The Connection Magazine - March/April 2022

the

connection

Around Alcester, Bidford & the Villages

magazine

March-April 2022 No. 154

RECIPE

Spring lamb & garlic minted salad

FINDING A PET GARDENING

Plant a tree for the Jubilee

WEB DESIGN & DIGITAL MARKETING AGENCY www.onefoursix.co.uk

PLUS

Alcester Town Council Bidford Parish Council Neighbourhood Watch Community updates

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Established family run business, with over 80 years combined adviser experience, providing advice on: • Mortgages – whether first time buyer, moving home, remortgaging, buy-to-let or equity release.

• Protection – to secure peace of mind that you and your family can remain in your property if circumstances change.

• General Insurance – buildings and contents cover.

YOUR PROPERTY MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE. Some buy to let mortgages are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. You will need to take legal advice before releasing equity from your home as Lifetime Mortgages and Home Reversion plans are not right for everyone. This is a referral service.

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Useful phone numbers

Welcome

... to the March/April Connection Doctors / Health

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

Hospitals

Redditch Hospital Stratford Hospital Warwick Hospital

Emergency

Emergency Services Alcester Police BT Fault Electric Power Loss Gas Emergency

Others

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

Schools

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

Councils

Alcester Town Council Bidford Parish Council Stratford Dist Council

Is it just me or does there seem to be a whiff of positivity in the air now the evenings are getting lighter? I always feel 01789 763060 a sense of relief at this time of year, with the imminence 01789 763293 of spring. And moreso this year. There has been a general 01789 773372 weariness among business owners I’ve chatted to over the 111 past couple of years. Well, not just business owners... most of 116 123 us have probably felt it. It’s not been easy, has it? But here’s hoping for brighter days ahead. It certainly feels as though they’re on their way!

01527 503030 01789 205831 Some dates for your diary as we enter March and April: 01926 495321 Parents, get prepared for World Book Day on 3rd March.

Clocks go forward on 27th March, which also happens to be Mother’s Day. Losing an hour’s sleep is the gift all mums enjoy. Easter falls on 17th April this year, although you’d think 999 or 112 it was back in February, given how long Easter gifts have been 01789 444816 on shop shelves.

08008 00151 All you budding chefs, there’s a lovely looking recipe on page 08004 04090 10. Make the most of the season produce with a spring lamb 08001 11999 salad.

Struggling with the hustle and bustle of modern life? We’ve 0300 555 8171 some suggestions for your bookshelf on page 12.

01789 773239 In the lead up to the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, we’ve some 0844 855 2322 special gardening advice on pages 18 & 20.

07771 616189 And if you’ve been considering getting a pet, turn to page 8 01789 766750 for things to look out for during your decision-making.

01789 762450 01789 766200 Of course, we have our usual Motoring (p.26,28), Back of the 01789 270744 net (p.30), and Travel (p.32) articles, plus our Community 01386 871777 Pages, including the local parish & town council newsletters, 01789 262889 can be found at the back of the magazine starting at page 34.

However the next couple of months pan out for you, let’s all remember to keep spreading kindness to our local businesses.

01789 762285 It’s been an exhausting couple of years and you never know 01789 762494 when a smile or purchase from them could brighten their day.

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Amy

May/June Copy Deadline: Friday 8th April

Facebook.com/theconnectionmag Twitter.com/connection_mag Connection circulation: 11,300 Editor: Amy James Phone 01789 453130 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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Where to source a pet is an essential consideration if you want to buy an animal.

Licensed puppy farms, for example, are not illegal, but might not provide the ideal start for a dog. Unlicensed farms are illegal, as are thirdparty commercial puppy dealers.

Any young animal coming from a breeder needs to be healthy and to have had care, attention and socialisation during its first few weeks of life. We should all be aware that what you see on the internet isn’t necessarily a true-life picture of the animal that you are buying.

Animal rescue organisations report that over 80 per cent of calls regarding young pets concern those found online. Health issues can result from mass breeding and rearing within inhumane conditions, including lack of space, light, warmth and inappropriate feeding.

Although the internet is an excellent place to learn about animals of all descriptions, word of mouth is generally the best way to actually find

Grooming At Ferns

a pet. Using personal recommendations means that you can check out addresses and hopefully see several members of an animal family, including at least one of the parents.

Animal shelters should also be considered very seriously because the rate of pet abandonment during the last few months has increased by more than 25 per cent. This means that more animals than ever before are looking to be rehomed. There are hundreds of dogs, cats, rabbits, hamsters, rats and even horses looking for new owners, and one of them could be the perfect pet for you.

By Caroline Knight

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I

Preparation time: 15 minutes Marinate: 1 hour or overnight Cooking time: 50 minutes Serves: 4 Ingredients • 500g lamb fillet • 1 garlic clove, crushed • Grated zest of 1 lemon • 1 tsp cumin powder • 1 tbsp olive oil plus a little extra for frying • 150g green beans or sprouting broccoli, trimmed • 250g mixed green leaves, baby spinach or rocket leaves • 150g cherry tomatoes, halved • ½ red onion, finely diced Dressing • 1 bulb of garlic • Drizzle of olive oil • 200g Greek yoghurt • Handful of mint leaves • 1 tsp honey or maple syrup • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar • Pinch of cumin • ½ tsp Dijon mustard

Spring is the perfect time to enjoy lamb. This is a light flavoursome dish that is delicious served warm or cold. Ideally, marinate the lamb the night before to enhance the flavour.

Method 1. For the lamb, mix together the garlic, lemon zest, cumin and olive oil and rub over the lamb. Leave to marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour or overnight.

2. For the dressing, place the garlic bulb in a piece of foil and drizzle over a little oil. Bake in the oven for about 30 minutes.

Cool slightly then squeeze out the garlic pulp into a blender.

Add the remaining ingredients for the dressing and blend together. Season to taste.

3. Preheat the oven to 220C/200C fan/gas mark 7. Sear the lamb in a frying pan with a little olive oil so that it is brown all over.

Place in the oven and roast for 15-20 minutes. Allow to rest for 5-10 minutes. Slice thinly.

4. Blanch the beans or broccoli in boiling water until al dente, drain and refresh under cold water. Pile the green leaves on a platter and top with the beans, tomatoes and onion. Arrange the lamb on top and drizzle over the dressing to serve.

Nutrition per serving: 437kcal, fat 33g (of which saturates 15g), carbohydrates 6.7g (of which sugars 5.7g), protein 28g, fibre 1.9g

the farm shop & so much more

“Spring will come and so will happiness.

Hold on. Life will get warmer.”

ANITA KRIZZAN

We are excited and busy, getting ready to open the garden shop & display gardens in early March.

Bulbs

SPRINGTIME AT HILLERS SPRINGTIME AT HILLERS SPRINGWe have many varieties of Spring bulbs, with new growth, that are ideal to instantly transform bare beds.

These can be bought in pots for easy planting and we have a great range including specialist varieties.

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By Kate Duggan

The Comfort Book – Matt Haig Author Matt Haig has been very open about his struggles with depression. This book is a collection of sayings, thoughts and recollections that offer comfort when times are hard. You can just flick through and read a story snippet, a list, music recommendations or a recipe.

Stolen Focus: Why You Can’t Pay Attention – Johann Hari Johann Hari explains why the inability to focus is not a personal failing – it’s an all-toocommon side effect of modern life. Crucially, he also shares science-backed advice to help you reclaim your ability to focus.

Good Vibes, Good Life – Vex King Stuck in a rut and not sure how to move forward? Vex King gives practical and inspirational tips for tackling negative thoughts, improving self-esteem and finding the motivation to make positive changes.

Broken (in the best possible way) – Jenny Lawson We all need a good belly laugh sometimes and this book gives you that. As the blurb says, it’s a book about ‘living, surviving and thriving with anxiety’. It’s written like a stream of consciousness in parts, as Lawson shares anecdotes and lessons from her life.

Reflections – Holly Willoughby TV presenter Holly Willoughby shares her ‘toolkit’ for living a happier, more connected life. She talks of the rituals, techniques and positive habits that have helped her to reconnect, tackle anxiety and feel more grounded. She discusses body image, burnout and other challenges.

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DISCOVER

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Tilly Rose Beauty Boutique, Bidford-on-Avon B50 4BG | 01789 778349

Outdoor Adventurer, Honeybourne WR11 7QB | outdooradventurer.co.uk

Bonners Jewellers, Alcester B49 5AP | 01789 763715

Contemporary Coverings, Alcester B49 5BX | 01789 400050

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The team at Ambleside finds out all they can about your personality, preferences and wishes and create a care and lifestyle plan that’s tailored to your unique needs.

Ensuring you enjoy the very best care and quality of life is at the heart of everything Care UK does.

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Residents of Ambleside have had a busy few months, building relationships between with the local community. Residents went to a local Brownie group to support Dementia awareness. The brownies earned their dementia friends badge and a great time was had by all decorating pots and planting forget me not seeds.

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Oak Processionary Moth

PLANT A TREE FOR THE JUBILEE: THE QUEEN’S GREEN CANOPY

By Caroline Knight: Gardendesignideas.co.uk

The joys of spring Early spring in the garden is probably the most longed-for time of the year for most. The weather is naturally unpredictable and the wise gardener will be prepared for just about anything. There could be a heatwave, snow, frost, drought and April showers. Be prepared to protect tender young shoots with a covering of horticultural fleece, which can be used as a warm blanket until the cold snap has passed.

Hydrangea macrophylla

Prunus Alexandra Park

This is the perfect time for pruning a variety of shrubs, depending on the weather. If fairly mild, Hydrangea macrophylla can be pruned down to a pair of buds and old, woody growth can be removed. Buddleja davidii can have a good tidy up, ready for new growth, Lavender can be gently trimmed and Cornus, which is grown for winter stem colour, can be pruned hard if you haven’t already done so. Deciduous ornamental grasses should also be cut down to make way for new growth.

Continued on page 20

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Plant a tree for the jubilee Make the most of the coming growing season by planting trees and shrubs as soon as possible so that their roots can romp away as the soil warms. Her Majesty the Queen has been on the throne for 70 years this year and we are all urged to ‘plant a tree for the jubilee’. This national tree initiative is encouraging everyone to plant trees, whether it’s a single specimen in a garden or an entire woodland. It is hoped that individuals, community groups, schools, businesses and councils will all take part in a bid to green up the UK. This, of course, will help to fight the climate crisis. Trees, after all, are our friends when it comes to absorbing pollution, storing carbon, producing oxygen, stabilising the soil, helping to prevent flooding, improving biodiversity and providing shelter.

But did you know that some trees are better than others when it comes to eco credentials? Oak, beech, London plane, black walnut, many larger maples and eucalyptus are some of the best when it comes to carbon storage. Larger trees are generally better than smaller varieties, but anything is better than none at all! Broadleaved species have a larger surface area of leaves, which enables them to carry out photosynthesis. They absorb water, sunlight and carbon dioxide in order to produce oxygen.

When it comes to wildlife, oaks are kings of the habitat providers, but smaller trees, including a wide range of birch, are excellent too. Some of the woodland edge smaller trees and shrubs excel at this particular role, including elder, spindle, blackthorn, wild cherry, crab apple, hawthorn and holly. The key lies in planting a diverse mix of species in order to provide as many benefits as possible to wildlife. Think in terms of food sources as well as cute, furry and feathery creatures. Insects are just as important when you consider the food chain.

20 connectionmags.co.uk

Pests and diseases It is wise to avoid planting a monoculture using just one species of tree. If disease strikes, you are likely to lose the entire group. This applies to street trees as much as it does to garden hedges, copses and woodland. Far better to include a mix of species, which will be less likely to pass on disease to each other. For this reason, it is sensible to extend the range of trees in the UK to include non-native, hardy trees as well as natives. Always source trees from reliable, ‘plant-healthy’ suppliers.

Be aware of the general health of trees, including disease that causes limbs to be lost, thus posing a safety risk in public places.

• Ash dieback is likely to cause the loss of up to 80 per cent of this tree in the UK. Affected trees near public areas should be removed.

• Phytophthora ramorum is an organism that is sometimes called a water mould. It causes bleeding canker symptoms on trees, including larch and sweet chestnut in addition to conifers such as Douglas fir. It can also cause sudden oak death.

• Phytophthora pluvialis has recently been discovered in western hemlock and Douglas fir in the West Country. It causes needles to turn brown and drop, eventually resulting in dieback.

• Oak processionary moth is an insect pest that is currently present in London and surrounding counties. There are silken nests and processions of caterpillars that defoliate oak trees, thus leaving them vulnerable and unable to carry out photosynthesis.

• A fungal disease called massaria is spreading amongst London plane trees, including those at Buckingham Palace and some of the Royal parks.

It causes lesions on branches, which die back and are eventually shed.

Ash dieback

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By Caroline Knight: Gardendesignideas.co.uk @connection_mag

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We’ve added to our usual selection of delicious produce!

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The new Range Rover has arrived, bringing with it a predictably luxurious take on the SUV recipe.

Packed with technological advancements, the new Range Rover looks set to be the most futuristic to date, while a series of plug-in hybrid powertrains – alongside traditional petrol and diesel options – means that it’s more electrified than ever.

But the Range Rover’s job isn’t an easy one. There are more rivals for it than ever, so let’s dive in and check out what this latest Range Rover is up against.

BMW X7 The X7 sits at the top of BMW’s SUV range, effectively sitting as a high-riding version of the firm’s luxurious 7 Series saloon. It’s a hard car to miss, too, with its ultra-large front kidney grilles giving it a whole lot of presence out on the road.

It’s also got space for seven, so it does have a focus on practicality, too. With a huge amount of interior space, it’s a really comfortable choice for longer journeys.

Bentley Bentayga The Bentayga has proved to be a real hit for Bentley, encapsulating the luxury feel of the firm’s saloon and coupe models but in a highriding SUV body style. Much like the new Range Rover, it’s available with a traditional petrol engine but also a plug-in hybrid option, giving zero-emissions running at lower speeds.

Bentley recently added a more sporty ‘S’ version too, kitted out with a powerful 4.0-litre twinturbocharged V8.v Continued on page 20

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Audi Q8 Though we could opt for the popular Q7 in this list, it’s the Q8 that stands out in Audi’s range of SUVs. Bringing a coupe-like design, the Q8 looks truly futuristic on the road, with its full-width rear light bar giving the car a really cool appearance at night.

It’s just as futuristic inside, too, with a good range of materials ensuring that the Q8 feels particularly upmarket.

Aston Martin DBX Aston’s first SUV – the DBX – has really made waves, delivering a sporting driving experience alongside a level of quality that you’d expect from the firm. Both comfortable and involving, the DBX is a car capable of making a twisty road fun while also taking the backache out of longer journeys.

It’s also got a design in keeping with the rest of the Aston Martin range, while a 4.0-litre turbocharged V8 engine means it’s got the performance to match, too.

Mercedes-Benz GLS The GLS is the largest SUV Mercedes offer and is, in fact, one of the largest SUVs on sale today. It’s fitted with some of the firm’s latest technology, too, including a superb MBUX infotainment operating system, accessed via a pair of 12.3inch screens set underneath one single piece of glass to create a full widescreen effect.

It’s also supremely comfortable, while the option of a range-topping GLS63 adds a performance variant for those who want it.

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BACK OF THE NET Just as we approach the business end of the season we hear the heartening report of Christian Eriksen making a comeback, following his cardiac arrest while playing for Denmark at Euro 2020 last summer. He has been released from his contract with Inter Milan to re-start his career with Brentford on a 6 month contract.

Having been fitted with an ICD (implanted cardioverter-defibrillator), a type of pacemaker, Eriksen says he feels fitter now than before the incident when he was carried from the pitch. He’s a wonderful player with great skills and it’s to be hoped that his recovery will continue and that he can help keep Brentford in the Premiership.

Brentford have been in freefall recently and have been pulled into the relegation fight. At

the time of writing, although they are six points clear of the drop zone, they have played more games than the teams below them. Newcastle and Watford have recently changed managers which might also change their fortunes, although I believe Watford will still go down, even with Roy in charge. Everton also have a new manager but they continue to sail close to the relegation wind. Burnley are struggling more than usual this season and with only one win so far and the second highest number of draws, they could be on the way down, even with the best goals against difference of the bottom seven teams. I still believe Norwich are doomed.

It’s looking like an exciting end of season, especially after some great FA Cup results.

Nottingham Forest and Middlesbrough both had unexpected wins, while Boreham Wood’s victory over Bournemouth was the shock result of the seaon so far. Watch out Everton!

And Kiddermister Harriers played so well, deserving better against West Ham. That would have been an even bigger shock than Boreham Wood’s result.

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Is there anything more idyllic than waking on a cruise ship and drawing your blinds to reveal an endless expanse of ocean? Add in cocktails by the pool, daily entertainment and shopping galore, and you have all the ingredients for the perfect holiday. That’s not even touching on the destinations you stop off at along the way!

From the Greek Islands to Scandinavia’s Norwegian fjords, cruises can take you all over the globe. To give you some inspiration, here are five of the world’s most popular cruise destinations for 2022.

The River Nile As far as river cruises are concerned, there aren’t many that compare to a voyage along the Egyptian stretch of the River Nile.

Measuring about 4,160 miles in length, there’s no better way to put the Nile’s sheer scale into perspective than to sail along a portion on a scenic Egyptian river cruise. Whether you’re into your history or simply want to soak up the culture, it’s impossible not to be blown away by the 7,000-year-old history you’ll witness at every turn.

The Greek Islands With more than 6,000 Greek islands peppering the Aegean and Ionian seas, this is a corner of the world made for exploring by ship.

Start in Athens and spend your first couple of days exploring the capital before embarking on your journey. Top cruise destinations include Mykonos with its waterside cocktail bars and white-sand beaches, Rhodes with its Old Town and uninterrupted swathes of sand, and Santorini, where the sunsets are worldrenowned.

The Norwegian fjords If you’re more interested in adventure than sun, sea and sand, Norway’s dramatic fjords are sure to deliver. These narrow inlets make up the majority of the country’s northern coast and boast some of Scandinavia’s most exceptional scenery.

Exploring from a cruise ship promises to bring you close to Norway’s tumbling waterfalls and skyscraper cliffs; keep an eye out for rare seabirds and sperm whales if you’re lucky! Most cruises will also stop at remote fishing villages, where you can sample some of the freshest, most delicious seafood.

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The Caribbean The Caribbean’s wealth of white-sand beaches washed by turquoise seas make it an incredibly popular cruise destination for sun-seekers.

Thanks to the islands’ close proximity, you could be snorkelling with turtles in Tobago one day and dancing to reggae beats in Jamaica the next. Although equally colourful, each island has its own distinct character, meaning there’s enough to please wildlife lovers, history enthusiasts, foodies and anyone who just wants to laze on the beach.

Alaska Coined ‘The Last Frontier’, Alaska is the USA’s most sparsely populated state – and its wildest.

Sail past gigantic glaciers, snap photographs of sea lions, take a shore excursion to see brown bears and witness breaching whales; the cruise itineraries around Alaska’s untamed landscape are hard to beat. You can also expect visits to Alaska’s state capital of Juneau, only reachable by air or by water, Glacier Bay National Park, and Skagway, a compact city saturated with history from the Gold Rush era.

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NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH ALCESTER Protect your bike from theft.

Practical tips that will help keep your bike safe and out of the hands of thieves – and advice on how to get it back if it is stolen. The most important thing to remember is: Double lock your bike and register the frame number.

Ten ways to protect your bike. 1 Double lock it Using two locks slows thieves down and makes your bike less of a target. Use two quality locks, at least one of which is a D-lock. Thieves are less likely to carry multiple tools, so use two different types of lock if possible. 2 Lock everything. Lock the frame and both wheels to a secure cycle stand.

3 Secure it. Secure your bike as close to the stand as possible to give any thieves little or no room to manoeuvre. 4 Take removable parts with you. Take parts that are easy to remove with you, such as wheels, lights, baskets or the saddle. Or use locking skewers or nuts which can increase security by securing the bike’s components to the frame permanently. 5 Park securely. Lock your bike at recognised secure cycle parking. It should be well lit and covered by CCTV. 6 Register your frame number for free on a cycle database such as BikeRegister or immobilise.com. Alternative companies can be found on the Secured by Design website. The frame number is usually found underneath the bike between the pedals or where the back wheel slots in. If your bike is ever stolen and recovered by the police, it can be traced back to you. 7 Mark it. Get your bike security marked. It’s a highly effective, visible deterrent to bike thieves.

They know that if they are caught with a registered

bike, the owner can be traced and they will be arrested. BikeRegister provide a list of police bike marking events. You can also mark your bike with SmartWater. 8 Remember safety begins at home.

Take the same care to lock your bike securely at home as you would on the street. Avoid advertising that you have a bike at home, for example, by removing car roof racks, and creating ‘privacy zones’ on apps like Strava to avoid disclosing your location. 9 Check ownership. Ask for proof of ownership and check the bike frame number on a cycle database such as Bike Checker at BikeRegister. Alternative companies can be found on the Secured by Design website. 10 Act fast. If your bike has been stolen, contact Police as soon as possible by calling 101 or reporting online. Give Police your frame number, cycle database number, a photo and any other details and make sure you update the status on the cycle database where you registered it. The sooner the police know, the sooner they can act, which might stop it being sold on.

Communicating with the Police: Emergencies and active crime, call 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 Police South Safer Neighbourhood Watch Scheme Team email: alcestersouth.snt@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk SGT 1685 David Ebbs david.ebbs@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk PC 1672 Rob Davies robert.davies4@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk PCSO 6327 Carolyn Davis carolyn.davis1@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk PCSO 6111 Gary Johnson-Jones gary.johnson-jones@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk Alcester Office 01789 444816.

Always report an active crime on 999. Nonemergency calls on 101. Online reporting

services are also available on our website: https://www.warwickshire.police.uk/ Facebook - Alcester 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 to report a suspect rogue trader. General advice on scams and rogue traders contact 0845 4040 506.

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

For more information about Neighbourhood Watch Alcester please contact nhwalcester@ gmail.com or telephone Dorrie Manders on 01789 762999.

Whichever action you take, make sure you do it as soon as possible. Time really is of the essence.

Stolen Bikes in the UK will help to spread the word on the theft of your bike and offer you advice to help get it back. Find that bike lists adverts for bikes placed on online marketplaces, which you can check frequently to see if yours has been listed for sale. Adverts are usually placed within 24 hours of the theft but if not, keep looking as they sometimes take a few months to pop up.

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

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Alcester Town Council MARCH-APRIL 2022

Alcester Winter Wanderland For the third year running, Alcester enjoyed its streets being lit up with wonderful window displays. From 15- 22 January, 2022 window makers brought Covid-proof joy to window wanderers in our lovely community.

The Mayor of Alcester, Cllr Kathryn Cargill would like to compliment all the entrants on a very high standard of design. The overall winners of the Window Wanderland Challenge were the Craig family and their team, from Gerard Road, with a theme from The Greatest Showman. There was a special mention for The Beatles group of windows in Moorfields Road and the large cluster of excellent windows in Gerard Road. It was a difficult decision!

Town Council Meetings

All Town Council meetings are currently held in person at Globe House with the exception of the Planning Committee which generally meets using Zoom. Please note Community Care and Community Facilities Committees now meet bimonthly. All meetings in 2022 commence at 7pm.

Full Council Meetings: Tuesdays 2 March & 13 April Community Facilities: 16 March Presidium: 30 March & 27 April Community Care: 27 April Planning Committee: Mondays 15 & 29 March & 19 April Members of the public are welcome to attend all Council meetings and are given time at the start of the meetings to speak. Anyone wishing to attend or ask questions should contact the Town Clerk on clerk@alcester-tc.gov. uk before 2pm the day before the meeting to obtain further details.

Agendas are published on the Town Council website: www.alcester-tc.gov.uk and copies can be viewed on the Council notice boards.

Alcester Town Council Contact Details:

Advance Notice Annual Parish Meeting

Tuesday 5 April 2022 at 7pm Alcester War Memorial Town Hall Please contact Alcester Town Council for more information on: 01789 766084 or clerk@alcester-tc.gov.uk

36 connectionmags.co.uk

The Town Council offices are open Monday to Friday, 9am-1pm.

If you have an enquiry for the Town Council, please phone 01789 766084 or email clerk@alcester-tc.gov.uk and we will repond as soon as we can.

Alcester Town Council offices: Globe House, Priory Road, Alcester B49 5DZ Tel: 01789 766084 Town Clerk - Vanessa Lowe: clerk@alcester-tc.gov.uk Planning & Communication - Sarah Duran: administration@alcester-tc.gov.uk Facilities & Community Care Jan Rowlatt: reception@alcester-tc.gov.uk Health & Wellbeing - Wendy Sherwood: info@alcester-tc.gov.uk Office Administrator - Tim Forman: office@alcester-tc.gov.uk Further information can be found on our social media pages: www.facebook.com/alcester

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Bidford on Avon Parish Council in the County of Warwickshire

BIDFORD RURAL CINEMA Due to the continued COVID situation and current guideline, we feel it is not possible to foresee what the circumstances will be in the new year. We will restart as soon as it is safe to do so and will update the website accordingly as well as the noticeboards.

YOUR VILLAGE, YOUR CHOICE Some development has taken place since the last Newsletter: the Walking & Cycling sub group held a successful virtual meeting and you will be able to keep up with its ideas by catching up with the meeting’s notes available at https://bidfordonavonpc.gov.uk/your-village-your-voice/ QUEEN’S PLATINUM JUBILEE The Parish Council has already started planting trees to commemorate this momentous event: • Tree planting to commemorate this momentous ocassion at Broom and Dugdale Sportsfield has been completed as has the tree planting project at Bidford Primary School, to which the Parish Council contributed a grant of £1,100.

It is currently working with Orbit Housing and Warwickshire County Council to see if further tree planting is possible in the Autumn.

• Memorial Benches have been installed at Barton, Broom and Marlcliff • Queens Platinum Jubilee Group is working hard arranging events to take place over all 4 days of the Queens Platinum Jubilee Bank Holiday at the beginning of June. The Parish Council has ring fenced £15,000 towards the costs of what promises to be a Great Village Event.

WARM HUB they say “every cloud has a silver lining” and the weekly WARM HUB at the Crawford Memorial Hall (Wednesdays 10 – 12) has proved to be our COVID 19 silver lining.

It started as an opportunity for our older and more vulnerable residents to meet up once a week in a safe environment, organised by Warwickshire Rural Community Council (WRCC)/VASA for a 5 month period and, in view of it success, the Parish Council agreed to continue this popular get together. The doors are open to all residents and it is a wonderful way of meeting old friends and making new ones!

THE JOLLY TEAPOT This long standing Coffee Morning, organised by Bidford Community Group every Thursday, 9.30 – 11.30 at the Church Rooms, is now fully back.

PARISH COUNCIL OFFICE Due to COVID, things are very fluid at present with the guidelines changing continuously.Depending on these, the Clerk may be working from home but is contactable on her mobile 07718 628925 or by email info@bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk. If you need an appointment to see her, this can be arranged.

38 connectionmags.co.uk

BIDFORD VINTAGE GATHERING This popular family event is back! Make sure you enter the weekend of 7 & 8 May 2022 in your diaries.

BIG MEADOW Weather permitting, the Summer Season will start on 1st April (to 30th Sept). Bidford residents can obtain a Car Fob to allow them to park on the Big Meadow for free. Fobs can be obtained from the Parish Council Office. Please note, if you are not on the Electoral Roll you will need to provide proof of Council Tax. PARISH COUNCIL OFFICE Another change due to COVID 19 is that many briefings, conferences, meetings and training events are now virtual (it is more environmentally friendly and saves on travel expenses and time) but it does mean the Clerk works from home those days but is contactable on her mobile 07718 628925 or by email info@bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk. If you need to see the Clerk at the office, please phone or email to ensure the office is open when you go.

MEETINGS • Planning Consultative Committee Meeting: Monday 14 March & 11 April, 7.30pm.

• Parish Council Meeting: Monday 28 March & 25 April at 7.30pm.

All meetings are open to the public and held at the Parish Council Meeting Room, Bramley Way, B50 4QG (unless stated otherwise). It is at these meetings that decisions that directly affect our village and our local community are made – so be part of it and come and see what happens.

BIDFORD EMAIL INFORMATION Want to know what is happening in the village every week? Sign up by emailing the Clerk at info@bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk and your name will be added to the Weekly email Information list and you will receive an email regarding upcoming events and notices.

SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook - Bidford on Avon Twitter - @Bidford_PC. Instagram - bidfordpc PARISH COUNCIL CONTACTS Clerk to the Parish Council – Mrs. Elisabeth Uggerløse.

Tel No. 07718 628 925 Email: info@bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk Website: www.bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk.

A list of Parish Councillors can be found online: bidfordonavon-pc.gov.uk/councillors.htm

Elisabeth Uggerlose - Clerk to the Parish Council

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community events & what’s on...

To publicise any community events, email info@connectionmags.co.uk by 8th of February.

Broom WI 3rd March: 'The Heart of England Forest' by Ros Anscombe. 7th April: 'Tax, Care and Toy Boys', updated for 2022 by Co-Op Estate Planning.

Both meetings will be held in Broom Village Hall commencing at 7.30 pm.

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

Monday 7th March Demonstrator Bev Short.

Monday 4th April Demonstrator tba. Competition for both months is Flower of he Month. Visitors and new members are most welcome. Contact Marian Buchanan 01789 400868.

Salford Priors Ladies Group Our meeting on 9th February was our 15th AGM and and I am pleased to report that Barbara McIlwaine was re-elected Group Leader for another 12 months, as was Pam Seville as Hon. Secretary with Penny Bradfield officially now our new Hon. Treasurer.

Committee Members: Joyce Lewis and Penny Prewer.

For our 9th March meeting, we are pleased to welcome back Keep Fit Instructor & Zumba Teacher, Juanita, who will be showing us how to improve our joints and muscles by doing Strength and Balance movements.

This should be very beneficial to all of us so please come along and try out the exercises for yourself.

On 13th April at 2.30 pm we will very pleased to say hello again to Liz Fletcher (daughter of Shirley Burgess). Liz will be guiding us through the aspects of Active Art. This should prove very interesting, in fact I would go as far as to say this event could be hilarious at times as we try our best to show off our best attempts at this art form. So please come and join in the fun, looking forward to seeing you.

Contact Barbara McIlwaine on 01789 778392 for details.

Alcester WI We are now back into routine again but please note that we will be meeting at Malt Mill Lane Community Centre for the foreseeable future; still at 7.30 p.m., on the second Thursday evening of each month. We are "going local" for much of the year. In fact our first 2 speakers live on the same road, only a couple of doors from each other.

On March 10th we are ignoring spring and staying in winter in the company of Mick Parker as he talks about Ernest Shackleton's Antarctic

40 connectionmags.co.uk

Adventures. Scarves, fur-lined boots and gloves are optional! This is a talk not to be missed as it is a fascinating subject on which Mick is an expert.

On April 14th we will be "Getting to know the Shakespeare Hospice" with Cath Tomlinson and Jude Bowley. Both Cath and Jude are very committed to supporting and promoting this special local facility.

As always we are looking forward to getting together with other members and their friends. It has been a long 2 years and we are so pleased that we have managed to keep in touch with each other. The Book Club is thriving and also meeting face to face again. Do think about joining us. You will be made very welcome.

Bidford on Avon WI We began the WI year with a talk from Andrew Taylor about his life in journalism. In February Denise Hopkins talked about her life working in Racing stables. Our next meeting on Thursday March 10th will be an evening of food and chat in memory of a long time member of Bidford WI, Vera Oliver.

On April 14th our speaker will be Jenny Rigby who’s talk is entitled ‘Shakespeare and Me’.

We look forward to welcoming members and visitors to Church Hall, Church Street, Bidford on Avon. B50 4DA, opposite St. Lawrence’s Church.

For more information phone Elizabeth 01789 778887 or Pauline 01789 773390.

Cookhill Garden Club

On Wednesday 16th March at 7.30pm, the Club has a talk by Ingrid Millington on 'Primulas and Auriculas'.

Non members welcome. Wednesday 20th April at 7.30pm, a presentation by Chris Beardshaw on 'The English Garden'. Tickets only. Details from 01527 894317 or website www.cookhillgarden.club.

Bidford Gardening Society

Thursday 17th March, ‘An Introduction to Cacti and Succulents’ by Ian Thwaites. Thursday 21st April, ‘Unusual Climbers’ by Andy Pedrick. All meetings are held in The Crawford Memorial Hall, Bidford, 7.15pm for 7.30pm start.

Further details on www.Bidfordgardens.com.

Alcester Singers Saturday April 2nd at 7.30 pm, Alcester Singers with professional soloists present the Mozart Requiem and Haydn Te Deum at St. Nicholas Church, Alcester.

Tickets £12.50 (under 14s free) from Humphries Shoes, Alcester (cash only) : 01789 764023 : or on the door.

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e r ’ e W ! k c ba It’s the Alcester & Bidford Rotary

Charity Breakfast Enjoy a freshly cooked Full English Breakfast and help us raise funds for good causes in our local community and beyond.

Crawford Hall, Bidford th Saturday 5 March 9.00am – 12 noon

Alcester Town Hall th Saturday 12 March 8.30am – 12 noon

For more information please email alcesterbidfordrotary@gmail.com or visit our website www.alcesterbidfordrotary.co.uk

Rotary Alcester & Bidford

Organised by Rotary with the generous support of Bidford Co-op, Clay Hall Farm Eggs, Freemans, Plato, Simply Fresh, Waitrose and other local businesses

community events & what’s on...

To publicise any community events, email info@connectionmags.co.uk by 8th of April Temple Grafton WI

join us at Crawford memorial Hall.

Our meetings are held at 7.30pm at Graftons Village Hall, Temple Grafton.

9th March. speaker Kay Elliott on ‘Watercolour Design’.

13th April, speaker Debbie Griggs on ‘How I Make a Bag from a Saddle’.

For further details email eileen.timms258@btinternet. com or call 01789 773671.

Harvington Phoenix Ladies Group

Meetings are held in Harvington Village Hall. On 2nd March at 7.45pm, Andy Pedrick will give a talk ‘What’s looking good in the garden’ and will be bringing plants to buy. On 6th April at 7.45pm Henley Chocolates will give a talk, ‘The flavours of chocolate’ and there will also be tastings provided. Refreshments available and all ladies welcome. Contact Ali 01386 870179 for more information.

Alcester u3a To mark the National u3a movement’s 40th Anniversary in 2022, the Trust is creating a u3a anniversary woodland situated in the Brecon Beacons. The target is for 5,000 trees to be planted by March 2022. As Alcester u3a’s 30th anniversary is also in 2022, we have decided to donate 30 trees to be part of this woodland. Once the trees are fully established, they will be looked after as part of routine woodland management. The Woodland is in an area of outstanding natural beauty and the trees will be expertly looked after by skilled arborists.

For more information about Alcester u3a see our website https://u3asites.org.uk/alcester/home.

Alcester Ladies Probus Club We meet on the 2nd Wednesday in the month for lunch, 12 for 12.30 at Kings Court Hotel, Kings Coughton.

Contact Cath Tomlinson 01789 763210.

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: david@hancox1971.co.uk.

Bidford Darby & Joan We meet at Westholme Court, Westholme Road, Bidford, every Thursday from 2pm. Come and join us.

Bidford Community Group - Jolly Teapot Bidford on Avon Community Group hold a get together each Thursday 9.30 to 11.30 am. You are welcome to

42 connectionmags.co.uk

Bingo at Bidford Bowling Club Come and join us on Friday nights. Eyes down 7 pm.

Licensed bar at popular prices.

Alcester & District Local History Society www.alcesterhistory.org.uk

Bidford History Society www.bidfordhistory.org.uk

Alcester Town Hall alcestertownhall.org.uk

Alcester Cafe

Alcester Café is a drop-in café, held twice weekly, dedicated to help support people with memory problems/dementia, their families, carers, former carers and interested professional people.

Run on a weekly basis, every Tuesday and Friday (except Good Friday, Christmas Day and New Years Day) from 10.30am-12.30pm, at the Eric Payne Centre.

Call 01789 765971 for more information or we have an excellent website www.alcesterdementiacafe.org.

Bidford Dementia Cafe

We welcome people living with dementia and their carers to our re-opening from 28th February.

Bidford Dementia Cafe is a place to find understanding, get support, do memory activities and have a good time.

Refreshments and activities are free.

We meet at Westholme Court, Westholme Road, Bidford on Avon on Monday mornings, from 10.30 to 12.30. For more information contact Wendy on 0771 364 8717 or Michael on 0772 587 8530.

We have been running at Westhome Court since 2016 and many people have found it of enormous benefit to them.

We rely on volunteers to run the cafe. If this is of interest to you and you would like to know more about joining us, please contact Wendy on 0771 364 8716.

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Puzzle Page

Answers on pagePictograms 46.

PICTOGRAMS

Pictograms 3Each words ofPictograms these pictures represent a

Each word to be three letters or more (but no plurals), and all must contain the central letter. There’s at least one word which uses all of the letters.

GLUTEUS A MAXIMUS GLUTEUS A MAXIMUS A MAXIMUS

Target: Excellent: 50 or more words Good: 43 words Fair: 38 words

well-known phrase 3 words 3 Words GLUTEUS 3 words

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2 words F F 2 words F2 Words F R F R F 2 words R

U R R R F U F F U S S S U U R R U R S U S U S U 4 Words S S S 4 words

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WRITITING WRITITING

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Quick Crossword

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8 9

10

11

12 13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20 21

23

44 connectionmags.co.uk

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Across 1 Money (4) 3 Used in board game (5,3) 9 Scold severely (7) 10 Electronic post (5) 11 Young cabbage plants (6,6) 14 To allow (3) 16 Type of drum (5) 17 Joint (3) 18 Seen in a rink (6-6) 21 Violent disturbances (5) 22 Stabbing weapon (7) 23 Supporting column (8) 24 Popular sport (4) Down 1 Advises (8) 2 Serious (5) 4 Stowed away (3) 5 Lock picks (8,4) 6 Loyal (7) 7 Story (4) 8 Eats its own kind (12) 12 Doomed (5) 13 Alcoholic appetiser (8) 15 Twice as much (7) 19 South American dance (5) 20 Hold tightly (4) 22 Type of snake (3)

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Puzzle Answers

Sudoku solutions

Pictograms

(see page 6)

1. Move A Muscle 2. Surf’s Up 3. Put It In Writing

Easy grid

Wordwheel ANSWER: MINARET / RAIMENT

Simple Crossword Across: 1. Cash, 3. Chess set, 9. Upbraid, 10. Email, 11. Spring greens, 14. Let, 16. Bongo, 17. Hip, 18. Roller-skater, 21. Riots, 22. Bayonet, 23. Pedestal, 24. Golf.

Down: 1. Counsels, 2. Sober, 4. Hid, 5. Skeleton keys, 6. Staunch, 7. Tale, 8. Cannibalises, 12. Goner, 13. Aperitif, 15. Twofold, 19. Tango, 20. Grip, 22. Boa.

Not so easy grid

Kids Puzzle Answer The animal fur answers are...

A – Leopard D – Giraffe B – Zebra E – Tiger C – Cheetah

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