The Connection Magazine - August-September 2019

the

connection

Around Alcester, Bidford & the Villages

Practising Mindfulness

magazine

August-September ‘19 No. 138

Finance Tips For Students Plus local grant information.

Bidford’s Rubbish Friends

COMMUNITY | LOCAL BUSINESS | ARTICLES

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I ndependentOpt omet r i s t 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

AGW

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

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Useful phone numbers Doctors / Health

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

Hospitals

Redditch Hospital Stratford Hospital Warwick Hospital

Emergency

Emergency Services Alcester Police BT Fault Electric Power Loss Gas Emergency

Others

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

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

Alcester Town Council 766084 Bidford Parish Council 778653 Stratford Dist Council 267575

Welcome

... to the August-September Connection School’s out for summer and we hope that you’re having a sunny, happy one, whether you’re jetting away or having a stay-at-home break (if you’re having a break at all, that is).

Many parents will be preparing youngsters for a new term, whether that be for nursery, primary/secondary school or even university. Young people flying the nest for their first taste of higher education might be wondering how on earth they’ll afford to enjoy fresher’s week and beyond, so we’ve got some finance tips on page 48 just for you. There’s also details of some local grants you might be able to apply for on page 49.

If, like many at the moment, you’re becoming increasingly concerned about the effects our everyday lives are having on the environment, have you considered joining a local litter picking group? There’s plenty around at the moment, and we’ve some details of Bidford’s fantastic ‘Rubbish Friends’ (p.24) Or perhaps you’re considering the impact of your driving habits and fancy an electric car as your next vehicle? This edition’s motoring article has 10 of the best around to get you thinking (p.34-36).

As usual, we have food for thought with ‘Heads Up Now’, in which writer Christopher Spriggs has Toy Story fever, and continuing the theme of mental health promotion, our health article focuses on mindfulness, which you can discover more about on page 28.

Our last edition appealed for your nominations for our first Community Star award. We’ve had some great entries and are thrilled to announce our winner as Alan Benjamin. You can read more about why he is so deserving of this accolade in our October-November edition.

Congratulations also go to P Stephenson, winner of the Kindle Paperwhite & £15 Amazon voucher from our June-July competition. Perhaps there are some titles in our Book Review (p.54) that you might like to start your e-reading journey with?

Please keep an eye on our Facebook page for more competitions in the near future.

Finally, don’t forget to support your local businesses this time of year. It’s always quiet over the summer for many high streets, so make sure you stop by to say “hi” to the many lovely shop owners around our communities.

Until next time...

Amy

October-November Copy Deadline: Friday 13th September

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.

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BLINDS QUALITY INTERIOR & EXTERIOR BLINDS ROLLERS • VERTICALS VENETIANS • SHUTTERS AWNINGS • WOODSLATS PERFECT-FIT

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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

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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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Cotswold Upholstery Serving the Cotswolds and surrounding areas • Re-Upholstery - wide range of fabrics and leather • Wing Arm Chairs, Suites, Chaise Longue • Loose Covers • Frame/Spring Repairs Call us on

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

PRIVATE HIRE & TRANSFERS

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Are you planning on purchasing a property this year?

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Are you on the lender’s standard variable rate?

Has your mortgage payment recently increased?

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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.

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

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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

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Offer valid with voucher only.

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Our Promise To You:

 FREE home visits / quotes  Great advice, no-obligation  Friendly, no-pressure sales  Best price, first time  Fastest order to fitting time

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Jacksons Jewellery Repairs BEFORE

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Opening Times

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CHIROPODIST Yvonne Hartley

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

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School Road, Salford Priors, WR11 8XD To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk

9

Maple Glazed Pork with Mediterranean Veg Kebabs

These chunky meat kebabs with a sweet sticky glaze are perfect for a barbeque or al fresco supper served with warmed flatbreads and salad.

Makes 8 Place the cubed pork in a non-metallic container and add the lemon juice, half the oil and the dried oregano and garlic. Toss to coat then cover and leave to marinate in the fridge for 3-4 hours or overnight.

Ingredients

750g lean pork fillet, cubed Juice of 1 lemon 2 tbsp olive oil

2 tsp dried oregano

1 garlic clove, crushed

2 large red peppers, deseeded and cubed 2 courgettes, sliced

2 red onions, peeled and cubed 6 tbsp maple syrup

4 tbsp tomato ketchup

TIP

1 tbsp mild mustard

Thread the pork, pepper, courgettes and red onion onto 8 long metal skewers. Cook on a preheated barbeque or under a hot grill for 10-15 minutes, turning frequently, until the pork is cooked through and the vegetables are lightly charred.

Meanwhile, mix the remaining oil, maple syrup, ketchup and mustard together and brush all over the kebabs for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking time, until glazed and sticky. Serve immediately.

Marinating the meat in lemon juice and oil will make it extra tender. Add some chopped chilli for a spicy touch or add 2 tbsp light soy sauce, if liked.

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

TASTER DAY Saturday 28th September 2019 10.30am - 4.30pm

Come and meet many of our suppliers and sample delicious products for a real flavour of Hillers Live Music • BBQ • Maize Maze • Sandpit Gift Shop • Restaurant • Garden Shop Bird Hide • Display Garden

Thank you for your continued custom...

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

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.

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

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Members of the National

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For all your heating and plumbing needs...

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

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

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#GetTheHeadsUp The cinema was full. My youngest son was half way through a bag of Percy Pigs as the trailers began. “When did the first one come out again, Daddy?” he whispered to me. In 1995 when ‘Toy Story’ was released, well before he was born, it was the first entirely computer generated animation film. Some suggested actors and actresses would no longer be needed.

If you’ve seen Toy Story, you’ll recall how wooden Cowboy, “Woody”, belongs to a child in a red hat called Andy, whose name is scribbled in crayon on the underside of Woodie’s cowboy boot. There is the encounter with space ranger Buzz Lightyear. Battles with the evil emperor, Zurg. Reconciliation with Jessie the Cowgirl and their faithful facelicking horse, Bullseye. A large pink bear, with sinister charm, called Lotso, attempts to build a toy empire. Like all children, Andy grows up and at the end of Toy Story 3 - released nearly a decade ago - Andy passes on his favourite wooden cowboy to a new child, Bonnie. The topsy-turvy childhood transition from A to B (Andy to Bonnie) is complete. Life moves on.

Then Toy Story 4 arrives.

How come this page, usually rambling about young people and mental health, is doing a film review? Because behind the computer animation and beneath the toy’s narrative of navigating their way through Kindergarten, Second Chance Antiques and a fairground, there is a deeply important question being asked of us: To whom do you belong?

Lost, discarded toys gasp in envy when Woody mentions “the kid” to whom he belongs. Oh, to be owned. Just to have someone else’s name written on the underside of your boot.

As poet Mary Oliver puts it, “we are all looking for our place in the family of things”. This isn’t easy. Without spoiling the movie for those who have not yet watched the fight over Woody’s string-pull voice box (will he relinquish the voice he inherited?), and Buzz Lightyear attaining enlightenment as he

realises he is not a robot but has his own Inner Voice (just press the red, green or blue button) - the closing scene is a powerful reminder of the transitions that every person, young and old, faces. Life moves on, again.

The work of psychologist John Bowlby, fifty years ago (just as another Buzz was landing on the moon with Neil Armstrong), was noted for his research into attachment theory. Bowlby believed that all children, from birth, need to develop a strong, supportive relationship with at least one primary caregiver for the child to develop socially and emotionally. “In the presence of a sensitive and responsive caregiver, the child will have a ‘safe base’ from which to explore.” In the 1980s, Attachment Theory extended to adults.

We all need a safe base as a starting point.

Good mental health in people - you, me, the child in the cinema - is a lifelong process.

No pill or programme will ‘fix it’ for always.

If we want to reverse the alarming trends of escalating anti-depressant use and youth suicide then we have to get beneath behaviours and understand the nature of belonging. For adults, our task - just like Homer’s hero Odysseus thousands of years ago - is learning to belong to ourselves. To write our own name upon our life. To lean toward the inner voice that as the Sufist poet Rumi said, “will never betray you”. Good mental health means recognising life is not a Kindergarten for ever. You have to look after you. There are ups and downs, but there are also Second Chances. As we adults model this possibility, it creates a narrative for young people to follow. They can aspire, in time, to know that they belong. Begin with a safe base, then aspire to infinity and beyond.

Toy Story 4 is a dazzling movie, full of contrast and changing loyalties. The best films mirror life. That’s why the movie moves us. The story becomes Our Story. We get to own it before the closing credits.

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

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The Local Computer “Doctor”

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

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

The Jewellers in the Alley.

3 Market Place, Alcester, B49 5AE

01789 - 490543 07977 - 599582

You deserve it

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

Over 50 years experience.

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

Mavericks Hair | Beauty | Barbers

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

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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

Tasty Summer Menu Now available 12-9pm daily.

Why not try our delicious homemade dishes?

Daytime fixed price deal. Monday to Saturday 12-6pm: 1 course - £7 | 2 courses - £10 | 3 courses - £13 UNBEATABLE VALUE!

Evening 2 course fixed price deal £13.95.

Monday to Friday 6-9pm.

Add a homemade dessert for just £3!

Book online or call 01789 772420.

Enjoy the Summer Sunshine!

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

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

We are already taking bookings for Christmas Day & Christmas fayre group bookings.

Our Christmas fayre menu is £19.95pp.

Our Christmas Day 6 course menu is only £65pp (12+).

Children’s menu £29.95pp.

Under 3’s: £9.95pp.

Please contact Claire for bookings on 01789 772420 or email goldencross@treasureinns.co.uk

£5 off

£10 off

when you spend £20

when you spend £50

1 voucher per booking. Can be used on FOOD BILLS for tables of up to 8 guests. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Photocopies not accepted. Excludes bank holidays.

1 voucher per booking. Can be used on FOOD BILLS for tables of up to 8 guests. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Photocopies not accepted. Excludes bank holidays.

during August 2019.

during August 2019.

£20 off when you spend £100 during August 2019.

1 voucher per booking. Can be used on FOOD BILLS for tables of up to 8 guests. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Photocopies not accepted. Excludes bank holidays.

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Computer Trouble-shooter Graham Smith For Domestic and Business Users * Local (Bidford)

* Reliable

* Reasonable rates

* PCs

* Laptops

* Virus Problems

* Internet & email

* Printers

* How-to tuition

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

NO FIX, NO FEE F UL LY I NS UR E D

Professional, Bespoke Hairdressing & Barbering Service.

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Complete Landscaping Patios & Driveways Fencing & Decking Water Features Garden Design

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T: 01789 612253 M: 07796 206603 E: enquiries@cedarwoodlandscapes.com

www.cedarwoodlandscapes.com

Call: 01789 766314 www.nasus-hair.co.uk FREE PARKING

Unit 4 Alcester Business Centre, B49 6EL (Next to Spar)

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

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ays.

Tel: 01789 764972

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

17

From Nunnery To Workshop Coming down through Bidford from Tower Hill, many locals will have noticed the building pictured opposite, set back up a bank on the left, the home to Bidford’s Catholic community since the early 1960’s. Plans are now afoot to build a new church in Quinneys Lane and a “Golden Oldies” disco at Crawford Memorial Hall on Saturday 7th has been organised to help raise additional funds for the project.

Father Garry Byrne, Parish Priest serving at St Joseph The Worker, tells us more about the church’s history: “From 1727 the local Catholic community worshipped in the Chapel Room at Salford Hall. In 1803 the Hall was lent for a time to the Benedictine Sisters who had fled religious persecution in Cambria, France, during the Napoleonic era. In 1838 they moved to Stanbrook Abbey, though the Hall was still called “The Nunnery” by locals.

In 1948 a temporary chapel was built. Betty Gower of Bidford, who died last year aged 91, told me how she, her father and brother would arrive

there each Sunday from Bidford, sharing one bicycle between them! The Catholic community, encouraged by Dr Murray, the local GP at the time, realised there should be a Catholic Chapel in Bidford. In 1960 they bought a builder’s workshop and land in Quinneys Lane. It was modified into the present Church. A later GP, Dr Paddy Doherty, left a legacy to the Parish. With this starting point we now intend to build a small church with community facilities. Our plans are progressing, and after further consultation with the community, will be presented for Planning Permission. As such, we invite the local community to share our excitement and enjoy the ‘Golden Oldies Disco’ Night.”

Crawford Memorial Hall BIDFORD ON AVON Sat 7th Sept 7-11pm TICKETS:

£8 in advance £10 on the door IN AID OF:

St Joseph’s New Church Building Fund

BRING YOUR OWN DRINKS & SNACKS

FANCY DRESS WELCOME! 18 connectionmags.co.uk

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The Village Cafe 15B High Street| Bidford on Avon | B50 4BQ

LOCALLY SUPPLIED: Cotswold Coffee Pudding Lane Cakes Hand-made Sandwiches Pastries Milkshakes Afternoon Tea OPENING HOURS:

Monday-Friday: 9:00 - 4:30 Saturday: 9:00 - 3:00

DOG FRIENDLY

Follow @bidfordvillagecafe on Facebook & Instagram.

Bidford Pharmacy 17 High Street, Bidford on Avon, B50 4BQ bidford.pharmacy@numarknet.com bidfordpharmacy.co.uk  01789 772433

Ask our pharmacy healthcare team for advice on…

…effective

SUNSCREEN

PROTECTION FOR YOUR SKIN & EYES

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Vaccination can help protect you and your family against seasonal flu Our service enables you to book a convenient appointment

Available from late September OPENING HOURS Monday-Friday 9am - 6pm Saturday 9am - 1pm Sunday Closed

PHARMACY MEDICINES MEDICINE USE SUPPORT EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION STOP SMOKING SUPPORT EMERGENCY SUPPLIES CONFIDENTIAL HEALTH ADVICE

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19

e a s p i I m b o o u r o i s o f

A c

Add Some Vertical Interest

Whether your garden is large or small, long, wide or a completely uneven shape, you can guarantee that it will benefit from having some height added to it – and what better way to do this than by erecting an arch or arbour? The great thing is that, of course, any vertical structure you install in your garden makes for a new planting opportunity too…

So what are the advantages of a bit of vertical structural interest (aside from the plants it can support) and how can you make the very best of them in your garden?

Position an arbour so that it overlooks a good view or particularly attractive part of the garden and you instantly create a fabulous place to sit and relax. You can also use an arch or even an arbour as a means of dividing your garden into one or more rooms. This age-old

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designer’s trick can make your garden seem a lot larger and more interesting.

Chosen carefully, arches and arbours themselves are good looking and can be a feature in their own right, so don’t necessarily go for the first one you see; shop around and remember that if you clothe them with climbers, you are adding to their appeal.

Any vertical structure you install in your garden makes for a new planting opportunity Some plants look great but others have another secret ingredient: scented climbers, like some of the rambling or climbing roses, or honeysuckle or jasmine, can totally

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transform the whole garden as their perfume wafts out for you to enjoy.

If an arbour is situated in a sunny spot and you have fairly free-draining soil, why not plant an area around it with lavenders? Then you can enjoy both the way it looks and the perfume and aromatic leaves as you sit and relax after a stressful day.

In sunny positions, thymes or camomile can be used to great effect on the approach to your archway or arbour – when your feet gently crush the thyme or camomile lawn, a fantastic aroma will be released.

Arches and arbours are available in a wide range of materials, but by far the most popular are those made from wood or metal. To a large Continued on page 22...

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extent it is a case of shopping from scratch yourself, you will perhaps with a rounded top around to find something that be amazed at the range of and trellis up the sides, you suits your garden style,INthe ready-made ensure a really good planting BOOK YOUR MOWER FOR WINTER SERVICEarbours and kits purpose you have in mind for for both arches and arbours space, and this somewhat SALES • SERVICE • REPAIR • HIRE it and, of course, your budget. that are now available. If you more rustic look fits in well I am a great fan of wood or choose wood, do ensure that with a particularly informal metal garden. Many of these are G Abecause R D E NI find Mthat A Cthey H I N EitRis Ya wood which is either both fitHedgecutters in well with the&sort also relatively inexpensive and incl.

Strimmersnaturally going to resist of gardening style I like and, decay – western red cedar easy to install.

07967 506920 Blackminster, Evesham, WR11 7RE of course, you can always or a hardwood such as oak www.philbasford.co.uk To find• out just what’s LAWN MOWING GRASS CUTTING use one of the numerous and would be my first choice, available, it is well worth For your servicing needs, • HEDGE TRIMMING readily available wood stains with Douglas fir or larch a Tel/Fax: 01386 830283 paying a visit to several local • AUTUMN LEAF CLEARING or paints to transform it from close second. Alternatively • CHAINSAW CARVINGS Collection and delivery service garden centres or taking a look its natural subtly coloured you can choose a softwood at mail-order products from state to a bright blue, rich red which has been tanalised or the numerous arch and arbour or pretty well any colour you pressure-treated with a wood websites, which make window fancy! preservative, which will usually shopping even easier!

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extent it is a case of shopping around to find something that suits your garden style, the purpose you have in mind for it and, of course, your budget.

I am a great fan of wood or metal because I find that they both fit in well with the sort of gardening style I like and, of course, you can always use one of the numerous and readily available wood stains or paints to transform it from its natural subtly coloured state to a bright blue, rich red or pretty well any colour you fancy!

Although it is possible to construct an arch or an arbour

from scratch yourself, you will be amazed at the range of ready-made arbours and kits for both arches and arbours that are now available. If you choose wood, do ensure that it is a wood which is either naturally going to resist decay – western red cedar or a hardwood such as oak would be my first choice, with Douglas fir or larch a close second. Alternatively you can choose a softwood which has been tanalised or pressure-treated with a wood preservative, which will usually be somewhat cheaper.

By choosing a wooden arch,

perhaps with a rounded top and trellis up the sides, you ensure a really good planting space, and this somewhat more rustic look fits in well with a particularly informal garden. Many of these are also relatively inexpensive and easy to install.

To find out just what’s available, it is well worth paying a visit to several local garden centres or taking a look at mail-order products from the numerous arch and arbour websites, which make window shopping even easier!

By Pippa Greenwood

Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood.com and you’ll find some great gardening items: Nemaslug, ladybirds and other great natural pest controls, stylish cloches, practical and pretty plant supports, the fantastic SpeedHoe, gardening tools, planters, Grower Frames, signed books and more! Or why not book Pippa for a gardening talk at your gardening club?

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22 connectionmags.co.uk

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12/07/2019 13:36 To advertise please call 01789 491005 or email info@connectionmags.co.uk 23

Litter Pickers Unite To Keep Bidford Tidy

A

nyone who’s on Facebook these days and a member of a local neighbourhood group on the site cannot fail to have noticed the upspringing of some fantastic voluntary groups across our local areas.

One such group called ‘Rubbish Friends’, based in Stratford-upon-Avon, has inspired Bidford locals, Laura Johnson and Jane Weightman to take action in their own village against the litter problems they’d noticed in the area. At the end of April this year, Laura and Jane went about setting up a new Facebook group called ‘Rubbish Friends (Bidfordon-Avon)’ and on 19th May approximately 60 volunteers of an array of ages and abilities (pretty much anyone can join in!) turned up to make new friends whilst ridding the village of as much waste

as possible over the course of 2 hours. Their second litter pick in June was just as successful, with a total of 19 refuse sacks worth of rubbish collected.

Bidford’s ‘Rubbish Friends’ aim to meet each month at the Fire Station before dispersing with buckets and litter pickers (many donated by local businesses) to keep the village streets tidy.

If you’d like to join them, the next litter pick is Saturday 27th July at 10am, meeting again at the Fire Station, or pop along to their BBQ at the Bulls Head on Bidford High Street from 1pm on Monday 26th August.

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Contemporary Coverings has it covered.

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fter moving into their new store at the start of June, Contemporary Coverings carpets and flooring have gone from strength to strength.

Now located in the Market Square car park next to Waitrose, the new-look store offers a large range of flooring options, from budget to high end, so you’ll be certain to find something to bring your home to life.

Owner Amanda Dilks has been involved in the business for many years and has a wealth of knowledge to help you make the right choice.

“Since we started the business over 20 years ago, along with my husband Andrew, we have been supplying the surrounding area with the best the flooring industry has to offer. The new store has been received fantastically by customers new and old. With a larger showroom we are now able to offer some lovely products like our British wool

Contemporary Coverings

Carpets & Flooring

carpet ranges made by Hugh Mackay as well as our more established brands such as Karndean and Kersaint Cobb to name but a few.

We really are a family business, right through to my brother Jamie who has been installing for us for many years. This means we all take the upmost care in ensuring our customers receive a service we believe can’t be matched by the larger ‘out of town stores’.

We also are constantly looking for products that you wouldn’t see everywhere, and being able to offer something a little different makes us a store thats always worth a look at”.

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So if you’re looking to bring a new lease of life into one room or you’re moving into a new home and need beautiful flooring throughout, the team at Contemporary Coverings can help transform your ideas into reality. With professional, friendly and honest advice, you can be sure you’ll have a floor you will love for years. And now is the perfect time to visit, with 15% discount on all flooring until the end of August when you present your advert from The Connection Magazine.

Visit now at the Market Square car park, next to Waitrose or call 01789 400050 for a free, no obligation quote.

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27

Watching and naming your thoughts and feelings: “Mindfulness isn’t about making these thoughts go away, but rather about seeing them as mental events,” says Dr Williams.

“Imagine standing at a bus station and seeing ‘thought buses’ coming and going without having to get on them and be taken away. This can be very hard at first, but with gentle persistence it is possible.”

Why Doctors are prescribing Mindfulness

Mindfulness has gone from buzzword to a therapy increasingly prescribed by doctors. So what’s it all about?

Mindfulness is…

• Increasing your awareness of what’s going on inside and outside yourself in a particular moment—both physical sensations and emotions.

• Stopping to really notice what you’re thinking and feeling and what sparked these thoughts and emotions.

How it can help Today, many of us rush through our days, reacting ‘off the cuff’ and missing opportunities to take a breath and appreciate what’s around us. Mindfulness means taking a step back to examine what’s going on rather than just reacting.

“It’s about allowing ourselves to see the present moment clearly. When we do that, it can positively change the way we see ourselves and our lives,” says Professor Mark Williams, former director of the Oxford Mindfulness Centre,

By becoming more aware of your thoughts and feelings, you can recognise signs of stress and anxiety earlier and begin

28 connectionmags.co.uk

to see patterns, recognising those that aren’t helpful. This can make it easier to prevent them overwhelming you or leading you into a spiral of negative emotions or actions that make the situation worse.

Mindfulness is increasingly recommended by doctors for mental health

We can all benefit from mindfulness, but it’s now officially recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) to prevent depression in people who’ve had three or more bouts, and is increasingly recommended by doctors for helping with chronic conditions or pain, as well as stress, anxiety or depression.

There’s emerging evidence that it can ease insomnia, too.

Practising Mindfulness The NHS recommends:

Noticing the everyday and trying something new: notice the details of what’s going on around you and try a different seat or going somewhere new for lunch to see things in a new way.

/theconnectionmag

Identify them. “That’s my worry about my Dad’s health.”

“I’m stressed because I’ve got a really busy week.” By being aware of your fears and concerns, you’re more likely to recognise when you’re letting them grow disproportionately to the thing they’re about.

Freeing yourself from the past and future: realising that worries about the past or future can dominate, stopping you from enjoying the now.

If you realise you’ve been reliving or pre-living negative experiences for several minutes, take a moment to focus yourself in the present, appreciating the day and the moment you’re living now.

Taking time out: ideally having more formal, longer mindfulness sessions, focusing on your breathing and your body and bringing your attention back whenever your mind wanders. This could be at home or while travelling.

Find the time and place most convenient and helpful for you.

The NHS recommends the Mental Health Foundation’s online mindfulness course which can be found at www. bemindfulonline.com, or you can find a local teacher: bemindful.co.uk/learnmindfulness.

By Alison RUnham www.alison.runham.co.uk

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Answers on page 58

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INTRODUCING “SPIRIT OF DISCOVERY” Imagine a boutique hotel taken to a new level by applying it to cruising, where the view is an ever-changing vista of land and seascapes. All the service, personality and character you expect, but in a new enchanting location every day. Welcome to Spirit of Discovery, the new luxury ship from SAGA. With a return chauffeur service to the port, world class cuisine from top class Executive chefs, hand-picked wines with lunch and dinner, all cabins with private balcony, all gratuities and WIFI included – this is the world of small ship cruising with SAGA.

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miles on a single charge, and is spacious and comfortable too.

BMW i3s BMW has taken time to refine its i3 all-electric city car, ditching its petrol range extender thanks to better range. The firm has also added this – the i3s – which gives the car a little added performance.

The 10 best electric cars on sale today The rise of the electric car can’t be underestimated. Each manufacturer is rushing their own plug-in car to market, and demand for these new models is increasing by the hour.

But which ones are best?

We’ve put together some of the ideal all-electric cars currently on sale.

Hyundai Kona Electric Hyundai has changed the game with its new Kona Electric. Capable of travelling up to 279 miles on a single charge, it’s got one of the most impressive ranges of any new electric car available. And as a result of being based on the regular Kona, it brings funky styling and plenty of in-car technology too.

It’s all put together in a compact package, which means that it’s just as well suited to urban driving as it is to longer distance motoring.

Jaguar I-Pace The British firm has struggled

34 connectionmags.co.uk

in recent years as the diesel crisis hit shortly after it invested heavily in the fuel.

Fortunately, its bet on an allelectric SUV has paid off, with customers queuing up to buy one.

It’s easy to see why – the I-Pace is fast when you want it to be but a comfortable cruiser when you want to relax. It’s far from cheap at £64,495, but that’s good value compared with the Tesla Model X, its biggest rival, and with almost 300 miles of range recharging should be a rare occurrence.

Nissan Leaf Nissan’s Leaf is often one of the first cars that springs to mind when you think of electric vehicles. It was, after all, one of the very first all-electric cars to become popular, and has gone on to retain a lot of this popularity as the years have gone by.

These days the Leaf can still hold its own. It’ll crack 239

/theconnectionmag

It comes with a tuned stability system and a slightly more dynamic look – but still encapsulates all the good qualities of the regular i3 too.

Kia e-Niro Ever since journalists first got behind the wheel of the e-Niro, they’ve praised the crossover for being good to drive and offering a battery capacity that can consign range anxiety to the past.

However, unfortunately the e-Niro has been a victim of its own success. Kia hasn’t been able to source batteries quickly enough to meet demand for the car, so wait times are now up to about twelve months.

Hyundai Ioniq Electric Do you want the good news or the bad news?

The good news is that the Ioniq Electric is a mighty appealing electric car. It’s practical, good to drive and surprisingly quick, too. The interior feels a little on the cheap side, but it’s far from disappointing.

The bad news, though, is that Hyundai is hit by the same battery shortage as Kia, so wait times can be up to a year. So if you want one, you’re going to have to wait.

Continued on page 36...

@connection_mag

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Audi E-tron Audi may be one of the largest carmakers around, but it’s actually been relatively late when it comes to an all-electric model.

However, this – the E-Tron – is its first model, bringing a premium look and feel as well as impressive electric technology.

Audi claims that it’ll do 248 miles on a single charge, but also provide plenty of space and practicality while it does so.

Renault Zoe The Renault Zoe offers one of the cheapest entry points to EV ownership, but don’t mistake that for meaning it’s a cheap and cheerful offering that should be avoided – the Zoe is a great little supermini.

Opt for the big battery

version and you get 186 miles of range, so most inner-city commuters will only have to charge it once or twice a week. Prices start at just over £17,000 with the plug-in grant.

Tesla Model 3 Tesla could be classed as one of the founding fathers of the electric car. The Model S, its saloon car, has arguably been one of its most successful. But for many, it was just a touch too expensive and a little out of reach.

you really can’t go wrong with the Volkswagen e-Golf.

It brings the build quality and dependability you’d expect from one of the UK’s bestselling models, and simply adds an electric powertrain.

That’s where the new Model 3 chimes in. It’s designed to be a bit more affordable, but still capable of delivering plenty of range and high technology levels too.

It can travel up to 144 miles before the batteries need topping up, and while that’s far from the best in the segment, it’s perfectly acceptable for the typical commuter. With plug-in car grant applied, prices hover around the £30,000 mark.

Volkswagen e-Golf If you’re looking for a safe bet when it comes to your electric vehicle purchase,

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35

version and you get 186 miles of range, so most inner-city commuters will only have to charge it once or twice a week. Prices start at just over £17,000 with the plug-in grant.

Audi E-tron Audi may be one of the largest carmakers around, but it’s actually been relatively late when it comes to an all-electric model.

However, this – the E-Tron – is its first model, bringing a premium look and feel as well as impressive electric technology.

Tesla Model 3 Tesla could be classed as one of the founding fathers of the electric car. The Model S, its saloon car, has arguably been one of its most successful. But for many, it was just a touch too expensive and a little out of reach.

Audi claims that it’ll do 248 miles on a single charge, but also provide plenty of space and practicality while it does so.

That’s where the new Model 3 chimes in. It’s designed to be a bit more affordable, but still capable of delivering plenty of range and high technology levels too.

Renault Zoe The Renault Zoe offers one of the cheapest entry points to EV ownership, but don’t mistake that for meaning it’s a cheap and cheerful offering that should be avoided – the Zoe is a great little supermini.

Volkswagen e-Golf If you’re looking for a safe bet when it comes to your electric vehicle purchase,

Opt for the big battery

you really can’t go wrong with the Volkswagen e-Golf.

It brings the build quality and dependability you’d expect from one of the UK’s bestselling models, and simply adds an electric powertrain.

It can travel up to 144 miles before the batteries need topping up, and while that’s far from the best in the segment, it’s perfectly acceptable for the typical commuter. With plug-in car grant applied, prices hover around the £30,000 mark.

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View From The Boundary

W

ell. Perfect timing for the July issue.

I’m still pinching myself following on from Sunday’s World Cup final.

What an unbelievable ending to a wonderful tournament. For six weeks of cricket to come down to a scenario in which England and New Zealand couldn’t be separated after 50 overs, and the subsequent mini-game, was incredible.

It just couldn’t have been scripted by the most dramatic of writers. But, England are finally world champions. The ‘journey’ has been talked about frequently by the team and the management, but the effort that has gone into not only the cricket, but to shaking the ‘England can’t play one day cricket’ monkey off their backs has been astonishing.

of this ilk. If 4.7 million people watched the final at its peak then we can only hope it may start a journey towards interesting the next raft of Eoin Morgans, Moeen Alis or Ben Stokeses.

Locally, cricket is going well. Exhall & Wixford remain unbeaten in the Cotswold Hills League Premier Division after 10 weeks of cricket and are on course to reclaim the top trophy .

Elsewhere, Great Alne and Bidford are battling it out between themselves for the Division 4 title., but it’s been a season of struggle as Alcester & Ragley, Temple Grafton and Welford look to ensure they remain in their respective leagues.

We have another two months of summer left.

There are at least eight clubs offering cricket within the Connection distribution reach – get Can this success have a knock on effect for local in touch and get involved. Whether it’s playing, cricket? I’m sure that screening the final on watching or volunteering. No-one can guarantee Channel 4 will help - taking any cricket into the it’ll14:27 ever reach mainstream media can only be 225 a good Just thing.

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NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH ALCESTER Police issue warning following burglaries through unsecure windows.

Police are offering the following advice: • Ensure all your windows and doors are locked when you go out and go to bed - don’t forget, burglars can squeeze through small windows. • Don’t leave windows or doors open on the ground floor when you’re elsewhere in the house - it only takes a few seconds for a burglar to get in and out. • Keep valuable items, including car keys, away from open windows • Don’t leave your car keys on display in the house - put them in a drawer. • Set your alarm when you are out and when you go to bed. Detective Sergeant Stuart Hinton said: “ Please take sensible precautions, it only takes a few seconds to get into your property and steal something valuable. For more crime prevention advice, please go online to the Crime & Safety Section of the Warwickshire Police website.

Scams - Action Fraud recently alerted the general public to the following Scams Talk Talk fake emails, 100 of them in the last week, telling recipients they are due a refund HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) Scammers are increasingly targeting vulnerable and elderly people and young adults who are less familiar with the tax system with promises of tax refunds.

Earlier this year HMRC received around 250,000 reports of tax scams, usually when tax returns are due. Tesco Free £45 voucher scam is being posted on Facebook. This is yet another Facebook giveaway scam. and is fraudulent and are very common on Facebook.

Don’t click on the links or attachments in suspicious emails, and never respond to messages that ask for your personal or financial details.

The next meeting of NHW Alcester will be held on Tuesday 8th October 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 6111 Gary Johnson-Jones gary. johnson-jones@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 - Alcester Police Facebook - Warwickshire Police Twitter - @AlcesterCops 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.

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COMING SOON TO BIDFORD RURAL CINEMA

Films start at 7.00pm * Ticket Office opens at 6.30pm * Tickets £2.50 THE CRAWFORD MEMORIAL HALL, SALFORD ROAD, BIDFORD For further information telephone 01789 778653 or 07718 628925 or see www.bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk for showings

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Sunday 4th August & 8th September

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E&DMC '2019' 1ppA5 Mag.Advert:Layout 1

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Ugnius Pauliukonis Piano One of the leading pianists of Lithuania’s new generation.

7.30pm @ Evesham Arts Centre Ticket £17 • U18 £5

Friday 22nd Nov 2019

Barbican Quartet Saturday 21st Sept 2019 Michael Bochmann Violin Carol Hubel-Allen Viola Marcel Zidani Piano

Amarins Wierdsma Violin Timothy Crawford Violin Christopher Slenczka Viola Yoanna Prodanova Cello

7.30pm @ Evesham Arts Centre Ticket £17 • U18 £5

7.30pm • All Saints Church, Evesham Ticket £17 • U18 £5

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Beatrice Hubble Oboe Tom Evans Clarinet Richard Beards Bassoon 7.30pm @ Evesham Arts Centre Ticket £17 • U18 £5

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forest, cliffs and the crater rim rising towards the sky.

Meanwhile on the northern slope, the hot springs of Caldeira Velha nestle among giant ferns and towering trees, nature in the raw almost like a Jurassic Park draped in red rocks and steaming water. An iron-rich waterfall tumbles down into the upper pool, pleasantly warm, but the lower pool reaches a tingling 36C. It’s the perfect way to relax after exploring the nearby trails.

São Miguel, Top Hot Spot in the Azores

Out in the Atlantic Ocean, this is the largest island in the Azores, a colourful place blooming year round but set precariously at the meeting point of three tectonic plates: Eurasian, African and North American. Bristling with dormant craters and cones, laced in waterfalls, hot springs and lakes, it’s truly awesome but these volcanic wonders hold every visitor spellbound.

North-west of Ponta Delgada, the capital, a road winds up into the hills fringed in wild gladioli, hydrangea and agapanthus.

The coastal scenery is delightful but turning inland you soon reach the ‘Royal Belvedere’, where in 1901 Dom Carlos looked down on the twin lakes of Sete Cidades. Framed by verdant slopes, connected by a narrow strait, they spread across the crater of a dormant volcano, their lovely colours reflecting the ever-changing light, one lake as blue as the

46 connectionmags.co.uk

sky, the other turquoise and green. Meadows shimmer along the shore and beyond the slender bridge, the pretty town greets you with cottage gardens, bandstand and church. According to legend, the lakes were created by rivers of tears when a shepherd and his beloved princess parted on the hilltop.

Bristling with dormant craters, laced in waterfalls, hot springs and lakes At the heart of the island, at 575 metres, Fire Lake claims the purest water. In clear weather, vantage points along the road reveal some stunning views, but in its pristine nature reserve the lake can only be reached down a steep trail. The hike along the shore is challenging at times but gorgeous, with luminous water, sandy coves, scrubland and

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In the luxuriant hills in the south-east, Furnas has its own geothermal gems.

Down by the village, a stream meanders orangy-red through mud springs and bubbling pools where you hear the ‘Devil’s Heartbeat’ while mini-geysers pop all around. Then head for the landscaped gardens of Terra Nostra with its walking trails and bathing pools of different temperatures, most amazing the circular lagoon near the entrance, so large it rarely feels crowded. The orange water is likely to colour your skin but before you shower, take time to enjoy its healthgiving minerals.

A short drive away, the crater lake boasts a romantic beach with glistening water and a few pedal boats but you soon smell the fumaroles puffing relentlessly at the foot of the hill. The locals love them: want to cook your Sunday lunch or a festival feast? No problem; just set your pot in the ground, cover it up, and a few hours later the tasty ‘cozido’ stew is ready to share with family and friends.

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

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

Self drive day hire - Weekends & bank holidays £160 per day, weekdays £130 per day Daily hire times 10am to 6pm Please ask for winter hire times

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47

Managing Your Money at University Newfound independence can be exhilarating when you go away to university for the first time, but starting life in a new city also has its challenges. Worries about studying and making new friends can creep in as the new term nears, but managing money is also a significant issue.

The good news is that it’s not difficult to control your finances and live within your means at university, so where do you start as a new student?

Make a budget every month Once you’re set up, budgeting only takes a few minutes every month, and is a fundamental part of managing money. Initially, you need to establish how much money is coming in and the amount you’re likely to spend.

Your income could consist of a maintenance loan, a grant or scholarship, wages from a job or financial contributions from parents, and outgoings can be divided into essential living costs and variable expenses.

Essential living costs typically include food, rent, heating, council tax, contents insurance, mobile phone, broadband and TV licence, with variable expenses including items such as clothes, entertainment,

48 connectionmags.co.uk

course materials, travel and savings.

An interest-free overdraft is commonly offered Choose the best student bank account A student bank account should offer easily accessible support and services specifically designed for undergraduates.

An interest-free overdraft is commonly offered when you open a student bank account, but a credit card may also be available subject to eligibility.

Banks often advertise free gifts to entice students to open an account, but don’t be swayed unless the gift is of particular use to you. A student rail card can be extremely helpful if you’re living a long distance from home, for example, as it saves one-third on the cost of rail travel in the UK.

Nationwide FlexStudent¹ • Fee-free overdraft facility of £1,000 in the first year, £2,000 in the second, and £3,000 in the third year if you pay in at least £500 per term, subject to status.

• UK-only call centres.

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Santander 123 Student² • Interest-free arranged overdraft of up to £1,500 per year subject to status.

• A free four-year 16-25 Railcard that saves you one-third on the price of rail travel in the UK. • Cash back of up to 15% at major retailers.

Take advantage of all student discounts The National Union of Students (NUS) offers a TOTUM³ card for one, two, or three years, with over 200 discounts available in the UK and more than 42,000 discounts worldwide. Cards cost £12, £22, and £32 for one year, two years and three years respectively, and at the time of writing discounts include: • 10% at Co-op • 25% at Odeon cinemas • 30% at Lonely Planet Managing your money at university doesn’t need to be difficult – you just have to be aware of how much is coming into your account and the amount you’re spending.

Budgeting is the best way to stay in control and it’s well worth the extra time to keep an eye on your finances. www. thecompleteuniversityguide. co.uk/university-tuition-fees/ managing-your-money

¹www.nationwide.co.uk/products/ current-accounts/flexstudent/ features-and-benefits ²www.santander.co.uk/landing/ current-accounts/123-studentcurrent-account ³www.nus.org.uk/en/nus-extra/ about-the-card

By Ann Haldon

@connection_mag

are you about to enter the realms of higher education? or do you know someone who is? then you should read this!

The Trustees will again be making financial grants to people living within the boundaries of the Parish of Bidford-on-Avon (which includes Barton, Broom and Marlcliff) who will be furthering their education at university or college for the academic year commencing in September 2019.

If you would like to be considered for a grant, please write a letter of application (there are no forms) to: The Clerk, Mrs Joy Keeley, 30 Icknield Close, Bidford-on-Avon, Warwickshire, B50 4BZ. As well as your name and address, and how long you have lived in the parish, please give full details of your course ie name of university/ college, nature of qualifications, subjects and year of study.

PERKINS EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION AWARDS FOR THE ACADEMIC YEAR 2019-2020

The Governors of this charity, founded in 1656 by William Perkins of Salford Priors and London, invite applications for awards from young people under the age of 25.

Grants are available to help with expenses in courses of study in further and higher education, vocational training such as apprenticeships, and in some circumstances, structured programmes of personal development such as overseas visits. Awards are not normally given to those under 17 years of age.

Applicants must have been resident in one of the following parishes – Salford Priors, Bidford, Broom, Cleeve Prior or Harvington – for not less than two years immediately prior to their application.

Application forms are available, upon written request, from the Clerk to the Governors, email info@williamperkinscharity.org Alternatively, an application form can be downloaded from the website:

www.williamperkinscharity.org Forms for applicants who wish to be considered for an award for the academic year 2019-2020 will be available from 1st May, 2019.

Completed forms should be returned to the Clerk not later than 15th October, 2019.

No applications received after that date can be accepted for consideration by the Governors for the academic year 2019-2020.

Applicants may be required to attend before the Governors for an interview at a time and place to be notified in due course by the Clerk.

The Clerk to the Governors Perkins’ Educational Foundation 10 Elm Court Arden St Stratford-upon-Avon Warwickshire CV37 6PA

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

49

Alcester Town Council AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

Well deserved awards for Alcester’s volunteers Warwickshire County Council, Warwick District Council, Stratford-upon-Avon District Council and Warwickshire Community and Voluntary Action (WCAVA) joined forces to stage a special event at Myton School, Warwick on Thursday 13 June 2019 in celebration of Volunteers Week and in recognition of the hard work and dedication that volunteers make in the local community.

Three members of the volunteering community of Alcester were nominated. All were recognised and received awards. David Moulson, MBE received the Community Impact Individual award for his long service to Alcester.

Maggie Payne, the Environment Individual award for her work with Alcester in Bloom and a Special Recognition Award was given to Betty Addison.

conditioned function rooms and a small office.

Free wifi is available. All facilities are available to hire. For an additional fee, use of crockery, cutlery, glasses, audio visual equipment, a later finish time and in the larger Hertford Room a room divider can be arranged.

Please email alcester.jubileecentre@gmail.com for more information.

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

Full Council Meeting - Tues 6 Aug & 3 Sept Planning - Mon 5 & 19 Aug and 9 & 30 Sept Community Care - Tues 13 Aug & 10 Sept Community Facilities - Tues 20 Aug & 17 Sept Presidium - Tues 27 Aug & 24 Sept 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 Neighbourhood Development Plan The Neighbourhood Development Plan has just undergone Regulation 16 public consultation carried out by Stratford on Avon District Council. Comments will be collated and then the plan will go before an Independent Examiner selected by the Town Council.

The Jubilee Centre The Jubilee Centre is a community building, located on the Jubilee Fields. It is owned and managed by Alcester Town Council to provide a multi-function community facility for the town. The building consists of two large air-

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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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.

At the time of writing this newsletter, the films for the forthcoming season have not been selected.

So its is important you check the website/notice boards for films Bidford rural cinema is closed during August and will start its new season on Friday 6th September with the second screening taking place on Friday 27th Sept. As usual, the venue is Crawford Memorial Hall, Salford road, B50 4EZ and the Ticket Office opens at 6.30 pm and screening time is 7.00 pm The ‘Coming Soon’ poster is available on page 42. You are able to see a trailer online of the film being screened on our website. See page 42 for more details.

PARISH COUNCIL WORK EXPERIENCE The Parish Council is keen to offer the younger members of our community the opportunity to see and experience how local government works at its lowest level. The experience will involve working with the Clerk at the Parish Council Office at Bramley Way, helping with filing, destruction of documents, answering the phone and generally learning how a local council works. He or she will also attend meetings if they fall during their work experience period, so they will see how an Agenda for the meeting is prepared, etc.

If you are interested, please contact the Clerk on 778653 or 07718 628925 or email info@ bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk. It is understood this can be used for DoE Award and School Work Experience Placement.

VILLAGE EVENTS Details of all events can be found on the Parish Council website events page bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk/events.htm Friday 2nd August, 11am - 1pm, HI5 FREE SPORT FRIDAY on the Big Meadow. Full details available online at Sunday 11th August, 10am - 5pm Giant Summer Market and Fun Fair on the Big Meadow.

Saturday 17th August, 2 - 4pm, Music on the Meadow.

Saturday 7th September, 7 - 11pm, Golden Oldies 60s, 70sm 80s Disco at the Crawford

52 connectionmags.co.uk

Memorial Hall, Salford Road, B50 4EZ. BIDFORD COMMUNITY LIBRARY Don’t forget this year’s Summer Readon Challenge which runs at Bidford Community Library, Bramley Way, B50 4QG from 13 July to 6th September. This year’s theme is ‘Space Chasers’ with theme based activities for the children.

MEETINGS Monday 12th August & 9th September, 7.30pm, Planning Consultative Committee Meeting.

Monday 19th August & 30th September - 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. It is at these meeting that decisions that directly affect our village and our local community are made – so be part of it and come and see it happen.

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.

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), as a lot of information and updates are published through Social Media.

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 or 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.bidfordonavonpc.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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Book Reviews

Whether it’s a new release or an old classic, fact or fiction, there’s always time for a good book.

Tin Can Cook: 75 Simple Store-Cupboard Recipes – Jack Monroe Simple, wallet-friendly dishes that are delicious and nutritious? It seems too good to be true, but Jack Monroe seems to have succeeded. Her latest book puts canned food at the heart of every dish. Recipes include Rhubarb & Custard Pancakes, Sunshine Soup, Red Lentil and Mandarin Curry, and Creamy Crabby Pasta.

Most only contain a handful of ingredients and only take a few minutes to prepare, using ingredients you can pick up from the local shop.

Diary of a Somebody – Brian Bilston It’s difficult to describe this book. It’s part poetry, part diary, part love story, part crime novel.

Somehow, it all adds up to a very funny take on suburban life. If you struggle to find time to read, this could be the book for you, as it’s written as a series of short diary entries – perfect for dipping into each day when you have a few minutes to spare.

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Vox – Christina Dalcher In this dystopian tale, women are only allowed to speak 100 words a day. They’re also not allowed to read, have a job or, in fact, do very much at all other than look after their husband and children. But Dr Jean McClellan is given the chance to resume her research job and have the word limit lifted for both herself and her daughter, if she collaborates with the government. A real page-turner of a book that will appeal to fans of The Handmaid’s Tale and The Power.

Somebody I Used to Know: A Memoir – Wendy Mitchell Wendy Mitchell was diagnosed with early-onset dementia at the age of 58. In her memoir, she talks about the reasons she sought a diagnosis, how she came to terms with it and the changes she’s made to her life. Somebody I Used to Know gives us an eye-opening insight into an illness that’s all too often whispered about behind closed doors. Perhaps surprisingly, the memoir is also brimming with optimism, hope and humour.

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Good Omens – Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman The TV series has proven a hit, but it would be criminal to watch it without also reading the book. Crowley is a demon. Aziraphale is an angel. They’ve been good friends for a few thousand years. When they find out the apocalypse is coming and neither of the sides they represent want to stop it, the duo take it upon themselves to intervene. Hugely original, incredibly funny and, most of all, a truly entertaining story.

There Is No Planet B: A Handbook for the Make or Break Years – Mike Berners-Lee Want to play your part in protecting the planet? This book can help you decide which actions to take to make the most impact.

(The answers may surprise you.)Topics range from food, energy and travel to wealth distribution. It’s presented in bite-sized chunks and written in plain English.

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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 August at the Centre, Jubilee Court, Lea Close, Alcester at 7.30pm. The speaker will be Jo Worthy-Jones from Haven4Wildlife who will talk on 'Habitat and Features for Wildlife in the Garden'.

Thursday September 5th the speaker will be Frank Hardy from Pershore with a talk on 'Container Planting with a Difference'. Everyone welcome. £3.00 for guests to include coffee/tea or join for only £12 a year. Call 01789 765105 for further details. Please call the secretary on 01789 765105 for details.

Simon Kemp R&B Orchestra - Cheese & Wine Evening

In the riverside garden of The Old Vicarage, High Street, Bidford on Avon on Saturday 3rd August from 7.30pm. Licensed bar selling wine, beer & soft drinks. Entrance by ticket only, £15 each, limited to 60 only, includes food & first drink. Enquiries: Pete & Libby 01789 773874, libbybats@outlook.com. Fundraising for Bidford on Avon Christmas Lights. An 18-piece R&B orchestra playing the best in soul, pop, funk, R&B and big fat grooves!

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. Our Wednesday 14th August meeting is a social occasion when we can chat over lunch, followed by a quiz, with more time to enjoy one another's company. Visitors will be made very welcome and may like to join us again.

September 11th, lunch followed by speakers from Shakespeare Hospice. Contact: Mrs. Cynthia Hill, Hon. Secretary 01789 763446.

Bidford Gardening Society

The Society's next meeting on Thursday, 15th August welcomes Robin Pearce, whose subject, 'How to Create a Prairie in Your Own Back Yard', is all about naturalistic North American planting.

On Thursday, 19th September, the well-travelled plant hunter and frequent very entertaining guest speaker, Duncan Coombs, will present an evening on 'Alpines and Rock Gardens.' Visitors are welcome to join us at any of our meetings which are held 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 Annette Haines on 01789 268974 or go to www.bidfordgardens.com.

56 connectionmags.co.uk

Cookhill Garden Club

Meetings are at Cookhill Village Hall at 7.30pm.

During August we take a break from our presentations but will be having our summer social evening at Hillers Garden Restaurant on 21st August. We return to Cookhill Village Hall on 18th September at 7.30 pm. when our speaker will be George Michaela who will be talking about lawncare. Newcomers are always welcome. Further details on www.cookhillgarden.club.

Alcester St Nicholas Church- Garden Party

The Garden Party in aid of church funds will be held on Saturday 24th August at The Field House, Allimore Lane, Alcester, from 3pm to 5.30pm. Stalls will include cakes, Traidcraft, preserves, produce and greetings cards, with music. Entrance is £5, free for young children, and will include afternoon tea. Bring your family, friends and neighbours along to enjoy this annual event in a beautiful garden.

Alcester Flower Club

We meet on the first Monday of the month at the Methodist Church, Priory Road, Alcester at 7.30pm. There is no August meeting.

On Monday 2nd September the Demonstrator will be Michael Montecillo whose flower arranging theme is "Inspirations and Creations". It will be a relaxing and pleasant evening to sit and enjoy beautiful flowers and foliage arranged in creative and inventive designs.Competition: Flower of the month.

Contact: Mrs. Marian Buchanan, 01789 400868.

Broom WI

Our meetings are held at Broom Village Hall, commencing at 7.30pm. Thursday 5th September, Harvest Meeting - Wildlife Gardening with Jo WorthyJones. Visitors are very welcome to attend. Harvest Supper, prepared by the Committee, will be served after the presentation by the Speaker.

Cupcake Café at Salford Priors

Saturday 7th September, 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.

Salford Priors Ladies Group

Meet on the 2nd Wednesday of each month (except August), 7.30pm at the Memorial Hall, School Road, Salford Priors. Wednesday 11th September, Elizabeth Fletcher will give us a demonstration on Acrylic Painting and we will all be encouraged to give it a go. I wonder who will present us with a ‘master piece’?

Visitor's fee including refreshments is £2. Contact Barbara McIlwaine on 01789 778392.

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No need for a ‘spoonful of sugar’ to make OUR medicine go down. Our Pimms stand kept thirsty visitors to the Alcester Court Leet Street Market happy, raised money for our charities AND won us third prize for best themed stand!

Come & try our delicious Pimms at the next pit stop at the Alcester Motor Show on Sunday 21 July, 10am – 3m.

The High Street will be closed to traffic & vintage & classic vehicles will adorn the street along with a mixture of food, drink, auto jumble & more.

Please come & find Herbie… and Us!

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 August and September August: Every Thurs Sat 17th August Sat 24th August Sept: Every Thurs Every Thurs Sun 15th Sept Fri 20th Sept

8.15pm - 9.45pm 10am - 4pm 10am - 4pm 6.45pm - 9pm 8.15pm - 9.45pm 10am - 4pm 8pm - 9.30pm

Tai Chi Classes - Jane Bowen, 01789 763866.

Town Hall Open Day - Nick Dearling 01789 765070.

Town Hall Open Day - Nick Dearling 01789 765070.

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

Tai Chi Classes - Jane Bowen, 01789 763866.

Heritage Open Day - Nick Dearling 01789 765070.

“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. New walkers are always welcome. 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. 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.

Bidford Community Group - Jolly Teapot

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

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community events & what’s on...

To publicise any community events, email info@connectionmags.co.uk by 12th of the month 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 September 12th. Fancy some retail therapy? Dawn of Dawn's Little Shop will be making a welcome return visit. Do come and join us for an evening of fun, friendship, chat and shopping!

Bidford on Avon WI

available. Contact 01789 488264 or 778809.

Alcester & District Men’s Probus

Alcester Mens Probus is a group of retired business men meeting on the 4th Wednesday of the month for lunch followed by a guest speaker. Meetings are at Kings Court Hotel, Alcester 12:15 for 12:30. New members welcome. Full details of membership are available by email: jackwinder2011@btinternet.com.

We do not have a meeting in August. Our next meeting is on Thursday 12th September, 7.30 at the Bidford Methodist Church. The speaker will be Yvonne from Hayloft Plants.. Yvonne founded Hayloft Plants in the 1990's, since when it has moved from an old kitchen table to an office desk and today it is a successful mail order company.

If you would like more information please contact Ann 01789 772409 or Pauline 01789 773390.

Bidford Darby & Joan

Bidford & District History Society

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. For more details email: membership@ stradfas.org.uk or website: www.stradfas.org.uk.

Meet at Crawford Hall, Bidford, B50 4EZ at 7.30pm. Friday 20th September ‘Tudor Icons - the Social Secrets of Fashion', speaker: Dr. Nic Fulcher, Shakespeare Birthplace Trust. An insight into the secrets of Tudor fashion. In a world dominated by strict hierarchy, what you wore in Elizabethan England defined your social position. Choose your fabrics with care, for unless you dress as a Lady or a Gentlemen, you will not be treated as one.

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 Thursday 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

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.

Lego Club, Bidford Library

A new Lego Club for 5-11 year olds is starting at Bidford Community Library. It will meet monthly on Fridays at 4.30pm. June 14th & 12th July. Contact the Library for more details.

Bidford Reading Group

Meets on the first Monday of the month at 2.00 p.m. at Bidford Communilty Library, Bramley Way, Bidford. The Community Library also has a Creative Writing Group which meets fortnightly on Mondays at 12.30 p.m.

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

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

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