The Connection Magazine June 2018

the

connection

Around Alcester, Bidford & the Villages

magazine

June ‘18 No. 129

ARDEN FOODBANK

5 years of serving our communities

RECIPE

Coconut Seafood Curry

ARE YOU LISTENING? How your attention can make all the difference

WIN!

Tickets to

Hanbury Countryside

Show

COMMUNITY | LOCAL BUSINESS | ARTICLES OPENING JUNE 2018 READ ON FOR THE STORY...

page 6

BINTON BRIDGE . BINTON ROAD WELFORD-ON-AVON . CV37 8PW

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

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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

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Welcome ... to the June Connection

And the beginning of summer (she writes, hopefully). I’ve been spending a little more time in the garden this past month and, whilst I’d like to say how relaxing it’s been due to pottering about with trowels and plants, what I’ve really enjoyed has been getting my children outside, because – let’s be honest – there’s less chance for them to make mess in the house if they’re having fun in the sun! Having read this month’s Gardening article, though, I’m certainly looking forward to cultivating a nice decking area with pretty pots. Turn to page 20 to find out how you can also get creative with your containers.

A warm welcome to our new customers this month. We have been bowled over by how many enquiries we’ve had over the past few weeks! And we’re obviously delighted to have so many of our regular customers with us too.

As noted on our cover, this month’s competition is for a pair of tickets to Hanbury Countryside Show. Details on how to enter are on page 57.

Closer to home, Barton Riverside Revelry promises an afternoon of fun at their fundraiser for local charities on Saturday 16th June (p.12).

We’ve been inundated with listings for our community and what’s on pages. As soon as the weather warms up, the flags are out in Alcester and there’s all sorts of festivities to enjoy around the villages. We particularly like the sound of Haselor Church Fete, also on 16th June - it’s worth flicking to page 56 to read more.

Our regular features include a curry recipe (p.10), ‘Get The Heads Up’ (p.14), Children’s Puzzles (p.30), Motoring (p.34), Back of the Net (p.36), View from the Boundary (p.38), a trip to Milan Cathedral (p.44), a crossword and quiz (p.46) as well as an even-busier-than-usual community section (p.56-58).

We’d like to wish a happy birthday to Arden Foodbank, who have been providing invaluable support in the community for 5 years now. Read more about their work on page 48.

Finally, don’t forget it’s Father’s Day on Sunday 17th June!

Hillers’ Farm Shop and Budgens are great shops for cheeses and real ales if that’s the kind of thing to tickle your dad’s taste buds.

Until next month,

Amy

July/August Copy Deadline: Friday 8th June

Facebook.com/theconnectionmag Twitter.com/connection_mag Connnection circulation 7,750 Editor: Amy James Phone 01789 491005 Email: info@connectionmags.co.uk www.connectionmags.co.uk Printed by Warwick Printing Ltd 01926 883355

Whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advert. All artwork is accepted on the strict condition that permission has been given for use in the publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. The Connection Magazine does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system or transmitted in any form – electronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise – without the prior consent of the publisher.

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Plus donate a cake and enter our Great Bartonfest Bake Off. Cakes will be judged at 2.30pm and sold thereafter for charity.

Welford’s Four Alls

Re-Opens In Time To

Enjoy Summer By The River

T

hose that have traversed the bridge at Welford-on-Avon in the last few months will have noticed that The Four Alls has been undergoing some major works. When it re-opens on 1st June, the historic pub will have been tastefully and imaginatively restored and extended.

Outside, the car park has been moved away from the river and the reclaimed Avon riverbank is now a pretty landscaped garden area with fresh planting and a newly paved al fresco terrace with relaxed pub seating and views over the river.

Inside, an inglenook fireplace has been added in the bar to recreate the cosy feel of a traditional pub, while the original barn has been lovingly restored to provide the perfect, dedicated space for larger groups and parties. Diners will enjoy the glazed extension, facing the river, providing a light-filled restaurant for up to 80 guests.

Ample, comfortable seating inside and out allows families and friends to relax over an extensive choice of hot and cold drinks - from Artisan coffee

Sudoku

and Teapig Teas to cocktails, craft beers, fine wines and spirits.

With a passion for freshly-prepared, seasonal food, their all day Mediterranean menu is served from breakfast until late. The theatre-style open kitchen means diners can see the chefs preparing their orders over the charcoal grill or handcrafting, authentic Italian pizzas in the wood-fired oven. The menu also includes a delicious range of gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan dishes, a children’s menu as well as daily specials.

Claudia Reiter is the new General Manager.

She worked with Raymond Blanc for 16 years managing various front of house operations across his group and has moved locally with her fiancé, Damian, who is the pub’s Deputy Assistant Manager. www.thefourallswelfordonavon.co.uk

(answers on page 58)

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

Easy grid

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Not so easy grid

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OPEN DAY / 4x4 MEET Saturday 9th June 12.00 - 18.00 Refreshments Raising funds for Teckels dog and cat rescue

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‘Supplying you with the best to make your adventure a success’

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

9

Coconut Seafood Curry Serves 4

Ready in 50 minutes

Full of flavour, this speedy curry is great for a summer supper. Replace the asparagus tips with green beans or sugar snap peas, if liked. Serve with boiled noodles or steamed Thai jasmine rice.

• 1tbsp vegetable oil • 8 shallots, peeled and halved • 2-3 tbsp Thai green curry paste (see Tip) • 225g new potatoes, scrubbed and halved • 1 large carrot, peeled and thinly sliced • 400ml can reduced fat coconut milk • 150ml vegetable stock • 2tbsp light soy sauce • 450g cod fillet, skinned and cut into chunks • 175g fine asparagus tips • Juice from 1 lime • 200g cooked tiger prawns, thawed if frozen • 2tbsp freshly chopped coriander • Salt and freshly ground black pepper • Chopped red chilli and fresh coriander leaves, to garnish

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Heat the oil in a large deep frying pan over a medium heat and fry the shallots for 5 minutes until golden. Stir in the Thai green curry paste and cook for 1 minute.

Add the potatoes, carrot, coconut milk, stock and soy sauce. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are almost tender.

Add the chunks of cod and asparagus tips to the pan. Cover and simmer gently for a further 6-8 minutes until the fish is just cooked and beginning to flake.

Gently stir in the lime juice, tiger prawns and chopped coriander. Simmer for 5 minutes until the prawns are piping hot, then season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Serve in warmed bowls garnished with chopped chilli and coriander leaves.

TIP Brands of Thai green curry paste can vary in spiciness so check on the jar before adding. If you want a really fiery flavour, fry 1 chopped small red chilli pepper with the shallots.

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strawberries

Picked Fresh Daily A H Hiller & Son Ltd • Dunnington Heath Farm Alcester • Warwickshire • B49 5PD Tel: 01789 772771 • Email: info@hillers.co.uk www.hillers.co.uk

Felting Art Room Bidford Needle Workshops Learn This Addictive Craft

From May 2018

New Art Classes run by Artist Jen Beetson Mondays at Crawford Memorial Hall.

Drawing and Printmaking: 10.00-11.45am Landscape Painting: 12.15-1.45pm

www.colourclubspace.space 07765 156 877

nicola Mcginn skincare located in Binton, nr stratford

07798 641593

• Established 1997 • Dermalogica Facials g • Non Surgical Face Lifting • Led Light Therapy • Diamond Dermabrasion • Waxing & Threading • Skin Tightening/Inch Loss • Manicures & Pedicures e • Massage/Sports Massage

in a fun and inspirational class at one of two gorgeous locations.

Private Needle Felting Parties for Groups.

All Materials & Lunch included Suitable For Beginners & All Levels.

Contact Denise for more details:

hello@craftygal.co.uk 01789 491090

www.craftygal.co.uk

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:

Candy & Cheese Cart Hire

for your special occasions

alsoCHARITY &

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The second Monday of the month from 7-9pm (9th January) Follow Craft Club Alcester on Facebook for updates/info.

CORPORATE EVENTS

For all Enquiries Please Contact us: Tel: 07824 353202 or Email at kiri@littleflowercandyco.co.uk www.littleflowercandyco.co.uk

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

13

#GetTheHeadsUp

H

ow many words do you think you hear each day? Recent research by the International Listening Association suggests it’s between 20,000 to 30,000.

Feel sorry for the person who had to do the counting. How many of those words are actually interesting? *shrugs shoulders* Most people utter between 125 and 175 words a minute, although our capacity to listen is up to around 450 words per minute. Hey, if you talk that fast, PLEASE WARN ME. But the average person only retains about 17% of what they hear. That is not very encouraging for those of us that jabber on. Five out of every six words just flop themselves onto the floor, wriggle around for a moment before being swiftly forgotten.

When it comes to talking, less is more.

Why does this matter? Because listening and being listened to - affects our mental health. Ask yourself: What impact does it have on you (your thinking, feeling, doing) when someone interrupts you frequently, patronises you, or mutters “aha, yeah… yeah” without eye contact? Many people would say it feels frustrating and stressful. For children not being listened to it conveys a harmful assumption to them that they are worth-less.

This can take years to resolve later in life.

“Weren’t you listening?” they ask, and something in the living dynamic between the two people withers. Some unique bit of thinking may never see the light of day again.

The act of truly listening to another human is one of the single biggest ways we convey that this other person is indeed equal, whole and worthy. Imagine a world where we listened and understood one another more? What could change? Less conflict and depression perhaps?

We all know that part of being a good communicator means knowing not just what to listen to, but how to listen. Dr. Ralph Nicols, known as the “father of studying how to listen” said back in 1980 that “the most basic of human needs is the need to understand and be understood. The best way

to understand people is to listen to them.”

Being an effective listener means engaging our ears, eyes, and brain (the anterior cingulate cortex, to be precise). This means we get tuned in to what’s being said, the facts and the feelings, what’s being said by the body as well as the mouth. This all takes time to learn how to do. A lifetime it seems.

Here are 2 things to know and try out if you want to listen up a little more, and light up the people around you: 1. Listening looks passive. You could kinda just sit there, right? But listening is hugely active. The single biggest difference we can make in listening is to quieten the thoughts in our own heads whilst someone else talks.

For example, instead of analysing, judging and interpreting the other person’s 175 words a minute - try slowing your own breathing down and just thinking to yourself, “I wonder what else this person thinks, feels and wants to say?” Be interested. Attention is itself an incisive question.

In our coaching work with young people and teachers, creating this “generative attention” has a liberating effect on the human brain.

One student recently said to us: “It’s odd, but somehow in these (coaching) sessions I remember all the things that are important to me.” That’s the power of attentive listening. It improves memory and problem solving.

2. One thing it’s not good to listen to too much of is complaining or nagging.

Listening to this for 30 minutes or more can cause damage to the part of your brain that handles problem-solving skills. So if the talker is spilling negativity, you might want to contain chats to shorter spans of time, or get strategic about when you ask them how they are! Listening involves asking interested questions, such as “what’s going well?” or “what would you like to do about that (problem)?” This can help shift negativity.

Don’t just listen to the problem, point towards a solution with a question.

What are your thoughts? Why not drop us a message… we’ll listen. Promise.

Christopher Spriggs is the founder of Heads Up Now, which offers coaching and support for young people, teachers and leaders to think, feel and perform at their best, more often and more easily.

Want this? Get in touch with us today.

www.headsupnow.uk hello@headsupnow.uk @Heads_Up_Now

You deserve it

Mavericks Hair & Beauty & Barbers

For introductory and current offers, please see our website www.maverickshair.co.uk where you can also book an online appointment, or phone Mavericks Hair and Beauty

Vegan Colour Vegan Haircare

01789 766222 or 766333

Priory Road, Alcester, B49 5DY

Down the road from

Waitrose

www.maverickshair.co.uk

01789 766222 or 766333

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17

Gardening Creative Containers

by Pippa Greenwood

layer of holes and continue upwards, finishing off with plenty of colour on the top.

Acrylic paints are ideal to colour a boring or discoloured container. Use a single colour to match existing garden features, or the colour of your front door or window frames, or design a pattern of wild, fantastic colours for a plantedup art gallery.

Colourful containers are a welcome sight in any garden, and pots, planters and troughs can transform a dull back yard or a gloomy terrace or patio.

Plus, wacky and more unusual planters can easily be created with a little imagination and ingenuity.

Plastic flower pots can be transformed by wrapping them in hessian. Available in a range of colours from classic pale brown to reds, greens and blues, it’s weather-tolerant and tough but looks great.

Plastic pots are more exciting with a bit of planting around the sides, so cut holes just over an inch in diameter at regular intervals around the sides to create a planter perfect for small bedding plants. Fill with compost to the base of the lowermost holes, add plants through the holes, add more compost to the next

20 connectionmags.co.uk

Mosaic tiles from your local craft or hobby store can be used to cover a container, or if time is short to just make a mosaic rim. Use rich colours to make a Moroccan style pot.

Protect it when winter comes by placing it in a frost-free spot, unless you use the grouting adhesive used for swimming pools to make it more weather resistant.

Old tyres filled with compost make ideal planters, and can be stacked to make deeper versions. Trailing flowers – such as trailing geraniums – cascading over the edges give a really striking effect.

An aged wheelbarrow is great for a larger display or permanent planting. If there are no holes in the pan of the barrow, place a layer of gravel or stones in the base so that the compost does not become waterlogged.

grit for drainage, add compost and plant up the top. Acrylic paints can jazz up a boring pair of wellies, but make sure the paint is dry before you start planting.

Old gardening, walking or work boots have planting potential too, and because they have heavier soles and are lower to the ground they are useful in a less-sheltered place. Plant up with bright bedding, or for a long-term display use a few house-leeks or sempervivums – their fleshy rosettes of leaves in shades of green and purple look great!

An old kitchen or bathroom sink can be put to good use; either remove the plug to provide drainage or fix it firmly in place with sealant to make a miniature water garden.

I’ve even seen a loo cistern packed full of trailing plants including blue and white lobelia and trailing silvery foliage plants. The mass of blue, white and silver made a great waterfall of colour from an otherwise boring water closet.

An old wellington boot makes a stylish planter. Fill the foot and ankle area with gravel or

Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood. com and you’ll find some great gardening items: Nemaslug, green controls for leatherjackets, chafer grubs, ants and greenfly, plus garden plant supports, raised bed kits, Easy-Tunnels, gardening tools, Grower Frames, signed books and more. You can even book Pippa for a gardening talk!

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GARDEN & PROPERTY SERVICES Pruning • Planting Weeding Grass & Hedgecutting Bark laying • Gravelling All aspects of tree work General property maintenance work

Call Mark on

07799 107040

FENCING Andrew Smith

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

BOOK YOUR MOWER IN FOR WINTER SERVICE

SALES • SERVICE • REPAIR • HIRE

PHIL BASFORD GARDEN MACHINERY

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

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

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洀攀 䈀攀椀 爀 伀爀搀攀 渀最 爀 吀愀欀 猀 一漀眀 攀渀

洀椀氀氀 氀愀渀攀Ⰰ 挀氀攀攀瘀攀 瀀爀椀漀爀Ⰰ 眀爀㄀㄀㠀樀稀Ⰰ ㄀㜀㠀㤀 㜀㜀㌀㈀㌀㄀Ⰰ 椀渀昀漀䀀洀椀氀氀氀愀渀攀渀甀爀猀攀爀椀攀猀⸀挀漀⸀甀欀Ⰰ 眀眀眀⸀洀椀氀氀氀愀渀攀渀甀爀猀攀爀椀攀猀⸀挀漀⸀甀欀

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

21

Gates & Railings

by Phil

I make gates and railings

THE ENGLISH GARDENER For YOUR Garden

Professional, Qualified and Insured Garden & Estate Maintenance Hedge & Topiary Trimming Planting & Pruning Plant Advice Lawn Care

0796 904 8042 theenglishgardener@uwclub.net Passionate about Gardening

All colours available, made to order.

Low cost fitting service available.

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

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

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

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

Phone 07814 949292

Pest Control serviCe ✓ Wasps ✓ Rats/Mice ✓ Moles ✓ Insects ✓ Other Mammals & Birds

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22 connectionmags.co.uk

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Spectacular Summer Colour at your local Plant Centre!

Bedding & Patio Plants, Hanging Baskets, Tomatoes, Cucumbers & Vegetable Plants, Shrubs, Trees, Alpines, Perennials, Pots, National Garden Gift Vouchers Available STILL OPEN DESPITE LOCAL ROAD CLOSURES AT THE END OF MAY! Seeds from

Evesham Rd (A441), Cookhill, Alcester, Warks, B49 5JR Tel: 01527 894 111 Open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm

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

23

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

Food served 12-9pm daily.

Why not try our delicious salads, pasta or tasty ploughman’s?

Two Golden Cross Favourites for ÂŁ12 Monday 12-9pm and Tuesday- Saturday 12-6pm.

We serve food from 12-9pm every day.

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

Book online or call 01789 772420

Enjoy the Spring Sunshine!

Dine inside or join us in our beautiful gardens for food, drinks and hopefully plenty of sunshine!

Even when the chilly night air creeps in, you can keep warm outside with our cosy blankets.

Join Our Team

We are expand ding our team!!

We have a vacancy for a full-time front of house team member and an additional chef to join our kitchen team.

Excellent rates of pay and staff discounts.

Please contact Claire for details on 01789 772420.

June Vouchers

MONDAY - SATURDAY Buy one starter, get one free

MONDAY - SATURDAY Buy one dessert, get one free

1 voucher per person required. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Excludes sharers.

Photocopies not accepted. Excludes bank holidays.

1 voucher per person required. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Photocopies not accepted. Excludes bank holidays.

When ordered with two main meals during June 2018

When ordered with two main meals during June 2018

ColourFence Solihull

Professionally installed fencing, gates & railings For a FREE, no obligation quote & survey contact 0121 439 8924

ColourFence steel fencing solutions are virtually maintenance free, with just an occasional wash down being all that is needed to look as good as new for at least 25 years!* Available, with or without trellis in a range of colours to suit any garden. The best news is that pricing is just as attractive. Starting costs are in line with comparible traditional systems but offer the on going peace of mind that your investment will continue to save time and money year after year. For those of us who love our gardens, ColourFence promise a lifetime of hassle-free enjoyment.

ColourFence

The perfect solution for privacy Virtually maintenance free Variety of colours Heights of up to 2.1m Withstand winds of 130mph 25 year guarantee*

ColourRail

A cost effective alternative to wrought or cast iron railings Ideal for front gardens Variety of ďŹ nishes & colours Bespoke sizes available 10 year guarantee*

T: 0121 439 8924 M: 07592 352765 www.colourfencesolihull.co.uk *full terms & conditions on website or on request

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

25

TOURING:

A shared experience with like-minded people Make your dream a reality with

CARRICK TRAVEL

E

scorted touring holidays are growing in popularity and these days they are not about being hoarded around on a bus!

There are lots of different escorted tours to choose from and sometimes it is hard to know where to start, but don’t worry... the team at Carrick Travel can assist you every step of the way and help you make the right choice, along with giving you an insight into the destination you are visiting.

An escorted tour is a journey of discovery. You will explore new lands, take in a destination’s most iconic sights, its famous traditions, culture and cuisine, and you will also discover its hidden treasures, all with the inside knowledge of your tour

guide, who really will bring your destination to life.

a drink at the end of another perfect day.

An escorted tour is all about shared experiences. The people you are travelling with can make all the difference to your precious time away, not only by contributing to the holiday experience as a whole, but also because of the joy in recounting stories of previous travels and hearing new friends’ old tales over

Choosing an escorted touring holiday is hasslefree. You simply hand over responsibilities, along with your bags, to your touring company, who will take care of you for the duration of your time away.

Some even pick you up from home – the perfect start to any holiday!

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

So, with everything sorted you can get on with what you are meant to be concentrating on, enjoyment and sight-seeing in the company of an expert guide.

Let CARRICK take care of it…

EVESHAM 01386 41474

57-59 Port Street, WR11 3LH

We also have offices in: PERSHORE, LEAMINGTON SPA, COVENTRY, KENILWORTH, SOLIHULL, CHIPPING NORTON & BOURTON-ON-THE-WATER

Visit: www.carricktravel.com Email: enquiries@carricktravel.com

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

27

Thank you to all who came to our 2018 Bluebell Walk.

We raised a fantastic total of ÂŁ17,500 for Charity!

YEW TREE FARM COURTYARD SHOPPING A stylish and contemporary shopping village made up of sixteen beautiful barns 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: Yew Trree Farm Shop Home Baking & Local Produce 015 564 795688

Beyond the Blue Lifestyle Clothing 01564 792025

Cows shed Eaterie Bruncches, Lunches, Afte ernoon Tea 015 564 792979

Yew Tree Salon Hairdressers 01564 795429

Sims Vintag ge Antiques Centre Collectables, Antiques an nd Vintage 015 564 898200

Henley Chocolates Chocolaterie 01564 794718

Giftivity Home Acccessories & Gifts 015 564 793030

The Garden Furniture Centre Garden & Conservatory Furniture 01564 793652

Greys Teas Spe eciality Teas 015 564 792295

Gosh Boutique 01564 793355

Happy 12th Birthday to Beyond the Blue!

Celebrate with 20% off full priced stock for 12 days from 1st -12th June on production of this voucher

Stockists of Joules,Weird Fish, Lazy Jacks, Animal, Mistral, Lilly and Me, Lighthouse, Pomodoro, Kipling Bags, Old Guys Rule and Jack Murphy.

Yew Tree Farm Craft Centre, Stratford Road, Wootton Wawen, Nr Henley in Arden, Warks, B95 6BY

www.yew-tree-farm.co.uk

General opening times Tuesday - Sunday 10am - 5pm Some units now open 7 days a week

Le Grenie er English and French Antique Furniture 01564 7954 401 Bizarto Design & Tra aining 01564 7933 366 Della and Ja ames Lingerie and Sw wimwear 01564 7942 255 H for Hats Hats & Hat Hire 01564 7927 785 The Wild Hare Jewellery, Rep pairs & Accessorie es 01564 7927 785

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

29

Answers on page 57

Computer Trouble-shooter Graham Smith

HARVEY BEARS NURSERY AND PRESCHOOL Est. 1975

For Domestic and Business Users

Local Bidford

Reliable

Reasonable rates

PCs

Laptops

Virus Problems

nternet & email

Printers

ow-to tuition

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

"Children are motivated to play and learn” OFSTED Rated:

Good 2017

said OFSTED at our last inspection

Enrol NOW for September to avoid disappointment

NO FIX, NO FEE

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

Piano, Music Theory, Exam Accompaniment

01789 763 954

• • • • • • •

Places available for ages 3mths to 5yrs Music and movement sessions Forest school Breakfast club Separate baby & toddler section Funded places Based in Harvington Village Hall

Contact us now for a free trial session manager@harveybears.org.uk 07927 903535

/groups/harveybears

Reg charity no: 1030907

ALCESTER NURSERY STUDIO PRESENTS...

B

I

N

G

O

Bingo Night Come and join us on

Friday 22nd June

for our fun-filled bingo fundraising evening!

34

6 11

Lots of great prizes to be won! Refreshments available.

VENUE: Our Lady’s School Hall, St Faiths Road, Alcester TIME: Doors open at 7pm, first game starts at 7.30pm COST: £1.00 entry, to include a raffle ticket All monies raised go to Alcester Nursery Studio (charity no. 1032182)

For more information contact Debi on 01789 765780 To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

31

HOME OF A FAVOURITE

Salford Road, Bidford on Avon B50 4AW Tel: 01789 77335

warnersbudgens.co.uk

F ALL YOUR TE BRANDS

WarnersBudgens

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WHEN YOU SPEND £40 IN STORE

To the customer: Redeemable at Warner’s Budgens Bidford on Avon, Broadway, Moreton-in-Marsh and Winchcombe only. Only one coupon will be accepted per transaction, and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. The offers excludes tobacco, infant formula, e-top up, fuel, concessions (Post Office), stamps and National & Health Lottery. Photocopies are not acceptable. Offer only valid if presented with this coupon. £40 must be spent in one transaction. Valid until 30th June 2018.

10 Electric Vehicle Myths Busted

by James Baggot

Confusion surrounds the running and operation of an electric car. Here, we try to clear that up.

1. You can’t boil the kettle while charging an electric car A National Grid report warned that home networks might struggle to cope with highcapacity car charging.

However, EV owners with a low-capacity home network wouldn’t have a high-capacity charger, so there’s little chance of the network being overloaded.

2. EVs are more expensive than petrol and diesel cars Generally, the base price of an EV will be slightly more expensive, but manufacturers compensate by offering a generous specification so that with the government’s £4,500 zero-emission vehicle grant taken into account, they’re a pretty good deal, plus have low running costs.

What’s more, as EV technology becomes more prevalent, costs will reduce – the new Nissan Leaf starts at £1,500 less than the old one.

3. They’re more likely to catch fire in a crash Concerns about crash safety are largely driven by a couple of high-profile Tesla Model S fires in 2013.

34 connectionmags.co.uk

The EV maker upgraded its underbody battery pack protection in 2014 but also noted that the odds of fires in its cars were “five times lower than those of an average gasoline car”.

4. You can’t drive them in car washes or when it’s raining Water and electricity don’t mix, so manufacturers carefully seal all of the electrified components to make sure there aren’t any problems using car washes, or driving or charging in the rain.

5. You can’t go very far Most electric vehicles now have a range in excess of 150 miles, with 200 miles becoming the norm – and the average journey is less than nine miles.

6. There’s nowhere to charge them Long trips require a bit more planning, but charge point locator Zap Map indicates there are almost 15,000 connectors at more than 5,000 locations in the UK, with more added all the time.

Plus, rapid chargers can provide 80 per cent of charge in about 30 minutes.

7. The batteries don’t last very long Batteries do have a finite life but most manufacturers offer battery leasing for a monthly fee and will replace it for free

/theconnectionmag

when needed. Others offer replacement warranties, with five- to eight-year cover the norm.

8. EVs are less environmentally friendly across their life cycle The energy required to build an electric car can make it less environmentally friendly to produce than a traditionally fuelled car. However, a Norwegian study quoted by the BBC estimates an EV is about 10 per cent better over its life cycle, and that will continue to improve.

9. Battery disposal poses a huge environmental issue It does, but the EV boom has encouraged lateral thinking to improve recycling rates, with companies taking used EV batteries for use elsewhere, such as home energy storage.

10. They’re boring to drive Modern electric cars can be genuinely fun to drive, particularly thanks to the hightorque motors, which make acceleration brisk.

Tesla takes this to extremes with its Model S, which reaches 60mph in less than three seconds – comparable to the new McLaren Senna supercar, with its petrol-powered twinturbo V8.

@connection_mag

For all your

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

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

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

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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

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

Call STEVE for a FREE, no obligation quote

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

FOR A STRESS FREE LOCAL CAR BUYING EXPERIENCE…

CAR SALES ALCESTER

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

35

BACK OF THE NET

Well done Alcester Town and Burnley.

Come on England!

First off, congratulations to Alcester Town FC senior team for their fourth place finish in the Midland Football League, Division 3! The club have a great setup for all age groups at their Stratford Road ground.

By the time we drop through your letter box, football’s ups and downs will be known and thoughts will be moving on to the World Cup. Albion fans will have had time to get over the disappointment of relegation while Villa fans will either be getting over promotion party celebrations or coming to terms with a third season in the Championship. Coventry’s promotion hopes are also in the balance at the time I write this, giving us hope for two more Midlands promotions, following Wolves excellent season.

My manager of the season would be Sean Dyche for getting Burnley to seventh place and a

SUMMER OFFERS

return to European football for the first time in 51 years. All this without the resources that most of the teams in the Premiership have in abundance.

We still have the FA Cup Final to be played, which, to be honest, I can’t get too excited about.

Perhaps there’s just too much hype surrounding the Premiership and the top teams. Perhaps it’s just been a long season. Perhaps it’s because the World Cup is imminent. Perhaps I’m just a little too long in the tooth.

And so to the World Cup. The squad is being announced in the next couple of hours and, for once, I am quite excited about our national team’s prospects. Excitement instilled by Gareth Southgate who seems to be doing things differently than most of his recent predecessors.

Selecting a squad on form rather than experience, choosing to go with a few lesser known names, hopefully picking those players to play in their club positions. Based on previous competitions I shouldn’t expect too much from our national team but I have hope that we will do ourselves proud. And, to quote Jimmy Greaves, “it’s a funny old game”.

I wish you all a great summer. Till next season...

Back of the net!

Offers end 31 August 2018

Keep your aircon cool & fresh this FOR ONLY £50 summer!

AIRCON SERVICE

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COURTESY CAR OR LOCAL COLLECTION & DELIVERY SERVICE

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

36 connectionmags.co.uk

Monday - Friday 8am - 6pm

/theconnectionmag

/

Saturday 8am - 12pm

@connection_mag

Cliive Campion & Son Ltd Need a decorator?

FREE QUOTATIONS OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE CONTACT US:

Clive on 07768 104525 or Matthew on 07900 217079 Email: clivecampion@sky.com www.clivecampionpainteranddecorator.co.uk

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

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

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

Special Offer!

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

37

View From The Boundary

I

t has been good to see cricket back in the national news again of late; even if the reasons are mixed. The main talking point has been the ECB proposed “The Hundred”, another new ‘short form competition’ designed to increase interest in the professional game from a new audience.

Whilst this may help with games being offered to free to air channels, it’s fair to say the horse has bolted on this one.

2005 was a golden year for cricket, coming off the back of a hotly contested Ashes series, shown live on C4 all summer, the sport was at it’s peak in the UK. The subsequent decision by the ECB to take the Sky money and remove the sport from the viewing options of the majority has caused a problem down the line.

A problem that local cricket is reeling from now; the lost generation. There is a dearth of

twenty-somethings simply not engaged with cricket as a sport. Personally, I’m not sure another format change is going to do much to rectify that.

In the local leagues, we are two weeks into the season and it’s pleasing to report that Alcester & Ragley are sitting proudly unbeaten in the Cotswold Hills Premier Division after their recent stuggles to stay in the top league.

Exhall & Wixford haven’t got off to the best start in the same division, yet to pick up a victory.

Down the divisions, Alcester and Exhall’s second strings are both unbeaten in their respective leagues, whilst Temple Grafton, Bidford on Avon and Great Alne have all won one game each. Plenty of cricket to play and importantly, the weather seems to be improving!

“A beautiful course overlooking the River Avon, with views of the Cotswolds, Bredon Hill and The Malverns.”

We have a range of membership options. See our website for more details www.eveshamgolfclub.co.uk

EVESHAM GOLF CLUB

For all golf enquiries, tee bookings & golf lesson bookings please call us on 01386 861011.

38 connectionmags.co.uk

/theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

Why Choose An

Independent

Mortgage Advisor?

With Amanda Copperthwaite from Select Mortgages.

G

one are the days when you took out a mortgage for 25 years and stayed with that lender for the whole term. Nowadays customers can shop around and use the services of a professionally qualified mortgage advisor to get a better deal. The monthly savings can be significant and free up much needed cash.

Banks and other lenders can only offer you their mortgage or insurance products and you probably won’t get the best deal available. As an independent mortgage advisor, I can search the whole market for you to secure the best mortgage for your personal circumstances.

Who Are My Typical Clients?

Clients may be first time buyers, some may be moving house. Others want to remortgage and

raise capital for home improvements, consolidate debts or reduce monthly outgoings.

Many of my clients are looking to protect their mortgage to provide financial security for their family in case the worst should happen. There are a variety of products to protect you and ensure that your mortgage continues to be paid in the event of sickness or the mortgage gets paid off entirely in the event of death or a critical illness. These specialised protection products are essential for giving peace of mind should the unthinkable happen.

Why Are My Services Free?

Quite simply, the lender pays me commission.

My services are entirely free and there is no obligation on your part.

I am professionally qualified and am regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

To make an appointment, get in touch with Amanda on 07785 270217 or email: amanda@select-mortgages.com

FREE

MORTGAGE REVIEW Are you planning on purchasing a property in 2018?

Are you about to come to the end of a fixed rate deal?

Are you on the lender’s standard variable rate?

Has your mortgage payment recently increased?

Do you need to reduce your monthly outgoings?

If you can answer yes to any of the above, then please do not hesitate to contact me and I will be happy to review your situation to see if I can obtain a better deal for you.

I am an experienced, independent whole-of-market mortgage advisor who does not charge fees.

Let me provide you with a no obligation assessment of your mortgage position.

For a professional, confidential service, call or text me, Amanda Copperthwaite CeMAP to make an appointment on 07785 270217 or email me amanda@select-mortgages.com and I will be delighted to hear from you.

Select Mortgages UK Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority FCA 571378 Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up with repayments on your mortgage.

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

39

NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH ALCESTER Protection Advice from Action Fraud - if telephoned by an unknown person (a cold caller), don’t assume an email or phone call is authentic. Remember criminals can imitate any email address. Stay in control. Always use a trusted payment method online, such as Paypal, and have the confidence to refuse unusual requests for payment like bank transfers.

1. Listen to your instinct: just because someone knows your basic details, such as your name and address, it doesn’t mean they are genuine.

2. Stay in control: always question cold callers.

Always contact the companies directly using a known email or phone number.

3. Don’t be rushed or pressured into making a decision: a legitimate company will be prepared to wait whilst you verify information.

If you have been affected by this, or any other type of fraud, report it to Action Fraud by visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040. Visit Take Five (takefive-stopfraud. org.uk/advice/) and Cyber Aware (cyberaware. gov.uk) for more information about how to protect yourself online.

Lock Snapping. Recently, a number of burglaries have taken place locally where the offenders have snapped the door locks to gain entry. This involves breaking the cylinder in two, allowing the lock to be manipulated and opened. This will release all the multi locking points around the door. Anti-Snap locks can be fitted to combat this type of crime. We advise you to check to see if your locks are anti-snap.

There are numerous websites and YouTube videos on this issue. Here is one example of a website that will help explain the situation further -http://www.locksmiths.co.uk/about/ public/cylinder-snapping/ False claims of Telephone Preference Service: Fraudsters cold-call victims, falsely claiming they will provide a ‘Telephone Preference Service’ - an enhanced call-barring service, which includes barring international call centres. Victims are asked to confirm/provide their bank account details, informing them that there is a one-off charge for the service. During 2017, there were 493 Action Fraud Reports relating to this fraud. Protect yourself: There is only one Telephone Preference Service (TPS).

The TPS is the only official UK ‘do-not-call’ register for opting out of live telesales calls. It is FREE. To sign-up to the register http://www. tpsonline.org.uk. If you have been affected by this, report it to Action Fraud.

The next meeting of NHW Alcester will be held on Tuesday 5 June, 7.30pm at St Nicholas Church House, Butter Street. Contact details: nhwalcester@gmail.com or telephone Dorrie Manders on 01789 762999. Everyone is welcome.

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 PCSO Rebecca.morris@warwickshire.pnn. police.uk PCSO James.squire@warwickshire.pnn. police.uk PCSO Thomas.bagg@warwickshire.pnn. police.uk Call Crimestoppers anonymously with information about crime on 0800 555 111.

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

Contact Warwickshire Trading Standards 01926 414040. Website, Facebook & Twitter.

Make a scam/rogue trader complaint toTrading Standards via Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0345 4040 506.

Sign up to receive scam alerts at www.warwickshire.gov.uk/scams.

You can also report a fraud or cyber crime to Action Fraud on: 0300 123 2040 or visit www. actionfraud.police.uk.

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

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

/theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

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)

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

41

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

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

Over 50 years experience.

The Jewellers in the Alley.

3 Market Place, Alcester, B49 5AE

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

BIDFORD RURAL CINEMA FUNNY COW

BLACK PANTHER

has great pleasure in presenting

Film Certificate: 12A Running time 134 mins + interval

Film Certificate: 15 Running time 102 mins + interval

Ticket price: ÂŁ2.50 per person

Ticket price: ÂŁ2.50 per person

Friday 1 June at 7pm

Friday 29 June at 7pm

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

Refreshments sponsored by your local

Ticket office opens half hour before start of film. Films are subject to availability and may be changed.

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

42 connectionmags.co.uk

/theconnectionmag

@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 -

stylish corner Ladies hairdressing Tel: 01789 763052

1 Church Street, Alcester

Up-to-date styling

S C

Wedding hair

To get your computer healthy again call Steve Harris

01789 - 490543 07977 - 599582

Established 19 years and built on recommendation.

We are extremely competitive.

Challenge us to beat your existing quotes!

kitchens l bathrooms l bedrooms

bespoke, traditional and contemporary showroom T: 01789 491100

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

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

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

43

Milan Cathedral

By Solange Hando Listed among the largest churches in the world, the Duomo rises on a magnificent square at the heart of Lombardy’s capital. It is dedicated to St Mary of the Nativity, an iconic landmark which took almost 600 years to complete. The last gate was inaugurated in 1965.

Work began in the late 14th century by the church of St Maria Maggiore. Foundations were laid for three naves, soon increased to five as both the local bishop and duke aimed to raise the city to new heights.

A canal network was designed to transport material. Gothic architecture would rival the great cathedrals in northern Europe but flexibility and innovations were welcome.

Marble was used, foreign architects, artists and craftsmen joined the Italian team, and on this ancient pagan site building progressed unusually, from back to front. It started with the apse while the façade of St Maria Maggiore remained in use until 1682. The new one was only completed in the 1800s by order of Napoleon.

Elegant buildings line the vast panoramic square but all lead the eye to the Duomo, stretching 92 x 158 metres.

44 connectionmags.co.uk

Inside are 98 gargoyles, 135 spires and over 3,400 statues which found their niche around the cathedral. The pink-hued marble of Candoglia cleverly hides the brickwork, playing all day long with light and shade to take your breath away. The main bronze door greets visitors with stunning bas-reliefs, while the 18th century sundial is still used to set the clocks around town.

Large enough for 40,000 people, the interior is striking, with five broad naves supported by 40 columns. At 45 metres, the central aisle is the highest in a finished Gothic church and is decorated with impressive stained glass windows. Up above the apse, a small red light marks the holy place where a nail from the cross is kept. On the Feast of the Holy Cross in mid-September, the archbishop of Milan is slowly hoisted up in an angel-decorated basket to bring the relic down for display on the altar.

Statues, frescoes, sarcophagi, pulpits and the largest organ in Italy – there is much to see inside the cathedral, but most famous is the 16th century statue of St Bartholomew Flayed, a sad disturbing figure

by Marco d’Agrate. More

/theconnectionmag

enticing are the three superb altars by Pelligrino Tibaldi, who was appointed by archbishop Borromeo to lighten up the old Gothic style with the flourishing Italian Renaissance. The treasury is housed in the Duomo Museum, a separate building next to the Palazzo Reale, where displays include some 200 items, tapestries, paintings, terracotta models, statues and more.

Visitors could easily spend an hour or more in the cathedral but most exciting of all is the rooftop walk. Beyond the first terrace accessed by a lift are narrow passageways and slippery steps up to the wide open space of a safe but steeply-slanted roof. Up there, above pinnacles, flying buttresses and statues, the golden Madonna rises on the very top to bless the city at her feet. Views are superb and in clear weather the Alps are visible. It’s the perfect place to reflect on this unique building and the work of so many architects and artists over the centuries. Mark Twain described it as ‘so grand, so solemn, so vast’ and across the square, on the equestrian statue flanked by lions, Victor Emmanuel II, first king of the newly united Italy, certainly seems to approve.

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Bidford Boatt Services Fancy a day on the river?

Narrow Boat Day Hire

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

first time boaters.

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

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

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

Call David Bidwell on 07796 520825 or 01789 772124

Fosbroke House

Bidford on Avon

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

45

Puzzle Break...

Answers on page 57.

QUICK CROSSWORD Across

1

2

3

4

7

5

6

8

7 Type of fruit (6) 8 Astute (6) 9 Encounter (4) 10 Fluttering (8) 11 Diary (7)

9

11

10

12

13 14

15

16

13 Honestly (5) 15 Regularly (5)

17

18

19 20

21

22

17 Nearest (7) 20 Pupils (8)

23

24

21 Encourage (4) 23 Chortles (6) 24 Four score (6) Down 1 Very unusual (4) 2 Repartee (6)

3 Central (7)

14 Clutched (7)

4 Customary (5)

16 Sufficient (6)

5 Correct (6)

18 Smear (6)

6 Diminishes (8)

19 Fake (5)

12 Formal (8)

22 Barrier (4)

Quiz: LAND 1. Published in 1956, ‘The Last Battle’ was the seventh and final novel in a series set in which fictional land?

2. Which group won Best Album at the Brit Awards in 2004 for their debut album, called d’?

‘Permiissiion To Land 3. What is the most populated country in the world to have a name ending in “land”?

4. Which “land” featured in a play called ‘The Birds’ by the Ancient Greek playwright Aristophanes, and has come to be used as a general term for a state of absurdly over-optimistic fantasy?

5. Reading from what turned out to be the wrong card, which individual mistakenly named ‘La La Land’ as the winner of the Best Picture Oscar at the Academy Awards ceremony held in 2017?

6. In a famous novel, what name is given to the land that is made up of four countries called Winkie, Gillikin, Munchkin and Quadling?

7. What animated film is set in Pepperland?

8. Who composed Pomp And Circumstance March Number One, which later became the basis for the song Land Of Hope And Glory?

9. What is the only country in the world to display a map of its land on its flag?

10. In which well known poem do the title characters go to “the land where the Bong-tree grows”?

46 connectionmags.co.uk

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RETIREMENT LIVING AT RICHMOND WOOD NORTON

A stunning new retirement village coming soon to Worcestershire Redefining retirement living, Richmond Wood Norton is a new luxury retirement village located in the beautiful countryside between Evesham and Pershore in Worcestershire.

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

Call the village advisors to find out more or to book an appointment.

PRICES FROM ÂŁ307,000*

VILLAGE FACILITIES Large 1 & 2 bedroom apartments Restaurant, bar & cafĂŠ Transport service Activities & events team Wellness Spa with pool & gym Hair & beauty salon Landscaped gardens Care team on site 24 hours a day

Call to find out more on: 01386 897388 Richmond Wood Norton Sales Suite, The South Lodge, Evesham Road, Wood Norton, Evesham, Worcestershire WR11 4TY

www.richmond-villages.com/woodnorton *For further information on leasehold costs, which include a transfer fee and annual service charges, please speak to a village advisor.

Arden Foodbank: 5 years of providing

vital support in the community.

S

ince opening in 2013, the foodbank, part of The Trussell Trust network, has provided 543 (1154 fed) three day emergency food supplies to local people in crisis. 382 of these supplies went to feed children.

Over the last year, 36 local people have volunteered at the foodbank to help stop people going hungry. 31 volunteers sit in foodbank sessions and welcome people non-judgmentally to talk over a cup of tea or coffee so they can signpost to other help available locally. There are also over 5 volunteers working behind the scenes. Additional tasks include stock-taking, fundraising, picking up food donations, inputting data onto the foodbank’s data system, collecting in supermarkets, handling the foodbank’s website and social media to name but a few.

The work of the foodbank’s volunteer force is crucial to stopping local people going hungry.

Over 215 three day emergency food supplies were provided to local people in crisis by Arden Foodbank during 2017, compared to 78 in 2016.

This fed 238 people, of which 88 were children.

The top three reasons for foodbank referral were: low income 58%; benefit change 28 %; benefit delay 25%.

Everyone who comes to the foodbank is referred by a frontline professional, such as a Citizens Advice worker, addiction supporter or health visitor, and receives a nutritionally balanced three day emergency food supply, containing items such as tinned fish, UHT milk and tinned vegetables.

Arden Foodbank Manager says, “No one should go hungry in Alcester and Studley – the generosity and dedication of local people in volunteering and donating food and funds, over the last 5 years, have meant the foodbank has been able to provide vital emergency food that gives people the breathing space needed after being hit by something unavoidable like redundancy, illness, or a delayed benefit payment which can mean there’s no money for food. We hope that one day soon the foodbank’s work won’t be needed

48 connectionmags.co.uk

in our community, but whilst local people are facing hunger we’ll do our best to make sure vital help is on hand.”

The foodbank is open on Tuesdays from 2 to 3.30pm at Studley Methodist Church, Birmingham Road and on Fridays from 2 to 3.30pm at Alcester Methodist Church by the Globe roundabout, opposite the library.

Any new offers of help with food or money are always welcome – local businesses, organisations and individuals interested in supporting the foodbank’s work can find out more at:

www.arden.foodbank.org.uk

WiZ pan we buy & sell

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Junk Shop ... browse online!

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

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

tel: 01386 833894 email: wizpan1@outlook.com

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ow g s N r in lie ffe pp O Su t

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

Tel: 01386 421700

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

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

FREE DELIVERY TO LOCAL AREA From m nail clipping to the full pamp per, cliip & style for your breed of dog g.

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 STANDA ARD Please call Julie to book an appointment

07765 385282

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

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YOUR FRIENDLY LOCAL VETERINARY SURGERY

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

49

Alcester Town Council JUNE 2018

Alcester Annual Meeting & Mayor Making At the Annual Meeting of Alcester Town Council held on the 1 May 2018, Cllr Andrew Foster was elected Mayor of Alcester and Cllr Gill Forman elected as Deputy Mayor.

Andrew and his wife Kathrin have lived in Alcester with their young family since 2007.

Originally from Redditch, Andrew worked in London for 20 years before moving back to the Midlands where he works as a freelance IT Project Manager.

Andrew was elected onto the Town Council in 2015 where the main focus of his work has been the town’s response to flood and emergency planning as well as road safety.

Andrew has been a member of Presidium, Community Facilities, Planning and Community Care committees.

Andrew commented, “I am very proud to have been elected mayor of this wonderful town and I am looking forward to representing the council and doing my bit to support the many important events planned this year. The commemorative events planned to mark 100 years since the end of the First World War and the 400th anniversary of Alcester Town Hall to name just two.”

“I’m under no illusion that this will be a very busy year, but I am relishing the challenges ahead. I am delighted to be supporting Warwickshire Young Carers as my chosen charity. It is an organisation that I have been involved with for some time now and I hope I can to raise the profile and important funds for the great things they do locally”.

Andrew added “I am also looking forward to working with Cllr Gill Forman as Deputy Mayor.

50 connectionmags.co.uk

Gill is Alcester through and through having lived in the town for most of her life. She exemplifies what it means to be an Alcester Town Councillor through her active engagement with residents and her proactive can-do attitude.”

Town Council Meetings

All Town Council meetings are held at Globe House at 7pm (accessed via the Seggs Lane entrance - lift available to meeting rooms on First Floor).

Full Council Meeting -

Tuesday 5 June Planning - Monday & 25 June Community Care - Tuesday 12 June Community Facilities - Tuesday 19 June Presidium - Tuesday 26 June 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, Priory Road, Alcester B49 5DZ Access is 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 & Community Care: reception@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

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Lifeguard Computer Care For Home & Small Business

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

lifeguardcomputercare.weebly.com Alcester based since 2009

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

07796 992980

Clean Shine and Buff with Fee Fee Fluff

ww www ww.alcestercleaners.co.uk w

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

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

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

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

Over 20 years experience Surgery based in Badsey

01386 833520 07833 595020

Painter & Decorator

Interior and Exterior BRIAN SMITH

Call 01789 772077 or 07790 087219 for a free estimate

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

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

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

info@grinnallcarpets.co.uk

www.grinnallcarpets.co.uk

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

51

Bidford on Avon Parish Council in the County of Warwickshire

BIDFORD RURAL CINEMA Please check the Parish Council website for confirmation. Also see page 42.

Friday 1st June @ 7.00 pm, BLACK PANTHER (12A). Early release action film from MARVEL and the highest-grossing film in 2018.

Monday 25th June @ 7.30pm, Parish Council Meeting (The Annual Accounts will be approved at this meeting).

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

BIDFORD EMAIL INFORMATION As fewer residents have the time to read Noticeboards, the Parish Council is looking at ways to keep the local community informed of what it (the Parish Council) is doing, but also of other village events. If you want to keep abreast of local information, you can sign up by simply You can see a trailer online of the film being emailing the Clerk at info@bidfordonavon-pc. screened – just click and watch! All films are screened at the Crawford Memorial Hall, Salford gov.uk and your name will be added to the list.

Road. Ticket Office opens at 6.30 pm and prices GDPR information: your email address is not remain at only £2.50 Refreshments are available disclosed and you can request to be removed at any time. Your email address will only be used courtesy of your local Warners Budgens. for the purpose of sending you information of BIG MEADOW events and notices relevant to Bidford-on-Avon As precept payers, Bidford-on-Avon parish parish and for no other. residents (Barton, Bidford, Broom and Marlcliff) SOCIAL MEDIA - you can also keep informed are eligible for a FREE CAR PASS. Application by following us on Facebook (Bidford on Avon) forms can be obtained from the Parish Council and Twitter @Bidford_PC. Office or online at http://www.bidfordonavon-

Friday 29th June @ 7.00 pm FUNNY COW (15) Early release British film, starring Maxine Peake as a comedian who uses her troubled past as material for her stand-up routine, trying to rise up through the comedy circuit by playing Northern England’s working men’s clubs.

pc.gov.uk/pdfs/bigmeadow-carpass.pdf

Regular visitors from outside the parish, are able to obtain a “Fifth Visit” free card from the Parish council Office, Bramley Way, B50 4QG – cost is £10.00.

BIDFORD COMMUNITY LIBRARY Don’t forget to visit the newly refurbished library which is looking, well, WOW! Well worth a visit.

The new layout allows for more and better use of the library as a Community Hub and for other activities.

BROOM VILLAGE HALL ... currently has a vacancy for a Caretaker/ Booking Clerk. Full details are available on the website at http://www.bidfordonavon-pc.gov. uk/notices.htm#n464. If interested, please contact Cheryl Hendy on 07775903042 MEETINGS Monday 11th June @ 7.30pm, Planning Consultative Committee Meeting.

52 connectionmags.co.uk

PARISH COUNCIL CONTACTS Clerk to the Parish Council – Mrs. Elisabeth Uggerløse.

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

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

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

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BIDFORD HARDWARE

Family dentistry from the friendly, caring team

01789 772324

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

General and cosmetic dentistry Tooth whitening New patients welcome

11 Church Street Bidford-on-Avon Warwickshire B50 4DA T: 01789 772897 E: info@bidforddental.co.uk W: www.bidforddental.co.uk

LOCAL DELIVERY SERVICE Fancy goods and a selection of gifts for all occasions. You are always welcome to have a look around.

84 High Street, Bidford on Avon, B50 4AD

Bidford Pharmacy HEALTHY LIVING

OPENING HOURS

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

Ask our pharmacy healthcare team for advice on… … easing the symptoms and

combating the effects of hay fever

NEW MEDICINE SUPPORT EMERGENCY HORMONE CONTRACEPTION

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

53

Hemming & Peace Funeral Services We create every funeral individually, just for you.

Hemming & Peace Funeral Services are here to support and guide you. We offer a friendly, professional service to families.

Pre-paid funeral plans are also available for future peace of mind.

Prices start from £2695 - fix costs now at today’s prices.

• 24-hour service • Bereavement advice • Transparent pricing • Home visits • Private chapels of rest • Floral tributes • Memorial masonry • Pre-paid funeral plans

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01789 205 400

01789 766 750

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The Old Stables, 1a Brewery Street, CV37 0BQ

67 High Street, B49 5AF

48 High Street, B95 5AN

Call us for immediate support, advice or a home visit.

We are here to help 24 hours a day. www.hemmingandpeace.co.uk Members of the National Association of Funeral Directors

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

All meetings conducted in the privacy and comfort of your own home Also specialists in preparation and registration of

LASTING POWER OF ATTORNEY To arrange a home visit consultation or receive a free information pack regarding making a Will or Lasting Power of Attorney Telephone: 01527 850775

Email: info@hillswills.co.uk

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

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

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

55

community events & what’s on...

To publicise any community events, email info@connectionmags.co.uk by 12th of the month 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 4th June, when Beverley Short will give a flower arranging demonstration entitled 'My Bargain Hunt'. New members and visitors are very welcome Contact Chairlady, Mrs Brenda Kirkman 01789 778669.

Cleeve Prior Garden Club Our next meeting will be held at Field Barn, Evesham Road, at 7.30pm on June 6th when Adrian James will be giving a presentation on 'A Garden from Scratch'. All meetings are held on the first Wednesday of the month. Visitors are always welcome. For more information please phone 01789 772550.

Alcester Gardening Club

Thursday June 7th, 7.30pm at the Centre, Jubilee Court (off Lea Close). Michael Brown – the Historic Gardener – on 'Death in the Garden'. About poisonous plants and poisoners.

Broom WI Thursday 7th June, 'An evening with puppets'.

Our meetings are held at Broom Village Hall commencing at 7.30 pm. Visitors are very welcome to attend. Tea, coffee and refreshments are served at all our meetings.

Salford Priors Ladies Group

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

Wednesday 13th June 'Canal & River Trust', Ivor Caplan will be the speaker. Visitor's fee including refreshments is £2. Contact Pam Sharpe on 01789 773746 or Pam Seville on 01789 772540.

Alcester Ladies Probus

We are a friendly club for ladies, who meet for lunch every 2nd Wednesday of the month at Kings Court Hotel, Kings Coughton at 12.15 for 12.45. Our next meeting on Wednesday 13th June, is our AGM which is a review of last year's activities and information on the year to come. We welcome visitors and the AGM is an opportunity to meet members, enjoy a good lunch and learn about the Club and perhaps, after meeting us, join as a member. For more details contact Hon. Sec. Cynthia Hill on 01789 763446.

Alcester WI

We meet on the second Thursday of the month at 7.30pm in The Community Centre, Jubilee Court, St Faith's Road. Thursday 14th June - Love history?

Come and join us to hear about the 16th century's second most powerful woman after Elizabeth 1st - Bess of Hardwicke. Dr Gillian White is always a treat to listen to, so this promises to be an entertaining, as well as informative, evening. Everyone is most welcome.. As usual we will be running a stall at the Street Market so do come and visit us there too.

56 connectionmags.co.uk

Bidford on Avon WI Our next meeting is at at 7.30pm on 14th June at

Bidford Methodist Church. Bob Marshall, a Bidford Historian, will be speaking on 'The History of Bidford on Avon'. If you would like more information please contact Ann 01789 772409 or Pauline 01789 773390.

Bidford & District History Society

Friday 15th June, 7.30pm, Crawford Hall, Salford Road, Bidford, B50 4EZ. 'Gertrude Bell - Unsung Heroine of Iraq', a talk by Jan Long.

Haselor Church Fete

Saturday 16th June, 12 noon to 3pm at Walcote Farm, B49 6LY. A classic village event with all the traditional refreshments and entertainment. The star attraction this year will be a clock made mostly out of Meccano by Michael Finnemore when he was aged 16 in 1955 and featured on live television. It was a sensation! He was offered jobs from large organisations.

It was reported in national and local newspapers. Some of the headlines: “His ‘Wonder’ Timepiece”, and “JUNKHEAP GENIUS”. The clock has a 24-hour dial, which gives the time in all parts of the world. There are 10 other dials, giving all sorts of information. The clock will be on show and Michael will demonstrate how it was made.

Other attractions will include BBQ, bar, cream teas, raffle, tombola, cakes, golf, Pluck the Duck, Railway game, skittles, coconut shy, darts, ladder game... great entertainment for all the family. Come and join the fun!

Bidford on Avon Afternoon Tea ... in aid of Bidford Senior Citizens Annual Party

Saturday 16th June 2pm - 4.30pm at Crawford Hall, to celebrate the Royal Wedding. Entrance £2.50 adults, 50p children. Scrummy sandwiches, scones, homemade cakes, tea & coffee. Side Stalls and Quiz.

Everybody welcome! Enquiries - Libby 01789 773874.

Alcester Garden Walkabout

Sunday, June 17th in aid of Cancer Research UK. Enjoy a beautiful & peaceful afternoon discovering over 20 'hidden' gardens in the centre of Alcester.

Plants, teas , ice-creams. Tickets £5 on sale in Church St. from 12 noon until 5 pm. (Sorry no dogs allowed in the gardens). For more info, call 01789 764756.

Bidford Christmas Lights 'Pop Up' Charity Shop

Back by popular demand - Monday 18th June for TWO WEEKS. Venue 11 High Street (old Peter Dickenson Office, opp Lloyds Bank) Open 10am - 4.30pm Monday - Friday, 10am - 1pm Saturdays. Come and bag a bargain. Enquiries - Libby - 01789 773874.

Cookhill Garden Club

On 20th June at 2 pm the club will be visiting Rowberry's Nursery, Lower Chaddesley for coffee/tea and cakes and a talk from Reg Moule on 'Ttrends in gardening'. Further details on 01527 894317.

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community events & what’s on...

Bidford & District Gardening Society

Visitors are very welcome to join us on Thursday 21st June for a talk by David Morgan entitled ‘I’m Not Much Good At Gardening!’. There will also be a raffle. All meetings are held on the third Thursday of the month at 7.45 pm in the Crawford Hall, Bidford. Visitors £3, including refreshments. For further details please ring 01789 268974 or go to www.bidfordgardens.com.

Shakespeare Hospice Casino Night

Saturday 23rd June at Stratford School, CV37 9DH. Fun money to play with and dancing. Refreshments included. Tickets £25 from bowleyjudith@gmail.com or Diane 07896 468250.

Bidford Playreading Group

Monday 25th June 7pm at Bidford Community Library, Bramley Way, Bidford. £2 includes tea and biscuits.

Alcester & District Men’s Probus

Alcester Mens Probus is a group of retired business men meeting on the 4th Wednesday of the month in a semi-informal and light hearted atmosphere for lunch followed by a guest speaker. Meetings are at Kings Court Hotel, Alcester 12:15 for 12:30 and June’s meeting is on the 27th. New members always receive a warm welcome. Full details of membership are

Puzzle BREAK answers Quick Crossword

Across: 7 Banana, 8 Shrewd, 9 Meet, 10 Flapping, 11 Journal, 13 Truly, 15 Often, 17 Closest, 20 Scholars, 21 Urge, 23 Laughs, 24 Eighty.

Down: 1 Rare, 2 Banter, 3 Halfway, 4 Usual, 5 Proper, 6 Dwindles, 12 Official, 14 Clasped, 16 Enough, 18 Smudge, 19 False, 22 Gate.

Land quiz

1. Narnia 2. The Darkness 3. Thailand 4. Cloud cuckoo land 5. Faye Dunaway 6. Oz (in The Wonderful Wizard Of Oz) 7. Yellow Submarine 8. Edward Elgar (accept Elgar) 9. Cyprus 10. The Owl And The Pussycat

Children’s answers

Robert collects the most beach balls (5).

Hugo collects the least (3).

available by email: jackwinder2011@btinternet.com.

Arrow and Arden Nordic Walking

Whether you want to get fit or lose weight, walking with poles can help you achieve your health goals. Join one of our free Nordic Walking sessions in Alcester, Evesham or Stratford. Contact Kathrin 07875 609324. www. arrowandarden.co.uk.

Oversley Green Garden Walkabout

Sunday July 8th 12 noon - 5pm. Enjoy a lovely afternoon discovering 10 gardens in the hamlet of Oversley Green. Plants teas icecream tickets on sale on the green £5. Call 01789764781 for more info.

Walking for Health - Health Walks

Are you in need of some exercise and fresh air on Monday mornings? This national scheme is run by the Ramblers and Macmillan Cancer Support. The local group meets at 10.30am every Monday (except Bank Holidays) at the bridge on Bidford High Street.

Walks are led by trained walk leaders and last for 1 - 2 hours and vary in length from 2.5 to 4 miles, with the reward of a drink either on route or at the end of the walk. New walkers are welcome. Please note that all participants are required to complete a simple outdoor health questionnaire. For more information go to www. walkingforhealth.org.uk.

JUNE COMPETITION

We have a pair of day tickets to give away for Hanbury Countryside Show on Saturday 7th July!

To be in with a chance of winning, just answer the following question:

What is the price of an adult ticket for the show if bought on the gate?

Email your answer to info@connectionmags.co.uk with subject JUNE COMP, or phone it to 01789 491005, and leave your name, address and phone number by

10am Tuesday 12th June 2018

Terms & Conditions: One entry per household. Entries received after 10:00am on Tuesday 12th June will not be included in the prize draw. The prize is one pair of adult tickets on Hanbury Countryside Show on Saturday 7th July 2018. The winner will be drawn at random and contacted to notify them of their prize. If we do not receive a response from the winner within 48 hours of prize notification, we will draw a new winner. Tickets will be either hand delivered or sent by Royal Mail Recorded Delivery.

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 June Every Mon Every Mon Every Thurs Every Thurs Wed 6th Sun 10th

6pm - 8pm 7pm - 8.30pm 6.45pm - 9pm 8.15pm - 9.45pm 8pm - 10.30pm 9pm - 5pm

Weight Watchers - Ms F. Swift, 07540 584984.

Martial Arts Club - Mr T. Moore 07491 673608.

Arrow Action Group (Special Needs) - Mrs J. Appleby, 01527 893684.

Tai Chi Classes - Jane Bowen, 01789 763866.

Alcester Comedy Club - Harvey Hawkins 07941 628247.

Court Leet Street Market - Mr S. 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.

Bidford Royal British Legion

We do not have a club now but we still have a strong branch, meeting on the first Wednesday of the month and we stil have a well supported and well planned Remembrance Sunday service. For more information email aonens@btinternet.com or call 01789 778957.

Bidford on Avon Bowling Club is welcoming new members. The club is situated next to Crawford Memorial Hall. We have a very good bowling green, excellent club house with well appointed kitchen and bar. Good size changing rooms and all the facilities you may require. We have many social events and the clubhouse is available for private hire by arrangement.

Contacts: for Coaching, Bernard Kendry, 01789 772592.

Prim Finnemore, prim@walcotefarm.co.uk, 01789 488264. Roger Powell, rpowell26T2@btinternet.com, 01789 778809.

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.

Sudoku solutions

Cupcake Café at Salford Priors

Saturday 2nd June, 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.

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.

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. Beginners 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.

Easy grid

Not so easy grid

(see page 6)

connectionmags.co.uk

/theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

Rotary through the Ages!

1911 1 – 6 years after f fformation i

Rotary was started in 1905 by a Chicago attorney, so people with diverse backgrounds could exchange ideas, form friendships, and give back to their communities. Much has changed in Rotary since then, but the core principles remain the same.

2018 8 – somewhat less formal!

2058 ??

Come & try our famous Pimms at our ‘Through the Ages’ stand!

Our friendly & informal meetings take place on Thursday mornings for breakfast at Kings Court Hotel, Alcester. Guests very welcome.

For info please contact Sue: sue@invictusuk.com or 01527 854 723

www.facebook.com/AlcesterandBidfordRotary

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

59

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

61

s of unt o R o at sc Fl di % 10

Eric Williams Electrician 07974 228835

No job too small Estimates free eric@whippletreecottage.co.uk

Weather Guard

Whipple Tree Cottage Coughton Fields Lane Alcester, B49 6BX 01789 765877

Roofing Professionals

Specialists in all types of roofing:

No job too big or too small Fully guaranteed and insured Written quotes available

Phone Andy on 07795 958 245 Office 01789 868506 www.weatherguardservices.com

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62 connectionmags.co.uk

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

63

Sanders&Sanders ESTATE AGENTS

Thinking of moving this summer?

Get in touch for your free, no obligation valuation.

www.sanders-sanders.co.uk

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

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