Families Hereford and Worcester issue 21 May/June 2013

The really useful magazine for parents of children 0-12 years

Picture courtesy of Time Lock Photography www.timelockphotography.co.uk/

Issue No 21 May/June 2013

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

News & Views

Editor’s Letter Dear readers We have a fantastic bumper children’s parties feature in this issue for you to pull out and keep. This is the 4th year running we have focused on parties in the May/ June issue and it has proved really popular.

We continually add to our existing huge list of Photo taken at Brockhampton Estate party suppliers, entertainers, venues and themed parties to give you loads of ideas on holding the best party ever. If you have a party themed business then please get in touch to be part of our ever increasing party listing online and in the mag.

Please don’t forget to mention that you have seen the ad in “Families” when booking your party.

If you would like to advertise in the Jul/Aug issue and reach 44,000 parents then please do not hesitate to pick up the ‘phone and call me on 01386 791422 or email editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk.

Copy deadline is Friday 7th June for the Jul/Aug issue.

Karen Craven (local Mum of 3, Step Mum to 2 plus Adoptive Mum to Salsa our retriever)

Editor, Families Hereford and Worcester

Contact details: Tel: 01386 791422 Mob: 07981 564053 email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

In this issue

02 Editor’s Letter 02 News & Views 04 Ed’s Reading Room 05 Education 10 Children’s parties 16 Family Friendly Weekend Break 17 What’s On Like us on Facebook FamiliesHandW

Next issue: Jul/Aug, Editorial and booking deadline: Friday 7th June

Follow us on Twitter @FamiliesHW

All content Copyright 2013 Families Hereford and Worcester

Do you know a super Grandparent?

A leading family charity has launched a nationwide search to find the UK’s top grandparents.

Care for the Family, which aims to strengthen family life, has established the UK’s first Super Grandparent Awards in order to highlight the important role grandparents play in family life by offering kindness, wisdom, support and unconditional love.

Adults and children can enter the competition by sending in either a video clip or written entry stating just what makes their nominated grandparent so special and unique. The UK’s top Super Grandparent will win afternoon tea with their family and a family portrait taken by a professional children’s photographer.

The deadline for the competition, which is free to enter, is the 15th July. For further information and details on how to enter visit www.supergrandparentawards.co.uk.

Success for Melsie Jane Bakes at the Freefrom Food Awards 2013 Melsie Jane Bakes is a local Freefrom Cake Company based near Pershore that has just been awarded a ‘Highly Commended’ for their Victoria Sandwich in the Cake Category of this year’s prestigious Freefrom Food Awards in London on 16th April. Melanie began the business after her second son was diagnosed with Coeliac Disease.

A team of 50 expert judges tested freefrom products across 15 categories including Plant ‘Milk’, Spread, Cheese & Desserts; FreeFrom Breakfast Cereals; Grocery; Ready Meals; and Savoury Biscuits and Snacks. In order to be eligible to enter the awards the products must be free from one or more of the ingredients (including wheat, gluten, dairy, eggs, yeast, nuts and soya) that trouble so many people. It is estimated that globally between 220 and 250 million people suffer from food allergies (World Allergy Organisation) and this figure is continuing to rise.

‘I am thrilled that our Victoria Sandwich has been Highly Commended in this year’s Freefrom Food Awards. To have achieved this kind of recognition in our first year of business is really brilliant. As with many of our bakes the Victoria Sandwich is gluten, wheat and dairy free and you really can’t tell!’ Melanie Sutton For more information on Melanie’s cakes visit www.melsiejanebakes.co.uk email melsiejanebakes@hotmail.co.uk or telephone her on 07545 157957.

Circulation: 22,000 copies of Families Hereford and Worcester are available through nurseries, pre-schools, schools, libraries, soft play centres, selected shops and other distribution points throughout the county. If you would like free copies for your organisation or if you would like to subscribe so you don’t miss an issue please contact us.

Families Hereford and Worcester is part of the Families Group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All 40 franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. We take every care in preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of the advertisers nor for the accuracy of the content nor for any consequence.

Design: Natalie Schmidt at www.matobodesign.com, Tel: 020 8676 2857 Print: The Manson Group, St Albans at www.manson-grp.co.uk, Tel: 01727 848440 Cover Photograph: Time Lock Photography at www.timelockphotography.co.uk, Tel: 01386 861383

2

Hereford & Worcester

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

May – June 2013

News & Views Your child’s dream job at Paultons Park To coincide with May half term (Saturday 25 May to Sunday 2 June) one of the country’s top ten family theme parks is looking to recruit one lucky child to become its official ride tester.

Competition

Paultons Park, which has more than 60 rides and attractions, is seeking applicants for a new in-house ride tester to join its team for a day’s internship to spend an exclusive morning testing the rides before it officially opens to the public, gain behind the scenes access to the Park and then join their family for an afternoon’s guided tour with the opportunity to enjoy the rides again.

Interested children, aged between eight and 14, are being encouraged to visit the website www.paultonspark.co.uk and click the ‘Dream Job’ link where they will be asked to submit a letter in no more than 300 words stating why they deserve the position.

Deadline for applications is Friday June 7.

Mr Phoebus – A penny farthing experience

With help from the Enterprise allowance scheme including mentoring, business support and assistance with producing a business plan, Mr Phoebus was born (named after the famous composer Edward Elgar’s favourite bike “Mr Phoebus”). Simon used www.wix.com which he found very useful to build his website www.mrphoebus.com.

Wix.com is a free website building platform which enables you to choose a design and begin customizing your own website.

Simon can regularly be seen riding his penny farthing around Worcester and you could have the opportunity of hiring a rideable penny farthing at select National Trust properties.

For more information visit his website www.mrphoebus.com.

He and his penny farthings are also available for hire at parties, festivals, bar mitzvahs, weddings and other events.

Simon Hayford Morris, Graphic designer/ Photographer and dad to a little girl aged 4, was born in Birmingham but spent most of his life in Bedfordshire.

Following 4 years in Devon he made the move to Worcester, a city he really loves and this has become his home. I met with Simon recently to learn a little more about Mr Phoebus.

It all began when Simon visited Snowshill Manor, a National Trust property in Broadway. Charles Wade, who owned the property years ago, was an avid collector and Simon was fascinated with the collection and especially with an amazing room full of bikes – in particular a penny farthing. In the entrance was a modern day penny farthing which was half the size, complete with brakes, pumped up tyres and seat. He had a go and found it great fun and thus came up with an idea. Why not offer the hire of penny farthings to places like the National Trust?

May – June 2013

Telephone 01905 23149 or 07919 055046.

WIN tickets to Witley Court & Gardens – including new wilderness play area!

One of the country’s top playground designers, William Hardie, has been hard at work at Witley Court, and this summer, young visitors to Witley Court & Gardens – from tots to teens – will be able to explore the new Treehouse, face the Adventure Trail and picnic in the grassy amphitheatre – and we’ve got five family tickets to give away!

Each ticket is valid for two adults and up to three children for unlimited daytime visits to Witley Court & Gardens for six months! The Wilderness Adventure Playground is located next to the Visitor Centre, so is a great way to start a visit – and a wonderful way to end it, too, after wandering around Witley’s woodland and lakeside walks, exploring the formal gardens on the South and Easter Parterres, and watching the enormous Perseus & Andromeda fountain fire its central jet up to 20 metres into the air!

For your chance to win, answer this simple question: How high does the water jet shoot from the Perseus & Andromeda Fountain?

A 5 metres B 10 metres C 20 metres D 50 metres Simply email editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk inserting Witley Court Competition in the subject box with the answer including your full name and postal address www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

3 Hereford & Worcester

Ed’s Reading Room Hi kids, parents, grandparents, teachers – and book lovers everywhere!

I’m Ed and here is my early Summer book selection for you to enjoy. The books are all available online from Ed’s Reading Room at www.edontheweb.com

Ed’s Reading Room is an exciting free online book and story club for primary children in homes and schools.

Each month, recently published books are selected as Ed’s Books of the Month for Owlets (age 5-7) and Owls (over 7s). On the website, there are fun literacy activities to accompany each book, including wordsearches, quizzes, poetry and reviews, and there are new original stories in Edtime Stories. There are also lots of other fun online activities, complementary to the curriculum. Check out Ed’s Archive for Ed’s Books of the Month from previous months.

FOR AGES 5-7 YEARS

My Hamster is an Astronaut by Dave Lowe

Tonia Peters

BSc (Hons), PGCE, MEd (Ed Psych)

Educational Psychologist (Chartered by the BPS)

Independent assessment and advice for all special needs including autism, learning difficulties, dyslexia, dyspraxia and attention problems

Tel: 07853 248311

Grafton Psychology Associates Ltd Trading as Tonia Peters Company Registration Number: 7853233. Registered in England and Wales.

(Templar £5.99) ED SAYS: ‘When Ben Jinks announces that he’s going to build a rocket for the school science competition, his mega-brainy hamster is more than a little surprised. Stinky realises he will have to do most of the hard work – and be very involved in the launch! But there’s a cunning plan afoot to upset their ambitious competition entry. Will Ben and Stinky get their rocket off the ground?

‘This is a very funny story in the fantastic Stinky and Jinks series.

Laugh your socks off as Ben and Stinky aim for the stars.’

Penny Dreadful is a Record Breaker by Joanna Nadin

(Usborne £4.99) ED SAYS: ‘Penny Dreadful is back with more of her madcap adventures.

Penny’s latest brilliant ideas, with the help of her best-friend Cosmo, are tracking down a vampire to take to school for show-and-tell, giving Grandma Overall a surprise sparkly makeover and breaking the world record for something that has never been in the record books before.

However dreadful things become, Penny always seems to bounce back to look on the bright side!

‘The three stories about these super characters are absolutely hilarious with fantastic illustrations to complement them.’

FOR AGES 7 YEARS PLUS

The Naming of Tishkin Silk by Glenda Millard

(Phoenix Yard Books £5.99) ED SAYS: ‘Griffin Silk is a very unusual boy who finds the children at school rather mean. He lives with his loving family though sadly without his mother and baby sister. Griffin holds a secret in his heart and it is only when he meets Layla and he knows he has found a true friend that he starts to deal with his secret. Will he have the courage of his mythical namesake? And will Griffin and Layla together find a way to bring peace to this young boy?

‘This is a beautifully written and extraordinary story that will move as well as entertain its readers.’

Adrenaline Rush by Allan Jones

(Orion £5.99) ED SAYS: ‘Zak Archer is a spy working for a secret government agency. In this latest adventure in the Codename Quicksilver series, Zak is working undercover as a stunt double for a Hollywood movie. He and his colleague Wildcat are investigating a link between the producer Elton Dean and a suspected terrorist attack. Zak is aware of the dangers surrounding him but if his cover is blown will he be able to complete his mission?

‘This brilliant story is full of action and is exciting from start to finish. It is a real page-turner of a book.’

Ed’s Reading Room is part of www.edontheweb.com, a DTI awardwinning website. It was created by Maggie Humphreys, a teacher of more than 25 years, and Les Snowdon, who together are authors of several books on fitness walking and healthy eating. You are very welcome to contact Maggie on 01753 730019 or by email at mgh@edontheweb.com about the website or about Ed on the Web Spelling Bees in schools.

4

Hereford & Worcester

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

May – June 2013

Education The King’s Worcester Junior Schools celebrate recent successes

King’s Hawford competitors at the Worcester Competitive Arts Festival.

King’s St Alban’s under-11 footballers were finalists in the ISFA Regional Tournament held earlier this month. The boys played out a tense and close game in the semi-final, ultimately achieving a well-earned place in the prestigious ISFA National Finals in April. This is a fantastic accomplishment given that this was the first time that the school had entered the competition. Mr Ian Griffin, Head of King’s St Alban’s, is thrilled that the superb coaching which the boys receive, along with their team spirit and determination, has proven that the school is at the top of the pile for sportsmanship as well as in achieving academic excellence for all pupils

May – June 2013

King’s Hawford had a successful day at the recent Worcester Competitive Arts Festival in which over 100 Hawford children took part. It was terrific to see the children so confident and composed when presenting their pieces or when performing.

The Choir, Orchestra and Saxophone Groups all won their sections and we had a host of individual and group winners in the various classes. More importantly, the children gave of their best and rose to the occasion. It was a great festival and we are very proud of all of the children who participated. www.ksw.org.uk

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

5 Hereford & Worcester

Education

Childcare voucher scheme changes – what this means for parents by Helen Douglas HypnoBirthing offers an approach that helps women achieve a drug-free, calm, relaxed, comfortable labour and birth.

More and more people are discovering HypnoBirthing and experiencing calmer, easier and more comfortable births. Join them by reaping the benefits which can include: u Shorter labour u Eliminate or reduce the need for pain relief u Reduce the likelihood of a surgical birth u Provide a supportive role for birthing partner

L ily R ose H ypno B irthing, based in the Worcestershire area, will help you feel more

relaxed and free of fear so you can enjoy your pregnancy and birth by teaching a mixture of specifically tailored breathing techniques, deep relaxation, visualisation and easy to learn self-hypnosis to allow your body to birth your baby in the way it is perfectly designed to do.

Contact me, Dr Ann Laight (DClinPsy), Affiliated HypnoBirthing Practitioner, at ann@lilyrosehypnobirthing.co.uk or call 07889 055 528

www.lilyrosehypnobirthing.co.uk

Nursery fees, playgroup, after-school care… money, money, and more money. For many parents, childcare costs can be a real strain, and schemes such as childcare vouchers can really help to ease the pressure. With significant changes to the childcare voucher system announced in the Budget, we take a look at how parents may be affected.

With the aim of helping more parents with childcare costs, the Government plans to introduce a new childcare voucher schemefromAutumn 2015. The proposals will make childcare vouchers available to more families and will enable many parents to enjoy higher savings on their childcare costs.

However, unfortunately, not all families will be able to benefit from the changes.

Currently, childcare vouchers are provided by employers, and are usually received instead of part of a parent’s salary. Basic-rate taxpayers can order up to £243 a month in childcare vouchers.

In a two-parent family with both parents claiming childcare vouchers, this provides savings in tax and National Insurance of £1,866 pa, regardless of how many children are in childcare. The employer also benefits from National Insurance savings.

Under the new arrangements, more parents will be able to benefit from childcare vouchers as access to the scheme will no longer be dependent on their employer’s participation. Parents will be able to set up an account with a childcare voucher provider and will pay into this account to purchase childcare vouchers. The Government will top up each parent’s childcare voucher account with a 20% contribution towards their childcare costs, up to a maximum contribution of £1,200 a year per child.

Whilst the new scheme could be said to be more inclusive, extending to both the self-employed and those on National Minimum Wage, there are some new restrictions whichmay cause concern for some parents. The new scheme will only be available to single parents who work 16 hours or more a week, or families where both parentswork 16 hours or more per week.

Worcestershire and South Midlands

Professional Ultrasound Services Throughout Pregnancy Suite 14, Hallow Park, Hallow, Worcestershire, WR2 6PG

01905 317575

info@babyface4d.co.uk www.babyface4d.co.uk

Parents who sign up for the current childcare voucher scheme before Autumn 2015 will be able to remain in it even after the new scheme has launched, so many parents will then be able to choose between the current and new schemes. The scheme which offers most value for parents depends upon their personal circumstances. For example, couples will be better off under the new scheme if they have two or more children under 5 and their annual childcare costs exceed £9,330 for basic-rate taxpayers or £6,250 for higher-rate taxpayers. Couples with only one child, or with lower childcare costs, or with one parent out of work, are better off under the current regime.

The new scheme will initially only be available for children under 5 years, whereas support under existing schemes extends to the September following a child’s 15th birthday. Whilst there are plans to ultimately make the new scheme available for children up to 12 years, it’s not yet clear how this will be phased in. Parents who expect to use childcare after their children are aged 5 (for example for after-school clubs) may have some tricky decisions to make.

It’s certainly good news that the Government is taking the issue of childcare seriously and continuing to offer a tax break to working parents. However, many parents needing support now may feel that the wait until 2015 is a long one! By encouraging their employers to set up a childcare voucher scheme before the 2015 deadline, both they and their employers could make immediate savings, with the option to revise their choices when and if the new proposals go ahead. www.kiddivouchers.com

6

Hereford & Worcester

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

May – June 2013

Education SCHOOLS’ OPEN DAYS School

Age

Dates

Contact

BROMSGROVE PREPREPARATORY AND NURSERY SCHOOL

Co-ed 2-7

Saturday 11th May 10.00 – 11.30 am

01527 579679 or email enquiries@bromsgrove-school.co.uk www.bromsgrove-school.co.uk

HOLY TRINITY INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

Co-ed 3 months - 18

Open Fridays 8.45 am - 12 noon No appointment necessary

01562 822929 or email office@holytrinity.co.uk www.holytrinity.co.uk

KING’S HAWFORD

Co-ed 2-11

Saturday 15th June 9.30 am – 12.30 pm

01905 451292 or email kha@ksw.org.uk www.ksw.org.uk

KING’S ST ALBAN’S

Co-ed 4-11

Monday 20th – Thursday 23rd May

01905 354906 or email ksa@ksw.org.uk www.ksw.org.uk

MALVERN COLLEGE

Co-ed 13-18

Saturday 11th May 10.15 am - 1.45 pm

01684 581515 or email registrar@malcol.org www.malcol.org

MALVERN ST JAMES

Girls 4-11, 11-16, 16-18

Wednesday 22nd May 2.00 – 4.00 pm Saturday 8th June 10.00 am – 1.30 pm

01684 584624 or email registrar@malvernstjames.co.uk www.malvernstjames.co.uk

MOFFATS

Co-ed 4-13

Saturday 18th May 9.30 - 12.30 pm

01299 841230 or email: office@moffats.co.uk www.moffats.co.uk

RGS THE GRANGE

Co-ed 21/2 -11

Saturday 11th May 9.30 am -12.30 pm

01905 451205 or email: grange@rgsw.org.uk www.rgsw.org.uk

ST MARY’S WORCESTER

Co-ed 3mths - 5yrs, Girls 5-11, Girls 11-18

Thursday 2nd May 4.30 - 6.30 pm

01905 357786 www.stmarys.org.uk

THE DOWNS, MALVERN COLLEGE PREP

Co-ed 3-13

Bank Holiday Monday 6th May 9.30 am – 4.30 pm

01684 544108 or email registrar@thedowns.malcol.org www.thedowns.malcol.org

WINTERFOLD HOUSE

Co-ed 6 wks - 3yrs, 3-7, 7-13

Saturday 18th May 10.00 am

01562 777234 or email: linda@winterfoldhouse.co.uk www.winterfoldhouse.co.uk

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE INCLUDED IN THE SCHOOLS’ OPEN DAYS, PLEASE EMAIL EDITOR@FAMILIESHEREFORDANDWORCS.CO.UK

For those of you with small businesses, I cannot recommend advertising in Families H&W highly enough. It has certainly worked for www.littlelettercompany.co.uk – increasing our reach and ultimately paying for itself in terms of the sales generated. The editor is helpful and flexible. Well worth the pennies! Stephanie, Little Letter Company.

May – June 2013

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

7 Hereford & Worcester

Education

New Kumon study centre opens in Hereford The new Kumon Hereford Study Centre has opened in Hereford. It will offer Kumon’s unique maths and English study programmes which help children of all ages and abilities to excel academically, develop their capacity for learning independently and boost their all-round confidence.

Kumon’s unique method of learning focuses on each child as an individual, providing them with transferable study skills and ensuring they progress at a level that is right for them. As a result, children can improve their all-round academic performance and also gain the confidence to tackle new challenges both in and outside of the classroom.

8

Hereford & Worcester

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

As well as building speed and accuracy, Kumon’s maths and English programmes develop abilities such as concentration and independent learning, time management and problem-solving: abilities which will prepare students for the future.

The Hereford Study Centre is based at Hereford Sixth Form College on Folly Lane and offers classes on Tuesdays and Fridays from 4:30pm to 6:30pm.

Lynn Johnson

For more information, or to book a Free Assessment, contact Instructor Lynn Johnson on 01432 233233 or email hereford@kumoncentre.co.uk.

www.kumon.co.uk

May – June 2013

The National Young Writers’ Award Returns

Education

Budding young writers get your pens at the ready as this year’s National Young Writers’ Awards has launched. The competition, Cressida Cowell organised by Explore Learning, is now in its fifth year and will be judged by best-selling author, Cressida Cowell, writer of the world famous How To Train Your Dragon series, which inspired the hugely successful DreamWorks movie.

Children aged 5 to 14 are invited to write a 500 word short story on this year’s theme – “Around the World”. Closing date is Monday 3rd June. It is free to enter at www.explorelearning. co.uk/youngwriters or pick up an entry form from your local Explore Learning centre in Redditch. The winner will be awarded with a trip to Disneyland Paris for their whole family – and £500 worth of books for their school – presented by Cressida Cowell in June.

Imagine…

Imagine you have been dropped out of an aeroplane and have landed in a country where you don’t speak the language. How would you feel when people approach you and give you instructions that you don’t understand? What about when you need to ask for help but no-one can understand you? Scared? Anxious? Embarrassed? Angry? Frustrated? Probably a combination of these! This is how children can feel when they have difficulties with understanding and using language.

The ability to communicate is an essential life skill allowing us to understand the world around us, express our needs, thoughts, ideas, allowing us to make friends and in general enabling us to enjoy and participate in everyday life.

It is often taken for granted that children will develop their speech, language and communication skills automatically, acquiring the necessary skills ‘incidentally’. Unfortunately this is often not the case.

10% of children in the UK have specific difficulties with learning some aspect of understanding and using language. These children will require specific help from a speech and language therapist.

Many more children have delayed language skills which can be helped by parents, early years and school staff carrying out supportive strategies throughout children’s daily routines.

The impact of having these difficulties is significant – low achievement in the curriculum, specific literacy difficulties, behaviour issues as a result of frustration and difficulties with interaction and making friends.

Let’s Communicate provides independent assessment of children’s speech and language skills. Children can be seen quickly following referral and any help and support that is needed can be started immediately. The earlier any difficulties are identified and support implemented, the better the outcome.

As well as assessment, diagnosis and intervention with children and youngsters who present with a range of speech and language difficulties, Let’s Communicate also provide baby signing classes and parent coaching. These activities will help parents to support the development of early communication and interaction skills for all children.

If you have any concerns about your child or would like to find out further information about our speech and language therapy service, baby signing classes or parent coaching, please contact either Nicki Holmes nicki_mason@hotmail.com /07890161792 or Nibbhayadhnibbhaya@gmail.com / 07791593180.

May – June 2013

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

9 Hereford & Worcester

Children’s Parties www.glitzngiggles.vpweb.co.uk

07817704933

Get a party tailored to you!

Girls Pamper Parties, Boys Pirate Parties and Helium Balloons for all occasions

1st

Birthday!

Age 3 + Dressing up, Nail art, Karaoke, Jewellery and magic wand making, Foot spas, Chocolate fountains and more!!

Very competitive prices.

Picture courtesy of www.partypickles.co.uk

It’s our

Are you struggling for the perfect party idea?

Have a children’s jewellery-making party!

• Suitable for age 5 upwards • fun & exciting • bespoke • quality beads & materials used • perfect for birthday parties or children’s clubs • each creation is presented in a lovely organza bag to take home • fully insured & crb checked

beadiboppers@gmail.com / 07738 127 709

Looking for a party experience never to be forgotten?

Make SimplyAlpaca the venue for your birthday party to meet and walk the alpacas. Have some fun with the alpaca’s fibre and try out felting to make something to take home. Alpaca toy for the birthday child.

Suitable for age 6 upwards.

Tel: 07980 587562 info@simplyalpaca.co.uk www.simplyalpaca.co.uk

! e m i t y t r a p s It’

By Joanna Moorhead

A birthday party is the highpoint of the year for most kids - so the pressure is on to get it right.

The secret, as ever, is in the planning. But how do you find out which party is right for your child?

We guide you through the options.

Worcester PA Hire

• Egg Collecting • Tractor Rides

Affordable - Reliable - Easy To Use

• Pony Rides

Why book a DJ when you can do it yourself?

No experience necessary to operate our ‘easy to use’ PA and lighting systems. It’s as simple as 1, 2, 3 1. Choose the music that you want to hear from your own music collection.

2. Load the songs onto your iPod/mp3 player.

3. Plug your iPod/mp3 player into our PA system and press play.

• Hands on Pet time

Fun filled parties:

Age 6-11’s Age 3-5’s Football Soccer Stars High energy dance Sporty Stars Multi Games Active Story Parties are themed e.g. The Incredibles, Cars, Despicable Me, Pirates, Shrek.

Why not add a lighting package to really create a party atmosphere. tel: 07867801672 email: info@worcesterpahire.co.uk

www.worcesterpahire.co.uk 10

Lots of themed parties available please contact us for details

Hereford & Worcester

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

01905 840396 or

email sales@kosport.co.uk www.kosport.co.uk

• Indoor Play Barn

• Outdoor Play and Picnic Areas

Open Season

• Zipwire

• Trampolines (indoor and out)

Open Mon-Sat during holidays Open Wed-Sat during term-time Closed Sundays www.newbridgeplaybarn.com

01531 670 780

Little Marcle, Nr Ledbury, HR8 2QG May – June 2013

What is it? An at-home for the birthday child and friends, with traditional games like pass the parcel (always a winner), pin the tail on the donkey, and musical bumps.

Who’s it suitable for? Great for nursery and reception age children, but don’t neglect its values for older kids, especially girls of eight or nine who often enjoy nothing more than inviting their friends back to their house and having a girly time.

The pros: It’s cheap (or at least, it certainly can be); other parents often stay to help you out, keep you company, especially if you promise a glass of prosecco to help everyone through.

The cons: You may need to redecorate afterwards; you’ll certainly need to do a major tidy up. It can be difficult to keep your birthday child’s siblings out of the way, which could lead to conflict.

Top tips to make it work: 1. Agree ground rules with the birthday child beforehand about which rooms are in and out of bounds.

2. Have a timetable for what’s happening when.

3. Think about a project, eg build a bear kits, jewellery-making, pirate games.

4. Give them chance to let off steam in the garden.

5. For tea, spread a huge paper tablecloth on the floor and get them to sit around the edges of it. At the end, simply fold it up with all the rubbish inside and bin.

The action party What is it? Paintballing, go-karting, swimming, Go Ape etc.

Who’s it suitable for? Older children (seven plus); kids with lots of energy who enjoy racing around.

The pros: Your house remains intact; the kids have something to focus on, and lots of opportunities to let off steam; many children end up covered in bruises from paintballing (though they don’t seem to mind!)

For beautifully themed children’s parties for your little pickle

The cons: It can be very expensive; although some options, eg a swimming pool party, trip to an adventure playground, can be good value.

Top tips to make it work 1. If the activity is long and energetic it might be best to postpone a winter birthday party to the spring (the kids might get wet and cold as they’ll be outside for ages).

2. Take plenty of water, squash, snacks including fruit - they’ll need plenty of energy for all that running around.

3. Make ABSOLUTELY sure you’ve checked all restrictions, eg height restrictions, beforehand – there’s nothing worse than finding out on the day that one of your guests is too small to participate.

4. Make sure you get parental consent forms signed well in advance – the venue will require you to do this before they allow you in.

5. Ensure the kids wear any safety equipment at all times.

The church hall party What is it? An indoor party in a hired venue.

Who’s it suitable for? Children of five plus, who are confident about being left somewhere they don’t know.

The pros: A lot more space than they’d have if you were at home.

The cons: You’ll have to leave the place spotless afterwards, and pay for any damage.

Top tips to make it work 1. Try to find somewhere with outdoor space as well in case it’s a lovely day.

2. Ask if you can borrow/use playgroup play equipment.

3. Have lots of help, and have tea reasonably early in the afternoon so you can get it tidied away before the end.

4. If you’ve got the budget, consider hiring an entertainer – the extra space will make it a lot more fun.

5. Musical games, dancing, discos etc are great fun in church halls.

The restaurant party What is it? A meal-based party in eg a pizza restaurant, where the kids are allowed to help or watch in the food preparation.

Who’s it suitable for? Older kids of eight-12; children who enjoy the chance to meet and chat more than the chance to run around.

Children’s Parties

The traditional party

The pros: At its best, it’s very civilised; you can even have a second table in the restaurant and invite some other parents along, so it’s a meal out for you as well.

Children enjoy sense of being ‘grown up’ and eating out with friends.

The cons: It’s expensive; raucous behaviour will upset other diners.

Top tips to make it work 1. Make sure you’re booked for a time when the restaurant won’t be busy.

2. A restaurant near a park, where kids can run off a bit of energy afterwards, is a good idea.

3. Don’t rely on the pizza-making/chefwatching for absolutely all the entertainment. Bring eg colouring packs or check the restaurant will provide them, and think of some easy games to play round the table, eg I-Spy, in case things flag.

4. Make sure you sort out the cake arrangements beforehand; most restaurants allow you to bring your own (don’t forget the candles and matches).

5. Don’t limit yourself to chain restaurants – your local eaterie may well be prepared to accommodate your party, and may be more flexible than bigger establishments.

And finally... whatever sort of party you’re having don’t neglect the party bags! Every kid, at every party, is secretly (or not so secretly!) longing for a party bag – and part of the excitement for your child is helping to put the bags together. Have a budget and stick to it – party bags can add hugely to the cost of a party – but try and limit the wasteful plastic toys that get thrown away immediately.

Traditional Old Fashioned Sweet Shop Sweets • Gifts • Pocket Money Toys & more

Come and see us above Little Acorns, Unit 2a Everoak Industrial Estate, St Johns, Worcester, WR2 5HP or visit

www.partypickles.co.uk May – June 2013

Party Bags to order – choose from a large range of sweets & pocket money toys.

10+ party bags = free party bag for birthday child

27 Broad Street, Pershore 01386 553262 www.sweettraditions.co.uk www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

11 Hereford & Worcester

Children’s Parties

Party Listings

Themed Parties

Animals Animalmania – specialise in animal parties, teddy bear picnics, princess and pamper parties. John or Carla on 01905 757136 www.animal-mania.org Life in the Rainforest – rainforest parties with spiders, insects, snakes, frogs plus school talks. Paul on 01386 49747 www.lifeintherainforest.co.uk Party Ponies and Grafton Carriage Company is based in Bromsgrove. Being mobile we attend your party at home or at a selected venue and provide ponies to just ride, or more hands on – grooming, tacking up and riding. Parties with 2 ponies and 2 adult staff are from £120 for the hour (suitable for approx 15 children) and include rosettes. Children must be between 2-12yrs (weight limit of 50kg) and wear riding hats (provided). Alternatively for special occasions for all sizes and ages – a carriage ride for up to 6 guests prices from £25 per person.

Tracey on 01527 574199 or 07704 446901 www.graftoncarriagecompany.co.uk

MH Garden & Tree Services

Family business based in Dunhampstead, Droitwich Spa which operates throughout Worcestershire • Specialists in tree felling & hedge cutting • Tree pruning, reshaping & reducing • Lawn mowing • Full garden clearance • All waste removed & recycled • No obligation quote • Payment on satisfaction • NPTC qualified with full liability insurance

Simply Alpaca Birthday Parties – These are celebration parties with a difference. Get up close to the alpacas to meet and walk them. We introduce the idea of care and respect for the animals before going on to meet them in person. Then we walk them around our own “Alpaca Challenge Obstacle Course” or take them for a stroll around the fields.

Alpacas are really curious and love the chance to get out and about. Following that we sit down to hearty but healthy party food.

Check out the party packages and please feel free to contact us on 07980 587562 or email simplyalpaca@btinternet.com www.simplyalpaca.co.uk Thbirdsandanimals – Parties, school talks, shows/fetes with birds of prey, reptiles, small mammals. Trevor on 01885 410768 www.thbirdsandanimals.webs.com

LOGS FOR SALE

Enquiries: 07791472201 Email: mhgardenandtreeservices@gmail.com Web: www.mhgardenandtreeservices.co.uk

Arts and Crafts Mosaic Parties – a mosaic party to decorate either a coaster, picture frame or a mirror. Janet on 01299 828374 www.mosaicparties.co.uk

Character Mascot Hire TLR Mascots – Peppa Pig, Fireman Sam and Iggle Piggle lookalikes to appear at your child’s party. Tessa on 01905 840932 www.tlrmascots.vpweb.co uk

Cookery Bluebell Bakehouse – children’s baking parties, baking days, cupcakes for all occasions. email becky@bluebellbakehouse.co.uk www.bluebellbakehouse.co.uk Our Lizzy – vegetarian cookery school and parties for adults and children inc party bags, cake, tuition, invitations. Lizzy on 01684 892688 www.ourlizzy.com Red Hen Cookery Parties – fun cookery courses and parties for children and adults of any age. Naz on 01905 422997 www.redhencookery.co.uk

Face Painting and Make Up Funky Faces face painting and My Little Makeover Party – offer a broad range of parties including face painting, nails, make up and craft activities. Jane on 01905 763362 or Jo 07967 483878. www.funkyfaces.biz

12

Hereford & Worcester

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

We have made every effort to ensure our listings are accurate and up-to-date. However, we cannot be held responsible for any unintentional errors.

Glitz n Giggles – is a successful children’s party business. For over a year we have been providing parties for children aged 3+ up to prom age. Choose from a variety of boys and girls parties from pamper parties, pirate parties and dinosaur parties.

We do candy buffets, chocolate pizzas, foot spas, jewellery making and all at a reasonable cost.

Debbie on 07817 704933 www.glitzngiggles.vpweb.co.uk Jenny’s Pampering – offer pamper parties and mini makeover parties for children.

Jenny on 07816 484785 www.jennyspampering.co.uk The Daisy Face Company – face painting and glitter tattoo parties for boys and girls. Karole on 07886 317051 www.thedaisyfacecompany.com

Go-Karting Go-Kart Party – indoor or outdoor go-kart parties at numerous venues around the area. Stewart or Sarah on 01905 612141 www.go-kartparty.co.uk AKS Karting – Indoor go-kart parties and laser combat for children aged 8-14 years and adults. 01905 352200 www.akskarting.com

Jewellery

Beadiboppers – Are you stuck for ideas for your child’s party? Why not have a jewellery making party! All materials are brought to your home or venue where children make up to 2 items of jewellery which they take home in a lovely organza bag. It’s fun, creative and totally unique as the designs are the child’s own and they choose from a wide selection of quality beads. There is also an extra treat for the ‘birthday girl’. Suitable from age 5 upwards this activity is suitable for any groups including Brownies, Rainbows or other clubs.

Sam on 0773 8127709 or email info@beadiboppers.co.uk www.beadiboppers.co.uk

Model and Photography

Aliye Mullen Photography Aliye Mullen – provides fun filled Catwalk Photoshoot Birthday Parties in Kidderminster (or at a venue of your choice) for children aged 8 and over. As a unique experience, everything from hair and make up, party food, party fun and disco is included in these fun parties. Every guest receives a complimentary cd, Birthday child receives a CD with all their portrait photos. Aliye Mullen also runs half and full day photography workshops and 3 or 6 hour sessions for children to have their portraits taken and refreshments are provided. All children have the chance to use professional photography equipment.

07968 682034 www.aliyemullen.co.uk Time Lock Photography – Several packages available including 2hrs in the studio plus a framed image from the session and an 8x6” print for all party guests. Your party will enjoy exclusive use of the studio and reception area which is perfect for light party refreshments should you wish to bring some. Our sessions are designed for you to get the most from your party, with plenty of time for a change of outfit, different props and combinations of groups.

01386 861383 www.timelockphotography.co.uk Wannabe Workshops – modelling and catwalk parties and workshops for all ages perfect for the age of 6+. Jeanne on 07593 991960 www.wannabeworkshops.com

May – June 2013

Children’s Parties Music and Movement Baby Sensory – Baby and Toddler sensory parties inc balls, puppets, music, action games, lights. Louise on 07535 616949 Bromsgrove/Redditch or Jennifer on 07837 826403 or 01684 561176 Worcester/ Malvern/Pershore www.babysensory.com Jo Jingles – Music, Singing and Movement birthday parties for children 3 months – 5 years.

Rachael on 07792 131285 www.worcesterarea.jojingles.com Little Giggles – children’s entertainer specialising in popular music and movement parties where children are encouraged to get involved.

Nikki on 07568 061192 www.little-giggles.co.uk Pyjama Drama – Welcome to Pyjama Drama, a world in which anything can happen! Our themed parties, for children up to seven years old, are packed full of games, music, movement and pretending – all designed to thrill the senses and ignite the imagination. Join us on a hunt for a fearsome dragon, swing through the trees with the monkeys or discover what happens when a roller skating witch comes to tea… We provide invitations, stickers, balloons and Pyjama Drama party CD’s. Like our classes, parties are age differentiated so you can be sure all activities are appropriate as well as lots of fun!

01527 908935 www.pyjamadrama.com The Musical Farmhouse – For children five and under full of musical fun with lots of movement, dancing and instruments.

Hannah on 0844 318 3401 www.themusicalfarmhouse.co.uk Tumble Tots – Two hours of climbing, balancing, rolling, tummy surfing, singing and parachute fun! Lynne on 07818 556426 www.tumbletots.com/worcester

Party within a Party Ciccionas – have many years of experience to help your party or event run smoothly. Their friendly team of highly experienced and qualified Nannies will step in when required to entertain the children with an assortment of equipment including Fancy dress, toys and mess free arts and crafts. Sarah on 07906 051684 www.ciccionas.com Noodle Doodles – a mobile party entertainment business that will come to your venue arranging games and activities. Emma on 07989 135041 www.noodledoodles.co.uk

Pottery Green Frog Pottery – Several different painting pottery party packages. Carrie on 01684 561778 www.greenfrogpottery.co.uk Honeybourne Pottery – Mix and match activities to suit the most creative of partygoers - potter’s wheel, clay modelling and ceramic painting. Paul or Kath on 01386 832855 www.honeybournepots.co.uk Jets Craft Cafe – Pottery painting plus decopatch (decorating using colourful papers and glue), enamelling, teddy bear and soap making parties. Sandra on 01527 873866 www.jetspotterypainting.co.uk

Scalextric Phoenix Scalextric – a huge 150 ft track with 6 lanes. Birthday, family parties and special events catered for from age 6 onwards. Jon on 07949 656577 www.phoenixscalextriccircuit.com

Sport Aztec Watersports – A variety of party packages inc kayaking, canoeing, pedal boats, raft building, windsurfing and sailing.

Craig or Mark on 01386 860013 www.aztecwatersports.com FDC Sport – Two hours of fun football parties inc skill competitions, prizes, special medal, trophy and award ceremony for party child, invitations.

01527 585407 www.fdcsport.co.uk

May – June 2013

Football First – Run by primary school teachers who provide quality football parties for girls and boys from 4-11 years old.

Mike on 07825 772031 or Lewis on 07971 791939 www.footballfirst2002.com Football Fledglings – Indoor and outdoor football parties from 2 years of age and tailor made to the child’s capabilities.

Allan or Carole on 01531 636563 www.footballfledglings.co.uk KO Sport – delivers birthday parties with a difference. Coming highly recommended from years of bookings we have fine-tuned our parties to ensure maximum fun for all guests.

Incorporating fun filled sports or dance around your child’s favourite TV/book characters or theme is a winning combination. KO Sport can take all the worry away by providing invitations, party bags and entertainment and even a sports trophy for the birthday child. From Football to Zumba, goal ball to disco divas, we guarantee your child will have a birthday to remember from only £95.

Email enquiries@kosport.co.uk or Kate on 01905 840396 www.kosport.co.uk Marksman Leisure – Shooting4Fun. Entertainment for most kids aged 07 to 107 for all your shooting entertainment needs we are based in Hanbury Worcestershire, just a tenminute drive from Junction 5 of the M5.

Wedding Day Laser Clay Shooting – Woodland Laser Tag Birthday Parties – Office Parties – Works Parties – Corporate Entertainment – Stag & Hen Parties – After Conference Entertainment – Team Building Events – ½ day and full day programmes available.

Mark on 01527 575141 or email mark@shooting4fun.co.uk www.laser-shooting.com Rugby Tots – play and party games for children 2-5 years with a number of different options available. Tel 0845 313 3242 www.rugbytots.co.uk

Tea Parties

Avoncroft Museum – Mad Hatter’s Tea Parties. Try a party with a difference and book an Alice in Wonderland themed tea party.

Food is served in ‘mad’ ways and entertainment is provided by a dedicated member of staff.

Both boys and girls love coming along dressed as Alice or the Mad Hatter. Parties can be run for 12-16 children and cost £12 per child.

To book, please call 01527 831363 or email bookings@avoncroft.org.uk. www.avoncroft.org.uk Constance Wallace – Sandwiches, cakes, crisps, fruit, jelly set in little teacups all set the scene for a special tea party plus bunting and music. Diane on 01527 540111 www.constancewallace.co.uk

Children’s Entertainers Andy’s Magic – magic show, mini disco, balloon animals, puppets. 01562 825231 www.andysmagic.co.uk Allsorts Magic – magic, balloons, puppets, games and disco. David on 01905 771674 www.allsortsmagic.com Funbusters – children’s themed parties, bouncy castles, entertainment, discos.

01527 578200 www.funbusters.com

Don’t forget to mention when you telephone that you saw the listing in Families Hereford and Worcester magazine

] Qualified MPA photographer ] Cherubs photographer ] Family and baby photos ] Newborn photos ] Maternity photos ] Studio or location To find out more, or to book call now on 07951 412010 or email hello@helterskelterphotography.co.uk

www.helterskelterphotography.co.uk www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

13 Hereford & Worcester

Children’s Parties Looby Lou Parties – with Joey the Juggler inc juggling, balloon modelling, face painting and magic. Louise on 07944 156798 www.loobylouparties.co.uk Magic Russ – A magic act with Dave the wonderdog and Chico the Mind reading monkey. Russ on 07773 803933 www.magic4kids.co.uk Mr Genie Magic Show – children’s magic show with balloon modelling, puppets, comedy fun and magic. Phil 01562 754824 www.childrenspartyshows.co.uk Ukidz – party entertainers for children of all ages. Large choice of themed parties inc pirates, princess, cartoon heroes, circus fun, teenage, pre-school. 0800 566 8715 www.ukidz.co.uk

Suppliers Accessories/Equipment Party Pickles – offering hand-crafted, traditional party items, providing an entire party in a box – taking all the stress and headache out of theming and decorating children’s parties.

Each box caters for eight or more children and includes hand-made bunting and table runners – as well as a bespoke themed cupcake stand, plates, cups, napkins and party favours.

There are also extra special touches to reflect each theme. The Vintage Tea Party includes hand-made corsages for each child and a cupcake piñata, while the Little Man Party includes hand-made striped ties and moustache straws for each child. Party Pickles can be found above Little Acorns Soft Play Centre 07710 264148 www.partypickles.co.uk.

Sweet Traditions – a traditional old fashioned sweet shop in Pershore supplying a huge variety of sweets, party bags and gifts plus an online shop with lots of gift ideas for party bags including crayons, puzzles, toys, books, rulers and loads more. Party bags to order – choose 10+ party bags and get a free party bag for the birthday child.

Clare on 01386 553262 www.sweettraditions.co.uk The Ultimate Party Shop – party accessories and fancy dress shop in Worcester and online. 01242 254480 www.ultimatepartyshop.com Treasure Trails – ideal for a treasure hunt party. Some Trails require you to solve a murder mystery whilst others require you to go on a treasure hunt or crack the code to save the world! 01568 611705 www.treasuretrails.co.uk

Worcester PA Hire

Indoor and Outdoor Tennis for Adults & Juniors Summer Half-Term Tennis & Multi Sport Camps New courses and classes available for all ages and abilities

For more information please visit: www.pershoretennis.co.uk or phone Steve on 01386 561903 14

Hereford & Worcester

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

Worcester PA Hire – providing Easy to use PA and lighting systems for parties, functions and corporate events. No experience necessary to operate our ‘easy to use’ PA and lighting systems.

It’s so simple: 1. Choose the music that you want to hear from your own music collection.

2. Load the songs onto your iPod/mp3 player.

3. Plug your iPod/mp3 player into our PA system and press play.

Matt on 07867 801672 or email info@worcesterpahire.co.uk www.worcesterpahire.co.uk

Don’t forget to mention when you telephone that you saw the listing in Families Hereford and Worcester magazine

Inflatables BBC Inflatables – have 3 stunning new pieces of equipment.

In order to maintain their position as the leading premier inflatable equipment hirer in Worcestershire, BBC Inflatables have added yet another 3 fabulous items to their huge range offering you a choice of over 45 wonderful fun inflatables for children, teens and adults. Their new additions include a magnificent Princess Carriage with gorgeous twinkling lights, a stunning Fantasy Princess Fun Run and an awesome Medieval Demolition Wrecking Ball.

If you are organising a children’s party, school event, fete, corporate fun day or just having a get together with family and friends, you really need to visit the website as you won’t be disappointed. Just read the superb reviews on their testimonial page and you will know you have made the right choice of hirer.

01905 841902 www.bbcinflatables.co.uk Bounce About UK – bouncy castles, inflatables, soft play equipment, sumo wrestling, garden games 01527 455442 www.bounceaboutuk.com Bouncers Castle Hire – bouncy castles for children and adults, sumo wrestling suits 01905 339597 www.bouncerscastlehire.co.uk Kiddy Leisure – little landys (scaled down landrovers), inflatables, sumo suits, events management. Paul on 01562 754594 www.kiddyleisure.co.uk Little Softies – several different packages of soft play equipment for hire 0844 3101419 www.littlesofties.co.uk Worcester Bouncy Castles by Bounce King – selection of bouncy castles, plasma cars, and party bags. 01905 455300 www.worcesterbouncycastles.co.uk

Catering Ace of Cakes – novelty cakes for all occasions, cupcakes, corporate cupcakes with logo. Karen on 01527 589015 www.aceofcakes.tv Caroline’s Cakes – Bespoke cakes in the heart of Worcester.

Beautiful wedding cakes, imaginative birthday cakes, delicious cupcakes, cake pops and more. Caroline’s Cakes was established in Worcester in 2010 and since then has been providing delicious works of art that taste as good as they look. Catering for special occasions as well as local events such as Worcester’s Victorian Fayre, we create bespoke cakes for weddings, birthdays, christenings and any event that deserves a cake! We also bake a delicious range of cupcakes and cake pops in many flavours and designs. Choose a cake as special as your occasion!

Caroline on 01905 769945 www.carolinescakesworcester.co.uk Designed 4 u – beautiful wedding, birthday, novelty, anniversary and christening cakes plus sugarcraft classes. Su on 01905 339098 www.designed4u.co.uk Food Genie – Mobile fish and chip van to your party plus event catering specialist 01386 834693 www.food-genie.co.uk

Venues & Play Avonbelle River Boat Trips – All parties catered for inc live commentary by the Skipper, a jug of water/squash, choice of music, balloons and banners if required.

Hannah on 07880 811972 www.avonbelleriverboattrips.co.uk Blackwell Adventure Park, Bromsgrove – lots of different indoor and outdoor activities to choose from for children and adults. 0121 445 1285 www.blackwelladventure.co.uk

May – June 2013

Children’s Parties Bowl Xtreme Ltd, Worcester – ten pin bowling parties inc food and disco.

01905 757475 www.bowlxtreme.co.uk Clives Fruit Farm, Upton on Severn – An adventure playground, animals, a wildlife trail and farm shop catering for parties.

01684 592664 www.clivesfruitfarm.co.uk Coconut Island, Redditch – choice of soft play, make and bake and laser parties inc food. 01527 529040 www.coconutislandredditch.co.uk Dudley Zoo – A fun-filled two hours whilst learning about the natural world. Craft and play activities are followed by party food and face or hand painting. 0844 474 2272 www.dudleyzoo.org.uk Fantastico Indoor Play, Kidderminster – soft play parties plus choice of glamour/cocktail, disco. 01562 69222 www.fantasticoplay.com Forge Mill Needle Museum, Redditch – Medieval themed party room with party games, medieval quest and themed crafts.

01527 62509 www.forgemill.org.uk Halo Leisure, Herefordshire – Several leisure centres offering various party options inc Splash Time, The Inflatable Challenge, Waves & Slides Special, Sports Hall Parties, Dance mat Parties. 0300 012 1222 www.haloleisure.co.uk Ice Quest, Malvern – Ice Skating and Laser Quest Parties in Malvern includes activity, hot snack, squash & invites. 01684 575222 www.icequest.co.uk Imagination Street, Bromsgrove or Redditch – 2 soft play centres with experience rooms plus several party options inc Formula 1, Girls Allowed and disco, games and karaoke. 01527 836377 Bromsgrove or 01527 892243 Redditch or www.imaginationstreet.co.uk

May – June 2013

Jugglers Soft Play Centre, Bromsgrove – soft play parties inc food in new party room. 01527 837997 www.jugglerssoftplay.com Little Acorns, Worcester – soft play centre plus parties. 01905 424766 www.worcesterindoorplay.co.uk New Bridge Play Barn & Farm Park, Ledbury – with all its activities and facilities provides a great venue for children’s parties.

There is a party room provided with picnic benches, sink, fridge and wi-fi for you if you want to bring a picnic. There is also a pony party option to choose. Your visit to the farm can be as long as you like during opening times on party day & includes all other activities too.

Wayne or Julie on 01531 670780 www.newbridgeplaybarn.com Party Bus Surprise – a fun packed party on Burtha, the yellow double decker bus.

01527 570093 www.partybussurprise.co.uk Play Planet, Hereford – Several party packages inc soft play, football, pizza making, craft, makeover and disco parties.

01432 355777 www.playplanethereford.co.uk The Orchard Cafe – at the Countryside Centre, Worcester with great healthy organic party food. 01905 766492 www.theorchardcafe.co.uk The World Outside – A forest party with den building, bug hunting, woodland games, campfire cooking. Themes for younger children inc The Gruffalo and Where the wild things are. Sandra on 07765 394456 www.theworldoutside.co.uk

Top Barn Farm Park – Children’s parties held in beautiful surroundings with lots of animals to see.

Included in the cost are access to play area and farm park, pet the bunny, trailer tour of the farm, lovely healthy freshly made party food with farm-themed cups, plates and napkins.

Party bags can be provided for each child at an extra cost.

Mike on 07740 368691 or email shop@topbarn.co.uk www.topbarn.co.uk Vertical Limit – Indoor rock climbing party with all safety gear, safety equipment etc provided. 01905 613044 www.vlimit.co.uk Wacky Warehouse at New Tardebigge, Redditch 01527 550050 and Strawberry Field, Evesham 01386 422535 – soft play, games and prizes, party bags and party food. www.wackywarehouse.co.uk West Midlands Safari Park – party includes admission to the safari park, birthday meal and birthday child can be star of the sea lion show. 01299 402114 www.wmsp.co.uk 1st Bowl Worcester – party incs game of bowling, basket meal and a choc ice. Every 2nd Saturday there is a live DJ. 0843 290 8928 www.1stbowl.com/worcester Families Hereford and Worcester can make your listing ‘stand out from the crowd’ with an enhanced listing – your company is given even more prominence within listings with approximately 100 words of copy – which is either boxed or colour-backed, plus a graphic in our features.

For more information, please email editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk or call 01386 791422

Worcester Arts Workshop – Our parties include an arty crafty activity that can be tailored to your theme. Our unique venue and facilities offer the opportunity for a very special experience and our most popular theme is ‘A Mad Hatter’s Tea Party’. A 2 hour party costs £12 per child and includes: cellar and theatre room hire, 2 members of staff to plan and support your party, planned and prepared craft activity, freshly prepared picnic lunch, games and disco. Party bags, birthday cake and candles, additional decorations and prizes are not included.

01905 25053 www.worcesterartsworkshop.org.uk Worcester Play Centre Ltd – Cheeky Monkeys is a new soft play centre.

Choose from 3 different party packages.

07969 464838 www.worcesterplaycentre.co.uk Wychavon Leisure includes – The Dolphin Centre, Bromsgrove 01527 549130, Droitwich Spa Leisure Centre 01905 771212, Evesham Leisure Centre 01386 444212, Pershore Leisure Centre 01386 552346, Sport Martley 01886 888999 and Sport Dyson Perrins 01684 572645. A choice of fun ‘n’ games, climbing, soft play, sports and splash parties www.wychavonleisure.co.uk Wyre Forest Sports and Leisure Centres includes – Bewdley Leisure Centre 01299 402595, Stourport Leisure Centre 01299 822308 and Wyre Forest Glades Leisure Centre 01562 515151. A choice of ultimate pool, Gugafit, bouncer and soft play, football, trampoline and team party games parties. www.dcleisurecentres.co.uk Worcester Swimming Pool – A choice of wet and wacky, fun and games, football frenzy, and the big bounce parties. www.harpersfitness.co.uk 01905 20241

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

15 Hereford & Worcester

Family Friendly Weekend Break

My husband and son outside “the oldest inn in England”. Very strangely Daniel (5 years old) fell over outside. We didn’t go in and sample the beer promise!

BEST WESTERN NOTTINGHAM DERBY HOTEL

by Karen Craven

My husband Gareth, myself and our son Daniel outside Nottingham Castle. The teenagers didn’t want to be in the photo and one of them was on photographer duty!

We really fancied a weekend break back in March as Christmas had long gone, the weather was shocking and to be perfectly honest, I was fed up with working from home and staring at the same four walls.We needed a change of scene but didn’t want to drive too far so we eventually decided on Nottingham, a city we have visited before. We know that it is great for shopping, close to loads of attractions and is about an hour and a half’s drive from where we live in Worcestershire – perfect.

We stayed at the Best Western Nottingham Derby which is one of over 270 Best Western hotels in Great Britain. The hotel is ideally situated just off the motorway and approx 15/20 mins drive from both Nottingham and Derby city centres. All Best Western hotels are independently owned and run and we certainly received a very warm welcome from the chap on reception when we arrived. The 3 star hotel includes free high-speed internet access, has a restaurant/bar and is pet and child friendly – I wonder who are the easier guests?!

Our first impressions were of a welcoming reception/lounge area with a selection of toys and games for young children including some DVDs which we took advantage of on both evenings.

We were shown to 2 adjoining rooms with my teenage daughters and 5 year old son in 1 room containing 2 single beds and a camp bed and our room which was similar but with a double bed. Both bedrooms contained an en-suite shower room and were very spacious and nicely decorated. The beds were extremely comfortable. As you would expect, both rooms had tea and coffee facilities plus a large tv and an iron and ironing board. An information pack was provided with numerous leaflets on local attractions and Daniel, our 5 year old, was handed a “Bonkers World” comic complete with crayons.

On the first evening we ate at The Grill at Twenty Five which is the hotel restaurant situated opposite the entrance. The restaurant is styled as an American diner, the waiting staff were very attentive and the menu was extensive so plenty to choose for all size appetites and tastes. There was a good choice of wines/beers also. Daniel was handed another magazine and crayons and we were all made to feel very welcome. We also enjoyed two very tasty breakfasts here over the weekend.

The following day, wrapped up warm as it was absolutely freezing, we ventured into the city centre to visit Nottingham Castle which contains an Art Gallery and an extensive Museum collection including costume and textiles, silverware, glass and jewellery. The museum also features interactive displays for children 3-8 years in the Family Gallery and we all enjoyed the Robin Hood area where you could try on costumes and wigs.

In the afternoon the girls and I spent a pleasant couple of hours shopping whilst my husband and son opted for the nearest pub to watch football! We met up early evening and with a vast array of restaurants catering for all tastes and pockets we opted eventually for Frankie and Benny’s – tried and tested by us several times in Worcestershire!

We left the Best Western Nottingham Derby Hotel on Sunday morning after a tasty, filling breakfast in The Grill at Twenty Five and headed home.

16

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk Hereford & Worcester

Best Western is a collection of over 270 independent hotels across Great Britain. Every hotel welcomes kids with a free welcome pack and all under 12’s sleep and breakfast for free when they share a family room.

There are over 25 hotels in the new Family Favourites collection, featuring everything from children’s check in desks, golf lessons, free ice cream refills, DVD and book libraries.

The price for a Family room at Best Western Nottingham Derby, Bostock Lane, Long Eaton, Nottinghamshire, NG10 4EP starts at £66.00 per night (which includes a lovely breakfast).

To find out more go to www.bestwestern.co.uk or to book call their award-winning reservations team on 0845 33 00 120.

There are loads of local attractions to visit for all ages.

Here are a few:www.nottinghamcity.gov.uk www.heightsofabraham.co.uk www.wheelgatepark.com www.spacecentre.co.uk www.sherwoodforestcraftcentre.co.uk www.visitconkers.com www.whitepostfarm.co.uk www.gulliversfun.co.uk www.monkey-forest.com www.draytonmanor.co.uk May – June 2013

What’s On THEATRE Artrix, School Drive, Bromsgrove, B60 1AX 01527 577330, www.artrix.co.uk Amy Greaves School of Dance – Timeless Stage A dance performance that showcases a variety of dance styles from Ballet, Street, Rock n Roll, Tap, Freestyle and Musical Theatre. Sunday 26th May 12.30 and 6.00 pm £12.00 Evesham Arts Centre Theatre, Victoria Avenue, Evesham, Worcs, WR11 4QH 01386 48883, www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk Wish you were here – Vale Dance Fun filled show with children performing ballet, tap and modern dance routines. Saturday 4th May 6.30 pm and Sunday 5th May 2.00 and 6.30 pm

Please check with the venue in case details have been changed and also please note that with some venues, it is cheaper to pay in advance on-line.

The Elephant Bridesmaid Join Nessie the elephant and her animal friends as they go in search of an outfit fancy enough to make her the most beautiful elephant bridesmaid! Wednesday 29th May 2.30 pm £7.50, £6.50 (16 and under) Palace Theatre, Alcester Street, Redditch, Worcs, B98 8AE 01527 65203, www.redditchpalacetheatre.co.uk Chris and Pui Roadshow See Chris and Pui from ‘Show Me Show Me’ live on stage! CBeebies’ favourite double act are bringing songs, rhymes, comedy sketches and lots of joining in for all the family. Saturday 1st June 11.00 am and 2.00 pm £12.00, £10.00 £38.00 (family ticket)

Schools Together Concert Four local middle schools will entertain the audience by singing and playing their chosen musical items and at the end the four schools will join together to perform several pieces as one. Thursday 27th June 7.00 pm £8.00, £4.00 (under 16s)

Joseph and his amazing technicolor dreamcoat (The Harlequins) Set to an engaging cornucopia of musical styles, from country-western and calypso to bubble-gum pop and rock ‘n’ roll, this Old Testament tale emerges both timely and timeless. Thursday 6th June – Saturday 8th June 2.30 pm (sat) 7.30 pm £12.00, £10.00, £39.00 family ticket

Malvern Theatres, Grange Road, Malvern, Worcs, WR14 3HB 01684 892277, www.malvern-theatres.co.uk

The Courtyard, Edgar Street, Hereford, HR4 9JR 01432 340555, www.courtyard.org.uk

Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom Join Ben and Holly and their friends on an exciting musical adventure packed full of games, songs and laughter on an enchanting journey through the Magical Kingdom. Saturday 11th May 1.00 and 4.00 pm and Sunday 12th May 11.00 am and 2.00 pm £13.50, £11.50, children £2.00 off and Family ticket £45.00

Moonfleet Set on a Dorset coast in the village of Moonfleet, orphan John Trenchard is captivated by the story of the ghostly Blackbeard and his lost treasure. His search leads him to adventure with smugglers, the revenue men and eventually love. Tuesday 21st May 7.30 pm £14.00, £12.00 (conc)

The Trouble with Trevor The story takes place on moving day. The Trellis family are upping sticks and shipping out. But Trevor and Polly are hatching an enormously incredible plan… A fun interactive theatre experience for 4-7 year olds. Saturday 25th May 11.00 am and 2.00 pm £5.00 Norbury Theatre, Norbury House, Friar Street, Droitwich Spa, WR9 8ED 01905 770154, www.norburytheatre.freeserve.co.uk Youth Theatre Variety Show Norbury Youth Theatre will be performing a home-crafted variety show, taking inspiration from the Golden Jubilee of The Norbury Theatre. Featuring songs and music from the charts and musicals, visits to royalty and world leaders, the Romans, Taming the New World, the industrial revolution etc.

Thursday 9th – Saturday 11th May 7.30 pm £7.00, £5.00 (concs)

We need bees Bertie Bee spends his days pollinating boring old apples when actually he’d prefer to be free to pollinate wild flowers. In a moment of rebellion he leaves the hive, only to put the whole colony and his best friend in danger. Saturday 25th – Sunday 26th May 11.00 am and 2.00 pm £8.00 I was a rat! Brought to life on the professional stage for the first time Philip Pullman’s moving and darkly comic tale will surprise and delight audiences of all ages. Thursday 30th May – Sunday 1st June 2.00 pm (sat) and 7.00 pm £12.50 £10.00 (conc ) James Campbell’s Comedy 4 kids! For children over 6, their parents and anyone who likes comedy without the rude words, a show which might or might not discuss scooters, Scottish country dancing and what we’ll do with all these gregarious giraffes. Saturday 8th June 2.30 pm £7.50

Children’s Theatre - Mrs Washalot and the magic socks Short plays for Children. Highly Entertaining for kids of all ages. Saturday 18th May 2.30 and 4.00 pm £1.50

Pinocchio Puppetry, shadows, illusion and especially composed music combine to create a show with something for all ages. Saturday 15th June 11.00 am and 2.30 pm £7.50, £6.50 (conc)

The Sound of Music – Norbury Players Wednesday 12th - Saturday 15th and Wednesday 19th - Saturday 22nd June 7.30 pm and Sat matinees 2.30 pm £12.00, £9.00 (concs)

The Swan Theatre, The Moors, Worcester, WR1 3ED 01905 611427, www.worcesterlive.co.uk

Number 8 Community Arts Centre, 8 High Street, Pershore, Worcs, WR10 1BG 01386 555488, www.number8.org.uk Carnival Crafts Workshop Get into the carnival spirit with a fun-filled craft workshop. Experiment with materials and designs as you make your own colourful flags, masks and even bunting for carnival day! Suitable for age 6 – 11. Saturday 25th May 1.00 – 4.00 pm £7.50 May – June 2013

Good morning Mr Punch Why won’t Mr Punch get out of bed in the morning? And can the policeman find Toby the dog in time for the show? Saturday 4th May 10.30, 11.45 am £2.50 Alice in Wonderland – Ballet UK Basing his ballet on Lewis Carroll’s books, Christopher Moore has created a captivating piece, brimming with wit, humour and charm which is delightful entertainment for all ages. Saturday 4th May 7.30 pm £16.00, £13.50 (conc), £11.50 child

A midsummer night’s dream – Swan Youth Theatre Friday 24th – Saturday 25th May 7.30 pm £8.00, £5.00 (conc) Dance around the world – Happy Steps A journey of dance and song from around the world. Through Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Contemporary and Musical Theatre children from the age of 2 years to adult capture you with favourite songs and music. Guest Entertainer is Mr Peter Lewis from the West End’s Phantom of the Opera.

A fun and lively family show. Proceeds to Acorns Children’s Hospice. Friday 7th – Sunday 9th June 1.30 pm (sat and sun), 6.30 pm The Elephant Bridesmaid Join Nessie the elephant and her animal friends as they go in search of an outfit fancy enough to make her the most beautiful elephant bridesmaid! Saturday 22nd June 2.30 pm £7.50 Extravaganza – Swan Youth Theatre The Swan Youth Theatre is all-inclusive and encouraging and gives every child who wants to experience live performance the opportunity to do so. The Extravaganza is a showcase of some of the exceptional talent and commitment they have to offer. Friday 28th – Saturday 29th June 7.00 pm £5.00, £4.00 (concs) Worcester Arts Workshop, 21 Sansome Street, Worcester, WR1 1UH 01905 25053, www.worcesterartsworkshop.org.uk Family Gallery Workshop Run as 1½ hour ‘drop in’ sessions families are offered the chance to bond, learn and play, working on floor based activities and producing innovative and experimental pieces. Saturday 11th May and 8th June 11.00 am to 12.30 pm for under 5s and 1.00 to 2.30 pm for over 5s £1.00 per family

GARDEN CENTRES Evesham Country Park, Evesham, WR11 4TP 01386 41661, www.eveshamcountrypark.co.uk Children’s Creative Cupcakes Get creative and decorate 4 individual cupcakes with your own design, then brand them with your own label.

Saturday 25th May - Sunday 2nd June 11.00 am – 4.00 pm £3.50 per child Summer Fete A Summer Fete featuring falconry displays, ‘have a go’ archery, pony rides, local stalls and much more. A fun filled summer day for the whole family. Free entry. Sunday 30th June 11.00 am – 4.00 pm Webbs, Worcester Road, Wychbold, Droitwich Spa, WR9 0DG 01527 860000, www.webbsdirect.co.uk Outdoor Living Event An al fresco living event with food & drink tastings, barbecue demonstrations and live music plus Professor Pepperpot, face painting and fair rides. Meet TV gardener David Domoney from “Love Your Garden” (ITV1) as he presents barbecue demonstrations and local chef Francis Green as he cooks up some tasty treats. Saturday 18th May 11.00 am – 4.00 pm Riverside Ramble Children can follow a fun trail around the Riverside Gardens and all correct entries will go in to a draw to win a prize.

Saturday 25th May – Sunday 2nd June 11.00 am – 4.00 pm

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

17 Hereford & Worcester

What’s On MUSEUMS Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove B60 4JR 01527 831363, www.avoncroft.org.uk Traditional May Day Celebration A traditional May Day event including Maypole dancing, live music and country crafts. Monday 6th May National Mills Weekend The windmill will be in operation (wind permitting!) and breadmaking in the Toll House. Saturday 11th & Sunday 12th May Tudor Jousting Tournament The spectacle of shining armour, flying colours, thundering hooves and splintering lances will be in evidence at the Tudor jousting tournament. Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th May Monster Trail Who knows what’s lurking inside the buildings! Follow the Monster Trail and discover for yourself. Saturday 25th May to Sunday 2nd June Monstrous Monarch Come and experience how Henry V111 lived and meet the man himself. Try a spell in the stocks, fantastic falconry and have a go at throwing a logget? Sunday 26th & Monday 27th May Marvellous Monster Activity Days Try all manner of monstrous crafts and activities.

Tuesday 28th to Thursday 30th May Sixties Games Day Try your hand or just reminisce at the games that became popular in the 1960’s ranging from Mousetrap to Space Hoppers. Saturday 8th June Commandery, 109 Sidbury, Worcester, WR1 2HU 01905 361821, www.museumsworcestershire.org.uk Lashings of Fun! Family activities reminiscent of a childhood from long ago. With mysteries to solve, kite making, orienteering, trails, Enid Blyton style craft and games. Saturday 25th May – Sunday 2nd June Swallows and Amazons adventure day Join ARTS LAB for a special ‘Swallow’s and Amazon’s ‘ adventure day with activities, storytelling and more. Booking essential Wednesday 29th May Vintage Fete A traditional English fete in the Commandery gardens and around the building.

Stalls, fancy-dress, music, games coconut shy, puppet show and more. Indulge your nostalgia, dress code 1940’s /1950’s and enjoy the fun.

Bank Holiday Mon 27th May Forge Mill Needle Museum, Needle Mill Lane, Riverside, Redditch, B98 8HY 01527 62509, www.forgemill.org.uk

Vintage Eastnor Working steam engines, live music, vintage tea tent, traditional swing boats, a storyteller and be entertained by the ‘Dapper Chap’. Sunday 26th – Monday 27th May

Medieval Weekend Experience medieval life in the Knight’s encampment! Witness the drill and arming of military men and see the medieval world come to life. Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd June 11.00 am – 4.00 pm Adults £2.50, Child £1.00, Family £5.00

Summer Sunday Fun Whizz over the Valley Lawn on the castle zip wire and take part in the season’s new games. Sunday 2nd and Sunday 30th June

Worcester City Art Gallery & Museum, Foregate Street, Worcester, WR1 1DT 01905 25371, www.museumsworcestershire.org.uk

Eastnor SOS Family fun and rescue displays from the local emergency services. Fire engines, rescue boats, 4x4 response group and more.

Sunday 16th June

Secret Egypt – Unravelling Truth from Myth This is a touring exhibition from the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum, Coventry and Birmingham Museums Trust. The display brings together over 200 objects from some of the most important Egyptian collections in the country. Highlights include a giant granite statue of Ramesses II from the British Museum, a rare sculpture of Queen Nefertiti from the Ashmolean, a gold pendant discovered in the hands of a robber trapped in a collapsed tomb and a well preserved mummy of a woman called Perenbast. The blockbuster exhibition also allows visitors to investigate the truth behind some of the popular myths about ancient Egypt such as: Did aliens build the pyramids? What was the mummy’s curse? Were Egyptians obsessed with death?

Circus Skills Try your hand at juggling, stilt and tightrope walking, unicycles, plate-spinning, and much more with circus entertainer ‘Jem’.

Workshops will run throughout the day.

Sunday 23rd June

Throughout the summer holidays there will be Egyptian-themed activities and events for all the family, see www.museumsworcestershire.org.uk for more details. Saturday 22nd June – Saturday 31st August Worcestershire County Museum, Hartlebury Castle, Hartlebury, Nr Kidderminster, Worcs, DY11 7XZ 01299 250416, www.museumsworcestershire.org.uk Bats about Hartlebury Families can make a bat mask, followed by a tasty seasonal meal in the Cafe and then enjoy an illustrated talk about bats plus a walk around the Castle grounds using detection equipment to identify them. Must be pre-booked. Friday 17th May 7.00 pm Adult £16.00, Child £8.00 Adventures with Alice – Holiday Activities Come to Wonderland and meet Alice, the White Rabbit and the Queen of Hearts, join the Mad Hatter’s tea party and make your own Heart Crown and Cheshire Cat Mask. Monday 27th May. Alice themed craft activities, plus have-a-go archery on Thursday. Tuesday 28th - Friday 31st May 10.30 am – 4.00 pm £1.00 per child Father’s Day All Dad’s admitted free plus a chance to make a Father’s Day card and have your photograph taken dressed as a Victorian family. Sunday 16th June

Mills Weekend A special day to celebrate the Forge Mill Needle Museum - the world’s only remaining needle scouring mill. Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th May 11.00 am – 4.00 pm Adults £2.00, Children FREE

Traveller’s Tales A colourful celebration of Gypsy, Roma and Traveller arts and culture as part of GRT History Month. Sunday 23rd June

Herb Box Making – Family Learning Activity Each family will be supplied with wood and tools to enable them to make a herb box and plant the box with herbs to take home. Sunday 19th May 11.00 am – 3.30 pm

Eastnor Castle, Ledbury, Herefordshire, HR8 1RL 01531 633160, www.eastnorcastle.com

Have a go Archery Fancy trying your hand at shooting a few arrows? Come along to the drop-in session. Wednesday 29th May 10.00 am – 4.00 pm Small fee applies

18

Windy Activities – Family Learning Activity Learn how to design and make a kite, and where to fly it safely. Sunday 16th June 11.00 am – 3.30 pm

Hereford & Worcester

ATTRACTIONS

Chilli Festival Stalls selling everything chilli..... chutneys, chocolate, cakes, curry, wine, plants and much more! Live entertainment from Los Squideros and their Latin beats and Pantasy Steel Band playing traditional Caribbean music plus cookery demonstrations. Sunday 5th – Monday 6th May

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

Birds of Prey Day ‘Hawkeye’ return for this popular Sunday event. Watch their amazing static and flying displays throughout the day. Sunday 9th June

Goodrich Castle, Castle Lane, Goodrich, Ross on Wye,Herefordshire HR9 6HY 01600 3331181, www.english-heritage.org.uk Springtime Family Fun Trail Track down all the clues hidden around the grounds, solve the riddle and claim your chocolate prize! Saturday 25th May – Sunday 2nd June 10.00 am – 5.00 pm Hampton Court Castle and Gardens, Hopeunder-Dinmore, Leominster, HR6 0PN 01568 797676, www.hamptoncourt.org.uk Medieval Village & Birds of Prey Visit a 15th century tented village discovering the craftsmen and women going about their daily lives. Watch as a Knight prepares for battle, visit the Barber Surgeon and The Royal executioner, see the medieval dancing and the Birds of Prey Flying Spectacular Display and discover history in a relaxed and friendly setting. Saturday 4th – Monday 6th May Hampton Court Garden Festival Saturday 25th – Monday 27th May Father’s Day Sunday 16th June Living History with the sealed knot Saturday 22nd – Sunday 23rd June Three Counties Showground, Malvern, WR13 6NW 01684 584900, www.threecounties.co.uk Spring Gardening Show The Spring Gardening Show brings together inspirational ideas, practical tips and a fantastic day out plus loads for children including discovery garden zone, learning garden, school gardens and young enterprise stands.

Thursday 9th – Sunday 12th May 9.00 am – 6.00 pm.

Royal Three Counties Show A jam packed day of family entertainment and fun all in celebration of our great British farming world and countryside. Friday 14th – Sunday 16th June 8.00 am – 6.00 pm Witley Court and Gardens, Worcester Road, Great Witley, Worcester, WR6 6JT 01905 726311, www.english-heritage.org.uk Children’s Festival Travel back in time to discover the skills and tricks-of-the-trade from characters of the past. Saturday 4th – Monday 6th May Springtime Family Fun Trail Track down all the clues hidden around the grounds, solve the riddle and claim your chocolate prize!

Saturday 25th May – Sunday 2nd June Victorian Garden Party Come and celebrate with a garden party fit for a queen! Enjoy music and dancing, games and activities into the evening.

Saturday 22nd – Sunday 23rd June May – June 2013

EVENTS NCT – National Childbirth Trust 0300 3300770 www.nct.org.uk NEARLY NEW SALES Bromsgrove NCT Saturday 8th June 10.30 am – 12.00 midday at Methodist Church Centre, 19 Stratford Road, Bromsgrove B60 1AS Tel: 0844 243 6065 or email: NearlyNewSale-Broms@hotmail.co.uk Hereford NCT Saturday 18th May 1.00 – 3.30 pm at Hereford Leisure Centre, Hereford, HR4 9UD. Tel: 01432 344090 or email nctsale10@yahoo.co.uk Kidderminster NCT Saturday 29th June 11.30 am – 1.00 pm at Stourport High School, Minster Road, Stourport on Severn, DY13 8AX Tel 0844 243 6178 or email: kidderminsternct@hotmail.co.uk Malvern Hills NCT Saturday 8th June 10.45 am -12.00 noon at Malvern St James The Dome, Imperial Rd, Great Malvern WR14 3BA Tel: 0844 243 6201 or email: malvernNCT-nns@hotmail.com Worcester & Droitwich NCT Sunday 9th June 10.30 am – 12.00 pm at Perdiswell Leisure Centre, Bilford Road, Worcester, WR3 8DX Tel: 0844 243 6334 or email: nearlynewsale@yahoo.co.uk

National Trust 0844 800 1895 www.nationaltrust.org.uk Berrington Hall, nr Leominster, HR6 0DW Tel: 01568 615721 LIFE BELOW STAIRS Explore the hidden life of the servants. Find out how they used concealed staircases and discreet doorways to keep their work out of the way of the family and their guests. Meet some of the staff and speak to them about the work that they do to keep the house running. Saturday 4th - Monday 6th May 10.00 am – 4.00 pm FANTASTIC FIFTIES TRAIL Learn about life in the fifties with a family trail, hunt for clues and collect your prize.

Saturday 25th May – Sunday 2nd June 10.00 am – 4.00 pm £2.00 per trail WORLD WAR 11 WEEKEND Come and experience this very popular annual event. Learn about the part that Berrington played in the Second World War. See vintage vehicles, exhibitions and displays of period equipment. Saturday 1st – Sunday 2nd June 10.00 am – 4.00 pm

MEET THE BATS Armed with a bat detector, discover more about how to spot bats and the secret world they inhabit on an evening guided walk. Saturday 29th June 9.00 – 10.30 pm Adult £5.00, child £2.50 Clent Hills, Nimmings Wood car park, between Hagley and Stourbridge, B62 0NL Tel: 01562 712822 BUSHCRAFT DAY Join the rangers for an intrepid adventure in the woods. Learn to light fires, build dens and survive in the wild. Wednesday 29th May 10.00 am – 2.00 pm £5.00 child Croft Castle, Yarpole, nr Leominster, HR6 9PW Tel: 01568 780246 ARTCHAEOLOGY AT CROFT CASTLE As part of the Time Will Tell exhibition Croft Castle is hosting a family day involving the artist’s works, the castle’s history and lots of mysterious adventure for children and adults alike to get lost in the world of.

Monday 6th May 11.00 am – 5.00 pm AS YOU LIKE IT Go and enjoy an outdoor evening theatre performance in beautiful gardens.

Friday 24th May 7.00 – 9.00 pm EXPLORERS TRAIL Armed with a map and compass Join the explorers trail to see what you can find in all the hidden areas. Saturday 25th May – Sunday 2nd June 11.00 am – 4.00 pm £2.00 per trail CUB RANGERS Join the young rangers club for boys and girls aged from 5 to 12 for a day of cub scout themed activities to get your little ones re-connected with the outdoors. Wednesday 29th May 12.00 – 1.30 and 2.00 – 3.30 pm £3.00 child LACE WARS Experience a weekend of Jacobite rebellions with a 1745 living camp and re-enactment. Complete with drills, costumes, weaponry and so much more, experience the sights, sounds and smells of a Lace War. Saturday 22nd – Sunday 23rd June 11.00 am – 5.00 pm Croome Park, Croome D’Abitot, WR8 9DW Tel: 01905 371006 DAY IN THE LIFE – HALF TERM TRAIL Choose your destiny and follow the path of a trusty servant or the Lord of the Manor on an exciting outdoor or indoor family trail.

Saturday 25th May – Sunday 2nd June 10.00 am – 4.00 pm £1.50 per item ACTIVITY DAY – DAY IN THE LIFE Join in with fun activities and craft making over the bank holiday to entertain the family. Monday 27th May 12.00 – 4.00 pm £1.00 per item

What’s On BAT WALK Bat enthusiast and landscape gardener James Shipman of Marula Services will be leading a bat walk which takes in all of the bat ‘hotspots’ around the park. Saturday 15th June 8.15 – 10.00 pm Adult £10.00 Child £5.00 FATHER’S DAY BREAKFASTS Book a Father’s Day treat with a twist ‘ grab an all day breakfast for a treat for Dad and the family in the Restaurant. Sunday 16th June 10.00 am – 2.30 pm Hanbury Hall, School Road, Hanbury, Droitwich, WR9 7EA Tel: 01527 821214 FAMILY ACTIVITY DAYS – SERVANT LIFE Follow a trail around the garden and learn more about the jobs that Hanbury’s Victorian servants did, and then enjoy ‘make and take’ activities.

Plus have a go at some servant’s activities.

Tuesday 28th and Thursday 30th May 11.00 am – 4.30 pm £2.00 per item POND LIFE Have a go at pond dipping and discover what creatures lurk in the Mirror Pool.

Saturday 8th – Sunday 9th June 11.00 am – 4.00 pm FATHER’S DAY FALCONRY Enjoy flying displays throughout the day and find out more about birds of prey with falconry expert, Trevor Hill.

Sunday 16th June 11.00 am – 4.00 pm TEDDY BEAR’S PICNIC Bring your favourite Teddy Bear and a picnic and enjoy a range of teddy themed activities happening throughout the day. Sunday 23rd June 10.30 am – 4.00 pm 0.60 per item, £1.00 per trail Snowshill Manor, Snowshill, Near Broadway, Worcs, WR12 7JU Tel: 01386 842814 NINE CIRCLES KOBUDO Enjoy a stunning display of martial arts by Nine Circles Kobudo. Learn about the skills, traditions and myths which surround this beautiful form of self defence.

Saturday 15th June 12.00 - 4.00 pm The Weir, Swainshill, Hereford HR4 7QF Tel: 01981 590509 ANIMAL TRACKERS Hunt for clues around the gardens to track the missing animals and learn all about the ways to spot them. Find them all to win a prize. Saturday 25th May –Sunday 2nd June 11.00 am – 4.00 pm £2.00 per item Don’t forget to mention when you telephone that you saw the listings in Families Hereford and Worcester magazine

Brockhampton Estate, Greenfields, Bringsty, Herefordshire, WR6 5TB Tel: 01885 482077 BROCKHAMPTON BOOK DAY Pick up a good read at the second-hand book sale. Families can also enjoy storytelling and create their own art on the printing press.

Monday 6th May 11.00 am – 4.00 pm TREE-MENDOUS BROCKHAMPTON Join a week-long celebration of these woodlands with traditional greenwood working, charcoal burning, woodland tours, wood crafts and a family tree trail.

Saturday 25th May – Sunday 2nd June 11.00 am – 4.00 pm £2.00 per trail OPEN FARM SUNDAY Take a tractor-trailer ride to Warren Farm and find out more about a day in the life of a farmer and his family. Sunday 9th June 11.00 am – 4.00 pm May – June 2013

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

19 Hereford & Worcester

SPECIAL EVENTS, DAYS OUT AND FESTIVALS Hay Festival and Hay Fever, Hay-on-Wye A ten day literary festival including children having the chance to meet and talk to their favourite writers and take part in workshops to create wonderful memories and develop new skills in imaginative thinking and self expression.

Thursday 23rd May – Sunday 2nd June www.hayfestival.com Asparafest, Evesham Asparafest is part of the British Asparagus Festival at Ashdown Farm, nr Evesham including lots of exciting family activities throughout the two days with a visit from a CBeebies presenter, craft workshops, painting workshops and grow your own! Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd June www.asparafest.co.uk Worcester News Family Fun Day with Peppa Pig This is a great day for the whole family with racing for the adults and entertainment for the kids. For younger visitors, there will be FREE entertainment including Peppa Pig, who will be making personal appearances at various intervals throughout the afternoon. Sunday 12th May Family Fun Day with Fireman Sam This is a great day for the whole family with racing for the adults and entertainment for the kids. For younger visitors, there will be FREE entertainment including Fireman Sam, who will be making personal appearances at various intervals throughout the afternoon.

Sunday 23rd June www.worcester-racecourse.co.uk Upton Jazz Festival Family friendly festival. Children under 14 free when accompanied by an adult. Prices vary so please visit website. Friday 28th – Sunday 30th June www.uptonjazz.co.uk Throckmorton Airshow The UKs largest Emergency services and Military show supporting various charities. Last year included an amazing line up of static and flying exhibits inc emergency vehicles, parachutes, police dogs, famous faces from TV cop shows and more. Saturday 8th June www.throckmortonairshow.com

20

Hereford & Worcester

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

CHARITY EVENTS 700 Skydivers, 24 Hours, 1 World Record attempt Join CLIC Sargent’s attempt to smash the Guinness World Record for the most tandem parachute jumps in 24 hours.

Jump on the 14th or 15th September 2013 and make a huge difference to the lives of children and young people with cancer and their families. Call 0845 121 2496, email worldrecordskydive@clicsargent.org.uk or visit www.clicsargent.org.uk/worldrecordskydive Acorns Triple Run – Choose Your Distance The Acorns Triple Run is a running event designed to appeal to all ages, levels of fitness and sporting ability. The three courses allow members of the family, both young and old to participate. Choose from either 1km Fun Run, a 5km Woodland Trail or Malvern Half Marathon. Sunday 23rd June 2013 10:00am to 15:00 at the Three Counties Showground, Malvern. For further information visit www.acorns.org.uk or tel 0844 984 0405.

Help race money for Baby charity, Tommy’s Tommy’s is looking for runners on Sunday 14th July to join its 1000-strong team in the popular 10km road race which takes approx 25,000 runners on an iconic tour through the heart of central London.

For further information and to register www.tommys.org/british10k.

Support The Haven Hereford Wednesday May 8th – an evening with The Pampered Chef at The Haven, 37 St Owens Street, Hereford, HR1 2JB. Free entry.

All proceeds support the work of The Haven breast cancer support centre. Tel: Lesley on 01432 361050. www.thehaven.org.uk Help raise funds for Funny blood Teddy Bear’s Picnic at The Elms, Abberley from midday on Monday the 6th May. Various activities including a prize for the best dressed teddy, face-painting and many other activities at The Elms’ own crèche. You can also win a family holiday in St Ives, an overnight stay, afternoon tea or spa treatment at The Elms and even a funky Micro Scooter! Don’t forget your picnic blanket and your teddy. Please book tickets in advance via The Elms on 01299 896666. www.funnyblood.co.uk The South Wales Dog Charity Fun Day This event is to raise funds for local and national dog rescue organisations/charities and is being held at Fonmon Castle Show Ground, Rhoose, in the Vale of Glamorgan on Bank Holiday Monday 27th May 2013.

A non stop programme of great attractions and activities inc pony rides, go carts, bouncy castles, gundogs, refreshments, face painting, have a go with your dog events and loads more. www.fonmoncharitydogshow.com

May – June 2013

If you would like to feature in the What’s On Section, please email editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

What’s On