Families Hereford & Worcester issue 36 Nov-Dec 2015

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

Issue No 36 November/December 2015

Inside this this issue: issue: Inside

Education Education Gift Guide Guide Gift Where’s Santa Santa Where’s What’s On On What’s

Two great bonfire events see page 3 www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

Editor’s Letter Dear readers I love the Autumn. We are fortunate to live in a part of the world that benefits from the beautiful pallet of colours this wonderful season brings. And what a fabulous Autumn we are having this year: that long Indian Summer, the particularly dark reds and rich oranges of the trees and a most superb crop of sweet blackberries.

Of course, Autumn inevitably gives way to Winter. And some say that we are in for a long and particularly cold Winter this year – but someone always does. Whatever the weather, the season gives us some familiar challenges: the never ending stream of coughs and colds the kids bring home from school, the issue of entertaining the little darlings when the wet and the cold prevent them from running around outside and that rising feeling of dread and panic as you realise just how close Christmas is and just how much you have still to do....

Have a Merry Christmas and a happy and peaceful New Year.

Diane Clifford Editor, Families Hereford and Worcester Tel: 01684 770566 or Mob: 07970977229 Email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

In this issue 02 News 04 Education 06 Health Issues 08 Clubs and Classes

Next issue: Jan/Feb, editorial and booking deadline: Friday 6th December

Education Secretary Calls For Schools To Provide Childcare Education Secretary Nicky Morgan has said that schools should take “reasonable steps” to provide childcare for the whole length of the working day during term time and school holidays. As part of this move, parents are to be given the right to request that their children’s schools put this care structure into place.

However, the funding for this has not been agreed.

Russell Hobby, general secretary of the National Association of Head Teachers said “parents can ask but the government must guarantee that a school’s decision is respected. Otherwise, it is merely going to provoke conflict between schools and their communities, undermining the decision-making of head teachers”.

The Gift Of Pottery Eastnor Pottery & the Flying Potter are encouraging families and individuals who book a pottery session before Saturday 5th December to make their very own personalised Christmas gifts.

Participants will get to use proper clay and a variety of pottery making techniques, including the potter's wheel, to create totally unique ceramic presents for their loved ones and colleagues. As long as the objects have been made by the 5th December, they will be fired, glazed and ready for collection from the Handmade: a unique gift for Christmas Studio in time for Christmas day. Projects start at £15 and the Studio is open 10am-4pm TuesdaySaturday. Pre-booking essential!

And for the person who has everything....Eastnor Pottery also offers Pottery Experience vouchers starting at just £15!

11 Christmas Gift Guide Like us on Facebook FamiliesHandW

12 Where’s Santa 14 What’s On

Follow us on Twitter @FamiliesHW

Circulation: 22,000 copies of Families Hereford & 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 & Worcester is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company.

All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Temple House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Hereford & Worcester are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.’

Reach 22,000 local familes. Please contact Diane on 01684 770566 or 07970977229 if you are interested in advertising in Families Hereford & Worcester magazine.

Print: The Manson Group, St Albans at www. manson-grp.co.uk. Tel: 01727 848440.

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A glimpse of Christmas past: Avoncroft museum recreates festive scenes

Christmas Through The Ages Explore Christmas as it used to be with a special family exhibition of yuletide traditions at Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings, Bromsgrove, from Tuesday 1st December until Sunday 20th December.

Avoncroft Museum is throwing open its doors to welcome visitors for a glimpse of Christmas through the ages. The buildings will be transformed with authentic decorations and costumed re-enactors going about their daily lives, showing how they prepare for the festive season.

For more information: www.avoncroft.org.uk November - December 2015

News & Views

Swashbuckling Fun

FIREWORKS Film Favourites aT SiXWayS STadiUm WiTH Some oF yoUr FavoUriTe cHaracTerS*

Peter Pan is coming to Malvern Theatre. The production will be an unforgettable, magical experience for all the family. The show, with a full supporting cast, including children from Cecilia Hall dance school in Malvern features lavish sets and costumes and a Peter who really can fly! Peter Pan opens on 10th December until 3rd January 2016. Get tickets from the box office on 01684 892277 or online at malvern-theatres.co.uk.

Babies Protected Against Meningitis A new vaccine to protect against meningitis B has been introduced for children aged two, four and 24 months.

Since September 2015, all babies will routinely be given the meningitis vaccine at their regular vaccination appointments. The scheme was delayed by cost disputes but is now the first national, publically funded programme against this deadly infection in the world. It should protect babies and children against 90% of meningococcal group B bacteria. If left untreated, the disease can cause damage to the brain and cause blood poisoning.

TicKe TS oN Sa Le

3 6

£ .50 Childre n £ Adults

Friday 6TH November 2015 GaTeS oPeN 5.30pm FireWorKS diSPLay 7.30pm

Fast food available Covered & allocated seating Enclosed bars Onsite parking available (pre-booking required £5 per car)

Private box for 10 people with viewing balcony & 2 course hot meal.

235

£

Inc VAT per box (2 car park passes included)

For tickets and more information contact the Ticket Office on

01905 459309 eveNTS@WarriorS.co.UK WWW.WarriorS.co.UK

Sixways Stadium

@SixwaysStadium

*Characters are subject to availability

Round Table Set To Light Up Worcester Skies For Charity

WWS2912_Fireworks_Ad_Families_Magazine_AW.indd 1

07/10/2015 16:43

Every year Worcester Round Table has organised the Bonfire, Fairground and Fireworks celebrations at Pitchcroft Racecourse, Worcester on a voluntary basis, raising money for local good causes such as, for example, the WMSAR regional Search and Rescue team. A specialist Lowland Rescue charity for Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Shropshire.

Last year‘s contributions from the Worcestershire community directly helped evacuate a lady in distress from a potentially dangerous situation as Andy from Search and Rescue can confirm: “I am very pleased to be able to tell you that the stretcher and a blanket {donated by Round Table} were used this weekend to great effect. WMSAR was able to use the vacuum mattress and hypothermia blankets to provide a stable, comfortable and least-stressful evacuation of the lady through 100m of dense, sloping woodland to a waiting ambulance.

“I have no doubt that without it, her experience of the evacuation would have been far more traumatic, slower and more likely to send her in to shock - a dangerous medical condition.”

This year has more family friendly rides, a great bonfire and fireworks display. Worcester Round table looks forward to welcoming visitors back to Pitchcroft in Worcester on Saturday 7th November from 5:30 pm.

To find out more about Worcester Round Table go to: www.worcester.roundtable.co.uk November - December 2015

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

3 Hereford & Worcester

Education

Creating confident Confidence is just as important in life – if not more so - than a brace of A grades or endless extra-curricular skills. It’s vital to emotional wellbeing and something most of us hope our children will develop.

By Liat Hughes-Joshi Confidence is about being comfortable with who you are, willing to give things a go - even if you’re not sure you’ll succeed - and trusting your own abilities and judgement.

But how can we instil this feeling in our children, particularly if it doesn’t come naturally to them?

Accept your child’s starting point Not all children – or adults - are confident by nature (wouldn’t life be boring if we were all the same?) and whilst we can encourage selfbelief, transforming a shy or anxious child into a ‘life and soul of the party’ type, is probably an unrealistic aim.

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.

Please contact Diane on 01684 770566 if you are interested in advertising in Families Hereford & Worcester magazine.

We distribute to 22,000 families.

Try to avoid making comments to your child such as how you wish they were more confident, or less shy because, in effect, you’re saying you don’t value them as they are - a real confidence crusher.

Accept your child’s personality and ‘starting point’; it might be different to yours, their sibling’s, friends’ or classmates’ and that’s absolutely fine.

Don’t force them into situations they aren’t comfortable with In most scenarios, one of the worst things you can do for a young child who’s unsure is to push them in at the deep end with something when they aren’t ready. They need to trust you when taking on new experiences and doing this damages that trust.

Take small steps to encourage confidence Find opportunities to stretch just a bit beyond what your son or daughter is comfortable with at a time. So that could be going to their friend’s house with them initially, then you just staying for a little while at the start, then next time, they might be happy to go alone.

Work out what their fear is Often a child will have niggling worries holding them back in a specific situation. So perhaps “If I put my hand up in class, I might get the answer wrong and the other

Help Tuition

Personal Tutors based in Malvern and Hereford

KS2, KS3, GCSE, A level English, Maths & Sciences Please contact Kate Bishop on 01684 562439 kate@helptuition.co.uk 4

Hereford & Worcester

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Give Your Child a Boost This is the time to book a tutor if your child needs help with any aspect of study, whether general confidence boosting, improving in a subject, preparing for entrance exams or GCSEs and A levels. Having been a tutor for over 12 years, I can honestly say that early preparation is key.

Help Tuition is a very personal service: all tutors are interviewed in person, and we do our best to match each student with the best tutor for them. We are a small, expert team, who have built our reputation on success and excellent service. Whether your child is struggling with an SEN issue, or is aiming for high grades, we are able to help each child.

Contact Kate Bishop from Help Tuition on 01684 562439 for advice.

November - December 2015

Education

children

children will laugh at me”. Pin down their concern – although preschool children might struggle to articulate their fear.

Abberley Hall School

Nursery, Pre-Prep & Prep Boarding & Day School for 2-13 years

Address their concern and provide plenty of reassurance that they will be okay, that what others think doesn’t really matter and that you’re there for them.

Talk about similar situations you experienced as a child, when you were afraid of something, and how it worked out for you.

Keep praise special

These days, there’s a tendency to be superpositive and heap on the ‘fabulous, you’re the best child ever!’ comments every other second – sometimes it feels like we should be praising our kids simply for breathing. But if you tell them everything they do is wonderful all the time, positivity loses power. Keep praise for when it’s truly warranted and focus on effort rather than just results. This way, when they do do something amazing, your comments will have more impact.

Let the adventure begin…

Find their forte and allow it to flourish If your child doesn’t do so well in academic work, or the usual extra-curricular activities at school, this can make their selfesteem fragile. Seek opportunities for them to try other, more unusual activities out of school and highlight positive personality traits such as being especially kind or a good organiser.

IA SCHOLA

R EG

Independent co-education in Worcester for ages 4 to 11

ORNIENSIS VIG

Step back sometimes and let them ‘have a go’ – land that helicopter!

Helicopter parenting – hovering over your child, stepping in to resolve the slightest issue or preventing them from failing – is a barrier to building confidence. Children need to find their own solutions, attempt things their way sometimes and take sensible risks. Sure, you can guide and advise but try not to jump in and take over too quickly.

Mr Will Lockett, Headmaster e. will.lockett@abberleyhall.co.uk t. 01299 896275 Abberley Hall, Worcestershire WR6 6DD www.abberleyhall.co.uk

Liat Hughes Joshi is a parenting journalist and the author of four books including ‘New Old-fashioned Parenting’ and ‘How to Unplug Your Child’ (both published by Summersdale).

Inspiring Tuition– Free Trial Session

An invitation...

Explore Learning centres provide maths and English tuition for 5 to 14 year olds of all abilities. The centres are open 7 days a week, meaning Explore can fit into busy family life. As Explore members, children work with tutors who are great educational role models, enthusiastic about learning and fantastic motivators.

Each child has an individualised learning programme, and all Explore courses map to the National Curriculum in England and the Curriculum for Excellence in Scotland.

Find out how your child can benefit from Explore Learning membership. Book your free trial at www.explorelearning.co.uk.

November - December 2015

...to children considering a move to Years 3-6 at Kings St Alban’s. Come to our LEGO WORKSHOP on Saturday 9 January 2016 from 10am – 2pm.

Lunch will be provided.

Please call to book: 01905 354906 Other opportunities to visit: Open Week – Mon 18 to Fri 22 January 2016

Confidence in a changing world www.ksw.org.uk

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

5 Hereford & Worcester

Health

Easing The Stress Is your child showing signs of tension?

Seeking osteopathic treatment may help to relieve the symptoms.

By Rochelle Morfill Many osteopaths believe that a lot of the problems seen in their patients originate from unresolved birth stresses. It is commonly thought that babies and children should not have any stresses or strains in their body because they are so young. However, the birth of a baby is one of the most physically stressful events due to the enormous forces from the uterus and the natural resistance of the birth canal causing the baby to twist to squeeze through the bony pelvis.

A baby’s head moulds and changes shape in response to the demands of labour and the position of the baby will determine how much twisting and turning is needed and where the moulding and shape changes occur. These changes in the head are usually released naturally over the first few days after birth by deep breaths, yawning, crying and sucking.

Sometimes these stresses remain unresolved and the baby has to adapt and compensate to accommodate these as they grow, which may cause the baby to be physically uncomfortable and possibly unhappy. They may accommodate these stresses and strains and develop in an asymmetrical way.

Signs of retained moulding: • Crying, irritable baby • Feeding difficulties • Infantile colic • Infant gut irritability, fast transit • Reflux • Sleep disturbances number of years or from a recent trauma.

• Head scratching or banging Cranial osteopathy is not different to • Head shape changes osteopathy but is a gentle, safe and • Recurrent infections – ear, chest effective approach to treatment for a • Sinus and dental problems wide variety of problems.

• Behavioural and learning difficulties Rochelle Morfill is a registered osteopath • Headaches, aches and pains with the General Osteopathic Council and a Osteopathy works to restore the member of the Sutherland Cranial College of structure and function of the body to a Osteopathy. Rochelle would be very happy to state of balance and harmony, so helping discuss any concerns you may have regarding the whole person. It helps to relieve treatment. Contact her on 07545850541 or stresses and strains accumulated over a via email rochelle.morfill@zen.co.uk.

Award-winning tuition Maths & English ages 5 -14

New skills Confidence Enthusiasm

Free trial session - book today!

Redditch 01527 910 222 www.explorelearning.co.uk 6

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November - December 2015

Coughs And Sneezes...

Beating Winter Woes

Health Smart Steps To Boost Your Immune System Do you feel like the whole family is constantly ill and as one illness goes, another one comes along? Boost your family with these natural methods.

Get enough sleep The body repairs itself while we sleep.

So make sure kids get plenty of rest especially when they are ill.

No Smoke Passive smoking can make coughs, asthma and chest infections worse. It makes kids prone to bronchitis and pneumonia and they can also get middle ear infections.

Eat A Rainbow Different coloured foods offer different vitamins and minerals, so try to make sure that you offer a rainbow of fruit and vegetables each day.

Building up an immunity: children tend to get a lot of colds.

There are over 200 cold viruses, so it’s no wonder our children seem to come down with a cold almost every five minutes.

By Sally J. Hall We know the symptoms of the “Common Cold”: runny nose, sore throat, temperature and a general feeling of poor health. When do you let nature run its course, and when do you call the doctor?

For very small children, a blocked nose stops them from being able to breath and can interfere with breastfeeding. Clear nostrils with a soft cloth soaked in sterile saline solution or use a nasal aspirator.

Supplement If you find it difficult to get the kids to eat enough fruit and vegetables, make sure they get a good age appropriate vitamin supplement . Also consider a pro-biotic, as a liquid or in yoghurt.

In The Sun The sun’s rays cause our bodies to make vitamin D, so get them out as much as possible. Even if the sun’s weak, it’s working!

Exercise as a family Exercise increases the number of natural killer cells in adults and kids.

Increase fun family fitness activities.

Relieve symptoms with a decongestant rub or use a few drops of a decongestant spray or eucalyptus oil on a tissue near your baby as he sleeps. A vaporiser or humidifier can help too.

Foods That Boost The System Certain foods are proven to help with immunity. Garlic is an antimicrobial product and some mushrooms like Sleep may be affected by a cough, so encourage naps during the day. shiitake and maitake can give us a For a slight fever, use infant paracetamol or ibuprofen; read the instructions and use boost too. Ginseng is also good for the right amount for your child’s age. Never use cough and cold remedies with fighting infections and Echinacea can children under six years old. colds.

No matter how big orhelp small protect your quer yfrom may be, please give us a call for a free no-obligation chat.

Make sure that your child continues to get plenty of fluids but try to avoid lots of sugary drinks and cordials, as you’ll have tooth decay to cope with later on!

If your child is under three months, check symptoms with your doctor, as small children can become very ill quickly. If your child is floppy and unresponsive or very fussy, call the doctor.

Seek medical advice if you think it’s not a cold. Flu can be serious in young children. Croup, a viral illness that causes a bark-like cough can be swiftly treated with steroids, and whooping cough, a bacterial infection, needs antibiotics. If you are concerned that your child may have meningitis, you must go to the hospital at once – the staff will be only too happy to be able to set your mind at rest.

Sally J. Hall is a writer and editor who has written for all the main parenting titles as well as The Independent and The Mail.

November - December 2015

Specialising in Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney

No matter how big or small your query may be, please give us a call for a free no-obligation chat.

• Approachable and friendly • Home visits at a time to suit you • Competitive rates

Email: enquiries@worcestershirewills.com Kidderminster Office: 01562 228614 / 07931 411733 Worcester Office: 01299 879826 / 07855 350245

• Qualified lawyers as well as members of The Institute of Professional Will Writers • Over 36 years experience in the legal profession

www.worcestershirewills.com Follow us on twitter! @WorcsWills

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

• Fully DBS checked

7 Hereford & Worcester

Clubs and Classes Please contact Diane on 01684 770566 if you are interested in advertising in Families Hereford & Worcester magazine.

Baby, it’s cold o

Cecilia Hall Dance Centre, Malvern Ballet Classes for Young Children: Mondays and Fridays 2pm Tuesdays 4pm ages 6-9 Wednesdays 4pm ages 5-7 Saturdays 10.15am ages 5-7 Saturdays 11.15 am ages 6-9

Many other classes for all ages Tap and Modern Dance. Regular Examinations R.A.D. Ballet and I.S.T.D. Tap and Modern Regular Shows.

Telephone 01684 573663 or 07525 057492 or email ceciliahalldance@live.co.uk for information and to enrol.

The wonders of indoor sport: trampoling is one option that will keep them happy Established 1992 Fully Qualified Instructors National / International Competitions Specialised Children Only Classes 4 – 16 years Beginners, Intermediate & Advanced classes Train with Sensei Jags Shoker, 2nd Dan

Special offer 5 FREE lessons

8

Monday: St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Droitwich Spa 5.30 – 6.30 pm Wed & Fri: The Parish Centre, Barnt Green 5.30 – 6.30 pm Friday: Parkside Middle School, Bromsgrove 3.40 – 4.40 pm Saturday: St Peters RC First School, Bromsgrove 9.15 – 10.15 am

www.kombatkids.com 01543 473408 / 07730 899722 register@kombatkids.com

Hereford & Worcester

Indoor activities for kids when the weather is cold and wet.

By Sally J. Hall We’ve all been there: an afternoon when you’ve planned on visiting the park so the kids can let off some steam on the swings, followed by a good run about in the fresh air, is cancelled due to a downpour. Cue over active kids cooped up at home, driving themselves – and you – slowly around the bend.

Well, help is at hand with the wonders of indoor sports, leisure and play centres. If you’re lucky enough to live near a local council-run sports centre, there’s sure to be plenty of affordable activities available for bored children, especially at the weekend. There may be a soft play centre near you or an indoor playgroup with plenty of physical activity if they’re still very young, or you may choose to pay a little more to join a racquet club.

Once they are bit older and able to negotiate padded rollers, slides and crawl nets alone, you can simply walk in and watch contentedly as they race off. They can spend hours racing up and down, letting off energy and you can be sure they will sleep really well. If you have friends with children the same age, it’s a great idea to share trips to the soft play centre, so that you can share the chore.

That way, you could get on with something while the kids are playing and then you can return the favour.

Trampolining Who doesn’t love bouncing? If your kids are ruining the bed springs, it’s time to enroll them in a trampolining class. Some centres will teach very young children, using large crash mats around the trampoline for safety. Be prepared to manage expectations, as small kids will not get much beyond bouncing on their bottoms and falling over. But by the time they are six to eight years old, they Soft Play should be able to start learning how to An indoor soft play centre is a godsend keep up a good jumping rhythm, be able for spending a couple of hours at, even to manage some sitting-back-to-standing when it’s bucketing down outside. techniques, and turns. Then, it will be Depending on the ages of your children, somersaults – next stop, the Olympics. there may be some areas that are more suited than others. Many will have a ball Climbing pond and smaller equipment for the Climbing walls are very popular now and toddlers and small children, in which they even small children can tackle to lower can have a good romp. This will probably ‘cliffs’ with good supervision. Check that need quite a lot of hands-on help. your chosen venue has plenty of staff on

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

November - December 2015

outside…

Clubs and Classes

hand to keep little ones from attempting too much and that there is safety equipment such as safety harnesses and helmets that will fit your child. Rock climbing builds skills such as teamwork, self-confidence, motivation, trust and better fitness levels. It can also help children to cope with stress and fears.

Classes for smaller children generally involve fun and games as well as learning climbing skills and as they grow and learn, they can take part in the National Indoor Climbing Award Scheme (NICAS).

Racquet Sports If you’re more of a ball and racquet kind of family, there are plenty of after-school and weekend badminton and squash clubs that teach children all about the sport, from the very basics of being able to hit a ball, all the way through to championships.

Many hold leagues and these are sports the whole family can enjoy together. Badminton is particularly suited to small kids, as the racquet and shuttlecock are light and easy to handle for little arms. Squash can be a little more high-octane but if you have a competitive child, it can be a good way to channel that trait in a positive manner and help them learn to accept failures as well as successes.

Sally J. Hall is a writer and editor who has written for all the main parenting titles as well as The Independent and The Mail. She is author of Eco Baby and contributing author to Watch My Baby Grow (Dorling Kindersley).

A Time To Sing, Dance And Act Stagecoach Evesham and Redditch are part of a highly successful network of part-time performing arts schools, which believes in the potential of every child, helping them to express themselves more easily, gain poise, confidence and selfesteem, through drama, dance and singing. Students have performed at theatres in England and even Europe!

Classes are held weekly on a Friday evening in Redditch and a Saturday morning in Evesham during term time. Principal Paula Lacey who runs Stagecoach Evesham and Redditch said. “The students are very talented. For the autumn term we will be performing a Horrible Histories show, ‘Groovy Greeks’. This is an exciting opportunity for all the students to take part in a show written by the Horrible Histories team, especially for Stagecoach to perform. We have highly experienced teachers all of whom have been with Stagecoach for a long time. Why not come along and join us in our Autumn production.

TIME TO ENTER A NEW WORLD

“We also offer birthday parties now for children, themed parties for children aged 4 to 10 years and Murder Mystery parties for children aged 11 to 16 years. A great addition to help parents make a child’s birthday extra special.”

Worcester Bromsgrove 01926 651159 01926 313660 bromsgrove@stagecoach.co.uk worcester@stagecoach.co.uk

Acting, singing and dance classes for 4 to 18 year olds.

Find out more and start your child’s journey today

Evesham 01386 429 429 evesham@stagecoach.co.uk

Redditch 01386 429 429 redditch@stagecoach.co.uk

For more information call Paula on 01386 429429, email on redditch@stagecoach.co.uk or Evesham@stagecoach.co.uk.

November - December 2015

To advertise call: 07970977229 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

9 Hereford & Worcester

Ed’s Reading Room

Hi kids, parents, grandparents, teachers – and book lovers everywhere! I’m Ed and here is my Winter book selection for you to enjoy. Ed’s Reading Room is an exciting free book review website for primary children in homes and schools. See these reviews, download the specially written reading activities for these books and buy the books online at www.EdontheWeb.com. Have fun reading!

FOR AGES 5-7 YEARS

Dirty Bertie: Aliens! by Alan MacDonald & David Roberts (Stripes £4.99)

ED SAYS: ‘Bertie’s back – with three of his latest adventures. Bertie is fascinated by the idea of seeing comets, shooting stars and, most of all, aliens. How would you react if two aliens arrived at your front door? When Eugene suggests an exciting day birdwatching, Bertie can’t think of anything more boring – but then he wouldn’t mind spotting a hawk. Bertie has to think up ideas for making his school report a bit more acceptable.

This comic character is very popular with boys and girls alike.

With super illustrations throughout, this book is great for newly confident readers or for reading together.’

The Adventures of Miss Petitfour by Anne Michaels (Bloomsbury £10.99) ED SAYS: ‘Miss Petitfour’s life is full of fun and adventures. She loves baking – and eating – little cakes and she also loves her adorable cat companions.

Above all she loves to fly, which she does most days, on a tablecloth with each cat’s tail wrapped round another.

She might choose to fly this way or that but sometimes she flies whichever way the wind takes her. Her expeditions may start out in an ordinary way such as with a trip to a jumble sale or they may be to prepare birthday treats for one of her feline friends.

‘This is an absolutely delightful, heartwarming book with beautiful illustrations and, thanks to Miss Petitfour, a child’s vocabulary will be broadened by the magic of words!’

FOR AGES 7 YEARS PLUS

Pugs of the Frozen North by Philip Reeve and Sarah McIntyre (Oxford £8.99) ED SAYS: ‘Shen has had to abandon ship when winter suddenly arrives – the first True Winter for a long time.

He is all on his own except for the dogs – 66 pugs! Luckily he meets Sika who wants to take part in the race to the North Pole to see the Snowfather.

With her grandfather’s sled and Shen’s 66 pugs they set off for the frozen north. They know they will face stiff competition but will they be able to deal with the Kraken and a pack of hungry yetis?

‘This madcap adventure is fun from start to finish. The actionpacked story is full of wonderful descriptions of the wintery setting, complemented by amazing illustrations.’

A Boy Called Christmas by Matt Haig (Canongate £12.99) ED SAYS: ‘Nikolas is an 11 year old boy living with his father in Finland. He was born on Christmas Day but there are never many celebrations as life is difficult. When Nikolas’ father leaves for the Far North, things become even harder and Nikolas decides he must leave to try and find his father. He believes in happiness and also believes that nothing is impossible. He needs all the optimism in the world as, although he has some amazing adventures and makes some wonderful friends, he has many problems to overcome.

‘If you ever wondered what the true story of Father Christmas was, this is the book for you! Brilliantly written, it is very entertaining and is sure to delight readers both young and old.’

Ed’s Reading Room is part of www.edontheweb.com, a DTI award-winning 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 maggiehumphreys@aol.com.

Woodland Laser Tag - Real Clay Shooting Archery & Rifle Shooting Woodland Laser Tag Parties £180 for up to 10 players

01527-575141

mark@shooting4fun.co.uk www.shooting4fun.co.uk

Roller Disco

Suitable for ages 8-12 • Roller skates and wrist guards provided • Great selection of music • Marshalled skate • Tuition available Friday 27th November - 6.30 to 8pm Friday 29th January - 6.30 to 8pm At: Peopleton Village Hall, WR10 2EG Price: £5 per child, £2 for skate hire (Skates to be booked in advance) Booking essential Contact us: sales@kosport.co.uk or 01905 840396

10

Hereford & Worcester

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November - December 2015

Christmas Gift Guide A round up of some of the best gifts for children this Christmas

1. Magic Elf Door £20

2. Bon Bon Bear £30

The Magic Door Store

Hamleys

Creating a whole world of imagination and anticipation, these sweet doors can be put at the bottom of a wall or even on a tree. Your child will love leaving little gifts for the Elf or Fairy. Who knows they may even get a response!

Every child needs a teddy as a best friend, so treat your little one to a bear from the World’s most famous toy shop. Bon Bon has glossy cream fur, a handembroidered face and the Hameys name.

3. Personalised Christmas Sack £22 Harrow and Green

For when a stocking just won’t do, these quality hessian sacks can be personalized with your child’s name. It has stenciled wording on it with “Delivery Date 25th December” as a reminder to Santa.

Colour Your Own Palace £13.99 Calafant

If you child would love to live in a palace, this is a great way for her to play at make believe. The large and strong cardboard palace is assembled without glue or scissors and can be decorated with coloured pens, pencils, glitter.

4. Sudokube £5.95 Prezzybox

If you used to love the Rubik’s cube, this is a great new take on the classic game. The idea is to get all the numbers from one to nine on each and every side of the cube.

5. Constructive Cutlery Set £14 The Great Gift Company

Fussy eater? You’ll soon find your child likes to eat when you encourage them to play with their food! There’s a fork shaped like a forklift, a spoon that’s a frontloader and a bulldozer to help push food onto the fork or spoon.

6. Superman Cape Towel £15 Debenhams Bathtime refusals? With this clever super hero towel, your little one can ‘fly’ to the bathroom and then save the world once they’re clean with this fluffy and soft towel with Velcro tabs.

7. Rainbow In My Room Nightlight £25 Debenhams This colored projector sends a rainbow onto the wall or ceiling of your child’s room and is great if your child is a little scared of the dark. It has an auto shut off feature and is battery powered.

7. Style One Direction £5.95 Prezzybox If your child is a huge Directioneer, he or she can dress up the boys from the band with this tongue-in-cheek set.

November - December 2015

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

11 Hereford & Worcester

Where’s Santa In Herefordshire and Worcestershire there are so many fabulous places to see Father Christmas and even have breakfast with the jolly old fellow.

Severn Valley Railway, Hartlebury Castle, Cob House, garden centres, numerous National Trust Properties and loads of other venues all host wonderful events.

Do check with the venue in case details have changed and also please mention when telephoning that you saw their Christmas event in Families Hereford and Worcester magazine.

On parade: meet Rudolph and his friends at Cob House, Wichenford, Worcester

Christmas at the Castle Sat 12 & Sun 13 December, 11am-5pm Join us for a traditional Christmas celebration including Father Christmas in a winter wonderland grotto, carriage rides, seasonal gifts & craft stalls, fun children’s activities and performances by local choirs & musical groups.

Please call 01299 250416 for further information County Museum, Hartlebury Castle, Nr. Kidderminster, DY11 7XZ

www.museumsworcestershire.org.uk

12 Museum Xmas\Halloween'15 Adverts.f.indd

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Hereford & Worcester

IN WORCESTERSHIRE All Things Wild, Station Road, Honeybourne, Nr Evesham, WR11 7QZ. 01386 833083, www.allthingswild.co.uk Father Christmas Grotto (Sat 28th - Sun 29th Nov, Sat 5th – Sun 6th, Sat 12th – Sun 13th and Sat 19th – Sun 20th Dec) This Christmas, Santa will be visiting All Things Wild again with his elves. Join them from the end of November to see what he has in store.

Croft Castle, Yarpole, nr Leominster, HR6 9PW. 01568 780246 Santa’s Workshop (Sat 5th – Sun 6th, Sat 12th – Sun 13th and Sat 19th – Sun 20th Dec) Santa has stopped off at Croft to make those last minute Christmas gifts. Follow the reindeer trail to find Santa in his workshop.

Festive Farm, Wellington, Hereford, HR4 8AP. 01568 797486/01432 830997, www.dinmore-christmas-trees.co.uk Santa’s Grotto (every weekend in Dec) Bring along the whole family to enjoy a journey through a magical winter wonderland! At the end of your journey you meet Father Christmas.

55196 0910

Family entry ticket just £13

IN HEREFORDSHIRE Hereford (Wyevale) Garden Centre, Kings Acre Road, Hereford, HR4 0SE 0844 288 5021 Hereford (Country Gardens) Garden Centre, A49 Wellington, HR4 8BB. 0844 288 5703, www. thegardencentregroup.co.uk Breakfast with Father Christmas and Tea with Father Christmas (Sat 14th Nov – Thurs 24th Dec) Choose to have breakfast or tea with Father Christmas and the elves.

Christmas Grotto and Winter Wonderland (Sat 14th Nov – Thurs 24th Dec) Special features like 3D festive films, elf workshops, and enchanting stories.

Westons Cider, Yarpole, The Bounds, Much Marcle, Ledbury, Herefordshire HR8 2NQ. 01531 660233 www.westons-cider.co.uk Christmas Bazaar (Sun 29th Nov) Meet Father Christmas with his friendly reindeers, sing-along with a local choir and enjoy Christmas carols around the tree whilst enjoying a cup of warm mulled cider and a mince pie. Unique gift stalls.

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

03/09/2015 16:05

The Severn Valley Railway, Comberton Hill, Kidderminster, DY10 1QX. 01562 757900 www.svr.co.uk Santa Steam Specials (All weekends in Dec plus Thurs 24th Dec) An atmospheric steam train from Kidderminster along the Severn Valley to Arley to visit Santa in his grotto. Presents for all fare paying children.

Santa Heralds (Mon 21st - Wed 23rd Dec) Journey with Father Christmas from Kidderminster to Highley who will visit all fare paying children on train giving out presents.

Bewdley Museum, Load Street, Bewdley, DY12 1AT. 01299 403573 www.wyreforestdc.gov.uk/ museum Christmas Lights Switch On Craft Fair (Sat 28th Sun 29th Nov) Christmas Lights Switch On Craft Fair.

Santa’s Grotto (Sat 12th - Sun 13th Dec) Visit Santa in his magical Wonderland for one weekend only.

Little Heath Garden Centre, Lickey End, Bromsgrove, B60 1HY. 01527 878174, www.littleheathgardencentre.co.uk Breakfast With Santa (Sun 6th, Sun 13th and Sun 20th Dec plus Thurs 24th Dec). Choose to have breakfast with Father Christmas.

November - December 2015

Where’s Santa Santa’s Grotto (every weekend from Sat 28th Nov - 20th Dec plus Mon 21st – Thurs 24th Dec) Bring along your wish list and see Santa.

Webbs Garden Centre, Wychbold, Droitwich, WR9 0DG. 01527 860000 www.webbsdirect.co.uk Christmas Grotto (Sat 14th Nov – Thurs 24th Dec) Wander through the winter wonderland grotto and then enter the spectacular toy warehouse.

Christmas Ice Rink (Sat 7th Nov – Sat 3rd Jan) Skate whatever the weather under the clear roof.

Malvern Theatres, Grange Road, Malvern, WR14 3HB. 01684 892277 www.malvern-theatres.co.uk Christmas Themed Day (Sat 12th Dec). Films running throughout the day and other Christmas activities. See the website for details.

Hanbury Hall, Droitwich Spa, WR9 7EA. 01527 821214 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hanbury hall/ Visit Father Christmas (All weekends in Dec) Santa’s grotto and festive ‘make and take activities’.

Croome Park, Croome D’Abitot, WR8 9DW. 01905 371006 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ croomepark/ Visit Father Christmas (All weekends in Dec) Visit Father Christmas and receive a present from him. Price includes present.

Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove B60 4JR. 01527 831363, www.avoncroft.org.uk Candlelit Christmas (Sat 5th Dec) Craft stalls, bands, choirs and mulled wine. The grounds and buildings will be decorated in authentic Christmas style.

Father Christmas and Mrs Christmas (Thurs 3rd - Sun 20th Dec) Visit the jolly couple. There will be activities with Mrs Christmas and a visit to Father Christmas. No need to book.

Forge Mill Needle Museum, Needle Mill Lane, Riverside, Redditch, B98 8HY. 01527 62509 www.forgemill. org.uk Victorian Christmas Craft Fair (Sat 28th - Sun 29th Nov) Victorian musicians provide a festive atmosphere with food and craft stalls, Father Christmas in his grotto, carol singing and Christmas crafts for kids.

November - December 2015

Bodenham Arboretum, Wolverley, Kidderminster, DY11 5TB 01562 852444, www.bodenhamarboretum.co.uk Christmas Nativity Trail (Sat 28th Nov – Sun 3rd Jan) A trail around the Arboretum where life size wooden characters are set in the Nativity story with live animals. Grotto is only open at weekends.

St Peters Garden Centre, Pear Tree Farm, Norton, Worcester, WR5 2NY. 01905 357595, www. stpetersgardencentre.co.uk Santa Reindeer Weekend (Sat 28th Sun 29th Nov) Meet the Reindeer on the Saturday and come and see Santa being pulled on a Sleigh on the Sunday.

Santa’s Grotto (all weekends from Sat 21st Nov plus Mon 21st - Wed 23rd Dec) Meet Santa in his wonderful winter grotto.

Breakfast with Santa (Sat 28th, Sat 5th - Sun 6th Dec, Sat 12th – Sun 13th, Sat 19th - Thurs 24th Dec) Price includes meal, gift and personal visit from Santa.

Please don’t forget to mention when you telephone or visit that you saw their Christmas event featured in Families Hereford & Worcester magazine.

Festive Fun at Brockhampton Christmas with Sylvesta the Jester Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 November, 12pm - 4pm Festive merriment and music to get you in the mood.

Members and under 5s go free

Orchard Elves Trail Weekends in December (until Sunday 20 Dec) 11am - 4pm Search for the elves homes, complete the trail and win a prize. £2 per trail 01885 482077 nationaltrust.org.uk/brockhampton-estate

a t n Sama Specials

L IA CE T N SEN VA S D E A NG I K O BO

Cob House, Worcester Road, Wichenford WR6 6YE. 01886 888517, www.cobhouse.org Breakfast with Santa (Sat 12th – Sun 13th, Sat 19th – Thurs 24th Dec) and Tea with Santa (Mon 21st – Wed 23rd Dec) Minions themed Breakfast and Tea with Santa at the Mayfly Cafe. Meet Mnions and Santa in his magical sleigh.

Worcestershire County Museum, Hartlebury Castle, Hartlebury, Nr Kidderminster, Worcs, DY11 7XZ. 01299 250416, www. museumsworcestershire.org.uk Christmas at the Castle (Sat 12th Sun 13th Dec) A traditional Christmas celebration including Father Christmas in a winter wonderland grotto, horse & carriage rides, seasonal gifts & craft stalls, fun children’s activities and performances by local choirs & musical groups. The Castle Café will be serving warming meals and snacks and the Museum Gift Shop has a fantastic range of presents and stocking fillers.

Ste

Little Owl Farm Park, Owl Hill Lane, Dunhampton, DY13 9SS. 01905 620325 www.littleowlfarmpark. co.uk Come and meet Santa and Rudolph Jnr (Tues 1st Dec – Wed 23rd Dec) Visit Father Christmas in his grotto and choose your own gift. You can also meet Rudolph and sit in the sleigh. A post box is also provided to post a letter to Santa Arley Arboretum & Gardens, Upper Arley, Near Bewdley, DY12 1SQ 01299 861368 www.arleyarboretum.co.uk/ Santa visits Arley (every weekend in Dec) Santa is visiting Arley so go and tell Santa all the things you want for Christmas! Free entry to the Arboretum & Gardens for kids in December.

Payment required to see Santa.

Take a seasonal train journey along the beautiful Severn Valley.

Take an early Santa Special and SAVE!

A favourite with families who return year after year.

Visit svr.co.uk or call 01562 757900 (option 1) Severn Valley Railway Families for more information and to book tickets.

Severn Valley Railway Families

@svrofficialsite

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

13 Hereford & Worcester

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

What’s On THEATRE

Artrix, School Drive, Bromsgrove, B60 1AX 01527 577330, www.artrix.co.uk The Nutcracker - Out Of The Box Youth Theatre A very creative take on the classic Christmas tale. The Out Of The Box youth theatre have devied their own interpretations of the story, bringing some of it up to date and adding their own original work. Who knows where they will travel to in this exciting festive dream-journey!

Saturday 28th November 5.00 pm, £8.00 adult, £6.00 under 16s Dick Whittington - All And Sundry A fantastic traditional family pantomime with lots of fun, laughter and audience participation. The dastardly King Rat plans to use his hoards of rats in order to bring London to its knees and take it over. But he reckons without our brave hero Dick Whittington, who arrives in London penniless with his trusty cat Tommy by his side. Sunday 13th – Sunday 20th December No preformance on Wednesday 16th December. 7.00 pm plus Sat & Sun matinees 2.00 pm £14.00 or £15.00 and £47.00 or £43.00 family ticket depending if weekday or weekend.

'Home from home' at Chilly Powder Planning your next winter holiday?

Then Chilly Powder (www. chillypowder.com) is worth a look. Francesca, Paul and their 3 children - Ben, Eloise & Jamie Eyre - live in Morzine in France all year round. They offer the perfect ski holiday for either families, couples or mixed groups.

Chilly Powder have been operating catered chalet ski holidays since 1996. Genuine ski to the door location of their 3 luxury catered ski chalets with unrivalled in-house childcare facilities in Morzine, France.

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Hereford & Worcester

The Golden Voyage Of Sinbad Join Sinbad the Sailor, and his twit of a brother Binbag as they set sail for what will be their most dangerous and thrilling journey ever. Tuesday 29th December 2.30 pm £9.00, £7.00 under 16s Evesham Arts Centre Theatre, Victoria Avenue, Evesham, Worcs, WR11 4QH 01386 48883, www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk Paul Daniels & Debbie McGee Intimate Magic Show Paul Daniels surely the most entertaining magic guy in the world - and his wife Debbie McGee touring with an intimate magic show that they’ve decided to do it again! Saturday 21st November 7.30 pm plus £17.00 - £15.00

The Nutcracker - Vienna Festival Ballet Presenting World, European and National Champion dancers from the McCarthy-Felton School of Irish Dancing.

With an age range of 5-25 years an evening of magical dancing in the “Riverdance” style is promised! Sunday 22nd November 5.00pm £7.00 - £6.00 Malvern Theatres, Grange Road, Malvern, Worcs, WR14 3HB 01684 892277, www.malvern-theatres.co.uk Steve Backshall’s Wild World Wildlife TV Presenter, Adventurer, naturalist and writer Steve Backshall takes us on a tour of the real life expeditions that have inspired his novels ‘The Falcon Chronicles’. Thursday 5th November 4.30 pm and 7.30 pm £20.72 adult, £17.36 child.

The Scarecrows’ Wedding Scamp Theatre present a truly heart-warming adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s new bestselling book. Join in with a wedding that no one will ever forget. Monday 16th November – Wednesday 18th November Mon 4.30pm, Tues 10.30am & 4.30pm, Wed 10.30am & 1.30pm £12.32.

The Snow Dragon Storytelling, comedy and songs create a magical, mysterious world for everyone aged 3 and up.

Wednesday 25th November 11.00am & 1.00pm. £7.84.

Peter Pan A spectacular production, adapted from the original story by JM Barrie, stars Mark Moraghan as love-able baddie Captain Hook. Mark is famous as Owen Davies from Holby City. Starring alongside Mark will be Balamory’s PC Plum Andrew Agnew and Hannah-Jane Fox from CBBC’s Millie Inbetween.

Jessica Punch will take the title role and Hook’s pirate crew will include the hilarious comedy acrobats The Nitwits.

Thursday 10th December - Sunday 3rd January Times differ so check website £10.34 - £26.88.

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

Norbury Theatre, Norbury House, Friar Street, Droitwich Spa, WR9 8ED 01905 770154, www.norburytheatre.freeserve. co.uk

as it revisits the classic tale of mystery, intrigue and magic this Christmas.

Thursday 10th – Thursday 31st December Times differ so check website. £8.00 - £7.00

Children’s Theatre A short play performed by adults especially for children aged 3 years plus. Saturday 15th November and Saturday 20th December 2.30 pm £1.50

Beauty And The Beast Beauty’s family has fallen on hard times and when her father hears of a chance to regain some of his fortune, he sets off on a long journey. A traditional family panto. Friday 27th November – Sunday 9th January Times vary so check website £20.00 - £10.00

Number 8 Community Arts Centre, 8 High Street, Pershore, Worcs, WR10 1BG 01386 555488, www.number8.org.uk Santa’s Little Helper Young Albert Tuttle is nearly 7 years old, far too old to believe in Santa! But, as he sleeps on Christmas Eve, a big fat man wearing bright red pyjamas tumbles down his chimney. This delightful show comes to life with an irresistible blend of music, puppetry and high energy storytelling.

Thursday 3rd December November 1.00 pm £8.50, £7.00 The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe Join Pershore’s Operatic and Dramatic Society as they take you through the wardrobe into the magical world of Narnia. Monday 7th december - Friday 11th December. 2.30 pm and 7.30pm.

Mon £12, Tue – Thu £13, Fri & Sat eve £14, Sat mat £11 The Palace Theatre, Alcester Street, Redditch, B98 8AE 01527 65203, www. redditchpalacetheatre.co.uk Jack And The Beanstalk A traditional family panto. Monday 7th December – Sunday 3rd January Times differ so check website £19.00 - £15.50 The Swan Theatre, The Moors, Worcester, WR1 3ED 01905 611427, www.worcesterlive.co.uk

The Market Theatre, Market Street, Ledbury, HR8 2AQ www.themarketthetheatre.com Ledbury Community Choir Charity Christmas Concert A Christmas party atmosphere to include a wide range of songs and carols as well as a few surprises for you to enjoy. Friday 18th – Saturday 19th December 7.30 pm £10.00 The Rose Theatre, Chester Road North, Broadwaters, Kidderminster, DY10 2RX www.rosetheatre.co.uk The Wizard Of Oz Musical. Monday 30th November – Saturday 5th December 7.30 pm £10.00,

MUSEUMS Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove, Worcs, B60 4JR 01527 831363, www.avoncroft.org.uk No Bangs Bonfire Night Guaranteed no fireworks at Avoncroft’s traditional bonfire party, ideal for younger visitors and those who don’t like the loud bangs of fireworks. Hot food available.

Thursday 5th November £4.00 includes free hot chocolate.

Candlelit Christmas Night Craft stalls, bands, choirs, morris dancing, festive food and mulled wine. Father Christmas is also expected to visit.

Saturday 5th December £7.00 adults, £5.00 child

Dick Whittington The streets are paved with Gold for the Swan Theatre’s Golden Anniversary Pantomime! A ragsto-riches tale of Dick Whittington, the poor boy from Gloucester who makes his way to London to seek his fortune.

With help from his cheeky feline friend, Dick sets out to find out if the streets really are paved with gold, and if good really can defeat evil. Monday 30th November – Sunday 3rd January Times differ see website £12.95 £17.95.

The Courtyard, Edgar Street, Hereford, HR4 9JR 01432 340555, www.courtyard.org.uk Hansel & Gretel This funny, energetic show will get you into the festive mood

Carols by Candlelight A traditional Christmas carol service held in Bringsty Mission Church at Avoncroft. Saturday 19th December 5.00 pm Free Worcestershire County Museum, Hartlebury Castle, Hartlebury, Nr Kidderminster, Worcs, DY11 7XZ 01299 250416, www. museumsworcestershire.org.uk Christmas At The Castle A traditional Christmas celebration including Father Christmas in a winter wonderland grotto, horse & carriage rides, seasonal gifts & craft stalls, fun children’s activities and performances by local choirs & musical groups. Saturday 12th - Sunday 13th December 11.00 – 5.

00 pm. £13 for a family of four, plus £3.50 per child to meet Father Christmas and receive a gift.

November - December 2015

What’s On ATTRACTIONS Goodrich Castle, Castle Lane, Goodrich, Ross on Wye, Herefordshire HR9 6HY 01600 3331181, www.english-heritage.org.uk Carols In The Chapel Enjoy Christmas carols in the atmospheric setting of Goodrich Castle. Thursday 10th Frideay 11th December 7.00 pm Hampton Court Castle and Gardens, Hope-under-Dinmore, Leominster, HR6 0PN 01568 797676, www.hamptoncourt.org.uk Christmas Fair A Christmas Fair in the beautifully decorated Castle with a wide range of gifts from local craftspeople for all the family. Mince pies and mulled wine available. Friday 4th – Sunday 6th December. 10.30am - 5.00 pm

EVENTS National Trust 0844 800 1895 www.nationaltrust.org.uk Berrington Hall, nr Leominster, HR6 0DW Tel: 01568 615721 Comparing A Victorian And Georgian Christmas Berrington Hall prepares for a Georgian Christmas. See the interiors decorated ready for a fabulous masked ball and discover festive Georgian traditions and entertainment. The house will be bought to life with music and costumed interpretation. Saturday 21st November – Sunday 20th December (weekends only) 11.00 am – 4.00 pm Brockhampton Estate, Greenfields, Bringsty, Herefordshire, WR6 5TB Tel: 01885 482077 Christmas With Sylvesta The Jester Christmas merriment and music to get you in the festive mood. Saturday 29th - Sunday 30th November 12.00 noon – 4.00 pm Prepare For A Medieval Christmas Travel back in time with Sir John Savile’s Household as they prepare for medieval festivities in and around the manor house with costume, music, food and traditional crafts. Saturday 5th – Sunday 6th December 11.00 am – 4.00 pm Orchard Elves Trail The elves have hunkered down for the winter, search the orchard for their homes. Complete the trail and win a prize. 5th, 6th, 12th 13th, 19th and 20th December 11.00 am – 4.00 pm

21st, 22nd, 28th, 29th November, 5th, 6th, 12th, 13th, 19th and 20th December 10.00 am – 4.00 pm Croome Park, Croome D’Abitot, WR8 9DW Tel: 01905 371006 Christmas Ooutdoor Trail Follow clues around the park to win a prize.

28th, 29th November and 5th, 6th, 12th ,13th, 19th, 20th, 21st and 22nd December 10.00 am – 3.00 pm £1.50 per trail with prize Christmas Traditions Croome gets ready for Christmas. The RAF building is dressed in 1940s decorations and the house transforms into a Georgian inspired Christmas with trees in our largest rooms. Father Christmas’ grotto.

Leave a message or wish on the Saloon tree ... see if it comes true. Monday 30th November – Sunday 3rd January 2016 10.00 am – 4.00 pm Childrens Christmas Crafts Have fun making Christmas decorations. 5th, 6th, 12th, 13th, 19th and 20th December 11.00 am– 3.00 pm.

Christmas storytelling Huddle together and listen to stories of Christmas in the Long Gallery of the house. Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th December 1pm - 1:30 pm and and 2pm - 2:30 pm.

Carol Concert Annual carol concert in the Church and enjoy a festive drink and mince pie afterwards. All ages welcome. Saturday 19th December 3.00 – 4.30 pm £10.00 adult, £5.00 child, £25.00 family ticket Hanbury Hall, School Road, Hanbury, Droitwich, WR9 7EA Tel: 01527 821214

Sponsored by:

Fri 27 Nov 2015 - Sat 9 Jan 2016

BOX OFFICE 01432 340555

courtyard.org.uk

worcester repertory company presents:

Christmas is coming A very special, lively and atmospheric Christmas concert, including mulled wine and a mince pie. Saturday 12th December 7.30 pm £14.25 Traditional Carol Concert Enjoy traditional carols in the main hall with Gig Caritas, soak up the festive atmosphere. Friday 18th – Saturday 19th December 7.30 pm £14.25 Greyfriars’ House and Garden, Friar Street, Worcester, WR1 2LZ Tel: 01905 23571 Candlelit Christmas Escape the hustle and bustle of the city streets with the candle-lit Christmas. Thursday 26th – Friday 28th November 6.00 – 9.00pm A Victorian Greyfriars’ Christmas Enjoy a Victorian Christmas brought to life at Greyfriars.

Thursday 26th – Saturday 28th November 9.00 am – 9.00 pm

Croft Castle, Yarpole, nr Leominster, HR6 9PW Tel: 01568 780246

St. Richard’s School, Bredenbury Court, Bromyard, Herefordshire, HR7 4TD Tel: 01885 482491

Christmas at Croft Celebrate Christmas with carols, decorations, family traditions and food from the Edwardian era. Find Father Christmas in the castle for an early Christmas gift.

Christmas Fayre Food, gifts stalls, refreshments. School choir singing carols at noon. Wednesday 18th November 10.00 amd - 4 pm. £3.00

November - December 2015

£10 tickets available!

Written and Produced by Chris Jaeger Directed by Ben Humphrey

Monday 30th November 2015 to Sunday 3rd January 2016 Tickets £12.95 - £17.95, Family Tickets from £50!

Box Office 01905 611 427 www.theswantheatre.co.uk

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

15 Hereford & Worcester

What’s On

Traditional Christmas at Avoncroft Museum Tues 1st - Sun 20th December (closed Mondays)

Escape the hurly-burly of modern-day festive preparations and take time out to enjoy the spirit of Christmases past.      

Traditionally decorated historic buildings Costumed characters Visit Father Christmas (see website for times) 19 acres to explore and play in Shop and award-winning Tea Room Late-night opening on Thursdays

Full details are on our website.

Avoncroft Museum, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove, B60 4JR www.avoncroft.org.uk; Tel: 01527 831363 Registered charity no: 241644

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Hereford & Worcester

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

November - December 2015