Issue 55 - County Lifestyle & Leisure Magazine by County Lifestyle and Leisure Magazine

C OVER FEATURE

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE:

Editor’s Choice – Sustainable Living – Unique Retreats

Stunning collection of top quality Mother of the Bride or Groom outfits at a fraction of the original cost • A whole showroom dedicated to Weddings and special occasions. • Fabulous collection of preloved quality outfits in a range of sizes. • Got an outfit to sell? We can help with that too.

Call our friendly team on 01386 554620 13 High St, Pershore, WR10 1AA www.thesmartexchangeshop.co.uk

C O VER F EAT UR E

Baltic Hot Tubs bringing luxury into your garden Everybody likes a little luxury in their lives and the ultimate indulgence is to have your own hot tub. More and more people are discovering the joy and health benefits of a relaxing hot spa soak in their own garden thanks to woodfired Baltic Hot Tubs, a specialist family business which manufactures each one by hand, bespoke to customers’ own preferences. Baltic Hot Tubs has built up a great reputation since starting up more than five years ago, at a workshop in Evesham. The company makes wood fired hot tubs with a wood burner and chimney on the outside, and integrated hot tubs with the burner located underneath, sitting flush with the cladding. There are many variations, from the size and number of people they seat to the strength of the bubble systems, perhaps including a powerful double hydro-massaging system to soothe aching muscles and dissipate stress. There are packages to suit every need and budget, ranging from Basic to Family, Deluxe, Ultimate and Premium Deluxe, and customers can choose their own variations.

the liners. The timber used for the surrounds may be thermowood, composite or perhaps larch, cedar or Siberian spruce. Baltic Hot Tubs also makes a luxury range of barrel saunas, which are enduringly popular among the health conscious. Optional extras include a glass back wall for panoramic views of the garden or other setting and either electric or wood fired heaters as preferred.

EDITOR

Jodie Collinson sales@countylifestyleandleisure.com 01455 698686 ACCOUNTS

Laura Smith accounts@countylifestyleandleisure.com 01455 698570 JOURNALIST

Shirley Elsby shirley.elsby@ntlworld.com 01455 446360 SALES

Sally Hassel sally@countylifestyleandleisure.com 01455 698570 DESIGN

design@countylifestyleandleisure.com Suite 10, The Lawns Business Centre The Lawns, Hinckley, Leicestershire, LE10 1DY www.countylifestyleandleisure.com Company Number: 10125538 VAT Number: 239853468

Business owner Artur Belimenko says: “We custom make all our products to suit customers’ own requirements and use high quality materials and craftsmanship. We pride ourselves on giving excellent customer service and we have a highly experienced, knowledgeable and friendly installation team.” Why not visit www.baltichottubs.com now to find out how you can soak up more of the high life. Baltic Hot Tubs, Unit 2 Birmingham Road, Blackminster, Evesham WR11 7TD T 07799 386471 or 07920 025270 E baltichottubs@gmail.com www.baltichottubs.com

CONTENTS

Renovate & Refresh Your Home 10 Sustainable Living

Wedding Guide

Care Guide

Top 10 Worcestershire Restaurants

Health & Wellbeing

Tweedies Competition

Editor’s Choice

Travel & Holidays

Unique Retreats

Many people like to relax or party with friends or family in their hot tubs, or perhaps enjoy romantic scenarios with their partners under the stars, so features such as drinks shelves and LED lights are often included. Other accessories include steps to aid getting in and out, headrests, insulated covers, heat guards and different coloured finishes for

UNIQUE RETREATS

Our 10 Favourite Unique Retreats for the perfect Staycation See Page 46 for the full feature

Elegance & beauty at a reasonable cost •

100% solid wood kitchens – no MDF, chipboard or ply

•

Dovetail jointed drawers – mortise and tenon joints for carcasses

•

Free design service, individual hand drawn plans

•

Non-standard sizes, at no extra cost, to suit your kitchen dimensions

•

Fully assembled units; no annoying flat-pack assembly

•

Straightforward, easy to understand costing – prices include VAT & delivery

•

Primed, or primed and painted units can now be provided

www.pineland.co.uk enquiries@pineland.co.uk

Cleobury Mortimer – Shropshire 01299 271143 Northwich – Cheshire 01606 41292

■

Decorative Aggregates

■

Fast friendly local service

■

Building Sands & Gravels

■

Bulk bags delivered

■

Timber Landscaping Supplies

■

Collections in bags or bulk

■

Paving

■

Loose tipped deliveries up to 11t

■

Fencing

■

Full lorry loads direct to site

Based on our farm in the heart of Worcestershire we pride ourselves on being able to offer a fast, friendly and flexible local service from our yard out to Worcestershire, Gloucestershire, Warwickshire and the West Midlands.

Call 01905 381195 or email info@cjcaggregates.co.uk visit our website www.cjcaggregates.co.uk CJC (Worcester) Ltd, Cowsden Bank Farm, Naunton Road, Upton Snodsbury, Worcestershire, WR7 4NU

Last chance to live in luxury at Willow Park Luxury lodges and tranquil surroundings provide the backdrop for an idyllic lifestyle within the friendly community of Willow Park, near Stratford upon Avon and the Cotswolds. Set in the quintessentially English village of Salford Priors – and within strolling distance of its amenities – the secure, gated park has been purpose-designed to feel safe, calm and rural, with an abundance of varied wildlife attracted by six acres of landscaped grounds and ponds. There are now just a few of the original 60 spacious plots left on this stylish park, which is

open throughout the year. The customers who snap them up will be able to buy a lodge bespoke for their own requirements or, if they prefer, buy one ready designed, furnished and ready for immediate occupation.

The development has been designed to extremely high standards by park owners Mr and Mrs Broadway, who live on site, as do friendly managers Sue and Danny Bittle, who maintain site security and standards.

All the lodges are manufactured to the highest standards by Omar, in sizes from 43′ x 20′ to 55′ x 22′. The plots, too, are individually designed and come with a 50 year licence agreement. Living costs on site are low, with no Council Tax and only an annual pitch fee and fuel costs to pay.

countylifestyleandleisure.com

There are no children living at Willow Park, but many residents have dogs and enjoy the freedom of walks on their doorstep as well as in the wider countryside. Salford Priors is a pretty village with thatched cottages and pleasant amenities including a shop, post office and country pub. Bidford upon Avon is also within walking

distance, with services including shops and a doctor’s surgery. A frequent bus service outside the entrance goes there and to other locations including Stratford and Evesham. Kelly says: “It’s a really lovely, closeknit community. All the amenities are on our doorstep and everything is of a very high standard. Everyone is impressed when they come, look around and speak to the residents, who are very enthusiastic about Willow Park. It’s a great lifestyle choice for retired and semiretired people.”

Please mention the County Lifestyle and Leisure magazine when responding to adverts

Renovate & Refresh this spring With energy prices forecast to go rampant in the coming months there has never been a better time to invest in energy efficiency for the home. If you have poor insulation, draughty glazing or oldfashioned heating systems, now is the time to upgrade and invest! Insulating the loft is one of the quickest and least expensive

ways of keeping heat in, cold out and energy bills down, with cavity wall insulation another significant warmth retention measure. But if you have an ageing central heating system you can save significantly by upgrading your old boiler to a new A-rated condensing boiler with a programmer, room thermostat

and thermostatic radiator controls. Locally, R N A Heating Ltd is a well-established company with a great reputation for reliability across all plumbing and gas related works, including boiler installation. Call now to see how these professionals can improve your home and lifestyle.

If you require cost effective, reliable heating and plumbing engineers then look no further. We cater to all domestic and commercial client’s central heating systems, gas, oil, LPG boiler services and plumbing requirements. Established in 2000, we have the knowledge and expertise needed to ensure that you receive nothing but the best service. Our reputation has been developed through hard work and reliability which is why we are the area’s number one choice for plumbing & gas related work. To discuss your project, to talk through your options or to obtain a free estimate, please contact us.

Our Services Include: • Oil & Gas Boiler

Installations • Oil & Gas Boiler Repairs • Oil & Gas Boiler Replacements • Oil & Gas Boiler Servicing

• Central Heating

• Landlord Safety

• • • •

Installations Energy Efficient Advice Gas Safety Inspections General Plumbing Overflows

Certificates Power Flushing Pump Repairs Radiators Under Floor Heating

Areas We Cover We provide gas and central heating services to homes and businesses across Worcestershire and the surrounding areas. • Bromsgrove • Droitwich • Kidderminster • Redditch • Worcester

01299 405 135 www.rnaheating.com 32A Coppice Trading Estate, Kidderminster, DY11 7QY

Please mention the County Lifestyle and Leisure magazine when responding to adverts

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Renovate & Refresh this spring

WL ROOFING Professional Roof Repair and Maintenance

We provide the following services are are not limited to: • • • • • • • • • • • •

Chimney Restoration Apex / Barge Boards Brickwork Repairs Re-pointing Exterior Painting Lead Flashing New Roofs Roof Repairs Gutter & Downpipes Flat Roofs Warm Roofs PVC Fascias & Soffits

With 30+ years experience, you can be sure of being well looked after. 10 year guarantees are included as standard on all completed work.

www.wlroofing.co.uk  01299 827333

102 Minster Road, Stourport-On-Severn, DY13 8AJ

Care for the world around us has always been at the heart of what we do at Leaf. It covers everything from the plants we sell, the compost we stock and day-to-day life at our store. Gardening begins with soil and that’s where our green ethos starts. We stock only peat-free composts and mulches. Peat bogs are one of the world’s best carbon storage areas but only while they lie undisturbed. Instead, we have products based on recycled green waste or sheep’s wool and bracken.

There’s always more that We’d love you to join us on can be done, and we’ve just the journey. launched our Green Charter for 2022 to focus our drive to make gardening greener. Our goals include increasing the percentage of UK-grown plants, helping support national and local businesses while cutting the carbon footprint of our plants.

We buy as many as possible We are also planning to get from UK growers and local if 80% of our waste recycled. we can. Finally, in 2022 we aim to Many of our perennials come plant 1,000 trees under the from The Hairy Pot Plant carbon offsetting scheme. Company who go one step While reducing our carbon further by growing in coir footprint is high on our pots, eliminating plastic. agenda, offsetting the carbon we produce is equally Sometimes it’s impossible important. We hope to offset to avoid plastic pots but we 2,000 tonnes of carbon per recycle and reuse – and year by planting trees. offer a recycling service to customers. They are just the first steps.

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WWW.LEAFCREATIVE.CO.UK 01452 830837 Leaf Creative, Ross Road, Huntley, Gloucestershire, GL19 3EX

Renovate & Refresh this spring

Approved by Historic England for Heritage and Grade II listed buildings.

Bespoke secondary glazing solutions for your insulation and noise problems

- Barely noticeable from inside or outside - Eradicates drafts from old windows - Effective in reducing nuisance from outside noise

- Lowers heating bills by reducing heat loss

01299 544013 | info@lansecglz.co.uk | lansecglz.co.uk Lansec Bespoke Secondary Glazing, Unit 4 Blackmanstitch, Long Bank, Bewdley, Worcestershire DY12 2QW

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22/11/2021 19:27

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NEED SECURE, HEATED INDOOR OR OUTDOOR STORAGE? WHY NOT TRY REDDISTORES? Reddistores self storage is a purpose built, heated self storage facility. Ideally setup for Commercial and Domestic storage. We serve customers throughout Redditch, Alvechurch, Birmingham, Bromsgrove, and the surrounding areas. Whether you’re moving, carrying out alterations or renovations, or just clearing valuable space, we have the storage space for you.

Call us on 01527 62308 to assist with your secure storage solutions, please quote CLL21 when enquiring www.reddistores.com Email: info@reddistores.co.uk Weights Farm, Weights Lane, Redditch, Worcestershire, B97 6RG

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

TRANSFORM YOUR EXISTING CONSERVATORY INTO A LIVING SPACE YOU CAN USE ALL YEAR ROUND

CONSERVATORY ROOF REPLACEMENT Every Ensign conservatory roof is bespoke. Accurately surveyed and precision built in our own factory. • Large range of lightweight tile colours • U-value 0.18 is better than current building regulations • Keylite Roof Windows • Electrics & Plaster Finish

BUILD CONSERVATORY & ORANGERY EXTENSIONS • Cost effective extensions • Large range of designs • LABC Approval Undertaken • Average build time 4 weeks

REPLACEMENT WINDOWS AND DOORS USING PROFILE 22 SYSTEMS • Aluminium bi-fold doors • Composite Doors • Profile 22 Optima Systems • Planitherm Technology • Sealed Units for maximum efficiency • High security locking systems

CALL TODAY TO BOOK YOUR FREE NO OBLIGATION SITE SURVEY

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www.ensignroof.co.uk countylifestyleandleisure.com

SUSTAINABLE LIVING Since people became more aware of global warming and other environmental issues, ‘sustainable living’ has become a key phrase for everyone keen to reduce their negative impact on the planet. As the message has spread, along with techniques and technologies to make it more palatable, individuals, organisations and businesses have all embraced the idea as an ethical choice. Public initiatives have seen us all reducing and recycling

our waste, taking measures to cut energy consumption and reusing things we’d previously have thrown away and generally reducing our carbon footprint. We drive greener cars, choose more plant-based foods and create wildlife-friendly zones in our gardens. Increasingly, we have got the message to think globally and shop locally, reducing the ‘food miles’ of what we eat and turning our back on harmful chemical additives by buying

fresh, organic products, close to home and without surplus packaging. In this section of the magazine, our adverts showcase companies which live by these values and help to make it possible – and enjoyable – for us all to do the same. Support the ecorevolution right here and now by sampling the green goodies they have to offer!

‘Pack It In’ in Worcester caters for all your sustainable household and personal care needs with refillable cleaning products, unpackaged food and sustainable lifestyle items. Situated in the heart of Worcester we can help you organise your in-person shopping routine or offer weekly and monthly deliveries to Bewdley, Stourport, Droitwich, Inberrow, Pershore, Evesham, Upton and Malvern on a circular system so no packaging goes to waste. Our Online shop offers you a catalogue to browse whether shopping for delivery or shopping in-store and tempting recipes using our budget friendly raw ingredients. Shop well for the Planet at ‘Pack It In’ and reduce your carbon footprint.

How it works

Weigh

Fill

Weigh

Pay

The Gallery, The Shambles, Worcester, WR1 2RD www.packitin-zerowasteliving.co.uk

DISCOVER YOUR SPARKLE WITH US Classes for 2yrs+ in Ballet, Tap, Modern, Jazz, Street Dance/Hip Hop, Pom dance, Contemporary, Lyrical, Gym Dance/Acro, Musical Theatre, Drama EXAMINATIONS - COMPETITIONS - SHOWS - AUDITIONS Email: info@danceinmotion.co.uk Tel: (01684) 893 119 www.danceinmotion.co.uk

Manor Arms,

the gateway to Duddon Valley This award winning, family run 17th century Free House, The Manor Arms is open daily from 12 noon, closing at 11.30pm (12 midnight on Friday and Saturday). Furness CAMRA’s pub of the year 2019. In the bar we have a pool table and a pool team in addition to a selection of other activities including dominoes, cards, chess and books to keep the children happy. We look forward to welcoming you to enjoy The Manor Arms and this uniquely attractive area and remind you that, for the weary tourist not wanting to return home just yet, there are comfortable en-suite rooms accompanied the following morning by another splendid experience in the form of a Manor Arms breakfast served in the comfort of your room. • A mini beer festival, daily!

• En-suite rooms available

• Car parking nearby

• Up to 8 real ales available

• CAMRA B&B start rating

• 150 guest ales annually

• Pool table and games

• A long established, family owned free house

The Square Broughton-in-Furness Cumbria LA20 6HY

www.manorarmsthesquare.co.uk

Have a wedding like no other at Elmbridge Farm What truly sets our venue apart from the crowd is the incredible setting. Our giant luxury tipis overlook an expansive lake, surrounded by gorgeous woodland in a private location - exclusively yours for your wedding. With high flexibility and no set suppliers, you can truly create a wedding day as unique as you are. We are a newly licensed venue for official ceremonies on site. And if you want to make a weekend of it, stay right here in our luxury cottages and glamp site.

Get hitched onsite

Corkage Free

A blank canvas

Marriage licensed venue

Bring your own drinks or use our paid bar

Choose your own caterers and other suppliers

Venue Showcase – Saturday 7th May. Online registration now open. www.elmbridgefarmweddings.com Worcestershire

DIAMOND SOLITAIRES

WEDDING BANDS

ETERNITY RINGS

EARRINGS

44 Years Trading in Hereford Her Gold… His Gold… Their Gold… Your Gold… It has to be Hereford Gold! Make shopping easy in our “Jewellery Wonderland”, bursting with every conceivable type of Jewellery you can imagine, from Gold, Silver and Platinum along with a vast selection of Diamond and Precious Stone set pieces. And for those extra special gifts, why not take a look at our “Curiosity Corner’’ that is full of 100’s of Gold Charms - there is something for Everyone. At Hereford Gold, your shopping doesn’t have to cost the Earth as we are up to half the price of other High Street Jewellers. Here you can be assured of a warm welcome, a friendly and relaxed atmosphere in which you can browse and take your time in choosing that “Special Piece”, knowing that every item in the Shop is of Superior Quality.

BODY JEWELLERY

lf you have trouble in deciding from our vast range, our dedicated friendly team are on hand to assist. Hereford Gold is the County’s largest buyer of Gold, Platinum and Silver. You can be 1OO% guaranteed we will offer you a genuine fair price on all of your items. We also buy Gold Sovereigns and Krugerrands. Robert, Philippa and the Team would like to take this opportunity to thank all our valued customers and to welcome new ones.

ANKLETS

PENDANTS

Established 1977

WATCHES

BRACELETS

HEREFORD GOLD

01432 359514 herefordgold@outlook.com Hereford Gold, 42 Commercial Road, Hereford, Herefordshire HR1 2BG

KRUGERRANDS

GOODS BOUGHT FOR CASH

SOVEREIGNS

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IN THE HEART OF BIRMINGHAM’S JEWELLERY QUARTER

SPREADING ROMANCE SINCE 1979

12 Vyse Street, Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham, B18 6LE

www.bicknells.com

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ENTERPRISE RETIREMENT LIVING

MOUNT BATTENHALL

Moving you closer to your dream retirement

COMPLIMENTARY ASSISTED MOVE SERVICE AVAILABLE ON SPRING RESERVATIONS*

Make 2022 the year you start living the retirement you’ve always dreamed of. Mount Battenhall offers independent living surrounded by beautiful landscaped gardens, just minutes from the centre of Worcester. All this, with the convenience and peace of mind afforded by having a friendly team of 24-hour on-site staff. We’ve teamed up with The Senior Move Partnership to support you through the whole moving process, from organising or downsizing your belongings, to removals and arranging furniture in your new home.

Call 01905 630274 or visit mountbattenhall.co.uk The Marketing Suite, Mount Battenhall, Battenhall Avenue, Worcester WR5 2JD * Terms and conditions apply.

A beautiful care home set in 4 acres of Evesham's idyllic countryside. Briarlea is a boutique, awardwinning care home that specialises in small-scale residential care for elderly individuals over 65.

Badsey Rd Evesham WR11 7PA

BRIARLEA CARE HOME Where life is for living What We Offer Comfy, modern bedrooms. A choice of lounges. A beautiful garden & orchard. Fresh, home-cooked meals. Local, longstanding & welltrained staff.

If you or a loved one is interested in care, check out our brochure. To download, use your smartphone camera to scan scan the QR code opposite.

RATED GOOD BY CQC See the testimonials on our website.

FANCY A BREAK? Briarlea also offers short term stays bookable in advance. Our packages include fresh home-cooked meals, security, extensive activities, and round-the-clock support from well trained staff. Enquire for more information.

Find out more by scheduling your visit today. Phone: 01386 293 200 Email: briarleacare@btconnect.com Visit: www.briarleacarehome.co.uk

We're also on the lookout for a new cook and live-in carer to join our lovely team. Visit our careers page on the Briarlea website for more Please mention the County Lifestyle and Leisure magazine when responding to adverts information.

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Lady Katherine Housing & Care Housing And Care In Temple Balsall

In a codicil to her will Lady Katherine Leveson bequeathed a legacy to build almshouses for poor women and to build a school for poor boys at Temple Balsall. So for almost 350 years housing for and care of older people has been provided at Temple Balsall by our ancient charity. Today LADY KATHERINE HOUSUING AND CARE provides accommodation for over 50 residents, both men and women, in residential care and sheltered housing. SHORT RESPITE BREAKS are also available giving Carers and/or those they care for a short holiday in our glorious, peaceful surroundings. Although Temple Balsall is in the heart of the countryside we are within easy reach of Knowle, Solihull and Balsall Common. Our chef produces delicious home cooked food with a much as possible sourced locally. We have a weekly program of activities for our residents and have our own in-house hair salon. If you would like to find out more about living in Temple Balsall or would like to pay us a visit, please contact Chris Mundell on 01564 772415 or email cmundell@leveson.org.uk

Enjoy living at home with dignity and control Live-in care from Spring Retirement offers the reassurance of full time support and companionship, within the comfort and security of your own home. Whether for a few weeks or long-term, our rigorous professional standards and everyday kindness can put a spring back in your step.

Fixed fee consultations available remotely to help fit around your busy life out of hours consultations are also available by appointment

With over 30 years experience in Family Law, Worcester Family Law Practice offers professional legal advice covering a number of areas including Divorce, Collaborative Practice and Resolution, Private Children Act proceedings, Financial Remedy proceedings, Prenuptials and Postnuptials and Living Together agreements. Based in Worcester, we are happy to receive enquiries from Worcestershire and further afield as we are able to cover cases throughout England and Wales. To discuss your particular situation and our legal services in more detail we can be contacted by email family@worcfamilylaw.co.uk or by telephone on 01905 730900

To find out more, please call us on 01386 365 247 or visit www.springretirement.co.uk

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Spring_Advertisement_100x130mm_v2.indd 1

www.worcfamilylaw.co.uk

The Worcester Family Law Practice, 34a Foregate Street, Worcester, WR1 1EE

26/11/2021 16:46

Lady Katherine Housing & Care

Rated by the Care Quality Commission as:

GOOD RESIDENTIAL CARE RESPITE CARE SHELTERED HOUSING (now taking Summer Respite bookings) If you would like to pay us a visit or discuss our current availability contact: Chris Mundell on

01564 772415

Company No. 7890553

www.leveson.org.uk

Regcountylifestyleandleisure.com istered Charity 1146710

Recommendations for Health & Care MAIN STREET OFFENHAM, WR11 7PA

COULD YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE? JOIN THE CEDAR LODGE NIGHT TEAM.

NOW HIRING

FRIENDLY TEAM • SMALL & FAMILY RUN • HIGH STAFF RATIOS • EXTENSIVE TRAINING FOR MORE INFORMATION, CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.CEDARLODGECAREHOME.COM

TELEPHONE: 01386 293 033 EMAIL: INFO@CEDARLODGECAREHOME.COM

Albion Lodge

Retirement Home We are a family run establishment and the care we provide is very much based on the ethos that we look after people as if they are part of our own family. Offering individualised care, we aim

to maintain independence whilst providing support. The home itself is a period residence set in two acres of lawns and gardens close to the centre of the small village of Hanley

Swan in the heart of the Worcestershire countryside. We are well supported by our local surgery, district nurses, foot care, physiotherapists and a visiting hairdresser. Our CQC rating is GOOD.

What we offer • • • • •

Period property Village setting Two acres of lawns Specialist baths Disabled access vehicle available for families to use • Short stays can be prebooked • Three lifts

www.albionlodge.co.uk | T: 01684 310626 | E: info@albionlodge.co.uk | Hanley Swan, Worcs. WR8 0DN

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New Rooms Now Available

Recommendations for Health & Care NEW RETIREMENT APARTMENTS FOR SALE

y Come and sta nce at our Experie Apartment, contact Julie for more information!

P L E A S E J O I N U S FO R

The Queen’s Green Canopy T R E E P L A N T I N G C E L E B R AT I O N & S PA R K L I N G O P E N DAY

You are personally invited to our new retirement development, Lewis Carroll Lodge, in Cheltenham. Join us for a glass of sparkling wine, light refreshments followed by a Tree Planting celebration to mark The Queen’s Jubilee and a tour of the Show Complex.

On Wednesday 30 t h March between 11-3pm At Lewis Carroll Lodge, St Margaret’s Road, Cheltenham GL50 4FH Open Tuesday - Saturday, 10am - 5pm RSVP to Julie on 01242 807720 or visit churchillretirement.co.uk/lewis-carroll-lodge

LO D G E M A N AG E R • G U E S T S U I T E F O R F R I E N D S A N D FA M I LY • L I F T • L A N D S C A P E D G A R D E N S • OW N E R S ' LO U N G E

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Top 10 Places to eat in Worcestershire During nearly two years of COVID lockdowns and restrictions, eating in became the new eating out. We cooked at home and ate in the garden. It’s possible some of us became just a little insular. Now the restrictions are lifted, the weather is better and the evenings are lighter, it’s time to get back to the sociable world of dining out, with all of the fun and none of the washing up. Round up your buddies and start booking those tables, because here’s our guide to the Top 10 Restaurants in Worcestershire! We’ve included venues for every style and appetite, so if fine dining’s your thing or if you simply want somewhere relaxed to take the family as part of a day out, you’ll be able to find it here. We have some gems for you to try, from country pubs to quirky cafes! For example, presenting exciting menus which are ‘proudly British with a global reach’ is The Tardebigge, a stylish venue which also offers hot deals through its Good Host Club memberships.

Gallery 36 Local food, cooked to order

· LUNCH · DINNER · COFFEE · DRINKS Gallery 36 is a contemporary venue where we pride ourselves on offering an impeccable standard of hospitality to our guests.

As a country pub, The Holly Bush at Gorcott Hill is child and dog friendly, offering stylishly presented food cooked with the finest local ingredients. Delicious is an independent bistro and outside caterer serving Mediterranean-inspired dishes homecooked from scratch using authentic family recipes. Poppins Restaurant, Worcester, serves up all the family favourites, from steak & chips to knickerbocker glory, at pleasingly competitive prices. Try them all! You’ll be glad you did.

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36 Belle Vue Terrace, Great Malvern, WR14 4PZ 01684-562272 www.gallery36malvern.co.uk

AN AWARD-WINNING RESTAURANT IN THE HEART OF REDDITCH RILYS INDIAN RESTAURANT IS LEADING THE WAY IN PROVIDING THE ULTIMATE DINING EXPERIENCE IN WORCESTERSHIRE.

Rilys Redditch Tel: 01527 60544 rilysredditch.co.uk

Top 10 Places to eat - Worcestershire The Boot Inn at Flyford

BUONGIORNO CAFE Taste of Italy

The Boot Inn is a family run traditional Country Coaching Inn, parts of which date back to the 13th century. Known locally as “The Boot”, it is a lively establishment, offering good wholesome food along with fine ales and wines. You can be assured of a warm welcome from the friendly staff, whether you are visiting for a drink, lunch, dinner or a short break The Boot Inn, Radford Road, Flyford Flavell Worcestershire, WR7 4BS

60a Bridge Street, Evesham, Worcestershire, WR11 4RY 01386 244 320

Tel: 01386462658 – www.thebootinn.com – enquiries@thebootinn.com

We are an amazing food establishment that offers a great selection of meals suitable for anyone. Gluten free? We got it! Vegan? We got it! Fussy eater? We got it! You can also have food to TAKEAWAY!!! Give us a call or pop in to see us and you can have ANY meal to take home and enjoy in your own company. We have a spectacular selection of drinks from Gin to Wine to J20! We have enough gins to suit everybody and we may even have some you have never tried before. Bringing in a large party? We have so much to offer to ensure everybody can get a drink they can truly enjoy. And if you’re only having a drink, you can get yourself a packet of crisps/nuts to keep you going for a little while. Our brilliant team are welcoming and caring towards customers and make The Retreat a great place to visit. Without the amazing staff we wouldn’t be the great pub that we are today. Our staff will do anything to ensure your time with us is the best and we can assure you that our staff will help you out in any way they can. So...I think that this should all make it worth giving us a try! We hope to see you soon!

The Retreat Inn, Norton, Worcester, WR5 2PT 01905 820 274

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Top 10 Places to eat - Worcestershire

Welcome to The Holly Bush, we are situated just off the A435, Junction 3, M42, down a quiet and peaceful Gorcott Hill. We serve amazing food and drink set in a lovely decor that is sure to give you unforgettable experiences. No matter the reason for coming to visit us, we can assure you our great team of staff will leave you wanting more every time. Merging our elements of traditional and contemporary decors, The Holly Bush offers a stylish country pub feel that allows you to unwind, relax and indulge, in a family environment. We also allow dogs in our bar area, or horses in our horse bay out the front. We source all our food and drink from the best suppliers around, always using suppliers who give us full traceability on all of our produce.

Tel. 01564 742 427 www.thehollybushgorcotthill.co.uk The Holly Bush, Gorcott Hill, Redditch, B98 9EN

Always Homemade, From Our Family To Yours Proud to be a family run, independent Bistro, bakers and outside caterers, We are passionate about Mediterranean inspired dishes, great coffee and award winning wines . Each and Every dish is made from scratch, at Delicious you will find breakfast, pasta, tapas, afternoon teas, cakes and Italian gelato. We pride ourselves on our warm welcome, a stylish new venue and the standards of hospitality professionals. We also offer a popular catering service for corporate events, private events and also family gatherings in our restaurant or elsewhere. We love to keep our business sourcing locally, green and sustainable.

BOOK YOUR MOTHER’S DAY MEAL OR HAMPER Book and quote code CNTLF1269 FOR A COMPLEMENTARY DRINK 2 Vine Street, Evesham, Worcestershire, WR11 4RE 01386 48337 – Mon to Thursday 9 -5 / Friday & Sat 9-7/ Sun 9-3

Good Host Group welcomes you to The Tardebigge. We are a family run restaurant proudly serving Worcester since 1979. We serve comfort food catering to everyone’s needs from traditional English breakfasts to world favourites such as chicken curry and lasagne. You can also find delicious desserts which we are famous for. Selection of pancakes, sundaes and knickerbocker glory are on offer to satisfy your sweet tooth. Come and visit us for fantastic traditional tastes accompanied with a friendly and excellent service.

PROUDLY SERVING WORCESTER SINCE 1979

We are a premium gastropub located on the borders of Bromsgrove and Redditch. The Tardebigge provides an exciting drinks offer, fresh food and attentive service in stylish surroundings. Why not become a member of the ‘Good Host Club’ and enjoy the following offers? Ask one of our team to sign you up! It’s free and takes 30 seconds. GOOD HOST GROUP CLUB BENEFITS

Monday – Friday* 4pm – 7pm ** • 15% off Food

• House Wine £12 a bottle

• 2–4–1 Pizza

• Prosecco £15 a bottle

• Cocktails £6 each

• Bottle Beer 2 for £5.50

thetardebigge.com The Tardebigge, Hewell Lane, Redditch, B97 6QL

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Taking care of your mental health is as important as taking care of your physical health. The stigma ‘I’m not going to a psychologist because I’m not crazy’, is limiting you access to your physical, mental and emotional wellness. There is a huge connection between body, mind and spirit, therefore we are the result of our actions, thoughts and emotions. A ‘broken’ mind gives you as much pain as a broken bone in your body. The most common issues affecting wellbeing are worry about the future, stress and anxiety. Here at Laura Wellness Centre, we provide the tools and information you need to access your wellbeing. Laura Wellness Centre is based in the centre of Worcester, very close to Foregate train station and offers complementary health care to the Worcester community and surrounding areas of West Midlands. The therapies here include Psychology, Psychotherapy, Counselling, Mindfulness, Reiki Healing, Aromatherapy, Crystal Therapy, Holistic Body Massage and Nutrition.

Absolutely 100% so happy working with Laura. She makes me feel like a normal person and everything will be fine. Nothing is too much trouble

When I first arrived I have already had 2 other counsellours but within 3 sessions Laura had found the root cause

Reflecting on where I was a year ago, the growth and confidence I’ve made in a short space of time is excellent. Laura has been such a a support during a particularly sad and stressful time.

For more information visit www.laurawellnesscentre.com or email us at contact@laurawellnesscentre.com Instagram: @laura_wellness_centre Facebook: Laura Wellness Centre

 nelliesfabricshop@gmail.com

01386 244554 78 High st WR10 1DU Pershore

Fabric Shop | Haberdashery | Handmade Clothes & Gifts Nellies started at the kitchen table making book day costumes and clothes for the kids. Fuelled by a love of craft Nellies is now filled with an ever growing range of quality fabrics and haberdashery from Moda, Riley Blake, Rose & Hubble, Tilly and the Buttons, Guterman, Prym, Simplicity and many more, that we hope will inspire you to create something special and unique.

Do you have a sewing machine but don’t know where to start? Or do you need to refresh your memory because you haven’t used your machine for some time? We now offer Sewing Workshops, visit our website or facebook page to find out more We also provide Sewing Machine Servicing & Repairs

The world demands that we think more about how we invest Have you noticed how popular you become when you start speaking about the environment, saving water, making your own compost, upcycling everything from furniture to clothes? That is a good starting point, but what if you could do more with your pension or savings as well? Traditional advice works against sensible thoughts, and you do nothing to change your strategy because “it has always worked fine for me.” Fortunately, for pensions, many major employers have changed strategy, moving billions into more sustainable investment types – investments that help the fight against climate change instead of adding to the problem. Jan has decades of experience investing for good. She has worked for her clients, over the past 15 years, to better understand the thought processes and the policies behind the fund managers who offer Environmental, Social and Good Governance (ESG) as core values.

Jan Oliff Financial Planning

Call Jan – no obligation – 01886 822205 or for more, go to www.oliff.info Authorised & Regulated by The Financial Conduct Authority

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Need coffee? You need Procaffeinate! Leamington Spa is well known for the many cafes and restaurants within its smart Georgian town centre, but for one of the coolest, head out to Procaffeinate in the Old Town. It’s a place of passion where coffees are works of art for the palate, meals are eclectically delicious and surroundings are relaxed, comfy and surprising. And, most of the menu is also available to take out. At street level there’s a cosy coffee shop and a leafy balcony terrace. There’s even a whole new level to be discovered when customers walk through a big fridge and emerge the other side in a cellar bar, Leamington’s cheerful answer to Narnia. By day, it’s part of the coffee shop. By night, it’s used for private parties and special events. There’s a decidedly different air about this venue. For the last five years, owners Alex and Matt Crowther, their marketing manager Ash Maugham along with general manager Aime Stuart and assistant manager Shannon Duncan have been on a mission to produce the best coffee and seasonal themed hot chocolate, not to mention delectable cake, hearty breakfasts and a continental-leaning lunch menu with tasty options for vegans and vegetarians. They’re part of a movement that’s changing the face of Leamington Old Town, long somewhat run down compared to the upmarket New Town, but now definitely changing under initiatives to reuse vacant buildings, encourage creative enterprise and generally regenerate. Procaffeinate spokesman Ash says: “The Old Town is an up-and-coming district, full of students, really cool, more diverse and a bit more chilled. “Alex and Matt always wanted to have a coffee shop, and ‘Downtown’ didn’t have anything like that, so we stand out. The students and locals love it and we love them. Now we attract people from all over town. “We get involved with whatever is happening locally - all the events, all the community efforts we relish being part of the positive change that’s taking place.” Procaffeinate, 66 Clemens Street, Leamington Spa, CV31 2DN T 01926 737006 E Hello@procaffeinate.club www.procaffeinate.club

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Cool camping for all-comers Ettie’s Field is surely one of the coolest campsites around, welcoming travellers with campervans, caravans, motorhomes, touring tents, tipis and one-off conversions. It was founded by freedom-loving fans of the iconic Airstream glamper and aimed to provide a green and pleasant hideaway with an unconventional vibe, different but welcoming to one and all. Based at Ratcliffe Culey, near the Leicestershire/Warwickshire border, the site has only been open for five years but has already been transformed by a massive bulb planting effort and the sowing of millions of seeds to create a wildflower meadow. Owners Linds and Dom also

Tweedies As we are finally released from Covid restrictions and life really can return to a near normal, lets herald the imminent arrival of Spring with another competition to brighten up your days. Original, quirky and colourful my award winning characters have multiplied to become a collector’s menagerie for young and old alike – the magical world of the Tweedies. No cloth is ever wasted. When bears and mice are cut out the scraps are gathered up and later used to stuff those ever expanding tummies. And the best bit of all? Tweedies are British. Maisie our flagship bear has chosen a little differently this time as she has included herself as a prize alongside Ruby and Constance, and it was Maisie’s idea that they should now wear beautiful cotton hats like the Poshies, BUT they also come with their Winter hats and scarves too so they can be dressed according to the seasons.

contribute 300 trees – one for every booking - to One Tree Planted, a charity which plants trees in countries where they are needed. They look forward to launching their beautiful Peacock Garden, which has been shaped and planted to look like a 3D peacock when viewed from above. Guests can also meet the permanent residents, two Highland cows, four Nubian goats, two Kunekune pigs, four donkeys and chickens.

water, some with hardstanding for vehicles and others grass for camping. All have chimeneas for barbecuing and warmth. Site facilities include hot showers and flush toilets and an Elsan point. A cosy clubhouse with a fire, comfy seating, plump cushions and a coffee machine makes a focal point for people to share time together. A New Age shop sells colourful Fair Trade goods and foraging expeditions are offered regularly.

Ettie’s Field holds 5 Star and Unique Camping awards from Quality in Tourism and a recommendation from Cool Camping. Dog and child friendly, it has about 30 pitches, most with electric hook-ups and nearby

The whole site can be booked for private parties, rallies and other special events. Linds says: “Everyone is welcome and there’s a lovely relaxed

atmosphere throughout the site, although we’re constantly upgrading. “We’ve put great effort into the planting – working with our ‘Meadow Man, Gary McReynolds-White – and there is so much more we want to do. We want people to enjoy it and hopefully take something away that they can do at home to support wildlife.” Ettie’s Field, Westlands, Sibson Road, Ratcliffe Culey, Atherstone CV9 3PH T 07817 543972 E linds@ettiesfield.com www.ettiesfield.com

www.tweedies.biz

patricia@tweedies.biz Mobile: 07917 264237 (text or voicemail me) Ruby – Originally designed for Valentines Day 2011, she has sumptuous raspberry felt feet, and shocking pink ears to match her new cotton hat. On her tummy is appliqued a shocking pink and pale pink felt flower with a raspberry middle and her bow is made up of shocking pink and pale pink ribbons.

pink and dusky pink ribbons. Constance’s hand knitted hat has three stripes of sand, rose pink and thistledown, and her lacy scarf is rose pink.

Maisie – Our flagship bear has warm redcurrant felt feet edged with cream stitching. Her ears match the flowered red and pink materials of her cotton hat. The flower on her tummy is raspberry and cream felt with a black middle and her bow is wine and dusky pink ribbons tied together.

What colour is the stitching on our flagship bear’s feet?

When was Ruby originally designed?

How many stripes does Contance’s knitted hat have?

What is the “best bit of all?”

Constance – Is a bear for lovers of pale pink. Her feet are pale pink felt edged with raspberry stitching and her ears match her beautiful pink hat. On her tummy her appliqued flower is pale pink, shocking pink and pale grey felt and her bow is pale

Constance

Now all you have to do is answer the following four questions (answers are in the text):

Maisie

Good luck everyone! And don’t forget Mothers Day and Easter are just around the corner, and ordering couldn’t be easier on our website. www.tweedies.biz

For your chance to win, answer the questions above

To submit your answers please visit: www.countylifestyleandleisure.com/tweedies-competition-entry/

Ruby countylifestyleandleisure.com

Open Space Gallery, helping artists and art lovers find each other

Editor’s Choice

Open Space Gallery is the new online venue where artists can showcase their work, owners can sell and art lovers and dealers can buy. There are hundreds of unique pieces to view at any one time, from all and any genres and covering all media including water colour, oil and acrylic paintings, sculpture, ceramics and decorative glass. The website is open to artists known or unknown, newcomers or wellestablished. It gives them the means to get their work seen without having to travel to exhibitions or incur showing fees. A fee is payable only when an artwork is actually sold. For buyers, there is every chance they could be spotting and investing early in the artistic greats of the future. It’s free to exhibit, free to view and links enable potential buyers to contact the artists or their representatives directly. Active since 2016, Open Space Gallery is the brainchild of Leicesterbased Ian Briers, who acts as a ‘middleman’ to ensure that when sales are made, the buyer receives their purchase and the artist gets paid. “It’s loosely based on classified ads,” says Ian. “We aim to serve

both artists and buyers and we have something for all tastes and all budgets. Some pieces are very affordable, some more expensive and new artists are being added all the time. There are currently more than 600 pieces on display from over 100 artists from all over the UK. “Just as football scouts seek out the most promising players, art scouts can use this website to spot who’s up and coming.” www.openspacegallery.co.uk T 07588 907156 or 07958 394740 E openspacegallery007@yahoo.com

Warren’s Removals & Storage, making moving easy Moving house or office can be seriously hard work, even for the fittest people, and virtually impossible for those who are older, frailer or just less inclined. Warren’s Removals & Storage takes away all of that work and associated stress through an exemplary service operating right across Worcestershire and recommended by a growing number solicitors, estate agents and satisfied customers. Even under its standard removals package, the company disconnects and replumbs washing machines and dishwashers, disconnects and reconnects TVs, dismantles and reassembles furniture, provides bespoke furniture protectors and place boxes in the correct rooms at the new address. There are no weight restrictions on removals. Within its premium package, the team arrives the day before the move and packs everything for you. It even unpacks some items, such as kitchen equipment, the day after the move. Both packages are covered by full like-for-like insurance and carried out by a super-friendly team for whom nothing is too much trouble.

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The company also has high security storage facilities in Worcester, Upton and Inkberrow, for property ranging from something that will fit in a crate up to the full contents of a large house or business. Company founder Warren Leggett says: “We cater for all removal and storage needs and we can do literally everything. We make it really easy for our customers.” Warren’s Removals and Storage T 01905 896600 E info@removalsworcester.com www.removalsworcester.com Facebook, Twitter & Instagram @ Warren’s Removals and Storage

Uniquely yours, floral designs by Lisa Flowers From weddings to funerals, parties to presents, you’ll get floral arrangements with flair from Lisa Flowers Floral Design in Solihull.

Brides can look amazing even on affordable budgets thanks to a vast range of designer gowns priced between £199 and £2,000 at Tamsin’s Bridal Boutique. Shop for styles from elegantly figure-hugging to extravagantly frothy and enjoy exclusive personal service when you book a long, leisurely appointment to find the perfect choices for you and your entourage.

Owner Lisa Hicks has been perfecting her floral artistry for many years, taking immense pride in providing bespoke designs for individual customers. Whether she’s needed to provide knockout displays for a wedding, touching tributes for the bereaved or something extra special for a ‘thank you’ bouquet, you can be sure she’ll fulfil the brief to perfection. Delighted customers have left an array of favourable reviews on her website. Among them are these examples: “She did such a fantastic job on our wedding day! Everything from the bouquets, buttonholes to the reception tables was perfect and just what I wanted.” And: “Her advice and talent took our basic ideas and created something very special indeed.” Lisa loves working in new ways and working with customers’ chosen themes and preferences, whatever the occasion and even on a modest budget. She can happily dress a whole venue with themed displays or fashion a single posy or flower basket. Each separate assignment is undertaken with pleasure, to create

Numerous careers have been successfully forged in the fashion design and textile industries, thanks to the professional skills taught on-site and online by Inkberrow Design Centre (IDC). An approved City & Guilds training centre, this independent establishment is one of very few outside London to teach skills from Level 1 sewing machine skills to diplomas in specialities such as tailoring, fashion wear, textiles, pattern cutting, corsetry and theatre costume. Courses vary from one day workshops to GCSEs and full-time City & Guilds diplomas which can support students’ ongoing professional development, university entrance or credentials for launching their own businesses.

Tamsin’s Bridal Boutique

Tamsin’s Bridal Boutique, in the heart of Kidderminster, carries collections for every taste from bridalwear designers carefully selected by owner Tamsin Hancocks-Guinan. They include Romantica of Devon, retro Brighton Belle with on-trend tea length circular skirts, White Rose for the curvier bride, LouLou Bridal and many more. something outstanding “I have catalogues, but these are just to give people an idea of what I can do,” she says. “I like to speak with each customer individually, to discuss what they would really like.” Contact details: Lisa Flowers Floral Design, 49 Lodge Road, Knowle, Solihull, West Midlands B93 0HG T 01564 635126 or 07900 881 867 E enquiries@lisaflowersfloraldesign.co.uk www.lisaflowersfloraldesign.co.uk

One of the progressive hallmarks of IDC is that it offers very flexible learning packages to suit all learners, from home-schooled beginners to full-time professionals wanting to keep developing. Always competitively priced and top quality, IDC gives highly flexible learning choices, including parttime and full-time options, one day workshops and courses which can be face-to-face in a classroom, interactive online or a blend of both. This expert teaching is bolstered by a library of more than 40 high quality video films covering a wide range of skills, such as smocking, millinery, alterations and repairs, patchwork and quilting and craft skills for the creative industries.

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Naturally there are wonderful accessories to complement the looks, including veils, tiaras, jewellery and shoes. After all, Tamsin’s won Best Bridal Boutique in Worcestershire for 2022. But it’s not just the bride who finds her best looks among Tamsin’s three storeys of wedding finery. The boutique caters just as extensively for bridesmaids, mothers-of-the-bride and groom and even the best dressed bridegrooms and best men. Stunning

prom gowns are also part of the sparkling attire to be found on the three storeys of this extraordinary shop. Tamsin says: “We have a huge collection and offer things that are really funky and alternative as well as more traditional. “We pride ourselves on catering for everyone and giving an unrivalled, luxurious customer experience.” Contact details: Tamsin’s Bridal Boutique, 20-21 Oxford Street, Kidderminster, DY10 1AU T 01562 746607 E info@tamsinsbridalboutique.co.uk www.tamsinsbridalboutique.co.uk

Students always have great support and advice at hand. Some even have the chance to participate in prestigious competitions such as the Master Tailor Golden Shears Award from Savile Row.

watchwords,” says Brenda. “We provide bespoke courses to give people the skills they need to fulfil their ambitions, however great or small those ambitions may be.”

IDC was founded by Managing Director Brenda Killigrew more than 30 years ago. Alongside it, in Bromsgrove, she now runs Brenda Killigrew Sewing Studios, which support a Young Designer Sewing Club, a children’s after school sewing club, a haberdashery shop fulfilling all sewing needs from fabrics to accesseries – which is open to the public – and also a specialist dealership for the high quality Janome sewing machines.

Inkberrow Design Centre (IDC), 17 Worcester Rd, Bromsgrove B61 7DL T 07966 497783 E info@inkberrowdesigncentre.co.uk www.idccollege.org instagram - @idccollege facebook - @inkberrowdesigncentre twitter - @idcbromsgrove

“Fashion and education are my

Brenda Killigrew Sewing Studio www.sewingstudio.org instagram - @bksewingstudio facebook - @ brendakilligrewsewingstudio twitter - @brenda_studio

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Discover Great Outdoors

in Worcestershire Heritage

Sports

Arts

With so much to see and do, right on your doorstep, why wouldn’t you?

visitworcestershire.org 40

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Food & Drink

Shop here for Wildly original home furnishings and lighting There’s something wonderfully wild about the street scene in the chic market town of Alcester these days. Shoppers already love the awardwinning Wild Bunch floristry and gift business which moved in some time ago. Now its sister business, Wild About Interiors, has set up shop midway along the high street, selling fashionable homewares with a sustainable twist, such as upcycled furniture, handmade pebble glass lamps and quirky lighting. Items sold in Wild About Interiors are all one-offs, crafted with skill and made to last. That means every visit will be different. If you want to fill your home with personality, this is the place to shop for those unique statement pieces and accents. The business is the brainchild of Wendy Higgins and her husband, Justin, who source all their stock locally. For Wendy it is a dream come true as it enables her to use her considerable artistic skills in practical and beautiful ways. She does the furniture upcycling herself, paying great attention to quality and detail. Wendy is delighted to work with Chalk Paint®, and also to now be able to sell it in its many fashionable colours, so customers can also put their upcycling

Enjoy bespoke sheds and fencing from BMT Timber BMT Timber is pleasing customers all over Worcestershire thanks to sheds, summerhouses and fencing made bespoke to their own specifications. Whether they want a log store or a place to entertain, some extra storage or a garden bar, this is the company to make it happen in just the right way and always at competitive prices. The carpenter behind the company, Ben Harris, designs and makes each structure personally, always working with top quality pressuretreated timber so they achieve their purpose, look good and last long. He also offers an installation service, if desired.

inclinations to work. It’s only available to the independent businesses which its inventor, decorating expert Annie Sloan, supports. Wendy says: “We’re very keen on recycling and reusing what we have. The focus is on sustainability.” Wild About Interiors, 33A High Street, Alcester, Warwickshire B49 5AF T 01789 765477 E wildbunchalcester@outlook.com www.wildaboutinteriors.co.uk Facebook and Instagram @ wildaboutinteriors

The beauty of having structures purpose-made by BMT Timber is that they can be made to the perfect size for the available space and for any specialised purpose, such as being a shelter for a motorbike or mobility scooter or even being a deluxe dog kennel. They can add the windows of their choice to create a summerhouse, workshop or hideaway retreat. Fittings can be made extra secure as wished.

or even create a decorative feature.

Fencing can be made to give simple security for dogs, children or belongings, screen off certain areas

T 07990 913855 E amyben1030@yahoo.co.uk Facebook @ BMT Timber

Customers can count on friendly, prompt and reliable service from Ben. So, if you have any timberbased projects in mind, why not call today to see how he could help.

Heat Genie, your one stop heating solution. Why not heat and eat? Heat Genie grants all your heating wishes with a new generation of eco-friendly electric radiators. This smart technology turns up the heat just where & when it is needed, without waste and typically for 30% to 40% less than the energy costs of conventional heating. It’s affordable to buy, quick to install and looks great. It’s also planet-friendly, creating no Co2 emissions whatsoever. The radiators are high quality, lightweight and slim, made from recycled aluminium by the leading Italian manufacturer, Fondital, in Italy. The radiators come in 6 different wattages and can be fitted anywhere in the home, workplace or commercial setting, there are no ugly pipes to spoil their elegance and there is no disruption to your property. These new generation electric radiators are designed to heat up quickly and as each one is fitted with a thermostat it can be independently controlled so that you have heat only where you need it, when you want it. Each radiator can be controlled or programmed separately by your mobile app, so different rooms can be at different temperatures. You don’t need to heat the whole building if you’re only in one room!

Editor’s Choice for the Home & Garden

Each radiator has an advanced thermostat which can be controlled from an Apple or Android smartphone. They are designed to reach your chosen temperature rapidly and then maintain it, adjusting accurately to changing conditions to keep you comfortable while minimising energy consumption and saving money. Built in safety features include a child safety lock and Heat Genie systems can be powered by regular electricity supplies or renewable energy sources such as solar panels and wind generators, supporting the owners’ green aspirations. They are also fully recyclable themselves. Heat Genie is based in Solihull and operates all over the UK. They provide a fitting service for Worcestershire and West Midlands customers who desire it. Average costs to supply are around £2,300 for a two bedroomed house, including delivery. Managing Director Av Manku says: “These radiators are unrivalled for efficiency and performance, making them an excellent investment. We have had glowing reports from property developers, business owners and private customers alike. Landlords love them because there is no need for an annual heating inspection, as there are no CO2 emissions.”

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ur s! o ut fare o ck ily e Ch fam W NE

YOUR ADVENTURE AWAITS Book your tickets now:

SVR.CO.UK | 01562 757 900

Hidden Gem

Europa Model Railroads, your one stop online and retailer for great layouts If you are looking for a new hobby, Europa Model Railroads Ltd may have your perfect answer! With some 35 million devotees worldwide, creating model railway layouts is an absorbing pastime for everyone from absolute beginners to experts. For the young, it can even lay foundations for a career, imparting knowledge of mechanics, electrical engineering and many other disciplines. Europa Model Railroads Ltd was created by Michael Thomas and his son, Gareth, capitalising on their 30 years of passionate model railroading experience and international business knowledge. They lived in Canada for many years, but on returning to the UK in 2015, they established their company as a global online business and retailer specialising in the products that make model railroad layouts so realistic.

landscaping. They also sell catalogues and publications containing detailed guidance about constructing layouts suiting the systems of Europe, North America, the UK and other countries. Michael says: “We love to support our customers, answer their questions and encourage them to use their imagination. We can give all sorts of advice and information to help them achieve their modelling goals.” Visit Europa Model Railroads Ltd at www.emrailroads. com , Facebook, YouTube or LinkedIn. Unit 20 The Mansley Centre, Timothy’s Bridge Road, Stratford upon Avon CV37 9NQ T 01789 532390 E sales@emrailroads.com www.emrailroads.com

Their product range comprises leading brands in the scale/ gauge sizes of Z to G, locomotives and rolling stock, power control systems, buildings and structures, materials, tools, scenery and

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Travel experts at Johnsons Coaches have been helping people live their travel dreams for 112 years We offer a hugely diverse range of trips designed to delight people of very different tastes and temperaments. Green-fingered passengers may be drawn to five days exploring Great Gardens of Cornwall, escorted by garden designer Kitty Bellingham. Culture lovers would relish Celtic Connections, an eight-day extravaganza with visits to Robert Burns’ Birthplace Museum, Giant’s Causeway, Belfast’s Titanic Experience and Caernarfon Castle. Johnsons Coaches holidays are always fully inclusive, with a ‘no surcharge’ guarantee. They include door to door transport in modern, comfy coaches with home pick up and return service to your door, carefully chosen quality hotels, admission prices to the featured attractions, knowledgeable drivers and friendly, impeccable customer service. Bookings are protected by the Bonded Coach Holidays scheme so customers’ money is completely safe.

You’ll be well cared for! All of our holidays are fully escorted by an experienced holiday ‘courier’ who provides friendly, enthusiastic and knowledgeable customer care to help make your holiday even more enjoyable, memorable and fun!

For 2022 a third ‘Luxury Traveller’ coach has been introduced to their already popular programme, perfect for those who enjoy the finer things in life!

BOOK NOW 01564 797000

Book Now for Easter Holidays

www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk

Cornish Garden – Harrogate – Norfolk – Scotland – Bournemouth – Hampshire – Weymouth Lincolnshire – North Devon – Shanlkin & Isle of Wight – Sidmouth – The Lake District

Hidden Gem

Luxurious and peaceful getaways at

Hollicarrs Holiday Park For luxurious and peaceful getaways, look no further than Hollicarrs Holiday Park near York. The family-run facility sits within the idyllic Escrick country estate and offers an excellent range of timber lodges with their own private hot tubs and verandas, all set in woodland which is a natural habitat for diverse and fascinating wildlife. Carefully landscaped, Hollicarrs holds a Gold David Bellamy Award for Conservation as well as its 5 Star Quality in Tourism certificate. It occupies 30 acres of the 250 acre wider estate, which has been in the same family for more than 350 years. Amenities include walking and cycling trails, wildflower meadows, a bowling green, tennis court

and fishing lake. An onsite bistro serves delicious daytime meals. The holiday lodges are all privately owned, fully equipped and furnished to high standards. They vary in size, but cater for four to six people each. Some are available for short breaks as well as longer stays. A few are available to buy. Despite being something of a natural oasis of peace and tranquillity, the park is close to the A19 and gives easy access to York itself, eight miles away and with iconic attractions such as Jorvic Viking Museum, the National Railway Museum and York Minster. It is also handy for the Yorkshire Wolds, North Yorkshire Moors and east coast.

Hollicarrs Holiday Park, York Road, Escrick, York YO19 6EE T 01757 249412 E hollicarrs@escrick.com www.escrick.com

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Our Guide to

Unique Retreats Many people discovered parts of the UK they had never known before while COVID put their customary international holidays on hold. For most, it was an eye-opening delight, notwithstanding our notoriously changeable weather. Now, even though we are all relatively free to travel again, it’s highly likely that many people will just keep exploring our home territory, enjoying the hugely varied range of landscapes, activities, events and attractions that keep the domestic holiday scene vibrant and unique.

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This month we focus on England and Wales. Some places may seem familiar as holiday destinations, others less likely because of their inland locations, but all have masses to offer their visitors by way of great accommodation, entertainment, places to visit and things to do. There are pleasant surprises waiting in every town and village. Our featured locations also offer unspoiled countryside and wide open spaces. These are places untouched by the ‘concrete jungle,’ where people and wildlife can thrive together and

enjoy the infinite variety and majesty of nature, from the tiniest flowers to the vastest skylines. Whether you are looking for a family friendly holiday in a seaside resort, a romantic break somewhere secluded, an action adventure or a leisurely tour of whatever takes your fancy, you’ll find our advertisers extremely welcoming and well able to guide you to destinations that will make you extremely pleased you booked.

Shropshire These three quaint pods sit nestled within the Shropshire Hill area of outstanding natural beauty.

There are fabulous places to visit all over Shropshire, including the county town of Shrewsbury and the foodie heaven of Ludlow, both teaming medieval buildings with modern uses. The seven museums of Ironbridge Gorge are fascinating windows of discovery on the ‘Birthplace of the Industrial Revolution.’ Almost a quarter of the county is covered by Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, exhilarating countryside for walkers, cyclists and explorers.

Northamptonshire

Each pod has its own self-contained en-suite and kitchen facilities for your luxury getaway, double bed, private parking and garden. Coming here you can roam the many hills, take in the breath-taking scenery then come back from your hike, immerse yourselves in bubbles in your very own hot tub and be in awe of the starry skies of night. The quirky town of Bishops Castle is only a short drive away and has some fantastic shops and pub/ restaurants for dining along with more walking opportunities and amenities. The accommodation itself also has Wi-Fi and Netflix for those cosy evenings and typical British rainy days.

07854 976 593 � � sunrisepods.shropshire@gmail.com

The perfect couples retreat to relax and recharge Whether you want to cosy up in front of the log burner or sit and watch the world go by, this could be just the perfect place for you.... This delightful glamping hut is in your own private south facing field with stunning views over rolling countryside and overlooking the historic Grand Union Bottom Lock in Braunston.

Northamptonshire, ‘the Rose of the Shires,’ sits between eight different counties in the heart of England, peppered with pretty villages, country lanes and leisure facilities. History brings deep links with the English Civil War while Silverstone race circuit brings up-to-the-minute motorsport thrills including F1 Grand Prix. Althorp House, childhood home of the late Princess of Wales, showcases fine collections of art and furniture and Stoke Bruerne museum on the Grand Union Canal offers deep insight into the nation’s rich waterway heritage.

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Set on a family livestock farm in the heart of the waterways surrounded by nature, a walkers and twitchers dream! Enjoy al fresco dining by the fire pit or relax in the outdoor copper bath for two whilst watching the sun go down and the stars appear!

www.eweglamping.uk 07730 921916 claire@eweglamping.uk � �

Home Farm, Dark Lane, Braunston, Northamptonshire NN11 7HJ

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Yorkshire Dales

CHERISH GLAMPING First time visitors may find themselves awestricken by the 40 sweeping slopes of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, the tallest of them Whernside at 2,415 feet. People who enjoy a challenge walk the local Three Peaks, Whernside, Pen-y-ghent and Ingleborough on a 24 mile round journey. The area is now a cycling destination too, hosting the Tour de Yorkshire. Wensleydale Creamery is an iconic visitor stop in the heart of the territory, famous for its cheese and offering an award-winning visitor experience through its artisan master cheesemakers.

North Yorkshire

Set in beautiful Wensleydale, Cherish Glamping offers luxury yurts each with a kingsize four poster bed and their own private wet room with rainfall shower. The yurts are located on our 27 acre smallholding between the heritage village of Askrigg and the market town of Hawes with views across Upper Wensleydale.

www.cherishglamping.co.uk

T. 01969650932 E. contact@cherishglamping.co.uk West Shaw Cote Farm, Low Abbotside, Askrigg, DL8 3JH

YOUR COUNTRYSIDE GETAWAY ESCAPE TO THE WOODS

Some of Britain’s best loved beaches lie along the east coast. Scarborough lays claim to being the UK’s first seaside resort and continues to attract great numbers. Whitby, Bridlington and Filey are likewise enduringly popular, catering for all with cheerful streetscenes and the freshest of seafood. The North York Moors National Park attracts the wildly inclined. Explorers frequently take the vintage North York Moors Railway between Pickering and Whitby while birdwatchers flock to the ‘seabird city’ of Bempton Cliffs.

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Nestled in the beautiful North Yorkshire countryside on the edge of an ancient woodland – get away from it all with luxury breaks at Wighill Park. Just a stone’s throw from the historic market town of Wetherby and perfectly placed between Leeds, York and Harrogate, finding us is easy. Hunker down in one of our fantastic glamping pods with friends and family, and enjoy a relaxing break.

01937 423889 www.wighillparkglamping.co.uk WIGHILL PARK, FEATHERBED LANE, NR. WETHERBY, LS24 8BL

Our Guide to Unique Retreats

Cumbria

Walkers and other lovers of the great outdoors have always been drawn to Cumbria, home of the Lake District National Park, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to England’s highest mountain, Scafell Pike, and diverse attractions such as Beatrix Potter’s adopted home and the Ruskin Museum celebrating local lives and achievements. The Settle to Carlisle Railway through Eden Valley is widely feted as the most scenic in the country.

Leicestershire

Leicestershire has plenty to offer visitors. After all, it was the birthplace of tourism through innovator Thomas Cook! Not to be missed are the inspirational National Space Centre, Bosworth Battlefield Centre detailing the decisive clash between Richard III and Henry Tudor and Twycross Zoo, looking after some of the world’s most endangered animals, from bonobos to Amur leopards. Bradgate Park offers 830 acres of family friendly countryside with plentiful deer.

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If you like the idea of camping and being closer to Cumbria’s natural elements but crave some luxury and your warm home comforts then Gillcumber Luxury Glamping Pods is the perfect place for you. With 3 luxury glamping pods to stay in we are the perfect getaway to take in the fantastic scenery Eden Valley has to offer. Each pod has its own individual wooden hot tub available to hire to help you relax in. Based close to the market town of Kirkby Stephen in Cumbria which lies at the head of the Eden Valley, the source of which is in the Mallerstang Valley. Gillcumber Glamping Pods is your perfect resting place to stay when exploring the Eden Valley or taking part in the Coast 2 Coast Walk.

www.gillcumberglampingpods.co.uk 07966462756 Gillcumber Edge, Winton, Kirkby Stephen, CA17 4HU

This unique rural Glampsite offers you the chance to escape from everything and everyone. You have the whole field to yourself. Our two fully fitted caravans Clara and Fenton, compostable toilet Terrence and fabulous new outdoor kitchen and shower area are perfect for families or friends wanting some ‘Time out’ and space to have fun. We have plenty of children’s outdoor toys, sandpit and park. We offer animal feeding on our small holding, sheep walking, fresh egg collecting from our Bantam hens and plenty of chances for Goat and Alpaca selfies. Plus we offer exclusive treats like family crafting sessions with homemade cake in our gorgeous bell tent. These need to be booked in advance. Find us on @Barlefieldglamping (Instagram) or Facebook Book us on the air b and b app or contact us directly Beccagodfrey@hotmail.com

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Kent

Positioned in a Beautiful Wildflower Meadow surrounded by Ancient Woodland, our Shepherd’s Hut comfortably sleeps 2.

Too many people visit Kent only to pass through en route to France on the Dover ferry! Dover itself has rich history in defence of the realm, starting with its medieval castle, built as a palace for Henry II and later playing significant roles in World War Two. Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty caters richly for outdoorsy people, stretching from the chalky coast to the London/Surrey border. Beautiful beaches and maritime history abound in this splendid county.

We also have 2 Beautiful Bell Tents set in their own idyllic meadow which have access to our rustic barn with a wood burner, butler sink and fridge. We have 250 acres of both wild flower meadows and ancient woodland for you to enjoy. There is an abundance of wildlife including Barn Owls, Nightingales,and much more. We offer the use of the swimming pool by prior arrangement set in our beautiful garden.

PLEASE FIND US ON OUR WEBSITE WWW.INTOTHEWILDKENT.COM

Gloucestershire Squirrel’s Nest Treehouse Squirrel’s Nest is a magical combination of clean Scandi style and childlike wonder, with a spiral staircase that carries you up into the trees and away into another world. You can wrap nature around you as you sit out on the deck with a glass of wine, listening to the birds or waiting for the rustling of a deer. You can cook in nature as well, with a pizza oven and a choice of outdoor seating spots, as well as the unique bbq hut, which you’ll find over a small bridge onto an island in the pond by the treehouse.

Gloucester sits between two areas of great beauty, the Cotswolds with its honey-coloured market towns and the natural playground of the Forest of Dean. The cathedral city on the River Severn is an inland port offering visitors an iconic waterfront experience centred on historic docks and quays. Attractions include a designer outlet for bargain hunters, military and waterways museums and a buzzing hospitality scene.

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You’ll find plenty of info on great local pubs like the Miner’s Arms, hiking, biking and kayaking in the Wye Valley and walks through the Forest of Dean. There’s a sculpture trail nearby, a steam railway and some striking caves at Clearwell, with the firepit below as the perfect place to settle when you get back, toast a marshmallow or two and reflect on the day’s adventures.

To book please visit www.squirrelsnest.co.uk or for more information call 07779 600948

Our Guide to Unique Retreats

Lancashire

Blackpool can lay claim to being the holiday capital of Britain, offering something for everyone with the multifaceted attractions of its famous tower, illuminations and Pleasure Beach amusement park, among many others. Quieter souls love the peace of Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, dotted with some 500 listed buildings and ancient monuments including poignant Pendle Hill, home of 12 people accused of committing murders by witchcraft. Notoriously, 10 were found guilty in 1612 and hanged.

North Wales

North Wales attracts people back again and again with the allure of Snowdonia National Park and a spectacular coastline offering great wildlife adventures as well as catering for traditional bucket-and-space family holidays. It boasts some truly world class attractions – such as an inland surfing destination and zipwires over a former quarry - together with a rich heritage of castles, caves, quaint towns and industrial history.

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www.gillcumberglampingpods.co.uk 07966462756 Gillcumber Edge, Winton, Kirkby Stephen, CA17 4HU

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Our Recommendations for Travel & Staycations

ELGAR COACHES

Holidaying in your motor home this year?

HOLIDAYS supplements may apply

Have you had it checked?

Bluebell Glades of the Trossachs Scotland 2nd May 5 days £470 Steam & Cruise the Lake District 19th May 5 days £440 Dance through the Decades The Queens 70th Anniversary 29th May 2 Day £130 Llandudno Tynedale Hotel 13th June 5 days £430 Summer Cruise at The Chesford Grange Hotel 12th June £130 Ireland Killarney & Ring of Kerry 28th June 7 days £665

ۙ Specialists

in Damp Repairs ۙ Accessory Fitting ۙ Habitation Checks ۙ Gas & Electric Qualified With 9 years experience I can help get your motor home ready for the year ahead. Anything you need help with, just phone or email and I’ll see what I can do.

DAY TRIPS Morton in Marsh & Bourton on Water 12th April £20 Weston Super Mare 13th April £20 Elan Valley 14th April £22 Black Country Living Museum 21st April £42 or Dudley Zoo £35

Forest of Dean 23rd April £23 Emmerdale Village Tour 29th May £62 Weymouth 29th May £32 Windsor Castle: Celebration of The Queens 70 Years 30th July Adult £58 Buckingham Palace – The Queens Accession Exhibition 18th August Adult £65

Elemental Campers...maintaining your freedom...

07912 164367

www.elementalcampers.com

For Bookings or brochures call 01905 333349

enquiries@elementalcampers.com

www.elgarcoaches.com

Cumbrian retreat perfect for walking/ cycling couples Visiting the North Pennines and looking for well presented and comfortable self catering accommodation? Owl Retreat is part of a refurbished 1830’s farmhouse situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). It boasts stunning panoramic views and is in an ideal location for walkers and cyclists of all abilities as well as for those who enjoy access to other outdoor activities such as golf, fishing, potholing, kayaking and paddle boarding.

Owl Retreat is close to the Pennine Way, Hadrian’s Wall, C2C cycle route and is less than an hour’s drive from Scotland and the Lake District. For nature lovers there is

an abundance of seasonal birdlife on the doorstep with common sightings of black grouse, pheasant, lapwing, curlew, oyster catchers, dippers, owls, heron and a variety of birds of prey. Available for bookings of three nights or more, the accommodation is perfect for couples, with a double bedroom, bathroom with spa bath and shower and a well-equipped living/dining and kitchen area. It is wheelchair-accessible and the garden is equipped for barbecues. Secure cycle storage is available and customer reviews are unfailingly enthusiastic in their praise for the facilities, location and helpful hosts.

Alston, the highest market town in England with its welcoming pubs, cafes and independent shops is just a leisurely 1.4 mile stroll away along the river. Sorry. No dogs.

The Owl Retreat, Watergreens Farm, Alston, Cumbria, CA9 3LD T 07779 349310 E watergreensfarm@outlook.com www.watergreensfarm.co.uk

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HOTEL INDIGO

Stratford-upon-Avon Tried & Tested Review Our stay at the Hotel Indigo, Stratford-uponAvon was fantastic from start to finish. The reception staff made us feel so welcome on arrival and the hotel was absolutely beautiful with its mix of original features and modern touches. There are 93 guest bedrooms at this amazing boutique hotel. They come in three beautiful room designs inspired by Shakespeare and reflecting local history. The Tudor rooms in the original 16th century building reflect the tradition of the building and have views to New Place, Shakespeare’s home in later life. The Georgian townhouse is inspired by Shakespeare’s theatre with rooms combining luxury and homely charm. The Contemporary Rooms in the new wing are elegantly sophisticated, drawing on the 20th century past. All guest rooms have super-comfy Hypnos beds with luxury Egyptian cotton linen, spa-inspired bathrooms, Nespresso coffee machines, 40inch flat screen TVs with multiple channels and IHG Connect seamless

internet connection. Our room was very spacious, with a fantastically comfy bed, a shower with speakers so you could listen to music during your ablutions using upmarket Bramley complimentary toiletries. There was a mini-bar as well as tea and coffee making facilities. Those toiletries were so lovely I bought some to take home. They also sell the most beautiful smelling Hotel Indigo candles and stunning spa products, such as Dead sea salts. We ate in The Woodsman restaurant, which is headed by restauranteur Mike Robinson, co-owner of the Michelin-starred Harwood Arms in Fulham. Mike’s passion for locally sourced produce and sustainable wild food is renowned and everything at the Hotel Indigo is ethically sourced and all meat raised to the very highest standards of animal welfare. Certainly, our experience of the restaurant was outstanding! To start I tried the whipped chicken liver parfait with red grapes, verjus and chargrilled bread. My partner opted for wood pigeon pastroma with green beans,

almonds, pickled pear and herbs. For the mains we had dry aged Hereford beef rump, glazed cheek, Welsh rarebit leeks, trompette mushrooms with a side dish of ‘dirty’ mash, crisp shredded venison, sourdough crumb and deer gravy. What a delight it all was! The food was mouth watering. We were honestly lost for words about just how wonderful our meal was, the best we have ever experienced. We were also in a great location with multiple boutiques, restaurants and shops on the doorstep, not to mention the gorgeous riverfront walks. We would most strongly recommend our readers to visit Hotel Indigo Stratford-upon-Avon

Hotel Indigo, 4 Chapel Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 6HA, England. Tel 01789 279953 www.stratford.hotelindigo.com

Spring Retirement,

providing live-in care at home Many people struggling with old age and disability find it hugely upsetting to give up their own home and move into residential care. Spring Retirement offers them a much more palatable alternative at comparable cost, that of having a live-in care professional to provide all the help and support they need.

assistance with housework, personal care as needed and support to maintain social activities, outings and friendships.

Spring Retirement is a well established organisation dedicated to helping older people live their best lives in later years, maintaining independence, control and personal interests for as long as they wish.

Great care is taken to assess a person’s needs and provide them with the right level of support and with carers who suit their personality.

Rated ‘Good,’ by the Care Quality Commission, the service matches clients with qualified and kindly carers who move into a spare bedroom and live in as a family member might do. They provide

The care may be short-term, perhaps following surgery, or long-term, in which case it would normally be provided by a team of two.

An IT kit enables trusted family members to log in any time to check all is well. Managing Director Richard Sharples says: “We find it gives relatives comfort to know somebody is there at all times.”

Spring Retirement, 103 High Street, Evesham WR11 4DN T 01386 365001 E info@springretirement.co.uk www.springretirement.co.uk

Issue 55 - County Lifestyle & Leisure Magazine

Articles inside

Tweedies Competition

Editor’s Choice

Health & Wellbeing

Travel & Holidays

Top 10 Worcestershire Restaurants

Sustainable Living