The Connection Magazine November 2018

the

connection

Around Alcester, Bidford & the Villages Nov ‘18 No. 133

magazine

REMEMBRANCE EVENTS IN YOUR

COMMUNITY

100

YEARS

1918-2018 COMMUNITY | LOCAL BUSINESS | ARTICLES

Sanders&Sanders

See inside d b backk page ffor your local Sales & Lettings

T: 01789 766771

www.sanders-sanders.co.uk

ESTATE AGENTS

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

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RE-VAMP YOUR KITCHEN AT A FRACTION OF THE COST OF A NEW ONE! Choose from a clear finish or any colour you would like.

• Everything from floors, kitchens, stairs & tabletops • All finishes, new furniture to old, from deep shine to trendy shabby chic • Bring in pieces for expert repair & restoration • Suppliers of Oils, Waxes, Polishes - “all things good for wood”

“All things good for wood!”

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

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

AGW

Upgr a det oI mpr es s i on® f orf r eeons el ec t ed Rodens t oc kl ens es Raz or s har pv i s i on atal l di s t anc e s andi nal l l i g ht i ng I ndependentOpt omet r i s t c ondi t i ons f r i endl yper s ona l s er v i c e Ca l l t obooka n a ppoi nt menton 01789 549409

15a High Street, Bidford-on-Avon, B50 4BQ www.richardfantomeyecare.co.uk To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

3

Useful phone numbers Doctors / Health

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

Hospitals

Redditch Hospital Stratford Hospital Warwick Hospital

Emergency

Emergency Services Alcester Police BT Fault Electric Power Loss Gas Emergency

Others

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

Schools

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

Councils

Alcester Town Council Bidford Parish Council Stratford Dist Council

763060 763293 773372 111 08457 909090

01527 503030 205831 01926 495321

999 or 112 444816 08008 00151 08004 04090 08001 11999

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

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

766084 778653 267575

Welcome

... to the November Connection

What a month it’s been for us at Connection HQ! Well, a few months actually, so I wanted to start with a big “thank you” to our fantastic customers for our busiest quarter in twelve years.

So, “Remember, remember the 5th November” - there’s sure to be a firework display and bonfire near you. The Cottage of Content has theirs on 27th October. Bidford’s is on 3rd November from 6pm on the Big Meadow and there’s a charity one at The Four Alls in Welford also on 3rd November (kids activity packs from 3pm, 5pm bonfire and 6.30pm fireworks).

This edition is full to bursting with great local businesses, all of our usual articles and a very special Centenary Remembrance feature (p.17-19), in which you can find out about events in Alcester, Bidford and some of the villages to mark the 100th anniversary since the end of the First World War. Another local milestone in November is the 20th Bidford Lights switch-on event, which you can read more about on page 23. Alcester Lights will be switched on Sunday 25th November at 4pm.

I was reminded recently of how great our local communities are at a Salford Seven Ladies meeting, where I delivered a presentation to a lovely group and it got me thinking about all of the other groups that are listed in our ‘Community & What’s On’ section (p.56 & 58). Have you joined or visited any yet? I recently read an article about how a loneliness epidemic seems to be sweeping the nation and I can not think of a better way to combat this than meeting with other like-minded people in your local area. I do understand it’s daunting at first, making that initial step (my first foray into visiting parent & baby groups felt terrifying until I met some great friends), but when you’re there the companionship available becomes evident. So if you’ve not yet taken the plunge, do it!

Talking of taking the plunge, we’ve been making some big decisions about our magazine and are excited to expand into some new areas as of next month. Watch out, Welford, Binton, Honeybourne, Sambourne and the rest of Harvington - we’re coming for you! Please follow/like us on our social media pages so that you can keep up to date with some more exciting news in the very near future, that will require involvement from our readers and will honour some very special people across our communities.

Amy

November Copy Deadline: Friday 9th November

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.

COTTAGE OF

CONTENT COUNTRY PUB

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

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

Celebrate

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

SATURDAY 27TH OCTOBER FROM 5.30PM Live band • Indoor and outdoor bars • Hot Food Face Painting • Balloons Children’s Halloween Sweet Stall Halloween fancy dress competition for children and adults at 8pm Bonfire lit at 7pm Fireworks 7.30 pm Entry £1.00 per person

OPEN FROM 12 NOON EVERY DAY

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

CHRISTMAS MENU COMING SOON! SEE NEXT MONTH’S ADVERT

QUIZ NIGHT

EverY THURSDAY from 9pm

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

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

M E R RY & B R I G H T

MAKE THIS YEAR’S CHRISTMAS PARTY EXTRA SPECIAL

WWW.THEFOURALLSWELFORDONAVON.CO.UK | TEL. 01789 332184

Sudoku

(answers on page 58)

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

Easy grid

6

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Not so easy grid

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Helen Lucy HAIR

LADIES & GENTS CUTS BLOW DRYS DESIGN COLOUR Call 07805861942 to book an appointment Helen Burgess, Hair Stylist

HONEYBOURNE POTTERY

POTTERY ACTIVITIES FOR ALL AGES & ABILITIES

Bookings for all our potter’s wheel and clay modelling workshops can be made by visiting our website.

• Corporate Groups • Hen Parties • Birthday Parties • Schools • Social Groups

Gift experience vouchers available

- perfect for Christmas & special occasions

10% OFF

Oakley and Irvine Bridge St, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6AB

workshops using promo code: HP10CONNECT

www.honeybournepottery.co.uk info@honeybournepottery.co.uk

Specialists in all aspects of flooring for Domestic and Commercial Environments Carpets • Vinyls • Amtico • Beds Artificial Grass • Safety Flooring

For a FREE, no obligation quotation call: 01789 508 188

Or call into our showroom: 4 Kinwarton Farm Road, Alcester, B49 6EH Free home selection service upon request.

Week Days Wednesdays Saturday Sunday

0900 -1630 0900 -1300 0900 -1500 Closed

10% OFF

All carpets in November Offer valid wth voucher only.

Photocopies not accepted.

Expires 30th November 2018.

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

7

stylish corner Ladies hairdressing Tel: 01789 763052

1 Church Street, Alcester

Up-to-date styling

Jacksons Jewellery Repairs

S C

BEFORE

AFTER

ALL JEWELLERY REPAIRS AND CLEANING DONE ON SITE

Wedding hair

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)

ASK OUR PHARMACY TEA AM ABOUT

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

Hopkins Pharmacy y

Alcester Primary Care Centre

01789 764 874

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

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

9

Sweet Recipe Mincemeat Sponge Puddings With Christmas just around the corner there will be plenty of jars of rich and fruity mincemeat in the shops – perfect for adding to mini sponge puddings.

Ingredients:

1.

• Ready in 1hour 10 minutes

Thoroughly grease 4 x 175ml pudding basins with butter. Divide the mincemeat between the basins.

Preheat the oven to 190C/fan 170C/gas mark 5.

2.

Place the butter and sugar in a bowl and beat together until pale and creamy. Beat in the orange or lemon zest then gradually beat in the eggs, adding 1tbsp of the flour if the mixture starts to curdle. Fold in the rest of the flour with the milk to give a soft dropping consistency.

3.

Divide the mixture between the pudding basins and cover each with a square of pleated buttered foil, scrunching it tightly around the sides of each basin.

Transfer to a large roasting tin and pour in enough boiling water to come halfway up the sides of the basins.

4.

• 1 tbsp milk

Bake for 45-50 minutes or until risen and firm to the touch. Leave in the basins for 5 minutes then turn out onto serving plates. Serve with cream or custard, if liked.

Makes 4

TIP

• 115g unsalted butter, softened, plus extra for greasing • 6 tbsp good quality mincemeat • 115g caster sugar • Zest of ½ orange or lemon • 2 medium eggs, beaten • 125g self-raising flour, sifted

Ready in 1 hour 10 minutes

10 connectionmags.co.uk

Spice up the sponge mixture by adding 2 tsp ground cinnamon and ½ tsp ground nutmeg instead of the orange or lemon zest and replace the caster sugar with light soft brown sugar, if liked.

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gifts & interiors

Christmas Collection C

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

Cards • Stationery • Jewellery & Accessories • Toiletries Toys & Baby • Kitchenware & Furnishings • Clothing • Men’s Gifts Dunnington Heath Farm • Alcester • B49 5PD Tel: 01789 490991 • Email: info@hillers.co.uk • www.hillers.co.uk

DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL ELECTRICAL WORKS

ALL ELECTRICAL WORKS

DOMESTIC • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL

Local Plumber ALL PLUMBING WORK UNDERTAKEN

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

•

No job too small • No VAT Reliable Friendly Service

CALL HUGH ON

Call: 07768 360 420

07796 990309

www.arc-electrical.me.uk /arcelectricalbidford

hughducksss@gmail.com References Available On Request Fully Insured

SPREAD READ TH THE HE COST OF A NE NEW EW BOILE BOILER WITH H INTEREST FREEE FINANCE Up to o TEN YEAR GUARANTEE on Worcester Bosch boilers installed lled by your local Worc Worcester Accredited Installer Book your appointment now for a free, no obligation g quotation q

Pay Monthly av available, ailable, askk for details.

We also service and installlll oil boilers boilers and carry ou out a wide range of plumbing and heating services

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& GAS, ELECTRIC, LPG

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PLENTY OF FREE PARKING

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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

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

13

Join us at

The Golden Cross

T

he Morris family, owners of Treasure Inns and Dining Ltd, welcomes you to our friendly establishment, The Golden Cross. Our goal is to provide excellent customer service, home cooked food and a range of drinks to meet the requirements of our guests.

The Golden Cross is a traditional 18th Century country pub set in the heart of the Warwickshire countryside. Our cosy bar area, with flagstone floors and a roaring log fire, is perfect for winter evenings. Dogs are welcome to join us in the bar area and beautiful gardens.

The Golden Cross has an attractive outdoor area with stunning views, suitable for outdoor eating, drinks or larger events. We also have a recently refurbished restaurant area that is perfect for small group dining or larger celebrations.

We offer an extensive menu to tempt you, all freshly cooked by our chef Matthew and his team. We pride ourselves on serving delicious homecooked food, all made from fresh, locally sourced produce. Our chefs adapt our menu to compliment local, seasonal produce and to provide variety to our guests. Also available is a range of scrumptious desserts, created to delight your taste buds.

Our daily food deals are popular with all of our guests, especially our ‘Two rump steak meals and a bottle of house wine for just £25’ offer available every Friday between 12 and 9pm.

We also have an extensive wine list and an excellent range of perfectly conditioned cask ales.

We look forward to you joining us and be sure you will be greeted with a warm welcome from our friendly team.

Call us to book a table, or for more information about our menus, on: 01789 772420, or email goldencross@treasureinns.co.uk

15% off

your total food bill to celebrate our NEW MENU during November!

Voucher to be used during November. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Must be presented when ordering. Photocopies NOT accepted. One voucher per booking.

01789 772420

•

goldencross@treasureinns.co.uk

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•

www.golden-cross.co.uk

@connection_mag

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

Now taking bookings for the festive season Our three course Christmas fayre menu is £19.95pp p.

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

Limited tables are left for our Christmas Day menu at only £65pp.

Cosy up around our open fireplaces and let The Golden Cross team make the day a spec cial one for the e whole family in our festively decorate ed pub.

NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATIONS

Welcome in 2019 and celebrate New Year’s Eve with us.

Our delicious New Year’s Eve menu is £35pp and is available from 6.30pm.

Live music from the fabulous ‘China Town Lights’.

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

NEW MENU LAUNCH

Our tasty new menu is now available!

MONDAY - SATURDAY

MONDAY ALL DAY

DESSERT TUESDAY

STARTER WEDNESDAY

When purchased with two main meals.

When purchased with two main meals.

Fixed Price Menu 1 Course £7 2 Courses £10 3 Courses £13 Available 12-9pm

Fixed Price Menu 1 Course £7 2 Courses £10 3 Courses £13 Available 12-6pm

From 6pm Two desserts for £5

PIZZA THURSDAY

From 6pm 2 pizzas and 2 glasses of house wine for £20

SUND SUNDAY ROAST

From 6pm Two starters for £5

STEAK FRIDAY

Two rump steak meals & a bottle of wine for £25

3 courses for £16.95.

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

SALTER’S OAK

TEN 2, 3, 4, & 5 BEDROOM LOCAL MARKET HOMES FOR SALE AT SPERNAL LANE, GREAT ALNE EXCLUSIVE SALES PERIOD FOR LOCAL PEOPLE PLOTS 3-10 NOW RELEASED Overlooking beautiful, open countryside in the picturesque village of Great Alne, Salter’s Oak is a lovely development of 2, 3 4 & 5 bedroom homes which are offered exclusively for 12 weeks* to people with a local connection to the Parish of Great Alne.

Call Peter Clarke New Homes on 01789 852180 for release date information, prices and details of local connection criteria

VIEWHOME OPENING LATE AUTUMN 2018 * Plots are released on a rolling basis and the 12 week sales period commences on the dates that they are released.

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01789 852180

@connection_mag

1918-2018 “We will remember them.”

N

ovember 11th 2018 marks the centenary of the Armistice of the First World War. One hundred years after the peace treaty was signed, people across the world will pause to remember those lost in battle. Across our local communities, events have been organised to mark the occasion, honouring the soldiers who didn’t return from war, and also those whose names were not etched in the original memorial plaques.

Recently, in Bidford-on-Avon, a plaque Bandaged British World War 1 soldiers in a battlefield trench. naming eight additional fallen soldiers was unveiled by Bidford Parish Council and Bidford History Society, and Salford Priors parish will reveal a similar plaque for their own fallen after a village Remembrance Service on November 11th.

To commemorate this landmark day of remembrance, local groups and British Legion members have submitted information to The Connection about events at which you can honour the memory of each person lost in combat and also those who returned, forever marked by the horrors of war.

ALCESTER (Royal British Legion)

Saturday 27th October:

ALCESTER POPPY APPEAL LAUNCH at the Methodist Church from 11am-1pm.

Refreshments, raffle and stalls will be available and re-enactors plus a special guest should hopefully also be in attendance. Poppy appeal items and poppies will be available.

Saturday 27th October - Sunday 11th November:

POPPY APPEAL COLLECTIONS will commence across Alcester (Waitrose, house-to-house and street).

Saturday 10th November:

DEDICATION OF BOOK OF REMEMBRANCE & WAR MEMORIALS: Meet at St Nicholas’ Church for 10.50am ready to start at 11am. The new book will be dedicated along with the Memorials at St Nicholas’ Church. From there, those gathered will walk along Butter Street to dedicate the War Memorial Town Hall and Memorial at the Baptist Church.

REMEMBRANCE CONCERT: 7pm prompt start at St Nicholas’ Church. Tickets are £10 and available from: Guys Menswear, Shake & Ice, Mike Gittus and David Malin. Refreshments in Church House during the interval. Entry by ticket only.

Sunday 11th November:

BATTLE’S OVER. PIPING IN THE PEACE: At 6am, a piper will play “Battles O’er” from the St Nicholas Church Green. Hot drinks available from Church House. Neighbouring residents, please be warned of an early wake up call!

REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY PARADE & CHURCH SERVICES: 10.35am-12.30pm. Meet in Bleachfield Street at 10.35am ready to march to Church for the 11am service. Those laying wreaths and those carrying standards should please be allowed to stand closest to the War Memorial, especially the Legion and Union standards.

OPENING OF THE CENTENARY FIELDS & LIGHTING OF THE BEACON: At Stratford Road Recreational Ground (near to Gas House Lane). 6.30pm -Meet on the field; 6.55 Pl i off the th 5pm - Playing Last Post; 7pm - Beacon B is lit; 7.05pm - Town Crier and Church bells. Please bring your own laantern or torch that can be lit at 7pm. There will be a short ceremonyy and service to officially open the fields.

BIDFORD (Royal British Legion)

Sunday 11th November:

To honour Bidford’s fallen and returning service men and women throughout the last 100 years, and in this centenary year the 100th anniversary of the Royal Air Force is celebrated: REMEMBRANCE DAY PARADE: 9am - Meet at The Frog pub on Bidford High Street where tea and coffee will be served courtesy of The Royal British Legion.

9.15am - March off. 10am - Church.

10.50am - War Memorial.

11.00am - ‘Last Post’ is played, exhortation is read, 2 minutes silence then begins, followed by the playing of the Reveille.

11.30am - March back to The Frog for refreshments and hospitality by kind donation of the Royal British Legion.

BIDFORD HISTORY SOCIETY Saturday 3rd November at 2.30pm:

BOOK LAUNCH for ‘Have You Forgotten Yet?’ by Bob Marshall. The sequel to Bidford & DIstrict History Society’s 2014 book, “We Will Remember Them”, details the stories of Bidford men who served in World War I and survived. The book will be launched in the Crawford Memorial Hall, where there will be a commemoration in words and music, ‘Returned 1918, Remembered 2018’, which will tell Bidford’s story of 1918 and the soldiers from the village who returned from the Great War. The book will be available to buy at the end of the event and the author will be on hand to sign your copy.

Admission £5. Tickets available from: Mary Alexander-Head Tel: 01789 491148 or Wendy Shaddick Tel: 01789 778769.

Badge). Torpedoed twice and wounded twice after participating in some of the bloodiest battles of the war, Birchley remarkably returned safely to Broom and later went on to get married at the age of 54.

SALFORD PRIORS

A working group of Parish Councillors and Residents have been developing some exciting plans to try to evoke the feelings of war in the trenches, with a few surprises thrown in. Twenty-five life size Tommy cutouts will represent those soldiers from the Parish that died in the conflict.

The event, funded by the Parish Council and donations from local businesses, will be in three parts, the first being a scarecrow competition with a WW1 theme. Prizes will be presented to winners at the Nati tio on’ss Tribute event on the 11th November.

Sundayy 11th November:

Pictured above: Some of Bidford’s WW1 Survivors Pictured above right: Fred Birchley, one subject of ‘Have You Forgotten Yet?’. (1809: Private, the Warwickshire Yeomanry. 164422: Corporal, Machine Gun Corps.

Medals: 1914-15 Star, British and Victory, Silver War

PART 2 - REMEMBRANCE SERVICE: 10am: Parade to the Memorial Hall.

10:30am: Remembrance service, incorporating the unveiling of a unique new Memorial to the fallen of our Parish beside the Memorial Hall in Salford Priors.

This will be followed by WWI themed snacks and a showing of two short films in the Hall, suitable for most ages, relating to the War. Large scale models of WWI aircraft and a RR armoured car will be on display at the Hall, along with a period motorbike, The Paras and a plethora of WW1 memorabilia.

PART 3 - NATION’S TRIBUTE EVENT: 5:30-8:00pm (approx) at the Salford Priors playing field. Photo opportunity with one of the Tommies and a marquee with WW1 re-enactors, quarter scale WW1 tank model, period motorbike, The Paras, School and Youth Club displays relating to the war.

A choir will lead everyone in a singalong of songs of the era. Followed by taking part in a National Event

with the aim of lighting 1,000 beaco ons across the country to celebrate the guns fallin ng silent in 1918 (see: www.brunopeek.co.uk). Theere will be a formal reading of the names of the fallen n, with the playing of the Last Post, ending with thee lighting of the beacon. Further music and pressentations will be followed by a grand finale firework disp play.

Food and refreshments will be available, along with h a raffle for prizes kindly donated by local businesses.

Proceeds will be donated to one of the National Services Charities.

There are plenty of activities to undertake to get this event planned, so if you would like to help prior to or on the day, please contact the Parish Clerk and let her know: clerk@salfordpriors.gov.uk More information and precise timings for the event will be posted on the Parish Council website, notice boards and social media, as well as flyers as we get closer to the event www.salfordpriors.gov.uk

ARROW & WEETHLEY

On 4 August 2018, St James’ Weethley joined with churches nationwide to commence 100 days of prayer for peace, reconciliation and remembrance for the fallen of World Wars 1 and 2.

The idea came from a desire to commemorate the centenary of the end of WW1 and express gratitude for the brave men and women from the community

who o gave so much. The churcch has created an installation, named “Greater Love…” from the biblicaal quote: “Greater lovee has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’ss friends”.

The dissplay is an artistic rep presentation of a battlefieeld (pictured below w) to emphasise the stark reality of war. ‘Greater Lovve…’ will remain in St James’ Ch hurch until mid-N November.

Each h week, the names of the fallen from Arrow and Weethley are ad dded to the display, along with their short biogrraphy. Lilies on the cross symbolise peace, hope and reeconciliation.

Short videoss will be uploaded to the Alcester Minster Facebook pagge in the first 11 days of November to personalise in ndividual stories of wartime memories in this commun nity.

You are invited to visit St James to spend time and reflect, perhapss upon members of your family or friends who lo ost lives or were scarred by their wartime experien nces.

The group is indeb bted to Mr and Mrs Astill from Birmingham for their research for the biographies. www.facebook.com m/AlcestterMinster www.remembrance e100.co.uk Special thanks to our contributors for this feature: Alcester and Bidford branches of Royal British Legion, David Malin, Suze Meredith-Lambert, Mark Shaddick, Bob Marshall, Paula Reilly-Gordon, Tony Shale, Kelvin Cornwall and Jake Lambourn.

Come along and join us for some festive fun at Ambleside We always love welcoming people to our home, and this year we are welcoming everyone to our Christmas Fayre.

Christmas Fayre

Wednesday 28th November 2018, 2pm - 4pm

Free event

Join the residents and team at Ambleside for some festive fun: • Mulled wine and festive canapés • Say hello to our real reindeer and have your photo taken • Browse a selection of pop-up shops including Neal’s Yard Remedies and Sassi Boutique Gifts • Meet the team and take a look at our beautiful home

For more information about Ambleside, call 01789 868641 or email francesca.brennan@careuk.com Ambleside Evesham Road, Dodwell Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 9TG careuk.com/ambleside

Salford Hall Hotel Upcoming Events...

RAT PACK EVENING Friday 16th November 3-courses with music from ‘The Goodfella’.

TABLE RESERVATIONS ESSENTIAL.

£30 per person

WEDDING FAYRE Saturday 17th November 12-4pm Enjoy a complimentary glass of bubbly

NOW TAKING STEAK NIGHT C H R I S T M A S Tuesdays & Thursdays

FREE TO ATTEND | FREE PARKING

Two 8oz Rump steaks plus a bottle of wine

£30

BOOKINGS Please contact us for a brochure

01386 871 300

Abbots Salford, Evesham, Worcestershire, WR11 8UT

reception@salfordhall.co.uk | www.salfordhall.co.uk

MAVERICKS Hair & Beauty You deserve it!

Party season is here!

Going somewhere special?

BLOWDRY BAR £12

www.maverickshair.co.uk

01789 766222

Priory Road, Alcester, Warwickshire, B49 5DY Mavericks Hair and Beauty

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

21

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Showroom opening times: Mon to Fri 9-5pm Sat 10-1pm

We are a locally owned family business established in 1992

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

The 20th Switch On

of Bidford Lights

T

he Bidford Lights Annual Switch On event will take place on Sunday 25th November from 5pm in Bidford’s Bank Square. This year will be the ‘20th Switch On’, the first one having taken place in November 1999 so that the High Street was illuminated ready for the millennium.

There will be lots of stalls where various local groups will be raising money for their own causes, and the Bidford Christmas Lights Grand Draw with great prizes on offer.

Scrumptious hot food will be provided by Annie Perkins, mulled wine and mince pies by the WI, and the Jolly Teapot will be on hand to serve hot cups of tea or coffee with delicious cakes.

Joining the ever popular ‘Fire Eater’ in entertaining the crowds will be the Bretforton Silver Band and Bidford Area Community Choir, who will be getting everyone in the festive mood by singing some Christmas carols.

And of course, we mustn’t forget Santa, who will be in his Grotto to see the children.

Fosbroke House

Photo credit: Pete’s Photography 2017

Every year to date we have had a celebrity visit to perform the Switch On, courtesy of Bidford’s resident actress Karen Drury who contacts her friends to do the honours. To date, we have welcomed the following stars to perform the crucial task: John Nettles, David Neilson (who has done it twice), Una Stubbs, Patrick Robinson, David Troughton, Kim Hartman, Richard Griffiths and Toyah Wilcox, to name a few.

The event will culminate in a spectacular firework display, making this landmark 20th switch on our best yet, and one not to be missed.

Our motto: Bringing People Together.

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

23

24 connectionmags.co.uk

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@connection_mag

Computer Trouble-shooter Graham Smith For Domestic and Business Users

Local (Bidford)

Reliable

Reasonable rates

PCs

Laptops

Virus Problems

Printers

How-to tuition

Internet

email

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

NO FIX, NO FEE

Painter & Decorator

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

Interior and Exterior BRIAN SMITH

Call 01789 772077 or 07790 087219 for a free estimate

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

25

Inspiration on your doorstep.

There’s so much to admire about Warwick, Leamington Spa and the surrounding areas. And the locals know better than most. That’s why more and more people are choosing the beautiful properties, luxurious facilities and vibrant village community at Great Alne Park.

An Inspired retirement – right on your doorstep.

Our stunning new clubhouse is now open!

Feel at home. Feel Inspired.

GreatAlnePark.co.uk info@greatalnepark.co.uk 01789 449 154 Maudslay House, Woodlands Drive, Great Alne Park, Warwickshire, B49 6FY

nicola Mcginn skincare located in Binton, nr stratford

07798 641593

10% off

• Established 1997 • Dermalogica Facials • Led Light Therapy in November • Non Surgical Face Lifting when you • Diamond Dermabrasion quote • Waxing & Threading • Skin Tightening/Inch Loss ‘CONNECTION’ • Manicures & Pedicures Offer expires • Massage/Sports Massage 30/11/2018

CHIROPODIST

REMEMBER REMEMBER

Yvonne Hartley

BESPOKE LADIES HAIRDRESSING & BARBER SHOP

D.S.Ch, M.Inst.Ch.P, HCPC Reg

GREAT HAIR IN NOVEMBER FREE PARKING

Over 20 years experience Surgery based in Badsey

For Appointments and Opening Times

01386 833520 07833 595020

www.nasus-hair.co.uk

Call: 01789 766314 or

Unit 4 Alcester Business Centre, Kinwarton Farm Rd, Alcester. B49 6EL

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

27

HEALTHY HAIR STARTS WITHIN

T

A scalp examination can reveal a multitude of unhealthy conditions within your body which some conventional treatments only target externally. The truth is that hormones are the true culprit. They affect weight gain and our ability to maintain a healthy pH balance within our bodies.

he symptoms of hormonal imbalance can often show on the skin, especially the scalp, resulting in embarrassing dry, itchy, red scaly patches. Another symptom of our bodies being out of balance is thinning hair.

Hormone imbalance is a constant stress to a woman’s metabolism, which can come to a standstill, causing a ripple effect in our bodies and hair.

SO WHAT CAN YOU DO? Sue McLaughlin, hair specialist and salon owner, recommends a microscopic hair test which can give a wealth of information regarding your overall well-being. Sample strands of hair are collected and sent to the laboratory for analysis. A comprehensive report is then compiled detailing what foods are affecting you, the deficiencies that might be causing your symptoms and any other underlying issues that may be of concern.

Sue explains that it’s a 3-month programme that she recommends for hair and health and they can easily work in harmony together. Once the programme has been completed using the ‘detox, build and nurture ethos’, then everyday foods in addition to a maintenance programme are all that should be required to maintain it.

Sue has a wealth of knowledge in this field and supports your consultation by guiding you through the process.

Upon receipt of the laboratory report, Sue then offers you a range of achievable solutions to include a complimentary consultation with the in-house nutritionist

28 connectionmags.co.uk

who will guide you to your choice of remedy. Sue, a highly experienced hairdresser and a La Biosthetique specialist, is a member of the prestigious BRCP (British Register of Complementary Practitioners). Her passion is optimum hair and scalp health, particularly where this relates to all aspects of thinning, and hairloss.

If you’re interested in the test to determine the health of your hair or personal wellbeing, why not book yourself in for your annual hair and health check and take advantage of the introductory price of £129.99. It could be life changing!

To arrange an appointment, please call or email Anita, the salon co-ordinator: info@sweeneytoddsalon.co.uk w: Hairsciencetherapy.com 01386 553320

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SALON LAUNCH Saturday 10th November

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

IF YOU’VE NOT VISITED US BEFORE...

ENJOY YOUR FIRST CUT & FINISH OR

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

BEAUTY TREATMENT HALF PRICE* CALL 01789 762401

HAIR THINNING SPECIALIST

37 High Street, Alcester, Warwickshire, B49 5AF 01789 762401 www.sweeneytoddsalon.co.uk *Conditions apply.

ALL ABOUT THE

Bride at Orangemabel 59 High Street, Alcester

WEDNESDAY 14th NOVEMBER 6PM-8PM Come and enjoy a glass of bubbly whilst meeting your local wedding suppliers.

FREE glass of bubbly and a goodie bag for every bride.

For more details, contact Claire on 07771 620080 or find our event on Facebook.

orangemabel

Claire Harmer Professional Hair & Make up Artist

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

29

Answers on page 58

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

Piano, Music Theory, Exam Accompaniment

01789 763 954

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

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

31

The Throckmorton

Gets An Upgrade

F

our years after owners Sally and Dave reopened the doors at The Throckmorton in Coughton, it will receive a well-deserved refresh this November. They will close early on Sunday 4th and reopen on Friday 9th November at 5pm when a free glass of bubbly will be on offer for everyone who would like to come along and see the changes.

In that time the contractors will be working around the clock to bring new, fresh décor to the bar & dining areas. Sally says, “The building has worked very hard for us over the last 4 years.

We have been so much busier than we ever envisaged and some areas are now starting to look a little tired. The upgrade will not just see a change in the décor, but also the menu will offer more contemporary premium dishes, while still using fresh and local ingredients.”

The ever popular fixed price lunch menu (now available until 5pm) will continue, as well as the all day Sunday Roast. In addition ‘Fish Friday’

has been improved to an early evening ‘2 for £15’ menu. Other brand new offers have also been introduced, including ‘Steak and Wine Wednesdays’ when guests can enjoy two sirloin steaks and a bottle of wine for just £30.

General manager Shannon says, “The team and I are all very excited about the improvements. We are looking forward to delivering the new menus and offers in our lovely, new and upgraded surroundings. We will have a busy week training the team to even further enhance our service for both the reopening and into the festive period”.

Christmas coordinators Tracy and Bex are both busy and are still taking bookings for parties, with some availability left for key dates. The festive menus will be available from 28th November alongside the upgraded main menu for everyone, as well as large parties.

The Throckmorton will reopen at 5pm on Friday 9th November. You can track their progress on Facebook or join their mailing list on their website for a reopening treat!

THE THROCKMORTON - FREEHOUSE - INN - QUALITY DINING -

NEW MENUS

NEW OFFERS

NEW DÉCOR

SAME TEAM

SAME WELCOME

SAME OWNERS

REOPENING EVENING FRIDAY 9 NOVEMBER 5pm TH

Free bubbly from 5-7pm 32 connectionmags.co.uk

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THE THROCKMORTON - FREEHOUSE - INN - QUALITY DINING -

After our upgrade, enjoy these new offers from 9th November...

STEAK & WINE y Two 28 day mature 7oz sirloins with hand cut chips, tomato, field mushroom and a bottle of house red or white wine

r PUB CLASSIC MONDAYS TWO MAINS

£15

u

5 to 7pm

NEW & IMPROVED

FISH FRIDAYS £15 TWO MAINS

FIXED PRICE

LUNCH MENU 2 Courses

3 Courses

Large Lashfords faggots; hand battered fish, ham & eggs or 3 bean chilli

Choose from: Hand battered haddock, breaded plaice or seafood mornay

£10.95 £13.95

5 to 7pm

5 to 7pm

Monday to Saturday 12 to 9pm

FESTIVE BOOKINGS STILL being TAKEN As well as the exciting changes to the menu, the great new dining deals and updated décor, festive menus are also available every day 12 to 9pm from 28th November

For menus & how to book visit thethrockmorton.com/christmas

FESTIVE MENUS AVAILABLE FROM 28th NOVEMBER Coughton Hill, Alcester, B49 5HX 01789 766366

thethrockmorton

WWW.THETHROCKMORTON.COM

34 connectionmags.co.uk

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Lissadell, 106 The Ridgeway, Astwood Bank, B96 6NA Only 4 miles from Alcester

Pe

McGettigan’s

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

YOUR FRIENDLY LOCAL VETERINARY SURGERY

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.

PETS

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

Consultations by appointment

24 Hour EMERGENCY COVER

TEL: 01527 893016 FAX: 01527 893008

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

www.riversidepetsupplies.co.uk

PROMOTION

IMPRESSIVE FROM 01/11/2018 TO 31/12/2018

10% OFF LIMITED TIME ONLY

10% OFF

STOCK RANGE *Terms and Conditions Apply

ENGINEERED WOOD • LUXURY VINYL • LAMINATE

*Offer does not include the new Ambient designs

ALL 8mm IMPRESSIVE RANGE*

11 Arden Business Centre, Arden Road, Alcester, Warwickshire B49 6HW

Telephone: 01789 766286

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

35

Motoring

By James Baggott

How to deal with pothole damage to your car If the pothole has been previously reported, you’re more likely to receive some compensation than if it has not. Councils have a statutory defence that they cannot be held liable for defects they’re unaware of.

Winter is the season of snow, woolly clothes and — at least on poorly-kept UK roads — potholes.

All motorists will know the struggles of trying to avoid potholes, but sometimes they’re either impossible to get around or go unnoticed. This can result in a little discomfort at best, and plenty of damage to your car at worst.

We look at how you can report a pothole and, should you pick up damage, how you can claim money to cover repair costs. why do potholes form?

Potholes are most commonly created when water creeps into the cracks in the roads and freezes. The expansion and contraction of water moves the asphalt around, weakening it as a result. The stress of vehicle movement over the road eventually causes the asphalt to give way, thus forming a hole.

Although potholes can form at any time, colder winter temperatures make them much more likely.

36 connectionmags.co.uk

what can a pothole do to my car?

The uneven, sudden drop of a pothole puts significant stress on a vehicle’s tyres and suspension. As tough as modern cars are, there’s a chance a pothole could damage a tyre to the point of puncture, add excess wear to suspension components or break them entirely. Extreme holes could even damage alloy wheels and components underneath a vehicle. how can I report a pothole?

To report a pothole on a local road, you should contact the relevant council and inform them of the location of the hole.

As for A-roads and motorways, the Highways Agency must be notified by calling 0300 123 5000. how can I claIm for damage costs?

At the risk of sounding like an insurance advert, you could be entitled to compensation should your car be damaged due to going over a pothole.

/theconnectionmag

There are some steps you can take before making a claim to increase your chances of a payout: • Make notes — write down key details, such as location, time of the incident, and the size and depth of the pothole if possible. You should also take a photograph as evidence.

• Witnesses — if anyone else has seen the incident, get details from them. It could help your claim.

• Get repair quotes — having accurate quotes for repair bills could help to ensure you get as much of the damage repairs covered as possible in a claim.

• Research — before making a claim, you should check to see what your council is and isn’t liable for.

To make a claim for pothole damage, contact the local council for local roads and the Highways Agency for A-roads and motorways can I claIm pothole damage on my Insurance?

Your insurer may provide cover for pothole damage, and this is more likely if you have a comprehensive policy. It’s worth checking your policy documents and contacting your insurer before making a claim.

@connection_mag

AUTUMN OFFERS

FREE FITTING

ON TYRES

Offers end 30 November 2018

Keep safe on the road this autumn!

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

20% OFF BATTERIES

Let us check your battery!

COURTESY CAR OR LOCAL COLLECTION & DELIVERY SERVICE

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

Monday - Friday 8am - 6pm

/

Saturday 8am - 12pm

FOR A STRESS FREE LOCAL CAR BUYING EXPERIENCE…

CAR SALES ALCESTER

Visit us now

FREE

Winter Checks on all Vehicles Sold

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

01789 507500 • WWW.1CARCOMPANY.CO.UK

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

37

BACK OF THE NET

I hope all you footie fans managed to catch at least the first half of England’s win over Spain.

OK, so Spain came back towards the end of the match but Gareth Southgate has given many of us a reason to look forward with some positivity for the future of English football. The previous ‘golden generation’ of English players have long since moved on to either management (in the case of Gerrard and Lampard) or the comfort of a pundit’s chair, so Messrs Hodgson and Allardyce were given their respective chances to resurrect our fortunes, with both failing for differing reasons.

Along comes Gareth, waistcoat and all, as a kind of ‘fill in’ manager, who proceded to raid the nursery of a number of clubs, and not just those from the top six. In the match against Spain the average age of the starting eleven was 23 and there were three on the bench that were 20 or under. That must be the youngest England team

I have seen (and I’m getting on a bit). And they played good football, with three well taken goals, sending the Spanish national team to their first home defeat for 15 years! Way to go, Gareth and team!

On the subject of managers, Villa’s recent management changes, at all levels, must be bringing some hope to their suffering fans (not that they particularly suffered in silence, thank you social media). Following new owners bringing their vast fortunes to the club, Steve Bruce was finally replaced by Dean Smith, who, along withy John Terry and Richard O’Kelly will be hoping to bring their style of more positive play to Villa Park, where there have been too many failures in recent years. No pressure then!

Wolves are still flying towards the top of the Premiership and picking up a lot of plaudits as they go, while Albion are doing much the same in the Championship, which is much tighter at the top. Coventry have managed a promising start in League One, sitting half way.

Questions for the next month...will Jose still be in place at ManU and can Chelsea and Arsenal keep up their recent form to disrupt Man City?

Till next month...

Back of the net!

Whatever your mailing volume,

we have a franking solution that will suit your y needs.

• Royal Mail approved Mailmark Franking Machines saving you up to 35% over stamps and standard franking

• UK-based sales, service and support

NEW FOR 2018 Stationery Store Visit our website for 10% off your first order.

• FREE delivery, installation and training • FREE company logo design and return address • FREE starter pack of consumables • FREE Royal Mail Licence • No re-crediting charges • FREE maintenance for the first yea ar

www.ashcroftfranking.co.uk w To enq enquire about saving money on your post, please call: 01789 768730

or email: info@ashcroftmailing.co.uk

Kinwarton House, Captains Hill, Alcester, Warwickshire, B49 6HA

38 connectionmags.co.uk

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Special Offer!

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

VANS • LUTONS • MINIBUSES • CARS

01386 424237

www.eveshamselfdrive.co.uk /EveshamSelfDrive For all your

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

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

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

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

alcester sports & tackle

Established 1979

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

VEHICLE SCRATCH & SCUFF REPAIRS

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

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

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

39

NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH ALCESTER Warning to South Warwickshire Residents Of The Risks of Thefts From Vehicles.

Recently South Warwickshire has seen the largest increase in theft from vehicles across Warwickshire. The Police have the following key messages: Always lock and secure your vehicle when it is parked, whether that is on-street, outside your home or in a public car park; never leave any valuables on display in your vehicle when it is parked; if at all possible, take all valuables with you when leaving your car. Putting them in your boot does not necessarily make them safe, the thieves will look there too. For anyone with their own tools, never leave these locked in your vehicle.

Fake Car Insurance. Fraud Figures from the City of London Police Insurance Fraud Enforcement

Department (IFED) have revealed that 17-24 year olds are most likely to fall victim to fraudsters selling fake car insurance, also known as ‘ghost brokers’. The reported losses for these victims total £164, 993, with each individual losing on average £912. They typically carry out the fraud by one of three ways: they will either forge insurance documents, falsify the details to bring the price down or take out a genuine policy, before cancelling it soon after and claiming the refund plus the victim’s money. Top Tips - trust your instincts - if an offer looks too good to be true, then it probably is; ghost brokers often advertise on student websites or money-saving forums, university notice boards and marketplace websites; be wary of ghost brokers contacting you using only mobile phone or email as well as WhatsApp, Snapchat and Facebook; if you are not sure about the broker, check on the Financial Conduct Authority or the British Insurance Brokers’ Association brokers - register.fca. Communicating with the Police Emergencies dial 999. org.uk and biba.org.uk.

The next meeting of NHW Alcester will be held on Tuesday 5 February 2019 in St Nicholas Church House, Butter Street at 7.30pm. Contact details: nhwalcester@gmail.com or telephone Dorrie Manders on 01789 762999 Everyone is welcome.

Report a crime or serious incident 01926 415000.

Stratford Police Station 01789 414111.

101 is the national police non-emergency number in England and Wales which diverts to your local Police. Calls cost 15p per call (landlines and mobiles).

Call Crimestoppers anonymously with information about crime on 0800 555 111.

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

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

PS 542 Bob Shaw (Team Sergeant) 01789 444815.

PC Robert Davies (Beat Manager) Rebecca.morris@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk James.squire@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk Thomas.bagg@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk Contact Warwickshire Trading Standards 01926 414040. Website, Facebook & Twitter. Make a scam/rogue trader complaint toTrading Standards via Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0345 4040 506. Sign up to receive scam alerts at www. warwickshire.gov.uk/scams. You can also report a fraud or cyber crime to Action Fraud on: 0300 123 2040 or visit www.actionfraud.police.uk.

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

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

Tax advice and planning Accounting and bookkeeping

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

Regulation and compliance Business advice and support JACQUI BRYAN ACMA T: 01789 765901 M: 07734 458548 E: jacqui.bryan@aims.co.uk W: www.jacquibryan.aims.co.uk

All types of domestic, retail and commercial electrical work Fully Qualified 17th Edition, Design, Testing, Replacing Consumer Units Installation and Maintenance. All work fully certified and insured

Tel:- 01386 870931 Mob:- 07771 616189 Marchwood Maintenance Company

2 Walnut Close, Harvington, Evesham, Worcestershire, WRll 8LS

trevor@marchwoodmaintenance.co.uk

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

41

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

BIDFORD RURAL CINEMA MAMA MIA!

HERE WE GO AGAIN

CHRISTOPHER ROBIN

has great pleasure in presenting

Film Certificate: PG Running time 104 mins + interval

Film Certificate: PG Running time 114 mins + interval

Ticket price: £2.50 per person

Ticket price: £2.50 per person

Friday 2 November at 7pm

Friday 30 November at 7pm

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

Refreshments sponsored by your local

Ticket office opens 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

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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:

WINTER WARMER SATURDAY 24th & SUNDAY 25th NOVEMBER Yew Trree Farm Shop Home Baking & Local Produce 015 564 795688

Beyond the Blue Lifestyle Clothing 01564 792025

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

Yew Tree Salon Hairdressers 01564 795429

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

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

JOIN US FOR OUR WINTER WARMER ON SATURDAY 24th & SUNDAY 25th NOVEMBER. Many of the shops will be offering complimentary drinks and nibbles. There will be discounts and offers, as well as tasty samples in the farm shop.

Kick off your christmas shopping or just treat yourself!!

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

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

Gardening The Great Cover-Up

by Pippa Greenwood driest period in summer.

Any garden will look more interesting with some variation in the height of the plants. By all means include some tall plants but don’t forget how attractive and useful groundcover planting can be, covering the soil with good-looking foliage plus, in some cases, flowers or berries.

Some ground-cover plants are available as ‘bare root’ plants, lifted from a field and ready for putting in to the ground whilst they are dormant. Now is a great time to buy them, ready to plant during suitable weather over the coming months.

Ground-cover plants are also often available in potted form, especially the smaller, less woody plants. These can be planted now too, or – as their roots are well-encased in compost – at any time of the year, though for best results avoid extremely cold and wet weather or the very hottest and

A ground-cover bed is an excellent way to reduce your gardening workload – once planted, it needs little maintenance and almost looks after itself. It will need watering during the first year or two, especially in dry weather, so that the roots can establish.

One of the best uses for ground cover is on a steep slope, where access is difficult or even dangerous. Once installed, a ground cover-clad slope will be simpler to look after than a grassy one.

Sloping gardens or windswept spots can suffer soil-slippage or erosion if left unplanted.

The roots of your ground-cover planting will help secure the soil and the stems and foliage will help protect the soil surface.

Ground cover will also prevent weeds from thriving, by starving them of light and providing competition in open spaces.

For best effect choose plants which are evergreen and so hold their leaves throughout the year.

A ground-cover plant such as

Cotoneaster horizontalis lets you enjoy attractive berries as well as the neat foliage.

Ground-cover planting like this will often offer a useful source of shelter to local wildlife and food for berry eaters too.

Sometimes it can be difficult to spot suitable ground-cover plants unless the nursery or garden centre has a designated area for them, so, when searching out plants always carefully read the information provided. Ideally you want those where the stated height is smaller than the stated spread – it is outwards not upwards you are after! Look for clues in the plants’ Latin names too – those with words suggesting spread out or horizontal are often useful e.g. prostrata (prostrate), horizontalis (horizontal), repens (creeping).

Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood. com and you’ll find some great gardening items and perfect Christmas gifts for gardeners: a ‘Grow Your Own with Pippa Greenwood’ gift card (great vegetable plants and weekly advice from Pippa), stylish cloches, the fantastic SpeedHoe, raised bed kits, gardening tools, Grower Frames, signed books and more! Or why not book Pippa for a gardening talk at your gardening club?

twelve great ground cover plants Taxus baccata ‘Repens Aurea’ , Hypericum calycinum moserianum, Hedera, Lonicera pileata, Pernettya mucronata, Rosmarinus officinalis ‘Prostratus’, Euonymus fortuneii, Ceanothus prostrates thyrsiflorus var.repens, Cotoneaster horizontalis, Cotoneaster ‘Gnom’, Vinca

44 connectionmags.co.uk

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Stratford Beekeepers

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 26 January 2019, 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.

07967 506920

For more information/course syllabus please visit our website.

LAWN MOWING • GRASS CUTTING • HEDGE TRIMMING • AUTUMN LEAF CLEARING • CHAINSAW CARVINGS

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45

Violas, Polyanthus, Sweet Williams, Daisy Bellis, Winter Pansies

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47

#GetTheHeadsUp T

hink of a brain. What does it look like?

A deflated leather football perhaps, or a wrinkled bottom. It’s probably not our most attractive physical feature so thank goodness it’s tucked away inside our skull.

It’s amazing what that ‘deflated football’ contains isn’t it? A quadrillion neural connections (that’s a one with 15 zeroes after it) - connections which help you tie your shoe laces, boil the kettle, and attempt a foreign language.

Neuroscience, in recent years, has given us insights into what these neural connections look like. Are we surprised that our ‘neural maps’ don’t represent a tidy library, with everything stored and categorised sequentially.

No wonder we find it hard to “think straight” sometimes. In fact - if you’ve seen the images - our brain is intra-connected with dynamic, overlapping and ever-evolving octopus-like structures. (For reassurance - I didn’t just say there IS an octopus inside your brain, just it looks that way. Don’t go using that as your next excuse when you forget something…).

Why does this matter?

We are inundated with data regarding the escalating crisis in mental health services, most especially for young people: a sixfold increase in problems over the last 20 years according to a report this week. I don’t know what your primary focus is - the issue that really gets your attention - but the question at the heart of our business, Heads Up Now, is: How can we support young people - and those who work with them - to think, feel and perform at their best, more often and more easily?

Those gangly octopus-leg-type things in our brain network are known as ‘dendrites’ - which comes from the Greek word for ‘tree’. Now, I went walking in the Peak Forest last week. Me, a flask of tea, a copy of Robert Macfarlane’s “The Wild Places” and a map. Sauntering

around Ladybower reservoir I noticed how dense and imposing a forest can be; the multiple, messy matrix of nature existing above and beneath the surface; I noticed how the forest is always moving, as-if alive (which of course it is). There was so much decay and decomposition, but also tiny things beginning and - above all - a majestic stillness. The forest breathes, grows and fulfils its function in the context of silence.

You may know that our word for ‘noise’ comes from the same root as ‘noxious’ and ‘nausea’ perhaps this is telling us something? Too much noise sickens our mind; Silence can feed it.

So - it’s good to know that the ‘deflated leather football’ inside our skull, that we take around with us all day long, is always busy with life. (It knows how to keep you breathing when you’re asleep, thank goodness). You can trust your mind to do certain things all by itself.

But like a healthy, dynamic, rich-with-life forest, it also craves some quiet. Improving our own mental health can include turning off the noise: the TV, radio, iPlayer, and our own relentless mental chit-chat. Those things aren’t always bad. But why not give your mind a breather? Go for a walk, notice nature, let it remind you about the bigger thing you’re part of. The octopus in your head will thank you for it.

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

48 connectionmags.co.uk

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They also offer family holidays, off-the-beaten track expeditions, polar voyages, wildlife safaris and overland journeys, short breaks and Urban Adventures day-trips.

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49

Alcester Town Council NOVEMBER 2018

Alcester Royal British Legion

This year is a very special year for Remembrance, not only of those that fell in The Great War, but those whose lives were torn apart by the loss of loved ones.

One hundred years on and we must wonder if we have learnt that most important of lessons, that every name on the town’s war memorials had a face and a family.

Forty-eight brave Alcester souls were killed in battle to keep our nation free from tyranny and slavery and many were wounded in the struggle.

Over 3 million British citizens were killed and seriously injured in one of the most bloody conflicts in modern history.

Over the Remembrance Weekend this year we will remember and dedicate ourselves to the brave British Tommy.

Tommy Atkins (often just Tommy) is slang for a common soldier in the British Army. It was well established during the nineteenth century, but is particularly associated with World War I. Here in Alcester we have our very own ‘Tommy Alcester’ who will be raising funds to Commemorate, Educate and Heal.

At the lead up-to ‘11-11’ Tommy will be visiting many locations and events around the community. Please support him if you are able.

Alcester Neighbourhood Development Plan

Summary documents have been delivered to residents and businesses containing draft policies on Housing and Built Environment; Economy; Transport and Infrastructure; Community Leisure and Well-being, and the Natural Environment. The full draft ANDP is available on the Town Council website (www.alcester-tc.gov.uk) or in hard

50 connectionmags.co.uk

copy at the Town Council Office, and the Library.

Please send your comments, with your name and address, to Alcester Neighbourhood Development Plan Steering Group, c/o Alcester Town Council, Globe House, Seggs Lane, Alcester, B49 5DZ or email administration@alcester-tc.gov.uk or complete the questionnaire at the back of the summary document and pop it in to one of the collection boxes at the Library, St Nicholas Church or Alcester Primary Care Centre.

All comments must be received by 5pm on 16 November.

Remember it’s your plan and it’s important that your voice is heard!

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 Meetings - Tues 6 November Planning - Mondays 5 & 26 November Community Care - Tues 13 November Community Facilities - Tues 20 November Presidium - Tues 27 November Members of the public are welcome to attend any of the Council meetings. The agendas are published on the Town Council website 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 - Sarah Duran: administration@alcester-tc.gov.uk Community Care - Jenny Theobald: office@alcester-tc.gov.uk Facilities - Jan Rowlatt: reception@alcester-tc.gov.uk Health & Wellbeing - Wendy Sherwood: info@alcester-tc.gov.uk Further information can be found on our social media pages: www.facebook.com/alcester www.twitter.com/AlcesterTown

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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 2nd November @ 7.00 pm, CHRISTOPHER ROBIN (Cert PG). We are hoping to be able to screen on this date but please be aware it is dependent on when the film becomes available – check the website for confirmation. Starring Ewan McGregor and Hayley Atwell.

Friday 30th November @ 7.00 pm, MAMA MIA! HERE WE GO AGAIN (Cert PG).

You can see a trailer online of the film being screened on our website. All films are screened at the Crawford Memorial Hall, Salford Road. Ticket Office opens at 6.30 pm and prices remain at only £2.50 Refreshments are available courtesy of your local Warners Budgens.

LLOYDS BANK As many of you may be aware, many banks are closing. In view of this, the Parish Council resolved to write to Lloyds Bank expressing its concern and explaining the importance of keeping its branch open in Bidford-on-Avon. You can ownload a copy of the letter from http://www. bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk/pdfs/notices/lloydsbankletter.pdf. But please remember, the most important thing is that the bank is used by the local community!

VILLAGE EVENTS Saturday 3rd November 2.30 pm, Bidford & District History Society - “Centenary Celebration: Returned 1918, Remembered 2018” at the Crawford Memorial Hall. See Website – What’s on, for full details.

Saturday 3rd November 7.30 pm Bidford Chamber of Trade and Commerce annual Bonfire Night on the Big Meadow. Gates open at 6pm, Bonfire will be lit at 7pm and fireworks display starts at 7.15pm. They are looking for volunteers to man the gates and help marshall the crowd when the road is closed. Please contact Patrick on 07801 491549. Please note Bidford Bridge will be closed, for safety reasons, for 30 mins from 7.30 pm.

Sunday 11th November a very special REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY as we commemorate 100 years since the end of WWI and remember those local soldiers who did not return.

MEETINGS Monday 12th November 7.30pm, Planning Consultative Committee Meeting.

Monday 26th November 7.30pm, Parish Council Meeting at Broom Village Hall.

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

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 emailing the Clerk at info@bidfordonavon-pc. gov.uk and your name will be added to the list.

SOCIAL MEDIA - Another way the Parish Council is trying to keep the local community informed is by the use of Social Media: please follow us via Facebook (Bidford on Avon) and Twitter (@Bidford_PC) 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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53

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

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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 1st November, 7.30pm, at the Centre, Jubilee Court, Lea Close, Alcester. Ross Barbour will talk on 'Looking Forward to Winter'. Everyone welcome. £2.50 for guests to include coffee/tea. Contact Hilary on 01789 765105 or email Hilary.morgan@talktalk.net.

Broom WI Thursday 1st November, AGM. Members only.

Cupcake Café at Salford Priors

Saturday 3rd November, from 10.00-12.00 at TOPs (behind Salford Priors Primary School). A space for everyone of all ages from the community to enjoy a cup of tea or coffee with some yummy cake.

Alcester Flower Club

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

On Monday 5th November, Louisa Rigden will give a flower arranging demonstration entitled 'Deck the Halls', designs with a Christmas theme. Competition: Flower of the month. New members and visitors are very welcome. Contact Mrs Brenda Kirkman 01789 778669.

Also on Wednesday 28th November, at St. Benedict's School New Hall, Flower Club's Annual Open Meeting when Helen Raymond Clarke will be giving a special demonstration of Christmas flower arrangements called 'Ding Dong Merrily on High'. Glitter and glamour with flowers. Tickets £10 from 01789 762865 or Alcester Flower shops.

Ceeve Prior Garden Club

We meet on the first Wednesday of the month, 7.30pm at Cleeve Prior Village Hall. Wednesday 7th November - 'Winter into Spring'. Visitors Welcome.

Phone 01789 772550 for more information.

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 8th November - AGM and Harvest Supper. Members and visitors are most welcome to join us at this interesting meeting.

and stand up comedian. Tickets are free from Bidford Library. Refreshments will be available. Call in or phone the Library on 01789 773239.

Salford Priors Ladies Group

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

Wednesday 14th November, Illustrated Talk on the Weather', speaker Ian Pickering, Vale Magazine. 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, meeting for lunch every 2nd Wednesday of the month at Kings Court Hotel, 12.15 for 12.45, followed by a speaker. On Wednesday 14th November, a talk by Sandy Cale on 'Worcester's Wonderful Women.' Visitors and new mwmbers are very welcome. For more details contact Hon. Sec. Cynthia Hill on 01789 763446.

Bidford and District History Society 'WW1 the final German perspective' - Professor

Christopher Mick. Friday November 16th, 7.30pm, Crawford Hall, Salford Road. Bidford, B50 4EZ.

Alcester St Nicholas Church - Christmas Festival

Saturday 17th November from 10am to 1.30pm in St Nicholas Church and Church House. Stalls include festive food and decorations, produce and crafts, children’s activities, face painting and many more. Tea and coffee will be served during the morning and soup at lunchtime. Come along to enjoy this seasonal event and bring your family, friends and neighbours.

Cookhill Garden Club

Wednesday 21st November, following a short AGM our guest speaker will be William Scott, who will give a presentation on 'How to keep your Garden Tools in good nick'. The AGM will start at 7.30pm, followed at 8 pm by William's presentation. Relax with a glass of wine and nibbles! Newcomers are always welcome Further details pn our website on www.cookhillgarden.club.

Alcester Singers Christmas Concert

Bidford on Avon WI

Saturday 8th December at 7.30 pm at St.Nicholas Church, Alcester. The choir will be performing the joyous 'O Come, Emmanuel' by Alan Bullard, along with other Christmas music and seasonal carols, so come and join in with us to celebrate the start of Christmas! Tickets £12 (under 14s free) from 01789 488401, 01789 400295 or Humphries Shoes, Alcester.

Bidford Community Library - A.L. Kennedy

Salford Priors Reading Group

Our AGM will be on the Thursday 8th November, 7.30 for 7.45pm at Bidford Methodist Church.

Ann Smith will tell us about the charity Gaga and a bring and share supper is planned. Do come enjoy this evening. If you would like more information, please contact Ann 01789 772409 or Pauline 01789 773390.

We are delighted to present a literary evening, at 7pm on Tuesday 13th November, with Costa prize winning author, A.L.Kennedy, a novelist, dramatist, screenwriter

56 connectionmags.co.uk

We meet on the third Monday of the month at 7pm.

Cost is £2 to cover a meal out at Christmas. Please contact Fiona on 07495 867318 for details.

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JOAN LITTLEWOOD’S Musical Entertainment OH WHAT A LOVELY WAR Presented by Bidford Players

AN UNFORGETTABLE STORY OF THE

FIRST WORLD WAR

TOLD THROUGH SONGS DOCUMENTS & MUSIC OF THE TIME

Fri 4th Jan

at 7.30pm

Sat 5th Jan

at 2.30pm & 7.30pm

Crawford Hall

Bidford on Avon

Box Office: 01789 773742

Tickets: £7.50 Under 16s £5

Refreshments available

This amateur production of ‘Oh What a Lovely War’ is presented by special arrangement with SAMUEL FRENCH

Rotary Remembers Major Robert Woodfield MBE with ‘Tommy’ at Alcester Big Breakfast

Alcester Royal British Legion have formally thanked us for our continued support. Our members will be attending many remembrance events, including laying wreaths at Alcester & Bidford on Sunday 11 November www.facebook.com/AlcesterandBidfordRotary To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

57

community events & what’s on...

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

Every Mon Every Thurs Every Thurs Every Fri Fri 16th Sat 17th Sun 25th

7pm - 8.30pm 6.45pm - 9pm 8.15pm - 9.45pm 9am - 12.30pm 7pm - 11pm 7pm - 11pm 3.30pm - 5.30pm

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.

Yoga Classes - C. Maguire, 07568 562416.

High Bailiff’s Dinner - David Parkes 07718 699870.

Black Country Night - Nick Dearling, 01789 765070.

Christmas Lights Switch-on - Edwina Neale, 01789 400744.

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.

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.

Craft Club Alcester

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.

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.

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.

Calling all embroiderers, crocheters, knitters, illustrators, crafters of all disciplines! An informal free Bidford Community Group - Jolly Teapot monthly meet up at the Holly Bush pub in Alcester on Bidford on Avon Community Group hold a get together the 2nd Monday of the month. Bring along whatever each Thursday 9.30 to 11.30 am. Why not come and you are working on for a couple of hours of inspirational join us at St Lawrence Church Hall? A warm welcome awaits! chat wth likeminded souls.

Children’s answers: 1. Southampton (H) 2. Belfast (C) 3. Newcastle (B) 4. Leeds (D) 5. Bath (F) 6. Glasgow (A) 7. Blackpool (E) 8. Luton (G) The letters in the grid can be unjumbled to spell ‘London’.

Sudoku solutions (see page 6)

Easy grid

Not so easy grid

WiZ pan

we buy & sell

also clearance service

Good Old Fashioned

Junk Shop ... browse online!

Web shop www.wizpan.co.uk

Look us up on

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

Returning this winter to Bancroft Gardens, Stratford Upon Avon To remember or celebrate a loved one from just £5, this Christmas: Visit: www.gaga-uk.org/support-us/the-remembering-tree call: 01789 414088 email: sarah@gaga-uk.org /TheRememberingTree

@weare_GAGAUK

@GAGA_UK

GAGA UK, Registered Charity No. 1092028

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

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

• • • • • •

Roofing Professionals

Specialists in all types of roofing: Complete Roofs, Ridge Tiles, Lead Work, Chimneys, Fascias, Soffits, Guttering, Gutter Cleaning

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

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

The Barn, Croft Lane, Temple Grafton, B49 6PA

Pete Roderick

For all your Chimney Flue re uirements call

01789 766953 16 Henley Street, Alcester www.acleansweepmidlands.co.uk 07970 692817

Hatch a plan to help your business grow by advertising in

connection

the

Weather Guard

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

magazine

Prices start from £20.40 per month Reach 10,000 homes and businesses in Alcester, Bidford and surrounding villages.

Call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

www.connectionmags.co.uk

Dimension

Landscape & Driveways 4200 Waterside Centre, Solihull Parkway, Birmingham Business Park, Birmingham B37 7YN

Why not invest in a new driveway or patio to enhance the appearance and add value to your property ?

Clay & Block Paving • Tarmacing (red or black) • Patios • Brickwork • Slabbing • Gravel • Landscaping Fencing • Property Repairs • Roofing Repairs • Driveway Maintenance (Pressure cleaning & sealing - weed free)

Call us noW for your free no obligation quote

0121 733 1463 / 07799 428 557

Visit our website to view our current ranges of work carried out in your local area www.dimensiondriveways.co.uk Email: barney.dimension@icloud.com

60 connectionmags.co.uk

/theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

CPM

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

• FREE QUOTES

Call us now on:

07544 330103

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

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

No Deposits Taken - No Subcontractors Used

FREE DESIGN and FREE QUOTATION ALL WORK FULLY GUARANTEED FOR 5 YEARS STRATFORD OFFICE

01789 508 660 SOLIHULL OFFICE

0121 607 8834 HENLEY-IN-ARDEN OFFICE

01564 330616 EMAIL

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

Branches throughout the West Midlands

www.DriveCoLtd.com

62 connectionmags.co.uk

/theconnectionmag

Company Reg No 6010375

@connection_mag

Sanders&Sanders ESTATE AGENTS

Looking to sell or let your property this autumn?

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

SOLD

01789 766771

www.sanders-sanders.co.uk

at BIDFORD ON AVON

REMARKABLE FOOD FOR YOUR FREEZER SINCE 1997 Casseroles • Curries • Kids & Family Meals • Lasagnes • Pies Calorie Conscious • Gluten & Dairy Free • Puddings & Cakes Party Food • Food for Entertaining

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

warnersbudgens.co.uk

£5 OFF

WHEN YOU SPEND £40 IN STORE

To the customer: Redeemable at Warner’s Budgens Bidford on Avon, Broadway, Moreton-in-Marsh and Winchcombe only. Only one coupon will be accepted per transaction, and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. The offers excludes tobacco, infant formula, e-top up, fuel, concessions (Post Office), stamps and National & Health Lottery. Photocopies are no acceptable. Offer only valid if presented with this coupon. £40 must be spent in one transaction. Valid until 30th November 2018.