The Connection Magazine - June-July 2019

the

connection

Around Alcester, Bidford & the Villages

magazine June-July ‘19 No. 137

WIN!

NEW!

COMMUNITY STAR AWARD

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Houseplant Care Tips Strawberry & Cream Eclair Recipe

COMMUNITY | LOCAL BUSINESS | ARTICLES Spectacular Summer Colour at your local Plant Centre!

STILL OPEN DESPITE LOCAL ROAD CLOSURES see page 22 for details

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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

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

Timeless British design, fresh for 2019

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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

Alcester Town Council Bidford Parish Council Stratford Dist Council

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Welcome

... to the June-July Connection ...and it’s very nearly summertime - the offical date being Sunday 19th July. However, at the time of writing this, the weather looks like it could go in any direction. As I’ve recently invested in a daft amount of camping equipment, I’m very much hoping for a sunny few months. Or I’ve possibly “jinxed” the season for us all... apologies in advance if that’s the case!

Whatever the weather, you can always count on a big bowl of strawberries to make you feel summery, and you can go one better now, with our fabulous recipe for strawberry and cream eclairs (p.10). Don’t be nervous - choux pastry isn’t as tricky as it sounds/looks. You could even make them for Father’s Day on Sunday 16th June.

If you’re lucky enough to be going away this summer, perhaps you want some reading material to take with you?

As well as taking your ‘Connection Magazine’, we have a list of recommended holiday books (p.48). Why not enter our competition (p.43) for a Kindle Paperwhite plus a little bit of pocket money towards your first ebooks. That’ll save on packing room!

This time of year brings the football season to a close, just as cricket season commences. So, a final ‘Back of the Net’ (p.36) before the 2019-20 season starts, and ‘View from the Boundary’ makes a welcome return (p.38).

For anyone prone to unintentionally murdering the occasional houseplant, we have some great gardening tips (p.20) - it’s the perfect time of year for re-potting and nurturing any neglected and poorly-situated plants around your home. Quick - you might be able to salvage that withering cactus plant!

As if that’s not enough treats to wrap your mind around, we have all of our usual features, including Sudoku (p.6), a wonderful ‘Heads Up Now’ (p.14), children’s puzzles (p.30), Motoring (p.34), Travel (p.46), and our Community section (p.50-59). Speaking of “community” - we need your help! In our next edition, we will be presenting our first Community Star award. Turn to page 55 to find out how you can nominate a deserving somebody from your neighbourhood.

Wishing you a great start to the summer...

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August-September Copy Deadline: Friday 12th July 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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Turn back the clock!

A new fitness class designed specifically for the over-60s has launched in the Stratford area as part of a campaign to help people to stay young by improving strength, balance and overall health as we age.

Lesley Natrins is on a mission to keep the over-60s moving by encouraging them to go along to an exercise class with a difference, designed by Move it or Lose It founder, Julie Robinson, who was seen on BBC’s “How to Stay Young”. This class is known as FABS, which stands for Flexibility, Aerobics, Balance and Strength.

The FABS programme combines exercises that have been scientifically proven by the Centre for Healthy Ageing Research at the University of Birmingham to turn back the clock. Lesley explains how her Move it or Lose it class can help older people feel fabulous about life: “I’m thrilled to be part of the FABS family. I want to make a real difference to the community and

to get this age group feeling great about themselves again.

There’s so many classes and clubs aimed at the under fifties and very little for baby boomers who still want to feel great but don’t like going to the gym to keep fit. It’s a fantastic way to get together with other people in the area, keep fit and have fun whilst doing it!

The exercises we do in the classes are easy to follow and fun. This isn’t about people dressing in lycra ready to hit the gym or do a high intensity session, FABS is for people who want to live longer, happier, healthier lives.

We ensure there’s a warm welcome for everyone who attends and the first session is free.”

For more details or to book a class, please contact Lesley on 07801 265599 or email: Lesley.natrins@moveitorloseit.co.uk

& t e rs m r fi EE Co you FR y ss tr cla Turn back the clock with our fun and friendly exercise classes to improve your

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balance & confidence mobility & flexibility strength & independence CLASSES ON:

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Other classes held in/around Stratford upon Avon.

Contact Lesley Natrins for more details or to book a place: 07801 265599

Lesley.natrins@moveitorloseit.co.uk Cost: £5 per class

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

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9

Strawberry & Cream Eclairs Filled with sweetened whipped cream and fresh strawberries, these dainty pastries make a great treat for afternoon tea or can be served as a delicious summer dessert. Swap the strawberries for fresh raspberries or blueberries, if liked.

Ready in: 50 minutes, plus cooling | Makes 8

Ingredients

50g butter, chilled and diced 65g plain flour, sifted

2 medium eggs, lightly beaten 300ml double cream

1 tbsp icing sugar, plus extra for dusting

T IP

150g small strawberries

Place the butter and 150ml cold water in a small pan and heat gently until the butter melts. Bring the mixture to a rapid boil then quickly remove from the heat and add all the flour. Beat thoroughly with a wooden spoon until the mixture comes away from the sides of the pan and forms a ball. Leave to cool for 3-4 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 220C, fan 200C, gas mark 7. Line a large baking sheet with baking paper. Beat the eggs into the mixture, a little at a time, until smooth and glossy. Spoon the mixture into a large piping bag fitted with a large star nozzle. Pipe 8 x 10cm lengths, spaced well apart, onto the baking sheet.

Bake for 12-15 mins until the eclairs are well risen and golden. Remove from the oven, pierce each eclair with the tip of a small knife and return to the oven for 2-3 minutes. This allows the steam to escape and dries out the centres of each eclair. Transfer to a wire rack and leave to cool completely.

Whip the cream and icing sugar in a bowl until softly peaking. Spoon into a large piping bag fitted with a large star nozzle. Hull and slice most of the strawberries (reserving four for decoration).

P

Halve each eclair and fill with the cream then top with sliced strawberries.

Sandwich back together and dust with icing sugar. Decorate each one with a swirl of piped cream and a reserved strawberry.

You can make and bake the choux pastry eclairs a day in advance. If the pastry goes a little soft simply reheat in a hot oven for a few minutes until crisp.

10 connectionmags.co.uk

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Hillers S

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Bidford Boat Services Fancy a day on the river?

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

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13

#GetTheHeadsUp “Your integrity is your destiny - it is the light that guides your way” - Heraclitus, Greek philosopher It is easy, but terrible, this desire to fit in. With multiple television channels and fragmented social media platforms, living not as one person, but as many, has become a dangerous normal. Anyone can photoshop their image, augment their bio and edit the story they tell the world. But this, in the words of activist and educator Parker J. Palmer, means ‘living a divided life’. It means living with a gap between who you really are and the fake thing you present to the world. It is no wonder public trust in politicians and priests continues to plummet. We don’t believe what they say, nor who they pretend to be, as if there’s a race to the bottom when it comes to living by example.

There are many reasons for this divided way of living. None of us bleed perfection. We are all a paradox: wanting to be unique, “hey look at me!” - but not so different as to get excluded from the herd. This desire to fit in was pretty useful in our earlier evolution as a species.

Tribal life was essential for survival. Yes, we are inter-connected social beings who depend upon one another, but in 2019, this primal instinct of “fitting in” needs an upgrade.

Why is this relevant? Because this sense of ‘coming to know our real selves’ is the bedrock of good mental health. The struggle to fit in can end. The pressure to conform can wither.

And the subterranean courage to live in line with your truest values can emerge. Look at our world. Doesn’t it need the truest ‘you’ you’ve got?

As a coaching and consultancy company working with local schools, we see the damaging effect of this ‘dividedness’ on young people. This year we’ve coached over 60 young people individually, aged 11 to 18. We listen.

We hear the turmoil in their stories about not fitting in, not feeling good or bright enough, not being heard or seen for who they really are.

This creates all kinds of mental and emotional

entanglements. “If only I was… I wish I could… I just don’t feel myself… I wear a mask…”

Young people - in our experience - are brave enough to not just notice this discrepancy but to voice it in pursuit of becoming their truest selves. Coaching gives them the mental oxygen to learn - through enquiry and practice - how to feel the ground beneath their feet and master, a little more, that persistent voice inside their head. Learning, friendships, good decisions get easier. They stop cutting themselves. Panic recedes. Ruminations go mute. We see, often, young people taking bold responsibility for their every word, thought and deed.

This journey towards ‘wholeness’ - of shrinking the gap between a ‘true self’ and ‘social self’ requires time, rigorous reflection (usually with someone else) and no shortage of letting old ideas, associations and habits go.

It is, I suggest, the thing that beats deeply inside us all, right across the age spectrum.

This desire to live divided no more, and be at ease in your own skin. To experience the great triumph of finally owning yourself, no longer swayed this-way, that-a-way by the pendulum of popular ideology, be it political, religious or social.

Something is changing. More of us are weary of the ‘divided life’. Look at the divided nation within which we live. Its fervency is futile. It’s time to know in every fibre of your body that you are equal-with-all-others. It means shedding that old story of trying to be someone you are not. As poet May Sarton wrote: “Now I become myself. It’s taken time, many years and places; I have been dissolved and shaken, worn other people’s faces.” Living true to yourself is a great and quiet success.

It allows the great thunderous flow of Life to happen through you, and isn’t this, after all, the finest example we can offer young people?

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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New Alcester Hair Academy Seeks Models & Apprentices

T

he Garage Hair Academy opened at the end of April and is now taking bookings for hair appointment.

The school operates 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 is 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.

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

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.

ers ers ily. ay.

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

15

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Free entry, free parking, free goody bag and drink on arrival. Meet local wedding suppliers.

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

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20TH JULY 2019 12PM – 5PM GLORIA HUNNIFORD 4 POOFS & A PIANO DIGBY FAIRWEATHER THE TEXAN PEACOCKS Wellness

Music Culture Food

This year we’re joining forces with the Birmingham Jazz Festival to bring you great music, great food, great company and a really great day out!

To enter our ballot for limited free tickets visit:

www.inspiredvillages.co.uk/parkfest Great Alne Park, Park Lane, Great Alne, Warwickshire, B49 6FY

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@connection_mag 10/05/2019 14:20

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

*Conditions apply.

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

19

of leaf shine, but not all, so check before you start.

• Feed houseplants regularly – good fertilisers are available in garden centres. Choose those formulated specifically for the plants where possible, or those suitable for foliage or flowering houseplants. Specialist fertilisers are also available for cacti and African violets.

Houseplant Heaven Now is the time to give houseplants some TLC as they could do with some pampering!

Check them over thoroughly and remove and dispose of any that are heavily infested with pests or infected by diseases. Once done, continue as follows…

• Pick over remaining plants removing dead, damaged or discoloured leaves. Use sharp scissors, special ‘snips’ or miniature secateurs on tough leaf stems.

• Houseplants usually respond well if repotted in late spring or very early summer, so if yours are pot-bound do this now.

Check by carefully removing the plant from its pot – if the root system is quite congested, it’s usually time to move house.

• When repotting, only move the plants up one pot size and use compost as similar as possible to their current compost. If in doubt, seek advice from your compost supplier. Ensure

the compost is free-draining and that there are crocks at the base of the pot. Consider adding additional grit or perlite to improve drainage.

Plants that have just been potted on will not require feeding for a couple of months • Once repotted, place plants in a cool, relatively stress-free environment for a week or two, away from hot or direct bright sunlight. Keep them adequately watered and the roots will move into the new compost.

• Next, give them a bit of a bath, using well-moistened kitchen roll or cotton wool to wipe the leaves clean. Many of the more glossy-leaved houseplants respond well to an application

• Plants that have just been potted on will not require feeding for a couple of months, but both recently replanted and more established houseplants need regular watering, particularly as they start to grow and if they are in a fairly warm or sunny position.

• Don’t place plants in too sunny a spot – they can get too hot or suffer from leaf scorching if placed too close to a south- or west-facing window. Use an east- or north-facing windowsill where possible, or at least move them further back from the glass. Most houseplants benefit from being placed in dappled shade in the garden, and they should thrive provided you keep them fed and watered.

• If treating yourself to new houseplants, make sure that the plant is well-suited to the position that you have lined up for it – it’s tempting to buy those that do well in really sunny situations, but if you only have a fairly shady windowsill it will suffer immensely over the winter months.

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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GARDEN & PROPERTY SERVICES

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I make gates and railings

Pruning • Planting Weeding Grass & Hedgecutting Bark laying • Gravelling All colours available, made to order.

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21

Spectacular Summer Colour at your local Plant Centre!

Bedding & Patio Plants, Hanging Baskets, Tomatoes, Cucumbers & Vegetable Plants, Shrubs, Trees, Alpines, Perennials, Pots, National Garden Gift Vouchers Available STILL OPEN DESPITE LOCAL ROAD CLOSURES

Access through Cookhill on A441 or from Saltway or Alcester Heath Seeds from

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22 connectionmags.co.uk

/theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

FENCING Andrew Smith

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

Tel: 01789 772420

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Enjoy the 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.

Food served 12-9pm daily.

Book online or call 01789 772420.

OUR AMAZING NEW MENU HAS ARRIVED!

Our new Summer menu will be available from 3rd June.

Choose from our delicious new summer salads and sandwiches, perfect pizzas, superb steaks or popular Golden Cross favourites.

Our fixed price daytime deal and new evening fixed price menu offer excellent value for money.

Our fabulous homemade menu is fresh, tasty and generous in portion size.

Chef Matthew and his team source local produce to create mouth-watering dishes to suit all tastes.

We have new daily deals, too!

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Join Our Team

We are expanding our team!

We have vacancies for Front of House team members and a full time Chef to join us.

Excellent rates of pay and 50% staff discount.

Please contact Claire for details on 01789 772420.

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Voucher to be used during June 2019 and valid only when ordering one main meal. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer or on bank holidays. Must be presented when ordering.

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uk

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

or ! keep

W D!

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The Jewellers in the Alley.

3 Market Place, Alcester, B49 5AE

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g ey. nd

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

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25

YEW TREE FARM COURTYARD SHOPPING

A stylish and contemporary shopping village made up of sixteen beautiful barns and coffee shop in a courtyard setting, offering a wide range of unique quality products from around the world.

MEET - GREET - SHOP - EAT

With something for the whole family, Yew Tree Farm Shopping Village comprises the following units: Yew Tree Farm Shop Home Baking & Local Produce 01564 795688 Cowshed Eaterie Brunches, Lunches, Afternoon Tea 01564 792979 Sims Vintage Antiques Centre Collectables, Antiques and Vintage 01564 898200 Giftivity Home Accessories & Gifts 01564 793030 Greys Teas Speciality Teas 01564 792295

Beyond the Blue Lifestyle Clothing 01564 792025 Yew Tree Salon Hairdressers 01564 795429 Henley Chocolates Chocolaterie 01564 794718 The Chocolate Shed Chocolate Experience 01564 792410 The Garden Furniture Centre Garden & Conservatory Furniture 01564 793652

Le Grenier English and French Antique Furniture 01564 795401 Bisarto Design & Training 01564 793366 Della and James Lingerie and Swimwear 01564 794255 H for Hats Hats & Hat Hire 01564 792785 The Wild Hare Jewellery, Repairs & Accessories 01564 792785

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

From Summer 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

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225 Just Glaze 18/09/2018 14:27 Page

CLOUDY WINDOWS

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No job too small Estimates free eric@whippletreecottage.co.uk Whipple Tree Cottage Coughton Fields Lane Alcester, B49 6BX 01789 564767 Hugh Duck Plumber Advert

15/4/16

13:51

Page 1

(Black plate)

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

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www.justglaze.co.uk The Local Computer “Doctor”

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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

Y

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

27

Looking for an ‘Outstanding’ nursery?

Look no further...

Alcester Nursery Studio has places available from September for children aged 2-4 years.

Now is a good time to take a look and book your place to avoid disappointment.

15/30 hour nursery places available, subject to application.

Opening Hours Term Time Only: 8.00am to 5.30pm Breakfast Club & After School Club.

Holiday Clubs on demand.

Alcester Nursery Studio St Faith’s Road, Alcester, Warwickshire, B49 6AG

01789 765780

www.alcesternursery.org /alcesternurserystudio

“

“

Leaving your children in someone else’s care is always a difficult thing for any parent. The Nursery Studio looked after both our children wonderfully, helping them take their first steps in education and making sure they felt secure and happy the whole time.

I cannot recommend Debi and the team enough.

o

CHIROPODIST Yvonne Hartley

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

Over 20 years experience Surgery in Badsey and home visits

01386 833520 or 07833 595020

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

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www.alcestercleaners.co.uk

Nicola Mcginn Skincare located in Binton, nr stratford

07798 641593

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

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1 Church Street, Alcester

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29

Answers on page 58

Answers on page 58

Jacksons Jewellery Repairs BEFORE

AFTER

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

Piano, Music Theory, Aural Training ALL JEWELLERY REPAIRS AND CLEANING DONE ON SITE

01789 763 954

Opening Times

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

01789 766611

www.jacksonsjewellery.co.uk

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

Blast off with Bidford Bright Stars Nursery.

Open 07:30 to 18:30 Monday - Friday.

Enrol with us or work with us.

Home cooked Meals

Cosmic House B50 4GA Bidford on Avon

Before & after School Clubs

Forest School

Holiday Club

www.bidfordbrigthstars.uk

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

31

WarnersBudgens

@warnersbudgens

Your Holiday Checklist Travelling abroad this summer?

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warnersbudgens.co.uk

£

To the cus Marsh an be used in up, fuel, c acceptabl Valid unti

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To the customer: Redeemable at Warner’s Budgens Bidford on Avon, Broadway, Moreton-inMarsh 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 July 2019.

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To the customer: Redeemable at Warner’s Budgens Bidford on Avon, Broadway, Moreton-in-Marsh and Winchcombe only. Only one cou infant formula, e-top up, fuel, concessions (Post Office), stamps and National & Health Lottery.

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able to intervene if necessary – this isn’t completely ‘handsoff’ technology yet.

Driverless Cars Explained Driverless cars are a hot motoring topic, with manufacturers, politicians and transport chiefs all talking about them. But what are they, and what do they mean for the future of motoring?

The Government predicts that driverless cars could be in full use on the UK’s roads by 2021.

Are they safe?

The safety of autonomous vehicles was questioned after a woman was killed while crossing the road in front of a self-driving vehicle in Arizona. The issue is the co-habitation of road users and the driverless vehicles – until people are sure how to interact with them, accidents will still happen.

Which manufacturers currently offer some level of autonomous assistance?

You’ll find some partial selfdriving technology in cars from Audi, BMW, Citroen, DS, Fiat, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Jaguar, Kia, Land Rover, Lexus, Mazda, Mercedes, Nissan, Peugeot, Porsche, Renault, Seat, Skoda, Subaru, Suzuki, Tesla, Toyota, Vauxhall, Volkswagen and Volvo.

Most cars do incorporate the

34 connectionmags.co.uk

technology, but it can include features such as adaptive cruise control.

Levels of autonomy The various levels of autonomous assistance are categorised from one to five.

Here’s what they mean.

Level 1 Introduced around 1990s/00s This base level means that just one element of the driving process is taken over by the car – but the driver is still very much in charge. This level of assistance is mature now and was pioneered by early cruise control systems.

Level 2 Present day Level 2 autonomy represents pretty much where we are today.

Computers can deal with multiple functions, so the car can take control of steering, throttle and brake functions – but the driver must show they’re in charge of the car by putting a hand on the steering wheel.

Level 3 Estimated 2020 At level 3 all of the safety-critical functions can be controlled by the car, but the driver must still be

/theconnectionmag

Level 4 Mid 2020s Level 4 sees cars capable of being fully autonomous, albeit in selected areas – most likely inner-city ones. Dedicated lane markings and infrastructure will be required to ensure that the cars keep on the straight and narrow, too. Complex mapping systems will combine with advanced cameras, sensors and artificial intelligence to determine where the car should go. The driver may have to intervene at certain points, but for the most part it’ll mean hands-free driving.

Level 5 Late 2020s/early 2030s Level 5 will see the vehicles derestricted – they will be capable of driving anywhere, without the need for a driver.

There won’t be a need for a steering wheel or traditional ‘controls’; these vehicles will be fully capable of operating themselves.

It’ll free up space inside the cars, so they’ll probably look more like lounges on wheels.

That’s what we predict, anyway.

Timeline predictions This timeline is based on predictions by many different manufacturers, though most agree that the bulk of progress will happen between 2020 and 2030. It’s a real technology race at the moment – each company is attempting to develop their own systems quicker than the rest. It’s why these dates are estimations – some may get there sooner than others.

James Baggott

@connection_mag

e l

t

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OPENING TIMES VEHICLE SCRATCH & SCUFF REPAIRS

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

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

35

BACK OF THE NET My Spotify ‘Daily Mix’ today started with Bridge Over Troubled Water. The opening words, ‘When you’re weary, feeling small; when tears are in your eyes, I will dry them all. I’m on your side when times get rough...’ reminded me of last evening’s Championship play-off semi-final, especially thinking of WBA fans and players. I’m sure they will tell us they are not ‘feeling small’, but I feel like putting an arm round them all and drying their tears (although, in honesty, I can’t exactly say I’m on their side), as they face a second season in football’s second tier. They may be joined by Villa later in the month if Leeds or Derby win the final but for the moment I commiserate with Albion fans.

The result could have been different if two of their team had behaved themselves but, over the two legs, it was Villa who were the better side.

SUMMER OFFERS

I’ve just about finished crowing about predicting Man City for Premier League champions back in January when Liverpool had a four point lead. It was so close but City’s depth of squad swung it for me. Liverpool should take some consolation that they were only one point behind and that, unless Spurs enjoy similar good fortune as they enjoyed in their second leg against Ajax (let’s face it, they were lucky!), they will win their sixth European Cup/ Champions League title.

What a shame that all four British clubs involved in European finals have to travel thousands of miles to their games #carbonfootprint #climatechange.

Regarding local(ish) teams outside of the Premier League, Blues did well considering their nine point deduction earlier in the season, Coventry just failed to make the League 1 playoffs, Cheltenham consolidated their League 2 place, while Solihull Moors have been promoted to League 2 for the first time in their history. Good luck to them.

Wishing Villa fans a happier time in this season’s play-off final.

Till next season...

Back of the net!

Offers end 31 August 2019

Ensure your brake BRAKE FLUID fluid remains CHANGE £50 effective this summer!

20% OFF ALIGNMENT FREE SUMMER SAFETY CHECK

20% off four-wheel alignment and adjustment service!

For complete peace of mind before you go on holiday!

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

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

36 connectionmags.co.uk

Monday - Friday 8am - 6pm

/theconnectionmag

/

Saturday 8am - 12pm

@connection_mag

FOR A STRESS FREE LOCAL CAR BUYING EXPERIENCE…

CAR SALES ALCESTER

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Over 40 vehicles in stock!

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

37

View From The Boundary

W

hilst the weather hasn’t really turned, the evenings are lighter and the calendar says May. This means it must be time for the cricket season again. As bags are retrieved from garages and lofts, and emails, phone calls and pleading whatsapp messages to long forgotten acquaintances who might once have held a bat are flying around as the local cricket scene fires up into life.

We’re fortunate as cricket lovers in the area given the multitude of local clubs. Bidford, Alcester, Exhall, Welford, Great Alne, Temple Grafton, Harvington, Cookhill all fielding playing sides both midweek and at weekends. As ever we’ll try and keep you abreast of happenings in this now truncated little column. Even in the early days of the local Cotswold Hills League, we may have some regional success with Exhall & Wixford sitting atop of the Premier Division.

Granted, they’ve only played twice, but it’s not unreasonable to think that they have the ability to keep it up for the coming months.

Elsewhere, there is an uneasy sense of expectation creeping into the thoughts of the national team fans. With the World Cup just around the corner, for the first time in it’s history England find themselves favourites for the tournament. Not patriotic favourites, no hyperbole either. They’re currently the best One Day International side in the world, and with their exceptional mentality will expect to be holding the Trophy aloft at Lords in July.

Strange times for this fan who has witnessed years of disappointment and false dawns as the players and selectors alike have contrived to underperform in previous iterations of the World Cup. Here’s to a change in fortunes.

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

£5

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38 connectionmags.co.uk

SPEEDY DELIVERY SERVICE AVAILABLE

Call: 01789 762464 Swan Street, Alcester, Warwickshire, B49 5DP

/theconnectionmag

@connection_mag

For all your

FISHING TACKLE & AIR RIFLE supplies from most of the top brands

tv aerial & satellite installations

DRENNAN, LEEDA, WYCHWOOD, SENSAS, PRESTON INNOVATIONS, DAIWA, DYNAMITE BAITS, ETC

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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 help and advice on your ards accep ted requirements.

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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

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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

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0930 -1600 0930 -1300 0930 -1500 Closed

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

39

NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH ALCESTER Frightened 999 callers should start using Silent Service.

Making Yourself Heard campaign has been launched by the Police to raise awareness of how to call 999 if you are unable or too scared to speak, as it emerged that few emergency callers knew how to use the Silent Service. The scheme lets a 999 mobile caller who is frightened for their safety, or is unable to talk, press 55 to signal that there is a genuine emergency. Police forces receive 5,000 silent calls a day to the system but the 55 instruction is detected only 50 times. If the 55 numbers are not keyed in, the call is terminated.

Police hope that this campaign will end the myth that dialling the emergency number alone will automatically bring help. The Independent Office for Police Conduct said that the system worked only if the public understood how to use it. “It is always best to actually speak to a Police call handler if you can, even if by whispering, but if you are putting yourself or someone else in danger by making a sound, there is something you can do. Make yourself heard by coughing, tapping the handset or - once prompted by the automated system - by pressing 55.”

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 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.

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

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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

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Honeybourne Movie Night

at Honeybourne Village Hall Saturday 8th June, 7:30 Stan & Ollie (PG)

Steve Coogan and John C. Reilly star as Laurel & Hardy in the untold story of the world’s greatest comedy act. Stan & Ollie wonderfully portrays the unique and precious partnership of the legendary duo as they set out on a tour of Britain in the twilight of their career.

Saturday 13th July, 7:30 Fisherman’s Friends (PG12)

A fast-living, cynical London music executive (Danny Mays) heads to a remote Cornish village on a stag weekend where he is pranked by his boss (Noel Clarke) into trying to sign a group of shanty singing fishermen (led by James Purefoy). He becomes the ultimate fish out of water as he struggles to gain the respect or enthusiasm of the unlikely boy band and their families who value friendship and community over fame and fortune.

Cost £3 on the door, refreshments available.

BIDFORD RURAL CINEMA RED JOAN

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has great pleasure in presenting IN APRIL

Film Certificate: 15 Running time 100 mins + interval

Film Certificate: 12A Running time 101mins + interval

Ticket price: £2.50 per person

Ticket price: £2.50 per person

Friday 7th June at 7pm

Friday 28th June at 7pm

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

Refreshments sponsored by your local

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

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

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45

The Lindos Acropolis Rhodes Island

According to legend, the Acropolis was founded by Lindos, the grandson of Helios the Sun god, and up on its rocky headland above the Aegean Sea, it just takes your breath away. Climb up the hill, on a donkey or up 300 steps, and the past lingers all around, glowing in the luminous light as the scent of wild flowers and herbs drifts along the steep winding path. The panorama is superb from the village, a sprinkling of white houses along the base of the rock, to the meandering coast, the blue sea and mountains beyond. But up on the top the medieval fortress bars the way with its long crenelated wall silhouetted against the sky.

It was built in the early fourteenth century by the Knights of St John, a safe haven inaccessible from the sea and equally challenging

46 connectionmags.co.uk

from the land, enclosed by ramparts and towers. It isn’t much easier today but when you finally reach the tiny gate, you are greeted by a lonely olive tree and a jumble of stones and rocks hiding a few inscriptions from ancient Greece. The next level leads up to the Knights’ headquarters with remains of the governor’s palace, including a coat of arms, and the Byzantine church of St John from the thirteenth century.

But Lindos existed long before the Knights arrived.

Tools from the New Stone Age were discovered at this spot and it was Homer who first mentioned the city, built by the Dorians in the twelfth century BC. Perched on an invincible rock guarding two beautifully sheltered harbours, Lindos reached its golden

/theconnectionmag

age in the sixth century BC under Cleovoulos, one of the seven sages of Ancient Greece. Trade flourished, great buildings enhanced the city, and on a former sacred site a new temple was dedicated to the goddess Athena. It still dominates the Acropolis, 116 metres above the sea, the highest point, and as you stand on the very edge of the rock, gazing at the sturdy remaining columns, you can imagine ancient worshippers struggling up the hill, laden with bountiful offerings as, filled with awe, they approached a divine presence between heaven and earth.

Equally stunning is the Hellenistic stoa (200 BC), a passageway, originally covered, 87 metres long and 9 metres wide. Shaped like the Greek letter π, said to symbolise energy rising to the sky, it has retained 20 of its 42 Doric columns.

It’s a great favourite for photographs with its lofty golden colonnade framed by blue sky and sea. There are also vestiges of a Roman stoa and temple, ancient stairways and several semicircular platforms, one with the prow of a ship hewn into the rock, where offerings were laid. Three thousand years of history are no mean achievement, and with the wonderful views all around you feel on top of the world.

I mused for a while among these amazing ruins, hardly noticing the first drops of rain – but within minutes the Sun god was back in all his glory.

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Holiday Reads Books to while away the summer evenings with The Library of Lost and Found – Phaedra Patrick Librarian Martha Storm finds a book containing a dedication from her grandmother. But the dedication is dated several years after her grandmother supposedly died. The book sets Martha out on a quest that will rock her safe, predictable life and remind her of who she really is. A hugely enjoyable, warm hug of a book.

Internment – Samira Ahmed Set ‘15 minutes into the future’, Internment tells the story of 17-year-old Layla, who is sent to a MuslimAmerican internment camp in the middle of the Californian desert. Similar to the real JapaneseAmerican internment camps of World War II, this camp is a dangerous place to stand out. Layla’s parents want her to keep her head down and not attract the attention of the vicious camp director.

But Layla is prepared to risk her life for her freedom. A powerful page-turner about

48 connectionmags.co.uk

the price of turning a blind eye to bigotry.

A Boy and his Dog at the End of the World – C. A. Fletcher Griz is growing up in a postapocalyptic world where mass-infertility has decimated the human population. His community is tiny and life is difficult. When a stranger steals the family’s dog, Griz sets out to get her back, on a journey that will take him from his tiny island on the Outer Hebrides across Scotland and Northern England. Perfect for fans of The Road and Station’s Eleven.

Stone Mothers – Erin Kelly Marianne is back in her home village, and desperate to keep a secret hidden that could destroy the life she’s built over the last 30 years.

A secret that ties her to her childhood sweetheart, Jesse, as well as the MP responsible for shutting down the local asylum. This chilling psychological tale is a slowburner but well worth sticking with.

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The Dollmaker – Nina Allan Andrew and Bramber start writing to each other because of their shared interest in dolls. As their friendship grows, Andrew decides to visit Bramber at the institution she calls home. Andrew and Bramber’s story is interspersed with tales written by another doll-lover, Ewa Chaplin, which Andrew reads on his journey. A beautiful, strange, multi-layered book you’ll want to keep reading long after the sun has gone down.

Outlander – Diana Gabaldon If your idea of the perfect holiday is spending several days on a sun lounger with a good book, then the Outlander series could be just what you’re looking for. On a trip to the Scottish Highlands, Claire Randall steps through a circle of stones and finds herself transported from 1946 to 1743, where she’s taken prisoner by Scottish outlaws.

The hit TV show is now into its fourth season and the books are even better.

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49

Alcester Town Council JUNE/JULY 2019

Alcester’s New Mayor - Cllr Gill Forman

I am very proud and honoured to have been elected as Mayor of Alcester, and with my husband, Tim as my Consort, we are looking forward to the coming year.

I have lived in Alcester for most of my life, have 3 grown up daughters and 2 grandsons and have worked for a local business for the past 18 years.

most disadvantaged local children. I hope that you will come along to my events during the year that will raise funds to support both excellent charities.

Alcester is a wonderful and unique place to live with a fantastic community spirit, hosting many great events throughout the year- the Food Festivals and the Court Leet Street Market to name but a few. I am looking forward to representing the Council on these occasions and it will also be a great privilege to represent and promote our town at events in other towns in the surrounding area.

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 4 June Planning - Monday 24 June & 15 July Community Care - Tuesday 11th June & 9 July Community Facilities - Tuesday 18 June & 16 July Presidium - Tuesday 25 June & 30 July 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.

Mayor of Alcester, Cllr Gill Forman (right) and Deputy Mayor, Cllr Kathryn Cargill (left)

I was first elected to the Town Council in 2015 and have enjoyed serving on the Community Care and Community Facilities Committees, the latter as Chair. I am now looking forward to the challenge of leading the new Council, which will include several new Councillors.

I have chosen two Charities to support in my Mayoral year. The first of these is Alcester and District Community First Responders. This is a team of volunteers who respond to emergency 999 calls providing initial care and treatment to many illnesses or injuries in order to save lives or prevent disability whilst waiting for emergency services to arrive.

The second charity I have chosen is Ekica Trust.

I am a trustee for Ekica which was set up formally as a children’s orphanage in Tanzania to provide day care and pre-school education. It is now registered as a Pre and Primary school for the

50 connectionmags.co.uk

Alcester Town Council Contact Details:

Alcester Town Council offices: Globe House, Priory Road, Alcester B49 5DZ Access is via the Seggs Lane entrance, first floor (lift available) Monday - Friday 9am–1pm (or call to make an appointment).

Tel: 01789 766084 Town Clerk - Vanessa Lowe: clerk@alcester-tc.gov.uk Planning & Communication - Sarah Duran: administration@alcester-tc.gov.uk Community Care - Jenny Theobald: office@alcester-tc.gov.uk Facilities - Jan Rowlatt: reception@alcester-tc.gov.uk Health & Wellbeing - Wendy Sherwood: info@alcester-tc.gov.uk Further information can be found on our social media pages: www.facebook.com/alcester www.twitter.com/AlcesterTown

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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 7th June, 7.00 pm, WILD ROSE (Cert 15) Starring Jessie Buckley and Julie Walters. RoseLynn Harlan is bursting with raw talent, charisma and cheek. Fresh out of prison and reunited with her son and daughter, all she wants is to get out of Glasgow and make it as a country singer in Nashville. Rose’s mother Marion, on the other hand, has had a bellyful of her worthless nonsense.

Friday 28th June, 7.00 pm, RED JOAN (Cert 12A).

Starring Sophie Cookson and Judi Dench and directed by Trevor Nunn. Joan Stanley, a Soviet and communist party sympathizer, becomes employed as a British government civil servant, and gets recruited by the KGB in the mid 1930s. She successfully transfers nuclear bomb secrets to the Soviet Union and remains undetected as a spy for over a half a century.

You are able to see a trailer online of the film being screened on our website. See page 42 for more details.

NEW PARISH COUNCIL Following the May 2nd elections, we have 3 new councillors on the Parish Council. We welcome Cllrs Cullum (Broom) Meredith (Bidford West) and Cllr Williams (Bidford East). We thank Cllr Harvey (Broom) and Cllr Pound (Bidford West) for their great contribution during their terms of office.

We also welcome Cllr Fleming as our new District Councillor for Bidford West & Salford. Cllr Cargill, who held this post, is now representing his area, Alcester.

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, see how an Agenda for the meeting is prepared etc.

If you are interested, please contact the Clerk on 778653/07718628925 or email info@ bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk. It is understood this can be used for DoE Award and School Work

52 connectionmags.co.uk

Experience Placement.

VILLAGE EVENTS Saturday 8th June @ 7pm Bidford Area Community Choir hold their Summer Concert at The Barn, Waterloo Road. See page 56 for more.

MEETINGS Monday 10th June & 8th July, 7.30pm, Planning Consultative Committee Meeting.

Monday 24th June & 29th July - 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. 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), 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 / 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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Do you know a ‘Community Star’?

They could be your neighbour, a shopkeeper, a friend from the pub, the organiser of a local parent & toddler group. It’s up to you!

We want to give something back to a special someone who’s always looking out for others and who has gone that extra mile to help you and/or your neighbourhood.

Send in your nominations now by email, Facebook message or over the phone (details below). We’ll need your name, email address and telephone number as well as the nominee’s name and the reason for your nomination (no other personal details of the nominated star, though!).

We’ll announce the winner in July and present them with a very special award and prize to recognise their service.

Send your nominations to: info@connectionmags.co.uk with Community Star in the subject line, or message us at facebook.com/theconnectionmag Alternatively, phone 01789 491005.

Deadline for entries is Friday 5th July.

Our Privacy Policy can be found at www.connectionmags.co.uk

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55

community events & what’s on...

c

To publicise any community events, email info@connectionmags.co.uk by 12th of the month

To

Cupcake Café at Salford Priors

Co

Saturday 1st June and 6th July, from 10.00-12.00 at TOPs (behind Salford Priors Primary School). A space for everyone of all ages from the community to enjoy a cup of tea or coffee with some yummy cake.

Alcester Flower Club

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

Monday 3rd June, Special event for celebration of Emerald Anniversary. Meeting at Hillers Garden Centre, Dunnington 7pm. Members with friends welcome.

Monday 1st July,Visitors and new members are welcome to enjoy Marie Munday's beautiful flower designs with her demonstration entitled 'Colours of Summer'.

Contact: Mrs. Marian Buchanan, 01789 400868.

Alcester Gardening Club

Thursday June 6th at the Centre, Jubilee Court, Lea Close, Alcester. At 7.30pm our meeting will have Hilary Twigg talking on 'Easy Rules of Pruning'.

There is still time to book a seat on the July trip to the Bishops’ Palace Garden at Wells but payment must be made at this meeting. £22 for members and £25 for guests. Membership is £12 for the year and guests are welcome at £3 including refreshments. Please call the secretary on 01789 765105 for details.

Broom WI

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

Thursday 6th June, 'Household Objects Quiz', with Tricia Justice. Visitors are welcome.

Our July meeting is for members only and we do not meet in August. Refreshments are served at all our meetings.

Bidford Area Community Choir

Saturday 8th June at 7pm at The Barn, Waterloo Road, Bidford. Tickets £7.50 on the door, incl refreshments. w w w.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.

Salford Priors Ladies Group

Meet on the 2nd Wednesday of each month, 7.30pm at the Memorial Hall, School Road, Salford Priors. Wednesday 12th June, Skittles Evening at the Coach & Horses at Harvington, with a basket meal to be ordered by all who go.

Tuesday 10th July, We are pleased and proud to welcome Mary Felton with her lively and energetic group of young McCarthy-Felton Irish Dancers to entertain us. This will indeed be a colourful and very interesting evening so please come and show your support for these lovely young people.

Visitor's fee including refreshments is £2. Contact

56 connectionmags.co.uk

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 12th June, a buffet lunch followed by our AGM where reports of past activities and future plans are discussed. We welcome visitors and new members.

July 10th, Speaker to be arranged. 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 13th June, Ray Allen will give a talk on 'Life On The Drug Squad'. This should be most interesting and informative. Everyone welcome.

Our July meeting is on Thursday 11th. We are pleased to welcome Edwina Norris to our meeting Edwina must have taught many of our children their first ballet steps. She will be speaking about her life in ballet and beyond. This will no doubt remind many of us of the shows that the Rutleigh School of Dancing used to put on for our entertainment in the Greig Hall. Members and friends are most welcome.

Bidford on Avon WI

Our June meeting is on the 13th, 7.30 at the Bidford Methodist Church. The talk will be on ‘The Hedgehog Friendly Town.'

Same time and place for the July meeting on the 11th when Keith will be us talking about the Midland Cave Rescue Organisation If you would like more information please contact Ann 01789 772409 or Pauline 01789 773390.

Haselor Church Fete

15th June, 12 - 3pm at Hill House, Walcote, B49 6LZ. Bar, BBQ, cakes, plant stall, cream teas, tombola, raffle, coconut shy, skittles, darts, ladder game. Fun and games for all the family.

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). In aid of Cancer Research.

Bidford & District History Society Meet at Crawford Hall, Bidford, B50 4EZ at

7.30pm. Friday 21st June ‘We are where we are', a talk about the improvements in life expectancy and the contributing factors, by Dr Alex Grieve. There is no meeting in July and August.

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community events & what’s on...

To publicise any community events, email info@connectionmags.co.uk by 12th of the month Cookhill Garden Club

Meetings are at Cookhill Village Hall at 7.30pm.

On Wednesday 19th June, William Scott from The Walled Garden, Worcester, will be talking about 'Restoring and Living in a Walled Victorian Garden'.

Our guest speaker on Wednesday 17th July, will be Tamsin Westhorpe from Stocktonbury Gardens. Tamsin will be talking about 'Life on a Gardening Magazine'.

Newcomers are always welcome. Further information at www.cookhillgarden.club.

Bidford Gardening Society

The Society's next meeting on June 20th welcomes Harry Green, Head Gardener at Morton Hall Gardens. Harry's talk will describe its history and, with slides, will show the gardens through the changing seasons. There will also be a raffle.

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. (No meeting in July as we will be on an outing.) Admission only £3.00 including refreshments.

For further details, please ring 01789 268974 or go to www.bidfordgardens.com.

Alcester Singers

Alcester Singers present a Young Musician Summer Soiree on Saturday July 6th at St. Nicholas Church, Alcester 7.30 pm. This is an extra special concert featuring our former successful Young Musician winners, in particular Florence Cain (BBC Radio 2 Young Chorister of the Year winner in 2016). Tickets £8 (under 14s free): 01789 400295 : Humphries Shoes, Alcester : or on the door.

Haselor Summer Fayre

The friends of TGPA Haselor school, invite you to join them for their annual Summer Fayre on Saturday 13th July 12pm - 3pm. Pony rides, BBQ, bouncy castle, vintage cars and much more. TGPA Haselor, Pelham Lane, Haselor, B49 6LU.

Harvington Fete & Flower Festival

Fete: 13th July 1-4pm - BBQ, Beer, Fruit & Veg, Cakes, Tombola, Raffle, lots of games for children. Musical entertainment, refreshments throughout the weekend.

Flower Festival: 13th-14th July open all weekend.

Stunning flower arrangements the theme: A Year of the James Church”. Musical entertainment Sunday 14th July, 11am-12.30pm, mini concert 12.45pm.

Phil Bawn will entertain on Yamaha Piano 2-4pm.

Festival Weekend will finish at 5.30pm with Songs of Praise, accompanied by the Harvington Singers.

Fete: Sophie Dodds 01386 870 421; sophie.dodds@mypostoffice.co.uk Flowers: Jean Spires 01386 304 472 jeanspires25@ gmail.com.

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 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.

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 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

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.

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

57

community events & what’s on...

To publicise any community events, email info@connectionmags.co.uk by 12th of the month Events at The Alcester War Memorial Town Hall in June and July Every Mon Every Wed Every Thurs Every Thurs Every Fri Wed 12th June Sat 27th July Sat 27th July

7pm - 8.30pm 9.30am - 12.30pm 6.45pm - 9pm 8.15pm - 9.45pm 9am - 12.30pm 8pm - 10.30pm 2pm - 4pm 7pm - 9pm

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.

Alcester Comedy Club - Harvey Hawkins 07941 628247.

Mikron Theatre “All Hands On Deck” - Rob Thompson 07769 742963.

Mikron Theatre “Redcoats” - Rob Thompson 07769 742963.

Alcester Café

between 10am and 12 midday.

Bidford Dementia Café

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

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.

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 Children’s answers: The ‘coin clock’ solution is...

1. 12 onto 3; 2. 7 onto 4; 3. 10 onto 6; 4. 8 onto 1;

Sudoku solutions (see page 6)

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Visually Impaired?

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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Bidford Youth Club OAP Christmas parties Syrian Refugees in Alcester & Bidford Bidford Youth Club Myton Hospice Shelterbox Bidford & Alcester First Responders Samaritans St Nicholas Church Alcester Alcester Girls Toilet Block at Indian School in Bloom Lifespace

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GAGA (Goodwill & Growth for Africa)

Shakespeare Hospice Anthony Nolan Malawi Nurse Appeal Macmillan Bidford Bowling Club Nurses Alcester Baptist Church Bidford Library Alcester Green Corridor

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Big Breakfasts Frost Fair

At the heart of our community in Alcester & Bidford, this shows a little about who we are, what we do & some of those we’ve helped

If you would like to visit us, we meet 7.15 – 8.45 am for breakfast every Thursday at Kings Court Hotel, Kings Coughton. E: sue@invictusuk.com

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

59

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