:

The Unionist Club, High Street, Alcester Thursday 25th January 2018 at 8pm Contact one of our local members for further information about the meeting.

Roger: 0845 833 2794, Dave: 01789 764708, Lizzie: 01789 772082

Web: www.lionsclubs.co Email: alcesterdistlions@gmail.com

ons are local, we serve the unique nities in which we live. l is global, we can help address es wherever they occur.

McLaren 720S

by James Baggot

I’ve just exited a roundabout – one I’ve left many times before in a variety of cars – and I’m heading down a familiar straight; I know it leads to a 90 degree right and yet more wellsighted, beautifully-surfaced road, but this time it’s different.

replaces. Steering is pinpoint direct and well weighted.

I’m sat behind an exquisitelycrafted steering wheel, in a plum pudding purple leather cabin, and things are happening faster than they’ve ever happened before. Behind me, a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 is converting 710bhp into forward thrust that has to be experienced to be believed.

Unfortunately it’s not all good news. The electronics are better and easier to use but are still buggy. Our test car incorrectly warned us of impending suspension failure and power steering problems - unforgiveable on a car costing almost a quarter of a million pounds.

Just a look at the numbers gives an indication of what the new darling of Woking has in its arsenal: 60mph in 2.8 seconds, 124mph in 7.8 seconds and 186mph in 21.4 seconds.

While those figures give you some reference, what they can’t explain is the feeling that translates to when you’re sat behind the wheel. The g-force such explosive acceleration exerts on your body under footto-the-floor power is like a roller coaster, and braking is sharp, shockingly sudden and painfully precise.

The second disappointment is the noise. It’s all sucking, blowing and wind roar - there’s no start up, high speed thrum, or deep bellowing exhaust note. OK, it’s no Tesla, all silent propulsion, but it’s also no rival for Ferrari’s much better 488 soundtrack.

The McLaren takes countryside sweepers, motorway miles and quick changes in direction and road surface in its stride.

It’s incredibly capable and a huge step on from the 650S it

34 connectionmags.co.uk

The seven-speed automatic gearbox rifles through gears like a sharp shooter and at speed it’s rapid, slick and enjoyable.

The rocker mechanism to the paddles is a joy too.

Thankfully, the out-of-this-world looks make up for some of those foibles. The dramatic doors stop petrol station punters in their tracks as you arch them skyward. It can feel like you’ve live-paused passersby in a TV show, their mouths slowly drifting towards the floor as they wake back up. Rarely does a car send pedestrians into a dreamlike state quite like this McLaren.

Huge air scoops, slits and

/theconnectionmag

slants in the bodywork add to the visual drama, while also playing an important part in directing the huge gulps of air the revised power plant needs to keep it cool. Sadly McLaren still has a lot of work to do in wiggling its way into the public consciousness - few of those we encountered knew what brand it belonged to, let alone which model it was.

But back to what the McLaren does best. I’ve got dials turned to slippery sport mode, and Wales to cross. The rain is just starting to cover the road with a glistening dew-like coating and the 720S is twitching in the bends, squirming as it hunts for traction. It’s palmdampening, but exciting, and about to create a journey that’ll be indelibly marked on my memory. This McLaren may not be quite perfect, but my word is it getting incredibly close.

the knowledge model: McLaren 720S price: £218,020 engine: 4.0-litre, twin turbo V8 power: 710bhp, 770Nm 0-60mph: 2.8 seconds top speed: 212mph economy: 26.4mpg emissions: 249g/km

@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

Local Plumber ALL PLUMBING WORK UNDERTAKEN

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

No job too small • No VAT Reliable Friendly Service

CALL HUGH ON

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

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

35

BACK OF THE NET

“Football is about dreams” Sean Dyche

Sean Dyche, like Claudio Ranieri (and Nigel Pearson before him) has breathed new life into the top of the ‘same old’ Premier League table.

A different kind of life. A more real kind of life in many respects. It’s a life that lets players and fans alike dream of what might just be possible.

And all this with a capacity crowd of less than 22,000!

been back in the top flight for only three seasons. With Alan Shearer and Chris Sutton up front, captain Tim Sherwood in midfield and other well known players in Tim Flowers, Colin Hendry and Graeme Le Saux, much was expected of a team managed by Kenny Dalglish.

Obviously Burnley have yet to win anything, but a big difference between Burnley now and Blackburn’s achievement in 1994/5 is the lack of big names, both players and manager, although some of them are now well on their way to becoming big names, especially Mr Dyche.

Leicester also had a team of comparatively little known players, but had managed to attract Claudio Ranieri, a manager who had had considerable success around Europe.

As the season kicked off in August, most Burnley fans would probably have been happy to see their team remain in the top flight at the end of the season, with few thoughts of Harry Potts’ 1960’s success. They have almost guaranteed that before Christmas. Hats off to them! And, to all teams outside the “top six”, never stop dreaming!

It’s twenty three seasons since Blackburn Rovers won the Premier League title, having

Happy New Year! See you next month...

Back of the net!

A

s I write this, Burnley are sitting in fourth place in the Premiership, having won against Stoke last night. Let that sink in for a moment...

OK, so Liverpool, Arsenal and Spurs have a game in hand, which they are all likely to win tonight, pushing Burnley back down to seventh.

But the Clarets, like Leicester two seasons ago, are giving hope to their fans as well as some of the other smaller clubs.

WINTER OFFERS

FREE FITTING ON BULBS 20% OFF

WIPER BLADES

Offers end 28 February 2018

Don’t be caught out in the dark!

Keep a clear view of the road!

FREE SEASONAL Get ready for HEALTH CHECK winter weather!

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36 connectionmags.co.uk

Monday - Friday 8am - 6pm

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Saturday 8am - 12pm

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

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37

Who Are We?

E

very six seconds, somebody contacts us.

Ten times a minute, we can help someone turn their life around. That’s a privilege, and a huge responsibility. Samaritans’ vision is that fewer people die by suicide.

Stratford upon Avon Samaritans is based in central Stratford in the Tyler House Hub. We are one Branch in a network of over 200 nationwide.

Samaritans believe that providing someone with the opportunity to frankly and honestly explore difficult feelings, without fear of judgement, can provide relief from distress.

By helping people to understand their feelings and explore their options, we enable them to find their own way forward without taking control away from them.

We often work with those who feel they cannot talk to anyone else - either because they don’t have someone they trust or because they do not want to worry those around them. We’re there for people when they need us, which could be any time of day or night.

People talk to us for as long as they like, as many times as they like.

We don’t rush, interrupt or push anyone out of the door. We let people lead the conversation at their own pace.

There are no waiting lists, and no assessments.

Our phone, email, text and face-to-face support services are available twenty four hours a day, seven days a week. This is important as it is often when most services are closed that people struggle to get support.

Improving understanding and reducing stigma One thing that can also stop someone coming

forward and seeking help is the fear that they will be perceived as ‘weak’ or that people will think there is something ‘wrong’ with them. This is a case where stigma can literally kill.

We W work with other agencies to try o improve people’s understanding to of emotional health. We also o work in schools where we run w workshops, in Warwick Hospital, w and in workplaces. Since 2010 Samaritans have been working with Network Rail and the wider rail N ndustry to prevent rail suicides and in support those affected by them.

Speakers for your Club or Group Are you looking for a speaker A o give a talk at your school, to workplace, club or group? If so, Samaritans would be happy to help. We can give a talk tailored to your needs about the work we do. We do not charge for this service but are always happy to receive a small donation to cover travel costs.

Please contact us on: outreach@stratfordsamaritans.org.uk

Consider volunteering You can make an amazing difference at Samaritans helping to support people around the UK and Ireland when they need someone to talk to or if they are going through a difficult time in their life.

We welcome and value every volunteer, from all walks of life.

Whatever your interests, experience or skills, we have a role for you, and we will train, mentor and support you in whatever role you choose to do.

For more information email us on:

recruitment@stratfordsamaritans.org.uk

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

01789 773767 or 07909 913014

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

39

NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH ALCESTER A Very Happy and Peaceful New Year to Everyone Message from Warwickshire Police

Warwickshire Police currently have two countywide operations in progress. These operations are focusing on reducing the number of incidents of vehicle crime and house burglaries across Warwickshire.

In order to get the very best out of these operations, we need the help and support of local communities with information and intelligence. If you think something in your area is suspicious, it probably is. You will know your area and its usual activity, comings and goings and if you think something is odd, out of place and suspicious, we need to hear from you.

Before every incident, there is usually some suspicious activity and we need calls to make us aware of this. Please could we encourage you to call 101 if you notice suspicious persons, vehicles or activity around their own or neighbouring homes.

If you believe that a crime is in progress, please dial 999.

The next meeting of NHW Alcester will be held on Tuesday 6 February, 2018, 7.30pm at St Nicholas Church House.

Contact details: nhwalcester@gmail.com or telephone Dorrie Manders on 01789 762999.

Communicating with the Police Emergencies dial 999.

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

Calls cost 15p per call (landlines and mobiles).

Alcester South Safer Neighbourhood Team dial 101 or 01789 444816. Please feel free to contact the team direct: Email: alcestersouth.snt@warwickshire.pnn. police.uk.

PS 542 Bob Shaw (Team Sergeant) 01789 444815.

PC Robert Davies (Beat Manager) robert.davies@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk PC Richard Lambert (Beat Manager) Rebecca.morris@warwickshire.pnn.police. uk James.squire@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk How To Shop Online Safely Thomas.bagg@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk Check the web address. Always check Call Crimestoppers anonymously with you’re on the correct website. Criminals information about crime on 0800 555 111. can set up fake websites that have a similar Crimestoppers is a charity that will pass on design and web address to the genuine site. information to police without revealing any Is it a secure connection? Web pages details of the caller.

Contact Warwickshire Trading Standards you enter personal or financial details into 01926 414040. Website, Facebook should display a locked padlock sign and & Twitter. Make a scam/rogue trader have a web address that starts with https. complaint toTrading Standards via Citizens This means your connection to the website Advice Consumer Service on 0345 4040 is secure.

Phishing Don’t click on links or attachments 506. Sign up to receive scam alerts at www. warwickshire.gov.uk/scams. You can also within unsolicited emails. report a fraud or cyber crime to Action Bank transfers Online auction sites. Don’t Fraud on: 0300 123 2040 or visit www. pay for goods or services by bank transfer actionfraud.police.uk. unless you know and trust the person.

Avoid rogue traders - use Warwickshire Payments via bank transfer offer you no Trading Standards “No Rogue Traders protection if you become a victim of fraud.

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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Jacksons Jewellery Repairs BEFORE

AFTER

ALL JEWELLERY REPAIRS AND CLEANING DONE ON SITE

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)

The Life List

Here are some of the other anomalies:

All Above Board

- Whoever heard of a bank error in your favour?

Few games can inspire family arguments and grudges like Monopoly.

Maybe it’s all that pretend money or the main objective being to bankrupt all of your opponents. But my biggest issue is that the game is riddled with inaccuracies.

- Everyone starts off with the same amount of money and makes their fortune in the property game on a roll of the dice. No business plan, no building regs / planning permission and not even a licence for a skip.

To start with, it’s called Monopoly but there are dozens of versions. As well as the various locations, you can also get special editions for: Batman, Alice in Wonderland (go to jail and off with your head?), Formula One, Star Wars (take a Chance card you must…), FIFA World Cup, Pirates of the Caribbean (community treasure chest?), and even a Dinosaur Edition (I make no bones about it).

- Even the traditional London version has Free Parking. In London? I ask you!

- The idea that anything can be insured for a £50 insurance premium.

- Affordable utilities? In your dreams.

Some elements are true to life though. It’s not unusual to visit a railway station and end up spending £200 for the privilege (seating optional!), and selling stock these days may well only net you around £50.

They’ve even replaced some of the pieces, bringing in a T-Rex, a penguin and a metal ‘rubber’ duck. Is nothing sacred!

By Derek Thompson www.alongthewritelines.blogspot.co.uk

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

41

Medieval Illuminated Bestiaries Wednesday 10th January - 8pm Phoenix Panto: Aladdin Wednesday 24th - Sunday 28th January 7.30pm (2.30pm Mat) Catriona McDermid: Classical Bassoon Thursday 1st February - 7.30pm Croome - past, restoration & future Wednesday 7th February - 8pm

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

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

JANUARY

RAW Comedy Friday 2nd February 8pm

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

Full details of all acts at eveshamartscentre.co.uk

Box Office: 01386 446944

info@grinnallcarpets.co.uk

www.grinnallcarpets.co.uk

BIDFORD RURAL CINEMA

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

Friday 26 January at 7pm

Ticket price: £2.50 per person

Film Certificate: PG Running time 111 mins + interval

THE NINJAGO MOVIE

Friday 12 January at 7pm

Film Certificate: PG Running time 101 mins + interval

Ticket price: £2.50 per person

VICTORIA AND ABDUL

has great pleasure in presenting

Refreshments sponsored by your local

Ticket office opens at 6.30pm. Films are subject to confirmation 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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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

Why not choose The Golden Cross to CELEBRATE IN STYLE in 2018?

Let us cater for your celebrations.

Intimate dining or large gatherings, both indoors and outside.

Reserve a booth, table in the bar or our whole lounge area for your visit.

Our team will take care of your every need.

Bespoke menus available on request.

We can cater for your every need including delicious buffets starting at just £4.95 per person.

Please contact Claire on 01789 772420 or email goldencross@treasureinns.co.uk to discuss your requirements.

DELICIOUS HOMECOOKED FOOD We serve food from 12-9pm every day.

Full menu available daily, including sharers, sandwiches and pizzas.

Check out our delicious roast served every Sunday.

C All of our food is home cooked by our talented chef and his team.

Book online or call 01789 772420

Our January 2018 Dailyy Deals

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.

The French Ardennes French Ardennes, Meuse valley, Monthermé Montherme©D.Truillard

In north-eastern France, the Regional Nature Park of the Ardennes rises towards the Belgian border, festooned in hills and vales, fast-flowing rivers, dramatic rocks, lush hedgerows and deep forests home to wild boar and deer.

Haunted by ancient legends, laced with trails and glorious views, it is largely undiscovered and a haven for nature lovers, covering 117,000 hectares.

Trekking, cycling, horse riding, kayaking or sailing on the rivers, there are myriad ways to explore and maybe spot the beavers at work, a black stork or a peregrine falcon, a black woodpecker or a hazel grouse sitting on a branch. Wild orchids and carnivorous sundews peep here and there and golden broom and purple heather splash colour on the higher slopes. The scenery is forever changing but most endearing is the green finger of land pointing north and the valleys of the Meuse and its tributary the Semoy.

Tumbling down from the Belgium uplands, the Semoy meanders through verdant countryside on its way to the Nature Park across the border. There, from the village of Hautes-Rivières to the

44 connectionmags.co.uk

confluence with the Meuse, a 20km long cycle path follows every bend of the river, punctuated by rocky outcrops and viewpoints such as the ‘Cross of Hell’, a name which leaves plenty to the imagination.

By clear weather, you might just see the Croix Scaille, at 503 metres the highest point in the French Ardennes.

The Meuse meanders on and on, revealing its most stunning panoramas when you follow the trails along the crest. For many visitors, the true icon of the valley is Monthermé, nestling crescent-shaped at the tip of a peninsula, stretching out like a green dragon’s tongue as the river almost closes a perfect loop. The water glistens as blue as the sky and densely wooded hills roll as far as you can see in all shades of green.

A path climbs through the forest to a series of precipitous rocks where you can look down on Monthermé and one of the most spectacular river loops in France.

In the distance the silhouettes of the ‘Four Sons of Aymon’ rise on a rocky ridge above the village of Bogny. According to legend, the knights escaped from Charles the Great on a

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By Solange Hando magic horse, taking refuge in the Ardennes where they were turned into rocks. In this fantastic landscape legends abound, from the Devil’s Castle to the Spinner’s Bench or the rocks of the Ladies of the Meuse, petrified for being unfaithful during the crusades.

In the spring, Monthermé comes into its own with a popular festival dedicated to the legends of the Ardennes and the ‘little people’ who hide among the rocks.

Festival over, it is time to ramble along the trails, 47 of them from easy strolls to more demanding climbs, criss-crossing the park all the way to Givet at the northern tip, taking in the starshaped citadel of Rocroi, the lakes, the laurel forest and the slate route around Fumay. The people of the valley are proud of their heritage and that includes the industry which remains a valuable source of income. Just like the wartime memories, it is part of the Ardennes but in this little corner of France, off the beaten track, you’ll discover sleepy villages of yellow or blue-tinged stone, fortified churches, castles, abbeys or isolated farms with a beautiful backdrop of verdant hills and valleys.

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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

Only 4 miles from Alcester

PETS

Consultations by appointment

24 Hour EMERGENCY COVER

TEL: 01527 893016 FAX: 01527 893008

Dealing with Cat Flu – It’s Not Just a Winter Bug Cat flu is potentially one of the most serious illnesses your cat can suffer and in some cases is life-threatening. Kittens in particular are at high risk, so it’s important to vaccinate as soon as possible, usually at nine weeks and then on an annual basis.

It’s not only a ‘winter bug’ as human flu tends to be – it can be transferred between cats at any time of the year. This is why, if your cat stays in a boarding cattery, you should make sure it’s one that

only accepts cats from owners with proof of vaccination.

PETS

what symptoms should you watch out for?

Common symptoms of cat flu include: • • • • • •

Sneezing • Coughing Runny nose • Dribbling High temperature General lethargy Loss of appetite Sore or partially-closed eyes

helping your cat through this serious illness The vet may prescribe antibiotics if your cat has a secondary bacterial infection, which is a common occurrence with cat flu. Apart from that, however, wiping the cat’s eyes and nose with a warm clean

cloth soaked in salt water can help.

Regularly washing their bedding, and making sure water bowls are cleaned several times a day with hot water, also helps to prevent reinfection once your cat begins to improve. Cats with flu often lose their appetite, so having plenty of nice food to tempt them to eat is a good idea and also helps to build up their immune system after they’ve recovered. https://www.bluecross.org. uk/pet-advice/cat-flu https://www.petplan.co.uk/ petplan-together/senior-cat/ can-cats-get-colds.asp

By Ann Haldon

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

45

Don’t Mention the ‘F’ Word

by Esther Mills-Roberts

OK. I said it. Fat. We’re post-festive, and many of us are feeling it.

The waistline can’t deny it, the wrappers can’t hide it and that sluggish tiredness proves it.

A stickler for keeping positive, I will say that there could be some benefits to this extra poundage.

You might even have topped up on key nutrients; minerals from all those extra winter veg, extra fatsoluble vitamins A, E and the one that scientists are all shouting about, the elusive vitamin D that so many people are deficient in.

However, the carb-fest that’s fed our cravings, the added alcohol, coffee, confectionary and cakes are still calling from our taste buds, so it’s easy to see why many people struggle to switch to a calorierestricted diet needed to shed weight.

If you’re unhealthily overweight, it’s time to get healthy once again; extra strain on the joints, the heart, in fact every body system. It’s time to get healthy once again.

I’m a big fan of slimming clubs and the extra support they offer, which is proven in research to increase long-term weight management. It’s true; sometimes you need someone to celebrate with, a friendly face, a hug or a shoulder to cry on.

Weight management can be a difficult journey at times, combining long-standing food patterns, with emotional elements and drivers such as motivation to change.

But what do you do when things just aren’t working out, when there’s something about your diet plan that just isn’t stacking up? What if your diet is making you tired, constipated, lacking in oooomph?

46 connectionmags.co.uk

In these cases, a more detailed nutritional assessment can really help, based on solid science and in line with the latest health advice.

For example: If you’re constantly tired, you might visit your G.P to get your iron and vitamin D blood levels measured, assess nutrient intakes in your diet, or check factors influencing digestion and absorption, review genetic influences on key nutrients or check whether your medications are affected by/affect your nutrient status.

You see, the wonderful thing about nutritional science, is that it’s so personal. There is, quite literally, no one size fits all. Inspired by the latest information and supported in your nutrition journey, you could be heading for a healthier springtime.

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

She is a Registered Nutritionist (8445), author and member of the Guild of Health Writers. She has a private practice and can be contacted via www.allaboutnutrition.co.uk or by phone: 07834 227677 (please leave a message, if in consultations).

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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

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

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Membership / Spa Days / Gift Vouchers

wildmoorspa.com

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

47

Growing Up In A Digital World

by Kate Duggan kateduggan.co.uk like it or loathe it, we’re leaving in a digital age, and many children have learnt to swipe, scroll and select long before they’ve mastered riding a bike. screen time If you’re worried that your child is spending too much time staring at a tablet or smartphone, you might need to agree a daily time allowance.

Most devices come with parental controls that you can activate. Alternatively, you can download software such as Qustodio (www.qustodio.com) to restrict usage and block inappropriate content. Some flexibility on time limits might be needed, when your child has homework for instance, or you’re desperate for a lie-in.

Apps such as Habyts (www. habyts.com) allow you to offer extra screen time as a reward for chores and good behaviour.

Teenagers need to learn how to manage their own time, and how to protect themselves online. So you may want to loosen the reins as your child gets older, and discuss what they should do if they stumble across anything that makes them feel uncomfortable. social media and instant messaging One in five 13-18 year olds say they’ve been the victim of cyber bullying¹. However, social media can also be a

48 connectionmags.co.uk

way for your child to connect with their peers, and they may feel ostracised if they end up missing out on conversations. If you do decide to let your teen have their own social media account, set some boundaries.

For example, you may decide that they can only have an account if you’re their ‘friend’, with the understanding that you won’t post photos of them or publicly embarrass them online.

You’ll also need to talk to your child about why they should never share their address or personal details on social media, and what to do if they’re being bullied or harassed.

Be aware that teens often set up separate social media accounts to chat to their friends, and will block you from finding them. And instant messaging apps are even harder to monitor. No safeguards you put in place will bypass the need to talk to your child about online safety. online learning There are some really fun, educational sites and apps that might help to tear your child away from YouTube, including: Scratch (www.scratch.mit.edu) helps your child learn basic coding.

Users can create simple games, animations and stories.

Cbeebies (www.bbc.co.uk/ cbeebies) has a huge number of online games, puzzles

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and other activities. The Alphablocks School Words Quiz, for example, helps preschoolers and reception-aged children learn to recognise simple words. You can organise games by their educational focus, such as maths, communicating and emotions.

Comics in the Classroom (www. comicsintheclassroom.co.uk) are a range of digital comics that teach children about history. They support the Key Stage 3 and GCSE syllabus and are interactive – children have to identify correct answers to unlock more pages.

Sand:box by SmellyMoo (search the Google Play store) is an android phone app that teaches older children about physics and chemistry. The user can ‘play’ with different materials and see how they react with each other.

If you do let your child download any apps, check that they can’t make in app purchases without your approval, or you could be in for a nasty surprise.

For more advice about keeping children safe online, visit internetmatters.org. It offers a wealth of free guides and advice on everything from mental health issues to protecting children from adult content. ¹www.internetmatters.org/issues/ cyberbullying/learn-about-it/

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

49

Alcester Town Council JANUARY 2018

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

Planning - Monday 8 & 29 January Full Council Meeting - Tuesday 9 January Community Care - Tuesday 16 January Community Facilities - Tuesday 23 January Presidium - Tuesday 30 Januar 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 Alcester Allotments Christmas and New Year are over and now our thoughts turn to 2018...

Some of you will have made new year resolutions, perhaps to get fitter and become

50 connectionmags.co.uk

more active, or to start a new hobby. If you did not make a New Year resolution, it is never too late to decide to do any of these things.

Have you thought about getting an allotment?

Not only will you get fitter and more active, you will also have an opportunity to grow lots of your own fresh produce to eat.

Alcester Town Council has a total of 134 allotments for rent over 4 sites; Bleachfield Street North (59 allotments), Bleachfield Street South (35 allotments), Allimore Lane (12 allotments) and a new site in School Road (28 allotments).

At the time of writing there is only 1 plot available at Bleachfield Street North, 1 and a half plots at Bleachfield Street South, 3 plots on the Allimore Lane site and a further 3 at the School Road site. Please note, these vacancy numbers may change depending upon renewal of tenancies at the end of December 2017. The rental costs depend on the size and location of the allotment, but range between £20.00 and £48.00 per annum.

To recognise the hard work put in by allotment holders throughout the year, Alcester Town Council make awards at the “Annual Awards Evening – Celebrating Alcester” for the Best Kept Allotment on each of the 4 sites and then one of these will be awarded the overall Best Kept Allotment trophy.

So for those of you with budding green fingers, if you are interested in an allotment, please ring the Council Office on 01789 766084 or email reception@alcester-tc.gov.uk We look forward to hearing from you!

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

01789 766366 thethrockmorton

£5 OR £10 OFF YOUR BILL IN JANUARY

Valid 02/01/2018 to 09/02/2018 Excludes all fixed price menus, Burns’ Night and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer/discount. Only one voucher per table. £5 off 2 or £10 off 4 or more.

To qualify for this offer please give us a few details. You will be added to our mailing list but we will not share your details:

Name Email

Your Birthday We might send you a treat! DD/MM

/

BURNS’ SUPPER

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

SOME SPACES STILL REMAINING!! CALL US NOW TO BOOK!!

WWW.THETHROCKMORTON.COM

Bidford on Avon Parish Council in the County of Warwickshire

BIDFORD RURAL CINEMA

Friday 12th January @ 7.00 pm THE LEGO NINJAGO MOVIE (Cert PG). In this big-screen Ninjago adventure, the battle for Ninjago City calls to action young Lloyd, aka the Green Ninja, along with his friends, who are all secret warriors and LEGO Master Builders.

Friday 26th January @ 7pm VICTORIA AND ABDUL (Cert PG). Starring the inimitable Dame Judi Dench as Queen Victoria, the film tells the true story of a friendship developed towards the end of her long reign.

Films are subject to confirmation, so please check the Parish Council website (see below).

See page 42 for more on the Rural Cinema.

please? If you think more bins would be helpful, please contact me, advise where you think a bin is needed and your request will be duly considered.

MEETINGS

Monday 8th January, 7.30pm, Planning Consultative Committee Meeting.

Monday 22nd January, 7.30pm, Parish Council meeting.

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

BIDFORD EMAIL INFORMATION

As fewer residents have the time to read Noticeboards, the Parish Council is looking at ways to keep the local community informed of what it (the Parish Council) is doing, but also BIG MEADOW IMPROVEMENTS of other village events. If you to keep abreast Hopefully, you will all have noticed the great new Wetpour safety surface recently installed at of local information, you can sign up by simply emailing the Clerk at info@bidfordonavon-pc. the Big Meadow. This surface should be more gov.uk and your name will be added to the list. resilient and make playing on the equipment Your email address is not disclosed and you safer and more enjoyable. Electricity has also now been brought into the Big Meadow opening can request to be removed at any time. This method of keeping the community informed the door to many new opportunities which the received good press at a conference I attended Parish Council’s AMENITIES STRATEGIC on Communications.

WORKING GROUP will be considering based on SOCIAL MEDIA the replies to its recent Survey.

To keep informed locall by social media, please MARLEIGH PARK follow us on Facebook (Bidford on Avon) and Following requests from parents to improve Twitter (@Bidford_PC). and upgrade this popular play area, used by many children on their way back from school, the Parish Council has placed an order for more equipment to be installed.

PARISH COUNCIL CONTACTS

Clerk to the Parish Council – Mrs. Elisabeth Uggerløse.

Parish Council Office is located in Bramley Way, DEFIBRILLATORS The Parish Council recently resolved to purchase in the same building as the library. The Office is open to the public 10.00am – 3.00pm daily 3 defibrillators from NHS Primary Trust to be except Thursdays, when opening hours are 1.30 installed at key areas in the village: Bidford Fire Station, Bidford chemist and Warner’s Budgens. – 4.30pm. If you are unable to attend during these hours, please contact the Clerk to arrange It has also arranged for training for up to 30 a mutually convenient time. people which will take place at Bidford Fire Tel No. 01789 778653 / 07718 628 925 email Station. info@bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk website address: LITTER www.bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk.

I am walking more to work these days and am Parish Councillors – a list of Parish Councillors surprised at the amount of litter I find everywhere: contact details is posted on the notice on footpaths, play areas, roads etc. Whenever I boards, and can also be found online www. can, I pick it up and deposit the litter in the nearest bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk/councillors.htm bin. Can I ask other residents to do the same Elisabeth Uggerlose - Clerk to the Parish Council email info@bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk 01789 778653 or 07718 628925

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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 4th January at the Centre, Jubilee Court (off Lea Close), Pauline Thomas will talk on "The Wonders of Westonbirt", with slides. All are very welcome. Members free, guests £2.50, to include tea/ coffee.

Salford Priors Ladies Group

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

Wednesday 10th January - "The Orchard School of Cookery", speaker Nicholas Burt. New members and visitors always welcome and first visit is free. Contact Pam Sharpe on 01789 773746 or Pam Seville on 01789 772540.

Alcester Ladies Probus

We are a friendly ladies club who meet for lunch every 2nd Wednesday of the month at Kings Court Hotel, Kings Coughton. Our next meeting is on 10th January, 12.15 for 12.45, when we meet together, swap books and have a 'Bring & Buy' after lunch. We welcome visitors and new members, so come along and meet us and maybe join. Contact Secretary Cynthia Hill on 01789 763446.

Alcester WI

Our January meeting is at Jubilee Court Community Centre, 7.30pm on Thursday 11th. Start off the year with an old favorite! Alan Benjamin is going to entertain us with anecdotes of Royal Visits. Hats are entirely optional! We look forward to welcoming members, those considering membership and friends to the first meeting of 2018.

Bidford on Avon WI

Happy New Year to everyone! Bidford on Avon will be holding their January meeting on the 11th. For January only we will be at Bidford Bowling Club.

The evening will start at 7pm and we will enjoy a three course meal. February will see us back at Bidford Methodist Church. If you would like more information please contact Ann 01789 772409 or Pauline 01789 773390.

Bidford & District Gardening Society Visitors will receive a very warm welcome on Thursday 18th January when Ian Sandler will give a talk entitled "A Dutch Flower Market".

Admission £3, including refreshments. All meetings are held at 7.45pm on the third Thursday of the month at Crawford Memorial Hall, Bidford. For further details please call 0178 268974 or www.bidfordgardens.com.

Bidford & District History Society

Friday January 19th, 7.30pm, Crawford Memorial Hall, Salford Road, Bidford, B50 4EZ. "The Last Naval Hero", by Mr Roy Smart.

Tablet Computing for Beginners

Join our Saturday morning course and learn basic skills with a tablet in a small supportive group at Bidford Community Library, Bramley Way, Bidford. Our next four week course starts on 20th January. Call in or phone the library on 01789 773239 for more information. The project is funded by a SDC Digital Inclusion Grant.

Bidford Playreading Group

Monday 22nd January 7pm at Bidford Community Library, Bramley Way, Bidford. £2 includes tea and biscuits.

Brownies' Bacon Bap Bonanza

3rd Alcester Brownies' annual fund-raising event returns on Saturday, 27th January. Join us at Alcester Guide and Scout Centre from 8:30 am; last orders at 11:00 am. Baps cost £3 and include a free drink. For those preferring something lighter, toast and jam will be available at £1.50. This year, we are raising funds to enable the Brownies to have a 'London Adventure' which will enable the girls to try something new while developing their confidence and independence.

Arrow and Arden Nordic Walking

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

Join one of our free January Nordic Walking sessions and improve your health & fitness, together with new & experienced Nordic Walkers. Contact Kathrin 07875 609324 NordicWalkers@outlook.com www.arrowandarden.co.uk

Bidford Darby & Joan

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

Alcester Art for All

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

Alcester Flower Club

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

The next meeting is on Monday 5th February, 2018.

Contact Chairman, Mrs Brenda Kirkman 01789 778669.

Looking Forward to an exciting 2018

We ended a busy & successful year in Christmassy style, running the Charity Santa’s Grotto for three days at the first Ragley Frost Fair.

Warwick company, Forever Living Products, lent us their creative genius, Sarah Isaac, to help us build a very attractive & festive grotto in the beautiful, vaulted lower rooms at Ragley Hall. In return, we made a donation to the company charity, ‘Helping Hands Community Project in Leamington’, who support the homeless in Warwickshire. Especially important given the recent wintery weather, and a good example of a club, charity & company working together in the community. We also had a lot of fun doing it! Funds raised by the Grotto itself will be distributed to local organisations.

We are looking forward to 2018 with strong club membership from Alcester, Bidford & surrounding areas. We are planning our old favourites like the Big Breakfasts, but also some new projects such as ‘Youth Speaks’ which is a national Rotary initiative to encourage speaking & presentation skills in young people.

Our friendly & informal meetings take place on Thursday mornings for breakfast at Kings Court Hotel, Alcester. If you would like to come along or find other information please email sue@invictusuk.com or call Sue Matthewman on 01527 854723

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 January

Every Tues Every Thurs Every Thurs Mon 1st

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

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

Tai Chi Classes - Jane Bowen, 01789 763866.

Hunt Meeting - Steven Brown, 01789 766484.

Alcester Café

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

Bidford Dementia Café

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

Craft Club Alcester

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

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

Walking for Health - Health Walks

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

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

Visually Impaired?

If you live in Alcester, Bidford or Studley, you might like to meet others in your situation.

Alcester Vision Support Club is a social group which meets on alternate Thursdays at Jubilee Court, Alcester. It is an opportunity to chat, be entertained and enjoy tea together. For more information, call Ruth Dutton 01789 763827 or Karyl Rees 01789 400561.

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

Cupcake Café at Salford Priors

Saturday 6 January, 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: Noel (Gallagher) in the Goal; Adele down the Well; Ed (Sheeran) in a Shed Word Ladder: Jet, Pet, Pen, Pan, Fan, Fin

Sudoku solutions

Easy grid

Not so easy grid

(see page 6)

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Crawford Hall, Bidford-on-Avon Tickets £5 each tel. 773742 To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

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