The Connection Magazine - April-May 2019

Around Alcester, Bidford & the Villages

magazine

April-May ‘19 No. 136

Your Local Guide to What’s On

Cherry & Almond Cake Recipe Maintenance Tips for Garden Decking

COMMUNITY | LOCAL BUSINESS | ARTICLES

The Village geBIDFORD-ON-AV Cafe ON

Details on page 7

the

the

c connection

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Independent Optometrist friendly personal service Call to book an appointment on 01789 549409

Timeless British design, fresh for 2019

15a High Street, Bidford-on-Avon, B50 4BQ www.richardfantomeyecare.co.uk

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

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 MSG Private Hire

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 01789 773239 0844 855 2322 07771 616189 01789 766750 01789 762450 01789 766200 01789 270744 01386 871777 262889 07734 806 322

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

766084 778653 267575

Welcome

... to the April-May Connection After a false start in February, spring has finally sprung and we find ourselves in the lead up to Easter. Our magazine might even have landed on your doormat just in time for the beginning of Daylight Saving Time. If that’s the case, then don’t forget that clocks “spring forward” an hour on 31st March. Because losing an hour’s sleep is exactly what mums want for Mother’s Day (also on 31st March).

This time of year always feels quite positive and restful for me in the sense that there’s a smattering of bank holidays to look forward to as of Easter Monday. Easter itself falls on 21st April this year. Early May Bank Holiday is on Monday 6th and Whitsun Bank Holiday on Monday 27th. If you’re lucky enough to have them as days off, enjoy!

Once again, there’s plenty going on over the coming months.

Our local communities are showing off with their fantastic groups, and Alcester gets another chance to shine at its Food Festival on 18th May (p.12). If you’re a bit of a foodie, you might like to try your hand at our delectable cherry & almond cake recipe on page 10.

Hopefully the weather will have brightened by the time you receive your magazine, so for you fair-weather green fingered types, we have ideas for minimalistic gardening (p.20) and tips for exterior wood maintenance (p.25) from local business, AGW, in case your decking or sheds need sprucing up before the summer.

Christopher Spriggs of Heads Up Now brings us a literal cliff-hanger of an article that’s a great, empowering 5-minute read to go with your tea break (p.14), although acrophobics might prefer to read about Guatemalan jungle trails and Mayan temples (p.46) with their morning cuppa.

Youngsters can also keep busy for a few minutes with the kids’ puzzle page (p.30). Handy for during the impending Easter holidays.

Finally, congratulations to the winner of the Amazon Echo from our February-March edition. We hope you enjoy it, Lesley!

Wishing you well until the next time...

Amy

June-July Copy Deadline: Friday 10th May

Facebook.com/theconnectionmag Twitter.com/connection_mag Connection circulation: 10,000 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

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

www.cottageofcontent.com

01789 772279 • cofcontent@gmail.com TheCottageofContent

Mother’s Day 31st March Treat Mum to 3 courses for just £19.95

Easter Sunday 21st April Book now for Easter lunch.

3 courses for £19.95 Children’s Easter egg hunt at 4pm.

ALL WELCOME W

Our campsite is now open to tents, caravans & motorhomes.

or BOOK IN TO our new

bed & breakfast!

50’ X 30’ MARQUEE AVAILABLE TO BOOK FOR YOUR SPECIAL EVENT! Open all day every day from 12 noon.

Food served every lunchtime, every evening, and all day on a Sunday from 12 noon.

SE EE WEBSITE FOR DETAILS OF ALL OUR OFFERS & EVENTS

THE COTTAGE OF CONTENT’s

BARTONFEST BANK HOLIDAY SATURDAY FESTIVAL

SAT 25TH MAY FROM 4PM LIVE BANDS OUTDOOR & INDOOR BARS HOT FOOD AVAILABLE REAL ALES & SELECTION OF CIDERS

Trre me 31 1

20th ANNIVERSARY 1999 to 2019!

Mavericks Hair & Beauty & Barbers

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(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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The Village Cafe BIDFORD-ON-AVON

CHARITY OPENING RAISING MONEY FOR LOCAL CHARITIES

Saturday 13th April

X 8:30-4:30

LOCALLY SUPPLIED:

Cotswold Coffee Pudding Lane Cakes Hand-made Sandwiches Pastries Milkshakes Afternoon Tea FIND US AT:

15B High Street, Bidford-on-Avon, B50 4BQ or follow @bidfordvillagecafe on Facebook & Instagram.

OPENING HOURS:

Monday-Friday: 9:00 -4:30 Saturday: 8:30 -12:30

DOG FRIENDLY

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THE GOLDEN CROSS The Golden Cross, Wixford Road, Ardens Grafton, Warks, B50 4LG The Golden Cross, Tel: Wixford Road,772420 Ardens Grafton, Warks, B50 4LG 01789 goldencross@treasureinns.co.uk

Tel: 01789 772420

www.thegoldencross.net www.golden-cross.co.uk

Graftonbury is back for 2019

Sunday 5th May from 2pm Join us for our fantastic charity music festival.

Outdoor bar, hog roast and BBQ available.

Adults £5 entry. All proceeds go to charity.

Enjoy the Spring Sunshine!

Join us in our beautiful gardens for food food, drinks and hopefully plenty of sunshine!

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

Celebrate in Style

Let us cater for your y celebrations: Intimate din ning or large gatherings, both indoors and outside. Reserve a booth, table in the bar or our whole lounge area for your visit.

Our team will take care of your every need.

Bespoke menus, buffet, hog roast and BBQ available on request.

Please contact Claire for further details.

We serve food from 12-9pm every day. Check out our delicious roasts served every Sunday.

All of our food is home cooked by our talented chef and his team. Book online or call 01789 772420.

MONDAY - SATURDAY

Daily Deals als

MONDAY ALL DAY 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

DESSERT TUESDAY

STARTER WEDNESDAY

When purchased with two main meals.

When purchased with two main meals.

From 6pm Two desserts for £5

PIZZA THURSDAY

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

SUNDAY ROAST SUND AST

From 6pm Two starters for £5

STEAK FRIDAY

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

3 courses for £17.95.

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

Fresh Cherry and Almond Cake This delicious fruity cake can be served warm as a dessert or cold as a classic afternoon tea cake.

Ready in: 1 hour 40 minutes, plus cooling time | Serves 8

Ingredients 225g unsalted butter, softened, plus extra for greasing 225g golden caster sugar 225g self-raising flour 4 medium eggs, beaten 300g fresh cherries, pitted and halved 100g ground almonds 150g icing sugar

T IP

Extra fresh cherries, to decorate

Preheat the oven to 170C, fan 150C, gas mark 3. Grease a 20cm round deep cake tin with the extra butter and line the base and sides with baking paper.

Place the butter and caster sugar in a large mixing bowl and using a hand-held electric mixer beat together until very pale and creamy.

Gradually pour in the eggs, beating well after each addition. If the mixture starts to separate slightly, stir in a spoonful of the flour.

Sift over the rest of the flour and fold in gently with a metal spoon. Toss the cherries into half of the ground almonds, and fold into the mixture with the rest of the ground almonds. Spoon into the prepared cake tin and gently level the surface.

Bake in the preheated oven for 55 minutes to 1 hour 10 minutes, until the cake is risen, golden and a skewer inserted into the cake comes out clean. Leave to cool in the tin for 10 minutes then turn out onto a wire rack to cool.

Whilst the cake is still cooling make the icing: sift the icing sugar into a bowl and stir in 2-3 tbsp warm water and mix to make a thin icing.

Spoon the icing over the warm cake, allowing some to drizzle down the side. Decorate with extra cherries and serve warm or cold.

The fresh cherries will mostly sink during baking but this is perfectly normal, giving a moist fruity layer at the base of the cake. It’s best eaten within 2 days of baking.

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asparagus

Cut 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

Meat, Poultry, Game, Fish, Dairy, Pig Roast, Veggie Treats, Wines, Beers, Ciders, Prepared Foods, Artisan Breads, Cheeses Preserves and much more!

Saturday 18th May 2019 Saturday 19th October 2019 9am - 5pm

Saturday 16th May & 17th October 2020

Alcester High Street, Church Street and Henley Street The perfect foodie day out, forage through an array of festival stalls, visit local pubs, cafes, restaurants, shops and enjoy the day.

Free Park and Ride Shuttle with Dudley’s Coaches from the Mill Industrial Park (opposite Alcester Rugby Club) on the A435 Alcester to Studley, B49 5QG, to the festival and return.

www.alcesterfoodfestival.org.uk 12 connectionmags.co.uk

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Globally-inspired,

Healthy Food, FAST!

M

ona’s Home Made Takeaways is a new Bidford-based business that offers homecooked meals from the fully registered kitchen of Mona Zaim. Her acclaimed services include takeaways, freezer fillers and catering for private events, and most of the dishes served are gluten free. Previously twice-weekly, Mona’s takeaway has now extended to Saturdays with a Caribbean-inspired menu of goat curry, rice and peas, and coleslaw, Jerk chicken and a vegan option.

Takeaway Service • Takeaway nights are Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

• Each week, menus are released via social media.

• Facebook posts include full macros of each meal.

• There are always 2 options: Vegan OR Meat • Simply message Mona or call by 10am with your choice on the day you would like your meal.

• Collect at chosen time.

Freezer Fillers If you would like to fill up your freezer for a busy week ahead or know of friends and family who would benefit from homecooked frozen meals, Mona can put together a selection of delicious dishes to keep in stock. You can choose from a wide range including: • Traditional i.e. Fish Pie, Cassoulet • Paleo • Vegan • Children’s meals Private catering Mona specialises in traditional Lebanese foods and has several packages to suit most budgets.

Catering most events, ranging from small dinner parties to wedding evening food, with the added bonus that she’ll even do the washing up!

So if you’d like to save time and cut down on your cooking this week, get in touch with Mona on 07734 114440 or monazaim@gmail.com

Home Made Takeaways & Private Catering 0 07734 114 440 monazaim@gma monazaim@gmail.com m @monashomecookedtakeaway @ monashomecookedtak

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

Harry_Floss_Ltd

01789 400747

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

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

13

OFF THE MAP M y hands snatched the grass, fingernails sank into soil. I looked over my shoulder - the drop was 200 feet. Sea, the colour of emeralds, swelled and frothed beneath.

It was enchanting to look at (and it sounds poetic now), but I really didn’t want to fall off the cliff.

are always happening, for all of us: the process of holding onto life and the process of letting it go. As Thich Nhat Hanh, the Vietnamese monk now in his nineties says, “with each breath in, we wake up, and with each breath out we die a little more.” Holding on, letting go. It sounds so simple doesn’t it?

I was recycling breaths, two every second. My brain said ‘call for help’ but, caught by fear, I couldn’t speak. Besides, the nearest humans were at least five minutes walk away from the promontory, from which I hung, a fully loaded backpack over my shoulders: flask; map; book.

Weight pulling me sea-ward.

After several minutes, I moved my right leg a few millimetres. I pressed harder into the cliff. Progress was slow. As chances of survival increased, tears came. Adrenalin flowed.

Strength returned. It took ten minutes, feeling the risk of each move. Then I hurled myself onto the plateau. Bent over, knees kissing the dirt, I felt solid ground beneath me.

On the other side of the cliff was Tenby’s South Beach. Somewhere on that beach my tent flapped in the wind. And there was my fireplace, built with small rocks, collected singularly from the shoreline. Embers smouldered, perhaps a curl of smoke inscribed an SOS in the air.

“How did I end up here?” I kept asking myself.

I couldn’t even shake a fist at myself for my stupidity, without risking plunging to the rocks.

As Homer’s tale of Odysseus, nearly three thousand years ago testifies, sometimes reality spews you up in some place you didn’t plan. All you can do is hang on. “It shouldn’t be like this” doesn’t change anything. It is like this.

The memory of nearly falling to my death a year ago, quite by accident, taught me something. There was no referendum on my options: if I wanted to survive, and oh boy I wanted to survive, all I could do was breathe, and take 100% responsibility for myself. Nobody was coming to the rescue. I pressed my chest to the cliff, as if penetrating the cliff itself. I breathed out the longest breath I could. The sun warmed my scalp but my head felt cold from anxiety. Great surges of wanting to sob washed over me, like the pulsating tide on the rocks below. I remember thinking “I’m going to die”.

So what I really want to say is this: If you’re in a situation where you feel you are hanging on by your fingertips, come back to your breath. If you are upset and troubled, come back to your breath. If you are fuming with something someone has said or done. Come back to your breath. Your breath is always in the present. The mind will yo-yo between the past and future, but your breathing is here, it’s in you, with you. You can’t leave it behind. It’s not in your rucksack. It won’t betray you. Because something new wants to come through you. The old will resist it, but the new will come through. That’s why this difficult thing is with you right now. It’s not happening to you, it’s happening for you.

Let strength come through you. Feel it. It will find voice in time. This feeling hard-pressed and down-beat, it can serve you, to evoke a truer version of you. As author Mark Nepo says, sometimes we have to be worn down into who we really are. We have to hang on by our fingernails for a while, to discover the subterranean courage that makes us rise again. It’s been hiding inside all along. That’s what I want to say.

I see now two things were happening, which 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

14 connectionmags.co.uk

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

Digital TV Aerials Satellite Dish Installations Sky Distribution Systems Additional TV Points Repairs & Upgrades CCTV Installations 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

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

Amanda Copperthwaite

Select Mortgages FOR ALL YOUR MORTGAGE AND PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS: • Remortgages • Home Movers • Additional Borrowing • First Time Buyers • Help to Buy • Buy to Lets

There are so many mortgage products available and finding the right one is not easy.

Let me do the hard work, from beginning to completion, liaising with lenders and solicitors on your behalf.

For personal, professional, no obligation mortgage advice from a qualified & experienced “whole of market” mortgage consultant, call or text 07785 270217 or email: amanda@select-mortgage.com 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.

DOES YOUR BUSINESS NEED SUPPORT? Alcester based Virtual Assistance services including:

• Copy and audio typing • Inbox and diary management • Powerpoint and Excel • Proof reading • Social media content posting • Event organisation • Customer support and account management No recruitment, holiday or pension costs to incur, just highly experienced business support, ad hoc or ongoing - when you need it.

Phone or email now for a quote.

Telephone: 07908 226633

Email: stephanie@virtualmoneypenny.co.uk

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

15

Here at Carrick Travel we are celebrating our 45th birthday!

But, as they say, we’re ageing like good wine and improving all the time.

From our beginning in 1974 we now have 12 branches and have the accolade of winning the Travel Weekly Agent Achievement Award for Best Small Agency in Central England for the last 4 consecutive years – and 8 times in total.

With so many years of experience under our collective belts, you can be assured that when it comes to travel, we really do know what we’re talking about. We have

always remained independent and unbiased, putting our clients individual needs and requirements as our main priority and we are ABTA and ATOL bonded so you will be financially protected all the way.

We have access to holiday destinations anywhere in the world, so whether you are looking for a weekend break or a world cruise – we’ll have just the ticket.

Whether you are looking for a tailor-made trip to Timbuktu, an adventure to Australia, a bucket and spade break to Spain or a business trip to Bogota – we’ll make sure your holiday is truly unforgettable.

To book your next getaway simply pop into Carrick Travel Evesham or Stratford branch for more details.

EVESHAM

57-59 Port Street, Evesham, WR11 3LH T: 01386 41474 E: evesham@carricktravel.com

STRATFORD - UPON - AVON

Cook’s Alley, 63 Henley Street, CV37 6PT T: 01789 414040 E: stratford@carricktravel.com

We have offices in: Bingham, Bourton-on-the-Water, Coventry, Evesham, Grantham, Kenilworth, Keyworth, Leamington Spa, Newark, Pershore, Solihull and Stratford-upon-Avon

www.carricktravel.com

New Alcester Hair Academy Seeks Models & Apprentices

T

he Garage Hair Academy opens on the 29th April and is taking bookings for hair appointments now.

The school will operate on Mondays between the hours of 3pm to 7pm and is the brain child of Sarah Charlton, who owns and runs Mavericks Hair Salon in Alcester.

Sarah has always been passionate about training, and has trained hairdressers all over the world.

She now wants to pass those skills onto the next generation of hairdressers.

On Mondays she will be working with hairdressing apprentices, and teaching all aspects of hairdressing, and for this they need models.

There is a very small amount charged for these services with the trainees, mainly to cover costs.

The appointments may take a little longer but the students are closely supervised at all times. Please note that skin tests are required 48 hours prior to any colouring services.

Fosbroke House

Blowdry Cut + Blow Dry Restyle + Finish Root Tint Full Head Tint Part Section Foils

Price List Half Head Foils £15 £3 Full Head Foils £20 £5 £15 £7.50 Balayage £10 Conditioning Treatment £2 £10 £12 Perm £5 £10 Barbering

If you would like your hair styled or have apprentices that need training, please call on: 01789 766333 or email: garagehairacademy@hotmail.com

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

17

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 April/May

PLUS

Some great offers on Westex carpets

Offer valid with voucher only.

Photocopies not accepted.

Expires 31st May 2019.

Stocking everything you need for DIY, home & garden, come rain, snow or shine Stockists of Calor gas Your local Dulux Colour & Advice Centre Helping your garden grow with a range of Vitax products

SPEEDY DELIVERY SERVICE AVAILABLE

£10 BACK CHEQUE

When you spend £35 or more on any Dulux product.

18 connectionmags.co.uk

Cold weather essentials: kindling, logs, coal, snow shovels, anti freeze, sledges...

Call: 01789 762464

Swan Street, Alcester, Warwickshire, B49 5DP /theconnectionmag

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Get to know Sue...

The face behind Alcester salon, Nasus.

S

ue has over three decades of experience within the hair industry, and is a hair stylist to both ladies and gents.

Her salon, Nasus Hair, is situated in Alcester Business Centre, on Kinwarton Rd (a couple of doors down from the new Spar store), and has a separate barbering area as well as free parking right outside the front door.

How do you welcome new clients to Nasus? Exactly the same way as all of my regular clients get a welcome; with great service from beginning to end. All clients coming into Nasus Hair should feel like it’s a pamper time. It’s their treat; a place to feel at ease and achieve great hair results.

What makes you smile at work? Making my clients happy; I love my job!

When did you realise that hairdressing was the career for you? From a very early age.

I have always enjoyed learning, researching and creating with hair. I believe you never stop learning.

What is your strategy when consulting clients? There’s no exact strategy behind what I do when consulting. Every client is as different and unique as the next.

So, my main aim is simple really...

To help my client achieve their desired look and make them all very happy.

Sue’s motto is: “Love your hair, you wear it every day!” To book an appointment at Nasus, call Sue on 01789 766314. You can also follow Nasus on Facebook and Instagram for updates.

BESPOKE LADIES HAIRDRESSING & BARBER SHOP GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE FREE PARKING 30 years experience

•

Discounts available

For our news & updates, follow us on social media:

For Appointments & Opening Times:

Call: 01789 766314 www.nasus-hair.co.uk Unit 4 Alcester Business Centre, Kinwarton Farm Rd, Alcester. B49 6EL (by the new Spar shop)

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

19

to a minimalist garden so include it, perhaps as a neatly clipped box hedging or as a few bay lollipops in angular containers.

Containers must be very plain, ideally straight-sided angular styles in a single colour. An evenly spaced trio of pots, each with a single central plant, provides a perfect choice of container planting.

Make it Minimal There is increasing enthusiasm for a more minimalist garden style, where fewer plants have greater individual impact in a more designed situation with straight lines aplenty, so here are some suggestions for achieving the effect you want.

Decide on the plants you like and that will suit your garden but keep to as few different types as possible. The biggest impact will be achieved if you are selective, for example concentrating on ornamental grasses.

Also key is clever use of straight lines, ideally with a few right angles too. Edges must be sharply defined, perhaps using sleepers, other timber or angled metal. Keep plants well back from the border edging so these lines are not interfered with.

Colours should fit your preferences and the surroundings but restrict the number of colours for a calmer and simpler effect. Existing

features such as sheds or fences can be recoloured or painted to fit in with the colour scheme – otherwise, their current colour will have to be included in that scheme.

Edges need to be sharply defined, perhaps using sleepers or other timber A stunning minimalist effect can be achieved by using a single type of plant and container – for example, conifers in terracotta containers. The only variation is in the size of the conifer: all colours, textures and plants are the same. Buy different sizes of the same conifer type and clip regularly to maintain the size difference or buy one size and trim lightly to achieve the desired look.

Green, in the form of foliage, helps add a feeling of tranquillity

If you like topiary stick to simple tightly clipped spheres or ‘lollipops’, cubes or at most spirals; there is no space for a fantastically sculptured creature if you’re going minimalist!

Plants with simple or angular shapes such as iris, alliums, conifers, clipped box, canna or palms are an excellent choice, but opt for personal (but simple) favourites available locally.

Grass alternatives such as gravel may feature highly. Gravel needs less maintenance than grass, but keep it weed-free and easycare by installing a weedmembrane (rather like woven, plastic hessian) on to the soil before putting down the gravel. Thoroughly weed the area then firm and compact well before putting the fabric down. Don’t use cheaper plastic sheeting as rain won’t penetrate.

Opt for simple, classically styled garden furniture with as few colours and textures as possible and it won’t detract from the minimalist environment and look – now sit back and enjoy!

By Pippa Greenwood

Visit www.pippagreenwood.com for advice, natural pest controls, stylish cloches, pretty plant supports, gardening tools and more. Or book Pippa for a gardening talk at your club.

20 connectionmags.co.uk

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FULLY I NS UR ED

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

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21

Gift Ideas for

Easter!

Large Selection of House Plants, Planted Bowls & Baskets. Gift Wrapping Service Available

Seed Potatoes sold loose • Onion Sets • Shallots Border and Bedding Plants • Hanging Baskets Composts and Bark National Garden Vouchers Available Seeds from

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

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TOP TIP!

GARDEN & PROPERTY SERVICES

TREE SURGERY | HEDGES GARDEN CLEARANCE GREEN WASTE SHREDDER & OPERATOR HIRE

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23

CENTURION VERANDAS

EXCELLENT QUALITY AND

SUPERB VALUE FOR MONEY • Full 10 Year Guarantee • Fully Aluminium System • Resistance to Corrosion • Integral Aluminium Guttering • High UV Protection • Wide Range of Colour Options • Victorian Upgrade Available • High speed installation • Toughened Glass • Low Maintenance

ENJOY YOUR GARDEN ALL YEAR ROUND! See our products at our Ashton under Hill showroom.

A46 Cheltenham Road, WR11 7QP. Next to the Shell garage.

VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR SPECIAL OFFERS! Unit 1, Waterloo Industrial Estate, Waterloo Road, Bidford-On-Avon, Warwickshire, B50 4JH

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

Quality Care For Your

Outdoor Wooden Surfaces

S

s

unnier, longer days will soon be upon us and many people will be looking forward to spending time in their gardens.

If you have wooden decking, fencing, or sheds, now is the time to put in the care to get them looking their best for the summer months.

You can visit AGW’s shop on Wellington Road, Follow AG Woodcare’s easy 4-step guide to get situated at Bidford’s Waterloo Industrial Estate, your exterior decking and garden furniture in for everything that’s good for wood. top condition this spring: They’ve a wide range of products in stock for all Remove all loose foliage & brambles etc and exterior wooden components including decking, give the area a good clean sweep. garden furniture, fences, garden houses, sheds etc. in colours and shades to suit all tastes. All of Clean wooden decking/garden furniture (treated or untreated) with decking/exterior AGW’s products are environmentally friendly and safe to use. cleaner. These products will remove algae & dirt.

For further information Apply decking oil or woodstain as required. or tips, please call AGW There are many colours available. We highly on 01789 778628 recommend either Osmo decking oils or Scenic www.agwoodcare.co.uk exterior wood stains.

1 2 3

4

For added safety, apply a coat of anti-slip decking oil as a top coat.

Call today for FREE Survey & Quote Professional Cleaning – Smart Sealing

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Cleaning Window and Conservatory • Decking Cleaning and Oiling Cleaning • Gutters, Soffits and Fascia

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

25

26 connectionmags.co.uk

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YEW TREE FARM RTYARD SHOP PPING COUR

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

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 Giftivity Home Acccessories & Gifts 015 564 793030 The e Wild Hare Jewelllery, Repairs & Acccessories 015 564 792785

The Cardio Shop Home Fitness Equipment 01527 854554

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

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

Henley Chocolates Chocolaterie 01564 794718

Bizarto Design & Tra aining 01564 7933 366

Gosh Boutique 01564 793355

Della and Ja ames Lingerie and Sw wimwear 01564 7942 255

Greys Teas Speciality Teas 01564 792295

H for Hatts Hats & Hat Hire 01564 7927 785

Here at Yew Tree we are all geared up for Spring!

From Spring Fashion to quality Garden Furniture.

Both our Farmshop and Cowshed Eaterie offer outside seating for those lovely sunny Spring days.

We are very doggy friendly so bring your pooch and enjoy a nice walk up the canal after your visit.

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

Cotswold Upholstery Serv rving v the Cotsw wolds and surrounding are eas

Give your home a New Look

with a lovely new carpet, wood, laminate, vinyl or Karndean floor Free quotations & home selection service available

01789 400050

3 Swan Street, Alcester, B49 5DP

• Re-Upholstery - wide ran nge of fabrics and leather • Wing Arm Chairs, Suites, Chaise Longue • Loose Covers • Frame/Spring Repa airss Call us on

01789 621156 or 07956 910701

Over 30 years experience Domestic and Commercial

7 days a week - 8.00am to 9.00pm

For all your heating and plumbing needs...

•Boiler installs, services and repairs •Worcester Approved Installer •Radiators and towel rails •Powerflushing

•All plumbing works •Bathroom design and installation •Up to 10 years guarantee on boilers •0% finance options available

Call our office on 01789 766200 www.agsgaslimited.co.uk Unit 24 Arden Business Centre, Alcester, B49 6HW

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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

IF YOU’VE NOT VISITED US BEFORE...

ENJOY YOUR FIRST CUT & FINISH HALF PRICE* CALL 01789 762401 OR POP IN TO BOOK NOW

CHIROPODIST Yvonne Hartley

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

Over 20 years experience Surgery in Badsey and home visits

0 1 3 8 6 8 3 3 5 2 0 or 0 7 8 3 3 5 9 5 0 2 0

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

*Conditions apply.

DOES HAY FEVER GET RIGHT UP YOUR NOSE? Visit our team at Hopkins Pharmacy We can advise on how best to manage and treat your symptoms before they get on top of you.

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

29

Answers on page 58

Answers on page 58

Jacksons Jewellery Repairs BEFORE

AFTER

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

ALL JEWELLERY REPAIRS AND CLEANING DONE ON SITE

Opening Times

ww www ww.alcestercleaners.co.uk w

M u s i c Tu i t i o n

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

Andrew Swinn

01789 766611

www.jacksonsjewellery.co.uk

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

MA, ARCM, ARCO

Piano, Music Theory, Exam Accompaniment

01789 763 954

Bidford Pharmacy 17 High Hi Stre eet, Bidford on Avon, B50 4BQ armacy@numarknet.com bidford.pha fordpharmacy.co.uk bidfo  01789 772433

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

& combating the effects of

HAY FEVER

Good F Friday 19 Saturday 20 Easter S Easter Sunday 21 Ea Easter Monday 22

th

th st

nd

April CLOSED April 9am-1pm April CLOSED April CLOSED

& SEASONAL ALLERGIES OPENING HOURS Monday-Friday 9am - 6pm Saturday 9am - 1pm Sunday Closed MEDICATION REVIEW NEW MEDICINE SUPPORT STOP SMOKING SUPPORT EMERGENCY SUPPLIES

EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION CONFIDENTIAL HEALTH ADVICE

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

31

WarnersBudgens

BLACKWATCH, THE HANDMADE SCOTCH EGG CO.

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HOME OF DELICIOUS ARTISAN FOODS

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

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At the Heart of Local Life

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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 no acceptable. Offer only valid if presented with this coupon. £40 must be spent in one transaction. Valid until 31st May 2019.

curricular activities. That’s the equivalent of a UK to Portugal road-trip, but with no reward of the sun at the end of it. And the estimated cost was nearly £9,000 per annum too.

Cab of Mum and Dad If you have children from 6 to 16 you can relate to the following: driving for school runs, parties, ballet, football, sleep overs, evenings out with class mates or just “Mum/Dad! Can you pick me up please?”

Yep. It’s being an unpaid kids’ taxi driver.

A survey of 2,000 parents has been conducted to find out just how many miles – and hours – they are putting into ferrying their family around.

On average, those polled were spending 286 hours and driving 1,283 miles a year to get little Mezzanine and Oligarch to their extra-

On the plus side, many surveyed said they enjoyed the bonding time with their offspring that this ferrying gave them. Chatting to little Mezzanine about how she is getting on at ballet, or if Oligarch enjoyed Cub camp.

As they get older, the taxi run allows parents to find out about their teenager’s love or social life, since they can’t run off to their bedroom when questioned.

My days of the family taxi driver are now well passed, and I can’t say I miss them really.

Both my daughters now drive and have cars of their own.

But I still get a window onto their social and love life as it’s still me who ends up clearing the pizza boxes out of their cars when I clean them and hearing ‘I’ll be there in 10’ when she’s being unpaid taxi to the boyfriend.

MSG

By Iain Betson

PRIVATE HIRE & TRANSFERS

For all airport, train & ferry drop off & collections.

We can transport you to/from anywhere in the country 24/7 Fully licensed & insured for up to 8 passengers.

CALL OR TEXT:

07734 806 322 EMAIL:

msgprivatehire@outlook.com 34 connectionmags.co.uk

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FOR A STRESS FREE LOCAL CAR BUYING EXPERIENCE…

CAR SALES

FREE

ALCESTER

Visit us now

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

SPRING OFFERS

10% OFF BRAKE PADS 10% OFF

SMART REPAIRS

FREE SPRING SAFETY CHECK

Offers end 31 May 2019

Stay safe

on the road!

Fix those scuffs and scratches!

Get your car ready for spring!

FREE COLLECTION & DELIVERY SERVICE COURTESY CAR FIXED PRICE ONLY £10

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

Monday - Friday 8am - 6pm

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

35

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

• • • • • •

CHERRY PICKER HIRE CCTV CAMERA SURVEYS POWER SWEEPING BRUSH & VACUUM SWEEPS ROOF & CHIMNEY MAINTENANCE WOODBURNERS CLEANED & INSTALLED • BIRD GUARDS & COWLS FITTED • FULLY INSURED • FREE QUOTES

Pete Roderick

For all your Chimney Flue re uirements call

01789 7669 16 Henley Street, Alcester www.acleansweepmidlands.co.uk 07970 69 817

TREE SURGERY & HEDGE CUTTING Family business • Establish hed 2001 Experienced - Qualified - Professional vice al S Service Tel: 01789 763081 • Mob: 07778 575093 3 Email: info@rootstoshoots.net 36 connectionmags.co.uk

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For all your

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

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

We a lso se ll Dar Dart ts, Boar ds, F light & Sh s afts We a .

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

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

alcester sports & tackle

Established 1979

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

OPENING TIMES VEHICLE SCRATCH & SCUFF REPAIRS

Bumper & Wing Mirror Scuffs Paintwork Scratches Leather & Vinyl Repairs Alloy Wheel Refurbishment Paintless Dent Removal Vehicle Graphics

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

’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

37

BAC T E NET

No time is a good time to run onto a football pitch and smack a player, especially in front of the cameras (not that it wouldn’t have been just as bad at Alcester Town’s Stratford Road ground). But when there’s national concern and debate around knife crime and people being indiscriminately attacked, this sort of behaviour had to be jumped on by a wider range of authorities than just the Football Association and Birmingham City FC. Fortunately justice moved quickly and the idiot that decided that Jack Grealish deserved punishment, just for being an opposition player, won’t be attending any top football match for quite a while and will never again be allowed in to St Andrews. So it’s well done to Blues for banning him, but what happened to security at the ground?

The same weekend that Grealish was attacked saw another idiot run onto the pitch at the Emirates and push Chris Smalling. It can’t be

38 connectionmags.co.uk

easy to secure a football ground when there are many thousands of supporters but something has to be done to keep both players and spectators safe. Of course, the Blues/Villa game wasn’t just any old game. There’s obviously a fierce rivalry. Let’s face it, we are an island nation and nothing seems to satisfy some people better than a good fight, particularly if it’s against a hated ‘neighbour’, even though the reason for the hate can only be explained by the fact that ‘the guy I decided to smack likes something that I don’t’. Personally, I don’t get the mentality.

All public sides have to own a piece of this. News media often stoke the fires and you only have to check a few social media hashtags to see the effect it has on the many keyboad warriors, who then have their effect on the eventual perpetrators. Perhaps dispensing ‘chill pills’ before the games is the answer?!

And onto the football. I’m still taking Man City to win the Premiership but Liverpool’s key players staying fit could swing it for them. The Championship is a lot more interesting, with eight or nine teams still in with a chance of making the play offs. Good luck to West Brom and Villa.

Till next time...

Back of the net!

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

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

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

We invite you to join ‘the club’ Come along to our Open Weekend and discover one of the longest and most picturesque courses in Worcestershire. Established in 1894 our beautiful 9 hole, 18 tee golf course is truly a course for all abilities with magnificent views of surrounding Cotswold hills and the River Avon.

After your game you can enjoy a fabulous meal or bar snack in the Clubhouse. Relax on the patio with a refreshing drink or check out the Pro-Shop. For members there is a varied programme of social events throughout the year and the Clubhouse is also available to hire for private events and functions.

book your visit - play a few holes and we’ll give you a guided tour!

There’s never been a better time to join us - with a new exciting range of Membership Options to suit your lifestyle, you’ll always find a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Evesham Golf Club 01386 860395

www.eveshamgolfclub.co.uk

Open weekends

30/31 March 3/4 August 12/13 October ALL WELCOME!

CrayCombe Links, FLadbury Cross, PersHore, WorCs, Wr10 2Qs

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

39

NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH ALCESTER BT ADVICE: How to stay protected from scam calls. Easy ways to keep safe.

It’s probably a scam if someone calls you out of the blue to, a) tell you your service has been hacked, b) try to remotely take control of your computer or another device, c) tell you they have found a problem with your computer, d) ask for urgent payment and threaten to discontinue your service, e) ask for payment details to activate Call Protect, Caller Display, or any of our other free services.

Make sure not to give out personal details hang up the phone and report the call on our website at bt.com/scams.

Warwickshire Trading Standards Council tax ‘refund’ warning. Warwickshire Trading Standards has received reports that fraudsters are making unexpected (cold) phone calls to Warwickshire residents, claiming that they are calling from the resident’s local district or borough council offices and stating that the resident is owed a refund on their council tax.

The fraudster then asks for the resident’s debit or credit card details, so that the ‘refund’ can be paid on to the card or into their account.

Trading Standards Officers suspect that these bogus phone calls are being made now as new council tax bills for 2019/20 will shortly be sent to residents. NEVER provide your bank or debit/credit card details to any cold callers, no matter who they claim to be. You could have money stolen from your bank account.

If you think a call is genuine, phone the organisation back using a publicly advertised telephone number. Use a different phone or wait a few minutes to ensure the previous caller has hung up. 1) For more Trading Standards email alerts, visit: https://www. warwickshire.gov.uk/allscamalerts. 2) Make a scam/rogue trader complaint to Trading Standards via Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 03454 040506. 3) Avoid rogue traders. Use Warwickshire Trading Standards No Rogue Traders Here approved trader scheme, visit https://www.noroguetradershere. com/ The next meeting of NHW Alcester will be held on Wednesday 5 June 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.

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 robert.shaw@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk PC 1672 Robert Davies (Beat Manager) robert.davies4@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk PCSO 6320 Hayley Wright Hayley.wright@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk PCSO 6327 Carolyn Davis Carolyn.davis1@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk Alcester office: 01789 444816.

Always report an active crime on 999.

Non-emergency calls can be made on 101.

Facebook - Warwickshire Police Twitter - @AlcesterCops Facebook - Alcester Police Instagram - southwarwickshiresnts 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

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

CALL HUGH ON

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

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

✓ Wasps ✓ Rats/Mice ✓ Moles ✓ Insects ✓ Other Mammals & Birds

• Fully qualified and insured • Excellent rates • Friendly discrete service • Short and long term contracts available

Call Nick on 01789 764433 or 07552755202 E: stratfordpestcontrol@aol.com www.stratfordpestcontrol.co.uk

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 564767

ow g s N rin lie ffe pp O Su t Pe

The Local Computer “Doctor”

Pest Control 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 ARD TRAINED TO CITY & GUILDS STANDA Please call Julie to book an appointment

07765 385282

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

www.riversidepetsupplies.co.uk

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

41

Honeybourne Movie Night at Honeybourne Village Hall Saturday 13th April, 7:30 Bohemian Rhapsody (12)

Celebrates the band Queen, their music, and their extraordinary lead singer, Freddie Mercury, who defied convention to become one of the most beloved entertainers ever.

Saturday 11th May, 7:30 Mary Poppins (U)

In Depression-era London, a now-grown Jane and Michael Banks, along with Michael’s three children, are visited by the enigmatic Mary Poppins following a personal loss. Through her unique magical skills, and with the aid of her friend Jack, she helps the family rediscover the joy and wonder missing in their lives.

Cost £3 on the door, refreshments available.

BIDFORD RURAL CINEMA GREEN BOOK

MARY POPPINS RETURNS

has great pleasure in presenting IN APRIL

Film Certificate: U Running time 130 mins + interval

Film Certificate: 12A Running time 130 mins + interval

Ticket price: £2.50 per person

Ticket price: £2.50 per person

Friday 5 April at 7pm

Friday 26 April 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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stylish corner

S C

Ladies hairdressing Tel: 01789 763052

1 Church Street, Alcester

Up-to-date styling Wedding hair

BIDFORD RURAL CINEMA THE FAVOURITE

THE SPIDER-VERSE

SPIDERMAN: INTO

has great pleasure in presenting IN MAY

Film Certificate: PG Running time 117 mins + interval

Film Certificate: 15 Running time 119 mins + interval

Ticket price: ÂŁ2.50 per person

Ticket price: ÂŁ2.50 per person

Friday 3 May at 7pm

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

Friday 24 May at 7pm

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

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

43

PRICES FROM

£15

*

PER TREATMENT

Your first choice in lawn care 2018 was a difficult year for your garden. Extreme weather conditions resulted in lawns that didn’t look their best.

As we move towards the growing season, now is the time to start preparing your lawn to get the best out of it. Our seasonal treatments start from just £15*.

Due to high demand, and to avoid disappointment, we are advising that you book your treatments early.

If your lawn is beyond repair due to last years sweltering summer, ask us about our Lawn Makeover - the best way to get ‘the GreenThumb lawn.’

For your FREE lawn analysis & no-obligation quote, contact your local branch today.

Simply call 01905 840740 or email worcester@greenthumb.co.uk www.greenthumb.co.uk

*Based on a lawn size up to 40m2

44 connectionmags.co.uk

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A new addition to Salford Hall Hotel:

One well-earned AA Rosette

A

beautiful Tudor manor, built in 1470, and relatively unchanged by time, Salford Hall Hotel has recently earned an AA Rosette for its restaurant’s delectable culinary offerings. The rosette indicates that the food at Salford Hall has been “prepared with care, understanding and skill” using “good quality ingredients”.

The accolade is sure to help this lovingly restored hotel stand out all the more in the local area, and draw in further interest and custom for their fantastic range of events. From their regular Sunday Jazz Lunches to murder mystery events and their upcoming comedy nights, Salford Hall has offerings for everyone.

Its picturesque setting in the Vale of Evesham also makes Salford Hall the perfect location for weddings, at which guests can be sure to enjoy a delicious meal before resting their dance-weary feet in one of the hotel’s 36 bedrooms. If you’ve recently become engaged, visit one of the hotel’s wedding fayres where you can meet local wedding suppliers and the team responsible for making the day one to remember.

Salford Hall Hotel restaurant is open daily for lunch between 12 noon and 2pm. Dinner is served from 6.30pm to 9pm.

To make a reservation, please call 01386 871300 or visit www.salfordhall.co.uk/restaurant

Salford Hall Hotel

UPCOMING EVENTS

STAND UP COMEDY

WEDDING FAYRE

Hosted by James Dowdeswell with Jarred Christmas, Simon Evans and Paul Tonkinson.

We have early bird tickets available for a limited time at £22.50 per person.

(Usual price is £29.99).

Show starts at 8pm.

With local preferred suppliers.

FREE to attend. Complimentary glass of bubbly and mini desserts & canapés to try

EASTER SUNDAY JAZZ LUNCH

Enjoy a 3 course Sunday lunch for

Friday 12th April:

Sunday 21st April

Enjoy a 3 course Sunday lunch & Easter egg hunt, with prizes for adults & children.

£22.00 per person £11 per child (under 10s)

Sunday 12th May, 12-4pm

JAZZ LUNCH Sunday 26th May

£22.00 per person

80’s TRIBUTE NIGHT Friday 31st May

With Paul Stone as Billy Idol, also performing songs from INXS, Whitesnake, Guns’N’Roses and more.

£9.99 per person

01386 871 300

Abbots Salford, Evesham, Worcestershire, WR11 8UT

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

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

45

“Walk slowly,” say the guides, “listen to the silence” and as you gaze at the remains of palaces, the game courts, the unusual Twin Pyramids or the Lost World where ancestors observed the Milky Way, the old stones release the most powerful vibes across the land. Temples rise, unperturbed by the passing of time, from the old Inscription Temple to the Jaguar Priest, the most recent, built around 810 AD.

Tikal Guatemala In the north-east corner of Guatemala, between Belize and Mexico, Tikal is an awesome site, the once powerful city of Maya rulers, now smothered in virgin forest. Discovered in the mid19th century, it lies within the Tikal National Park listed by UNESCO for both its natural and cultural wonders.

The site greets you with an ancient reservoir, one of 20 or so designed to capture rainwater, a couple of museums and a visitors’ centre, but beyond the entrance there is no commercialisation, just pristine jungle bristling with remains. Howler monkeys swing in the trees, toucans splash colour here and there and you might come across tarantula and rattle snakes or the odd crocodile basking by the water. Fortunately jaguars are likely to keep away. The main circular trail meanders for miles and guides will keep

46 connectionmags.co.uk

everyone safe as they point out some of the 185 species of trees, including the lofty ceiba, the national emblem, the incense tree, still precious for Maya rituals, and the sturdy Ya wood once used for lintels, at its best when cut during the full moon.

The city was founded around 600 BC, and after modest beginnings the Tikal rulers established their dynasty, growing from strength to strength as they developed agriculture, religion and trade, built monuments and causeways and encouraged culture and arts. By 750 AD Tikal had 100,000 residents, but by 900 AD dwindling resources and warfare had brought its demise. Yet sizeable vestiges have been unearthed while others are still buried in the surrounding rainforest. According to experts, this is the most important city of the Classic Period in Maya civilisation.

/theconnectionmag

Most impressive is the Grand Plaza, the heart of the city, with its acropolis for residential areas and royal tombs and several temples where important religious events were held. Among them are the Temple of Masks and the Great Jaguar Temple, the true icon of Guatemala, protecting the tomb of the famous Jasaw. A scene carved in sapodilla wood shows the victorious ruler carried back to the city on his people’s shoulders.

But away from it all and wonderfully quiet is Temple IV, also known as the ‘Two-headed Snake’, erected around 745 AD and the highest at 65 metres.

Climb to the top – steps are carefully concealed around the back – and the jungle takes your breath away, a dense ocean of greenery spreading as far as you can see. Mysterious sounds echo in the breeze, shadows vanish in the undergrowth and, rising eerily above the trees, the old Maya temples bear witness to a distant past.

Solange Hando

@connection_mag

YOUR FRIENDLY LOCAL VETERINARY SURGERY

Grooming At Ferns

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TEL: 01527 893016 FAX: 01527 893008

01386 792554 • 07790 392641

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Gates & Railings

we buy & sell

also clearance service

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I make gates and railings

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

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

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

Working in the local area for 25 years

email: wizpan1@outlook.com

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tel: 01386 833894

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

47

48 connectionmags.co.uk

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CLOUDY WINDOWS?

...it’s quick and easy to re-glaze!

Call today for a FREE quote from local NVQ-qualified glazier, Alex Swancott.

DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL ELECTRICAL WORKS

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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

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49

Alcester Town Council APRIL/MAY 2019

Alcester Benefactions Board

Housed within St Nicholas Parish Church is an artefact of national importance which was probably made and painted locally some 400 years ago specially for the town. On the two sheets of parchment enclosed within it are listed many acts of charity for the benefit of the town from 1562 to 1904. These include Fulke Greville giving 300 pounds for building the Town Hall in 1618, Walter Newport giving 400 pounds in 1600 to establish the free school which became the Grammar School and William Smallwood giving 4000 pounds in 1892 to build the Alms Houses on Birmingham Road.

It’s Good to Talk

There has never been a more important time to talk about youth mental health. Mental ill health often starts in young adulthood, so it is vital that we give young people access to the support they need to grow up happy, healthy and resilient. That’s why Alcester Town Council has teamed up with Lifespace Trust to deliver an accredited Youth Mental Health First Aid training to local young people in collaboration with all three secondary schools in the Town. For more information contact: Wendy Sherwood on 01789 766084 or email: info@alcester-tc.gov.uk

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 - Tuesday 9 April Planning - Monday 1, 15 & 29 April Community Care - Tuesday 16 April Community Facilities - Tuesday 23 April Presidium - Tuesday 30 April 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:

The Board is normally hung on the North wall of the church but has had to be removed while renovations to the stonework are carried out. This presented an ideal opportunity for some long-overdue cleaning, analysis and conservation of this important piece. Paint analysis and examination by a timber furniture conservator will provide a greater understanding of this unique Board. £15000 is needed to fund the work of the various specialists involved and to improve security and lighting of the Board.

If you would like to know more about the Benefactions Board or wish to contribute towards the costs please contact David Moulson at dmoulson@hotmail.com or on 01789 764092.

50 connectionmags.co.uk

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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Spring is in the air! Try Crown Green Bowling

A

surprising number of Alcestrians do not know the whereabouts of the bowling green in the town, although its history goes back over 300 years. The earliest references are to the existence of a “bowling alley” in 1622 and in 1683 of a “bowling green”, although it is unclear if these were on the site of the present-day green.

Nowadays the green hosts the Alcester Bowling Club, who play crown green bowls, making the green the most southerly crown green in the country, as well as one of the oldest. Each season the Club enters eight teams in league competitions in the south Birmingham area.

For those who are less competitive, members meet on Monday and Thursday mornings and on Saturday afternoons for social play. The season runs from April to September each year.

Crown green bowIs is played on an equal basis by all ages and both sexes. The Club is looking to expand its membership, so is arranging an Open Week in April when anyone looking for something new can come along and find out more. The game requires no special dress other than that

footwear should be flat soled (trainers are ideal), the Club providing all other necessary equipment.

So, why not come along and try your hand at the game? For further information contact John Westmoreland on 07483 240465.

Where, then, is the green? It is located at the end of Meeting Lane, off Henley Street near the Town Hall.

Come along to our open week: 22 - 30 April, 11am to 5pm

Alcester Bowling Club, Meeting Lane, Alcester, B49 5QT

Martin Grinnell

FUNERAL SERVICES

Your local independent funeral director serving the local community for almost 30 years.

• • • •

Professional Personal Service 24 Hour / 7 Days a Week Home Visits Private Chapel of Rest

Please contact Martin at anytime

01386 422233 1 Bewdley Street, Evesham, Worcestershire, WR11 4AD 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 5th April, 7.00 pm, MARY POPPINS RETURNS (Cert U) Early release film for all the family starring our very own Emily Blunt.

Friday 26th April, 7.00 pm, GREEN BOOK (Cert 12A). Oscar winning early release film, starring Viggo Mortensen and Oscar Winning actor Mahershala Ali. Friday 3rd May, 7.00 pm, SPIDER-MAN: INTO THE SPIDER-VERSE (Cert PG), 2019 Oscar Winning film in the Best Animated category.

Friday 24th May, 7.00 pm, THE FAVOURITE (Cert 15). Starring another Oscar Winner Olivia Coleman as well as Rachel Weisz and Emma Stone.

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.

VILLAGE EVENTS Tuesday 23rd April @ 7pm (tbc) Local Community Forum at the Parish Council Meeting Room, Bramley Way, when the issue of the closure of Lloyds Bank will be on the Agenda (we have invited Lloyds bank and the Post office to attend and answer any queries).

Friday 26th April (Easter Holidays) at 11am to 1.00 pm HI-5 FREE SPORT FRIDAY on the Big Meadow.

Thursday 2nd May – Local elections.

11/12th May – Annual Vintage Gathering Weekend on the Big Meadow.

18th May 9.30am – 12.00 “Meet your Sports and Community Groups” - (Annual Parish Assembly part 1) at the Crawford Memorial Hall – an opportunity for the local community to see and talk to the number of local groups in our parish.

BIG MEADOW Weather permitting, as 30th March falls on a Saturday, the summer 2019 will start on 30th March.

Don’t forget that residents of Bidford-on-Avon Parish are entitled to a Free Car Pass obtainable form the Parish Council Office in Bramley Way. You can download the application form from http://

52 connectionmags.co.uk

www.bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk/pdfs/bigmeadowcarpass.pdf. Please be aware the toilets may still be closed due to a full refurbishment taking place now that electricity has come to the Big Meadow – Portaloo facilities will be in place.

MEETINGS Monday 8th April & 13th May, 7.30pm, Planning Consultative Committee Meeting.

Monday 13th May - Annual Meeting of the Parish Council (after the Planning but no earlier than 8pm).

Monday 29th April & 20th May, 7.30pm, Parish Council Meeting.

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

BIDFORD EMAIL INFORMATION 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. As The Connection Magazine is now bi-monthly, this is a good opportunity to sign up and ensure you are up to date with everything LOCAL. SOCIAL MEDIA - You can also keep up to date by following the Parish Council on social media: via Facebook (Bidford on Avon) and Twitter (@Bidford_ PC). A lot of information and updates are published through Social Media, so do make sure you follow us to stay informed.

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. 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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Create the future you dream of of, little by little

Authentic You

Vision board and journaling workshops April 7th & May 5th 10.30am – 3.30pm

Not enough time to manage your diary, answer emails, return calls, send quotes or chase payments?

Working evenings and weekends to stay on top of your business?

I CAN HELP!

Book a set number of hours a week/month, or I can assist with one off tasks such as a database cleanse or event planning.

Please get in touch and I will be happy to discuss your requirements.

Broom Village Hall Meeting Room; Spaces are limited

ÂŁ45 per person

For more info contact: info@poco-a-poco-coaching.co.uk Dr Erica Bowen, C.Psychol, Registered Psychologist

Computer Trouble-shooter Graham Smith For Domestic and Business Users

Local Bidford PCs Internet

REFERENCES PROVIDED.

caroline@leighfieldhospitality.co.uk

Virtual PA/Office Assistant

email

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Laptops

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Units 1 & 2 Smallbrook Business Centre, Waterloo Ind, Est., Bidford on Avon, Warwickshire, B50 4JE

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

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.

Prepaid funeral plans are also available for future peace of mind.

• 24-hour service • Bereavement advice

Alcester

• Transparent pricing

01789 766 750

• Home visits • Private chapels of rest • Floral tributes • Memorial masonry • Prepaid funeral plans

67 High Street, B49 5AF

Stratford-upon-Avon

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01564 794 795

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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. Monday 1st April, Demonstration by Elaine Stoner "Flowers on Vacation". Competition: "Flower of the month".

May 13th, Demonstration by Alison Glover "You Never Know". Competition: "Flower of the Month".

Relax and enjoy flower arranging at its best with lovely flowers and foliage and entertaining talk. Visitors and new members welcome. Contact: Mrs. Marian Buchanan, 01789 400868.

Broom WI

Our meetings are held at Broom Village Hall, commencing at 7.30pm.

Thursday 4th April, 'An Introduction to Ancestry', with Bill Watts.

Visitors are welcome.

Thursday 2nd May, Resolution Meeting - members only. Refreshments are served at all our meetings.

Cupcake Café at Salford Priors

Saturday 6th April and 4th May, 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 Gardening Club

Our meetings are held The Centre, Jubilee Court, Lea Close, Alcester at 7.30pm.

Thursday 4th April, Glenis Dyer from Welford will give us a talk called 'Fifty Shades of Green!' Glenis is famous for her clematis collection which we visited a couple of years ago. Everyone is welcome. Guests are £3 to include tea/coffee and biscuits. Last chance to book for the trip to Oxford Botanic Gardens on May 12th.

Please call the secretary on 01789 765105 for details.

Sunday May 12th, there will be no meeting in May but instead a coach trip to the Botanic Gardens at Oxford, leaving Alcester (Moorfields) at 9.15am. Places are limited so early booking is advised, preference being given to members. Price £18 for members and £20 for guests.

Bidford Gardening Society

Members of the Society hold their Annual Show on Saturday, 6th April in the Crawford Memorial Hall, Bidford. Please come and see the displays of flowers, shrubs, pot plants and floral art. Public viewing is from 2 to 3pm after the judging and admission is free.

Thursday, 18th April, when Neil Kenney will present a talk entitled 'Japanese Acers - Myth Busting.' Neil, who haswon26GoldMedalsexhibitingtreesfromhisnursery near Coventry, will bring a few small specimens for sale.

On Thursday, 16th May the subject will be 'Arts, Crafts and Edwardian Gardens' by Marion Dale - a look at this

56 connectionmags.co.uk

short-lived but influential period of history in garden design, including Gertrude Jekyll's lasting impact on our plant choices. Visitors are very welcome to join us at any of our meetings at 7.45 pm on the third Thursday of the month in the Crawford Memorial Hall, Bidford.

Admission only £3.00 including refreshments. For further details, please ring 01789 268974 or go to www. bidfordgardens.com.

Salford Priors Ladies Group

Meet on the 2nd Wednesday of each month, (except in May) 7.30pm at the Memorial Hall, School Road, Salford Priors. Wednesday 10th April, “Where do you think we are?” Members Wendy & Janey show some of their holiday slides.

Tuesday 7th May, Visit to Cookery School - time to be arranged. Visitor's fee including refreshments is £2.

Contact Barbara McIlwaine on 01789 778392.

Alcester Ladies Probus We are a friendly club for ladies, meeting for lunch

every 2nd Wednesday of the month at Kings Court Hotel, Kings Coughton, 12.15 for 12.45, followed by a speaker. On Wednesday 10th April, Richard Churchley. "Surnames - their history."

May 8th, Carol Zambonini: "Dementia in Alcester" Visitors are very welcome so come and meet us and we hope you may like to become a member. Contact: Mrs. Cynthia Hill, Hon. Secretary 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 11th April, Rebecca Jones will be relaxing us with her talk - and presumably exercises - on the subject of Yoga. Come along and join us in, hopefully, a very relaxing and therapeutic evening. All members and visitors are most welcome.

Our May meeting is on Thursday 11th. A very busy and enjoyable evening is planned. The WI annual resolutions will be discussed. After all the talk, there will be a cheese and wine evening with members sharing their craft interests and skills. Something for everyone - talk, food and drink and an introduction to a possible new hobby. What more could you ask for? Do come and join us. All welcome.

Bidford on Avon WI

Our April meeting is on the 11th, 7.30 at the Bidford Methodist Church. You may not like them but Paul will be giving us an intriguing insight into the insect world with his talk ‘Tarantula Spiders and the like’.

Same time and place for the May meeting on the 9th when we will be voting on the resolution to be discussed at the National Annual meeting in June.

If you would like more information please contact Ann 01789772409 or Pauline 01789 773390.

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community events & what’s on...

To publicise any community events, email info@connectionmags.co.uk by 12th of the month Bidford & District History Society Meet at Crawford Hall, Bidford, B50- 4EZ at

7.30pm. Friday 12th April ‘100 years of Women's Policing in the West Midlands', speaker: Corinne Brazier.

Friday 17th May, ‘Charles II , the later Stuart", speaker: Dr Stewart Tolley.

Alcester Singers Easter Concert on 13th April, 7.30pm at St Nicholas Church, Alcester.

Performance of Magnificats by CPE Bach, John Rutter and Pergolesi with professional soloists. Tickets £12 (under 14s free) from : 01789 488401 : 01789 400295 : Humphries Shoes, Alcester.

Cookhill Garden Club

Meetings are at Cookhill Village Hall at 7.30pm. On Wednesday 17th April Rob Hurst from the Cottage Herbery will be giving a presentation on "Luscious Leaves and Succulent Shoots". The meeting starts at 7.30 pm. and newcomers are always welcome.

Our guest speaker on Wednesday 15th May, Harry Green the Head Gardener at Morton Hall will be giving a presentation, 'A Year of Gardening at Morton Hall' Newcomers are always welcome. Further information at www.cookhillgarden.club.

Bidford Health Centre

Wednesday 15th May, 7pm start - Arthritis Information Evening. Please phone Health Centre on 773372 after 10am any day to reserve a place. Also see Bidford Parish Council and Bidford Health Centre websites.

Bidford Area Community Choir

We are delighted to report that the Choir won the Arts Organisation of the Year in the Stratford District Pride Awards! And on to our Summer Concert, on Saturday 8th June at 7pm atThe Barn,Waterloo Road, Bidford. Tickets £7.50 on the door, incl refreshments. www.bidfordareacommunitychoir.weebly.com.

This concert will allow us to give a donation to Salford Priors Guides. We are also looking for new members for the teen harmony group and the children's choir.

Alcester Garden Walkabout

on Sunday 16th June. Plants, teas, ice creams. Around 20 large and small gardens behind the ancient houses in the centre of our conservation area. Tickets £5 on sale in Church St. from 12 noon until 5 pm. (under 12s free). 01789 764756. (sorry, no dogs allowed in the gardens).

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. New members

always receive a warm welcome. Full details of membership are available by email: jackwinder2011@ btinternet.com.

Bidford Playreading Group

Every last Monday of the month at 7pm at Bidford Community Library, Bramley Way, Bidford. £2 includes tea and biscuits.

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.

Salford Priors Reading Group

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.

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.

STRADFAS (Stratford member of the Arts Society) We hold lectures on the third Thursday of each month at the Stratford Play House at 10.45 am and again at 1.30 pm. The lecturers are nationally accredited in a wide area of subjects. Membership also includes opportunities to join art trips in this country and abroad, attend days of Special Interest and work with our Heritage volunteers. Guests are welcome. For more details email: membership@stradfas.org.uk or website: www.stradfas.org.uk.

Nordic Walking

Free Nordic Walking sessions. Nordic walking is an exhilarating exercise in disguise that helps you tone up, slim down and get fitter. Come and feel the magic yourself. It's more than just a walk in the park! Contact Kathrin on 07875 609324.

Little Stars, St Nicholas Church ... a fun time of stories and songs for under 5’s and those looking after them. It is held at St Nicholas Church, Alcester every Friday morning from 10.00am, during term time, followed by activities and time for chat and coffee. For further details contact Revd. Sue Henwood on 01789 488344 or email sue.henwood@live.co.uk.

Bidford Bowling Club

We are looking to welcome new members to the club, situated next to the Crawford Memorial Hall. We have a very good bowling green, excellent club house with well appointed kitchen, bar and facilities and social events. The clubhouse is available for private hire.

No bowling experience is necessary as coaching is available. Contact 01789 488264 or 778809.

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

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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 April and May

Every Mon Every Wed Every Thurs Every Thurs Every Fri Sat 13th April Sat 20th April Fri 24th May

7pm - 8.30pm 9.30am - 12.30pm 6.45pm - 9pm 8.15pm - 9.45pm 9am - 12.30pm 9am - 5pm 10.30am - 1.30pm 8pm - 9.30pm

Martial Arts Club - Mr T. Moore, 07491 673608.

Yoga classes (3) - Rebecca Atkinson 07710 318041.

Arrow Action Group (Special Needs) - Mrs J. Appleby, 01789 766224.

Tai Chi Classes - Jane Bowen, 01789 763866.

Yoga Classes - C. Maguire, 07568 562416.

Garden Furniture Sale - Mr. H. Arnold 07787 379474.

Town Criers Competion - Mr. V. Blake 01789 764128.

“Into The Wilderness” Comedy Play - G Chapman 07706 644538.

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 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.

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.

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.

Local Art Club, Alcester

Open to anyone who is interested, 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.

Craft Club Alcester

Calling all embroiderers, crocheters, knitters, illustrators, crafters of all disciplines! An informal free monthly meet up at the Holly Bush pub in Alcester on the 2nd Monday of the month. Bring along whatever you are working on for a couple of hours of inspirational chat wth likeminded souls.

Children’s answers: Crossword solution - Across: 2. Worms, 3. Leaf, 6. Sunshine, 7. Thaw, 9. Rainbow, 12.

Eggs, 13. Mud, 15. Rain, 17. Easter.

Down: 1. Green, 4. Flower, 5. Nest, 6. Spring, 8. Holiday, 10. Warm, 11. Puddle, 14. Grass, 16. Ice. The word that can be unscrambled is... Flowers.

Sudoku solutions

Easy grid

Not so easy grid

(see page 6)

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Thank You For Helping Us Raise £3,000 for Charity!

Thank you to those big hearted local businesses who supported our March Big Breakfasts in Alcester & Bidford.

Thank you to all who came & enjoyed a freshly cooked ‘Full Warwickshire’ with the best of local produce.

Thank you to our ‘Rotary Friends’ who donned the blue pinnies to come & help us & be part of the fun!

We’d love more Rotary Members & Rotary Friends in the Alcester & Bidford Area to help with events such as these. If you would like to visit one of our friendly, informal meetings, or find out more about us, please email sue@invictusuk.com or call Sue Matthewman on 01527 854723 www.facebook.com/AlcesterandBidfordRotary To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

59

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