Families Hereford and Worcester May/June 2011

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

Issue No 9 May/June 2011

It’s Party Time!

FREE

News & Views Editor’s Letter

National Family Week is back, and 2011 is set to be bigger and better than ever!

Get involved by running an event for families, raise awareness of your organisation or cause.

Anyone wanting to create an event for National Family Week can access event ideas, theme toolkits, promotional materials and more via the Partner Zone on their website.

To date, thousands of organizations from across the UK including local authorities, charities, sporting clubs, schools, community groups, children’s centres and faith groups have all taken part in National Family Week.

In this issue we have a fantastic Children’s Party feature (pages 8-11) to ensure your party goes with a bang!

We have compiled an extensive list of local party suppliers, entertainers, venues and themed parties to give you loads of ideas on holding the best party your child has ever had. Please don’t forget to mention Families Hereford and Worcester when you contact them.

Do check our website regularly as we are constantly updating it with lots of local news and information so please visit www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk and register.

Start planning and join in the UK’s biggest celebration of family life.

Go to www.nationalfamilyweek.co.uk

Time to Care In 2011 Foster Care Fortnight will run from 16 to 29 May. Under the strapline fostering: time to care, Foster Care Fortnight 2011 will highlight the urgent need for more foster carers and call on everyone from political leaders to the general public to get behind fostering and support children in care.

If you are thinking about becoming a foster carer and have any questions contact Fosterline, an advice service on fostering on 0800 040 7675 or email fosterline@fostering.net.

I hope you find a quiet spot in the sunshine to enjoy this jam packed issue and we’ll be back at the beginning of July.

Karen Craven Editor, Families Hereford and Worcester

In this issue 02 05 08 12 13 14

News & Views Education Children’s Parties Mum’s the Word!

Focus on popular local class What’s On

www.couldyoufoster.org.uk Families Hereford & Worcester magazine – the really useful magazine for parents of children 0-12 years. Please call Karen on 0844 504 7224 for more information.

Next issue: July/Aug 2011, Editorial and booking deadline: Friday 10th June 2011

Contact details: Families Hereford and Worcester, PO Box 843, Inkberrow, Worcestershire, WR7 4WG Tel: 0844 504 7224 Fax: 0844 504 7201 email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

All content Copyright 2011 Families Hereford and Worcester Circulation: 18,000 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.

Editorial: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk Advertising: advertising@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk Events, diary dates, out and about: events@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk Families Hereford and Worcester is part of the Families Group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All 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 www.matobodesign.com, Tel: 020 8676 2857 Print: The Manson Group, St Albans at www.manson-grp.co.uk, Tel: 01727 848440 Cover Photograph: Courtesy of Robin Bramley. Inflatable from BBC Inflatables Tel: 01905 841902 www.bbcinflatables.co.uk

2

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

May – June 2011

Half Pint Chic T is a members’ website that specialises in discounted This designer childrenswear with up to 70% off designer labels d aand sought-after brands. Half-Pint Chic offers members eexclusive access to weekly sales of designer names such as Poppy and Ned, Their Nibs and French Connection Kids.

P To register for free and view the sales, log on to www.halfpintchic.com

Happy Steps raise money for Acorns Children’s Hospice Happy Steps performed four shows at the Swan Theatre, Worcester recently. Children from the age of 2 years performed alongside adults. The show was called Dance Back Through The Decades with loads of fun, toe tapping music. They also had a professional guest entertainer, singer Maria Holliday, who has performed in theatres, cruise ships and on TV.

The shows received great reviews from those watching and everyone taking part had fantastic fun. The profit from the show was donated to Acorns Children’s Hospice and Brian Elan from the Hospice collected a cheque for £1,750.

News & Views JETS Pottery Painting is on the move!

JETS Pottery Painting is moving to a new shop at Aston Fields in Bromsgrove. They will be extending their range of crafts to include decopatch and offering a new teddy bear making party option. Call in for tea, coffee, cake or ice cream and get some crafty inspiration.

See www.jetspotterypainting.co.uk

New to Worcestershire! The Juicy Stuff is a brand new and totally unique party plan company devised in Scotland by a qualified nutritionist who has developed a selection of absolutely new and fabulous cocktail mixers. The Quickies are delicious and you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can pour a cocktail. The Quickies are all made from natural ingredients and contain no artificial additives. They are great for kids too! Kids will love feeling grown up in having their own non-alcoholic cocktail. For more information about hosting your own fun Cocktail Party for adults or children contact Juliet on 07877 349948 or email Juliet@thejuicystuff.com. They are also recruiting new Juicy Stuff Advisors too.

Fancy a cup of tea?

Sometimes these few words and a listening ear are all it takes to make a difference to a family.

If you have parenting experience, and you can spare a few hours a week to help a local family, find out more about becoming a home-visiting volunteer with Home-Start Worcester & Wychavon.

Call Sue on 01905 29377, or email home-startworcs@btconnect.com.

Home-Start Worcester & Wychavon, Goodrich House, Sansome Place, Worcester. WR1 1UA

www.thejuicystuff.com

The NSPCC is calling on nurseries in Hereford and Worcester to take part in its annual Pedal Push.

Pedal Push is a mini bike ride for children under five. Children at nurseries, creches and playgroups can take part, by hopping on their bikes, trikes and scooters to raise funds for the NSPCC, making a real difference to children’s lives across the UK. Nurseries can also choose to raise funds for their own group or cause by keeping up to 25 per cent of the money raised.

It’s easy to organise and can be held between now and September. Nurseries will receive a special Pedal Push pack, including lots of activities and top tips to download.

Register now at www.nspcc.org.uk/pedalpush, call 0800 101 996 or email pedalpush@nspcc.org.uk for more information.

Coach/Class Leader Are you, or someone you know, interested in becoming a Rugby Tykes Coach?

If you or someone you know are interested and enjoy working with children, relish the challenge of developing youngster’s skills, then we would be keen to speak with you about becoming a Coach/Class leader at Rugby Tykes? For an informal chat to find out more, please feel free to contact us on the details below.

Pete Healey Sports Ltd, 13 Lynworth Lane,Twyning, Tewkesbury,Gloucestershire,GL20 6DD Tel: 01684 295796, email pete@rugbytykes.co.uk www.rugbytykes.co.uk May – June 2011

Fitness for all in Worcestershire!

We cater for everybody with specially structured classes allowing you to work at your own pace.

• Aerobics – A fun packed, full body workout • Boot Camp – A non-military fitness program for all with brilliant fitness instructors who will get the best out of you. We also offer FREE nutritional advice • Personal Training – One to one or group sessions in and around your home

1st Session

FREE

To claim your FREE session reference ‘Families magazine’ when contacting Amy.

For more information visit www.almfitness.co.uk call Amy 07740 366419 or email info@almfitness.co.uk. www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

3

News & Views

Work-life balance without the 9 to 5 grind With childcare costs escalating and a recent survey suggesting the average UK family manages to spend just 49 minutes quality time together a day, it is little wonder that women are looking for creative and flexible ways to earn a living.

Natalie Heeley is one such Mum who successfully managed to set up her own business as an independent distributor for Forever around her young family. She believes it is all down to clever time management – as well as a willingness to work hard.

As an enthusiastic entrepreneur she says: “Every Mum (or Dad) needs to be able to halve their working hours without reducing their pay and it is possible.With a business like mine you can get the work life balance right and make sure your family are your priority.

I started off with Forever hoping to earn just a little extra for our family but now 5 years later having worked my business around the children I have an income I never dreamed possible and an amazing flexible lifestyle – my next goal is to live mortgage free.”

Purple Daisies Ltd If the time has come for your little one to sleep in a ‘big bed’ then the Bed Bumper is an innovative new bed guard with none of the fiddly assembly or special sheets that other bed guards require. It is a firm foam wedge that sits directly onto the mattress ensuring a smooth transition without any crashes in the night. It is simple to fit, totally reliable and 100% safe and your child will feel like a big boy or girl (after all cot sides are just for babies!) but safe and snug all night long.

The Bed Bumper is available in 50cm, 100cm and 150cm sizes and cost from just £5.99. www.bed-guards.co.uk Don’t forget to mention when you telephone that you saw these companies featured in Families Hereford and Worcester magazine

4

If you are thinking of changing your lifestyle or would like to work flexibly around your family, Natalie is looking to expand her team in Hereford and Worcester, and is happy for people to contact her for a chat.

Call her on 01905 820411 or email natalie@foreverlucrative.co.uk.

It could be the catalyst to a whole new chapter in your life.

Mini Marmalade Kirsty is Mum to Millie age 5 and Henry age 3. She has recently launched Mini Marmalade which is a one-stop shop with loads of scrummy products for Pregnancy & Little People aged 0-5. She is passionate about making those early childhood years even more fun by sourcing great products which are fun, eco-friendly and unique and can be purchased in the comfort of your own home. Alternatively if you would like to host your own Mini Marmalade party or become a Party Consultant contact Kirsty on 01223 968202 or email minimarmalade@btinternet.com de@btinternet com

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

www.minimarmalade.co.uk

May – June 2011

Education

SCHOOLS’ OPEN DAYS BROMSGROVE PRE-PREPARATORY AND NURSERY SCHOOL Co-ed 3 – 7 Saturday 7th May Open Morning 01527 579679 or email Preprep@bromsgrove-school.co.uk BROMSGROVE PREPARATORY SCHOOL Co-ed 7-12 Saturday 7th May Open Morning 01527 579679 or email admissions@bromsgrove-school.co.uk www.bromsgrove-school.co.uk Please contact Admissions for details.

KING’S HAWFORD Co-ed 2-11 Saturday 11th June 9.30 am – 12.30 pm 01905 451292 or email kha@ksw.org.uk www.ksw.org.uk MALVERN ST JAMES Girls 4-11, 11-16, 16-18 Friday 13th May 2.00 – 3.30 pm Junior Department Saturday 11th 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 21st May 9.30 am – 12.30 pm 01299 841230 or email: office@moffats.co.uk www.moffats.co.uk

RGS SPRINGFIELD Co-ed 2 1/2-11 Saturday 21st May 10.00 am – 1.00 pm 01905 24999 or email: springfield@rgsw.org.uk RGS THE GRANGE Co-ed 2 1/2 -11 Saturday 7th May 9.30am-12 noon 01905 451205 or email: grange@rgsw.org.uk ST MARY’S WORCESTER Co-ed 3mths – 5yrs, Girls 5-11, Girls 11-18 Saturday 7th May 10.00 am – 12.30 pm 01905 357786 or email: head@stmarys.org.uk www.stmarys.org.uk THE DOWNS, MALVERN COLLLEGE PREP Co-ed 3-13 Monday 2nd May 9.30 am – 4.30 pm 01684 544108 or email registrar@thedowns.malcol.org www.thedowns.malcol.org THE RIVER SCHOOL Co-ed 3-16 Thursday 5th May 10.00 am – 1.00 pm 01905 457047 or email info@riverschool.co.uk www.river-school.co.uk WINTERFOLD HOUSE Co-ed 6 wks – 3yrs, 3-7, 7-13 Saturday 21st May 10.00 am – 12 noon O1562 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 events@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

May – June 2011

Worcestershire County Council with Honeybees Natural Nursery Store have organised an exciting family event to support Real Nappy Week this year. Throughout the week of May 16th – 22nd there will be a web page set up to showcase local supporters of real nappies as well as various offers and promotions at Honeybees store, Sidbury, Worcester. On Saturday 21st May 11am - 1pm there will be a free family picnic at Worcester Woods Country Park and various stalls with family-orientated information, activities for the children, real nappy competitions with big prizes, demonstrations and even a mini fashion show!

With a huge children’s play area, woodland walks and the award-winning Orchard Café on-site it’s sure to be a great day out for all!

Honeybees are also proud to support the work done by the NCT and host a special NCT shopping evening every month where 5% of all purchases are donated to your NCT branch! Booking is essential and dates and times can be found on the website.

For further information on the Real Nappy Week activities visit www.letswasteless.com and www.honeybees-store.co.uk

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

5

Education Malvern St James win the National Schools’ Lacrosse Tournament Malvern St James Girls School is a leading boarding and day school which presents an imaginative vision of education for girls from the age of 4 through to 18, taught within a positive, purposeful atmosphere. ‘MSJ’ fosters creativity and bold-thinking; they challenge and encourage every girl to extend her personal horizons and realise her full potential. The school is home to a warm and welcoming community with a buoyant atmosphere of shared celebration.

that both Midland A and B Lacrosse Teams are captained by MSJ girls. Hockey and Netball are played to an equally high standard with many girls selected for County teams. School Tennis players take full advantage of excellent links forged with Manor Park Tennis Club, attending a coaching session earlier this year with Tim Henman.

Girls enjoy competing at all levels and a number represent their sport at Regional, National and International level. This includes Riding, Swimming and Golf. They offer Sports and Riding Scholarships and Exhibitions at 11+, 13+ and 16+.

For further information please contact the Registrar on 01684 584624 or email registrar@malvernstjames.co.uk www.malvernstjames.co.uk

Super Camps Super Camps have been running MultiActivity Camps for children aged 4-14 for 14 years. They have three camps running during the summer holidays at schools in the Hereford & Worcester region:

Sport features very strongly at MSJ, where all girls benefit from the new ‘state of the art’ Sports Centre. MSJ has swiftly established itself at the forefront of girls’ Lacrosse and their first team have just won the National Schools’ Lacrosse Tournament. They are very proud

Tonia Peters

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

Educational Psychologist (Chartered by the BPS)

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

To advertise in future issues of Families Hereford and Worcester please call Karen on 0844 504 7224

Tel: 07853 248311

Malvern St James, Great Malvern St Mary’s Worcester, Worcester Holy Trinity International School, Kidderminster – NEW for 2011!

Their Multi-Activity Camps for children aged 4-14 combine sports, arts and crafts into an action-packed timetable of 8 sessions per day! Activities include swimming, archery and climbing (activities vary from site to site) and they’ve got a new art programme coming for 2011 – there’s an abundance of activities to suit all ages and interests. Super Camps offer free extended hours (8am – 6pm) and are Ofsted registered so are able to accept childcare vouchers.

Multi-Activity can be booked by the day or by the week.

Last year Super Camps launched a number of specialised camps and courses which will be available at Malvern St James and St Mary’s Worcester. Their Mad About Sports Coaching Weeks are geared towards children aged 8-14 who would prefer to spend a week focusing on a particular sport. Courses running locally during the summer are: -

Mad About Tennis at St Mary’s Worcester: 22nd – 26th August 2011 Mad About Football at Malvern St James: 1st – 5th August 2011 Mad About Tennis at Malvern St James: 15th – 19th August 2011 Check out their website www.supercamps.co.uk for more information about the camps, courses and workshops on offer during the Summer holidays.

Prices range between £139 and £174 per week (course prices vary) but there are discounts available for booking early – see their website for details.

Check our website regularly as we are constantly updating it with lots of local news and information so please visit www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk and register.

6

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

May – June 2011

Education Help Tuition • • •

Thinking of entrance or common entrance exams?

Start preparing now for 11 plus, 13 plus and scholarship exams.

Book early with our experienced tutors and get a head start during the quieter summer time.

At a time when the new Academy status is being floated as an option, there is much uncertainty about the future of our state schools. The benefits and drawbacks will become apparent over time, but in the meantime many parents are still opting to explore the public school system, especially at secondary or 6th form level. To gain entrance into these schools your child must take some exams, and compete against their contemporaries, many of whom will have had the head start of attending prep school.

Common Entrance exams ask more of your child than year 6 SATS. A boost in writing skills, extending vocabulary, practising maths techniques, brushing up on science knowledge, current affairs, verbal and non-verbal reasoning tests can make a huge difference – particularly if you are hoping for a scholarship. We have a high success rate – in 2010 and 2011 all our students got places at the schools of their choice, with some exhibitions and scholarships achieved too.

It is best to allow several months to really hone those skills, and the outlay is a good investment in your child’s future – it can even save you a considerable sum if you achieve a scholarship, which can mean a reduction in fees of up to 40% in some schools.

We have tutors in Maths, Science and English, so you can be assured of thorough preparation for all subjects. Preparation for GCSE and A level English, Maths, Languages and Sciences is also available.

The much loved characters – Biff, Chip and Kipper – hit the high street to inspire the next generation of book lovers The UK’s best-selling Read At Home series will be re-launched this May as Read with Biff, Chip and Kipper – totally in line with how children learn to read today and with a fresh new look. This is perfect timing ahead of the Government’s new phonics screening check for six year olds being introduced in primary schools next year, so parents can feel 100% confident their children will be learning to read at home in a way that matches how they will be learning to read at school.

The series from Oxford University Press follows the lives of the much-loved characters, Biff, Chip, Kipper and Floppy the Dog. Children will undoubtedly recognise them from the Oxford Reading Tree series, used in more than 80 per cent of UK primary schools to help almost two million children to learn to read every year.

Written and beautifully illustrated by the award-winning duo, Roderick Hunt MBE and Alex Brychta, the Read with Biff, Chip and Kipper books capture the imaginations of children and parents alike, helping to foster a love of reading.

Roderick Hunt MBE, author and creator of the Biff, Chip and Kipper characters, comments: “Engaging and inspiring children lies at the heart of the Read with Biff, Chip and Kipper series.”

Parents who are looking for inspiration and guidance on supporting their children’s reading should also visit the brand new, user-friendly website www.oxfordowl.co.uk for free engaging activities, online eBooks and practical advice on helping their child learn to read, how to say the phonic sounds and much more.

The Read with Biff, Chip and Kipper books will be widely available to purchase from 5 May 2011 (RRP £3.99).

Help Tuition caters for children from around 7 years old up to 18 and beyond, from state school, public school or home educated. We also welcome adult learners of all ages and can offer advice on the curriculum and new material to de-mystify any issues parents are unsure of in this ever-changing and challenging educational climate.

We welcome enquiries from new tutors in all subjects throughout the Worcestershire and Herefordshire region. Contact Kate on 01684 562439 or email kate@helptuition.co.uk www.helptuition.co.uk

Then you need these… ▲ Ladies only outdoor circuits class ▲ New mums buggy fitness class ▲ 1-2-1 personal training For more information contact Sue: ▲ www.start2exercise.com ▲ 07968 292784 ▲ sue@start2exercise.com

Have your cake AND eat it!

May – June 2011

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

7

Children’s Parties

Fantastico is an indoor fun filled play centre for children from 0 to 10 years old. We offer a Fun and Secure Experience for your children. ❖ Children’s Birthday Parties with a choice of themes, weekday special offer parties £99 up to 15 children from 16:00 to 18:00.

Exclusive private hire parties available weekends. ❖ Weekday Special: Unlimited play+ Meal & Drink for only £3.50. Term time only. ❖ Free parking and in a central Kidderminster location, whatever the weather, make Fantastico a play stop for your children.

Open 10am to 6pm Monday to Friday and weekends Call for details 01562 69222 Unit 3 Meadow Mills, Dixon Street, Kidderminster DY10 1HH Please visit our website www.fantasticoplay.com email address: info info@ @fantasticoplay.com

Bright ideas for Birthdays DID SOMEONE SAY party? Yes, I’m afraid so. One thing’s as sure as eggs is eggs – your child WILL have another birthday in the next year.

It’s Families Hereford and Worcester to the rescue – we’ve put on our party hats to find the best suppliers around to ensure your ‘do’ is one they’ll talk about, until at least next year...

Planning your party Crowd control: entertainers Bubbles, puppets, drama, music, ‘make’ party or magician? A good entertainer will bring your party to life and keep the children enthralled while you enjoy the fun from a safe distance. While there are parents who think nothing of timetabling two hours of games, entertaining Other People’s Children is not a breeze, which is where expert help is well worth the investment.

TIP: Children’s entertainers generally have vast experience and contacts which you can tap into. Ask them about local venues for hire, a realistic timetable and suitable prizes as well as the entertainment itself. Find out their preferred age group, and the maximum number of children they will cope with – too many and you’ll not get the best out of them. Write down everything you’ve agreed together so there is no doubt on the day.

Take them out: venues It might feel less imaginative than an organised bunfight at yours, but do you really have the time, energy and creativity to decorate your house as a fairy or superhero den, then clear it all up four hours later? Thought not. Happily there are plenty of places where all you have to do is pay the per-head charge and the guests will be entertained and fed, leaving you to return to your quiet, tidy house afterwards. Try child-friendly restaurants, bowling alleys, go-karting, indoor playcentres, sports clubs, the zoo, a pottery painting studio or cinema.

TIP: Book well ahead. There are only so many party groups venues can accommodate at any given time – you don’t want to be scratching around at the last minute and end up having to book ‘second best’.

Themed parties A great idea when your child has a particular interest, themes can be explored in many different ways. How about a drama, musical, circus or magic party, a sports party; or get crafty making bags, jewellery or cookies, or print t-shirts to match the theme.

TIP: Take the theme throughout the party – print off related pictures from the web as wall decorations, ask the guests to dress up with a prize for the best home-made hat.

8

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

May – June 2011

by Robina Cowan

Children’s Indoor Play and Party Place

Children’s Parties 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.

Themed Parties 4 Generations Lifestyle Photography – VIP Photographic party shoots. 01527 873061 www.4generations.co.uk Angie’s Animal Antics – choose from rumble in the jungle (exotic rainforest animals), creepy creatures (giant snails and millipedes, cockroaches, scorpions and more), cute & cuddly (rabbits, chinchillas, African hedgehogs, owls and more) or pick ‘n’ mix parties (a bit of everything).

All animals are very friendly and can be handled.

Angie on 0845 4309281 www.angiesanimalantics.co.uk Animalman, The – is available for parties, schools, nurseries, playschemes. Roger on 01902 898213 www.theanimalman.co.uk

Top tips ■ It’s all in the timing: For little children, 11am-1pm or 12-2pm are best. Most of them have been up since six and they’re past their best by the afternoon. For older children a lunchtime slot or mid afternoon start will work ■ Liaise with parents whose children have birthdays around the same time. If you both book the same day for a party, the guest list will be tricky. Joining forces is a much better idea – you can share the costs and the hassle ■ Keep the food simple and don’t over cater. Most children are too excited to have a big appetite. Limit the junk food and remember some children maybe vegetarian or have a food intolerance ■ Sleepovers: come midnight, you’ll be regretting it... Planning ahead is KEY. Read our ‘been there, done that’ parent’s guide: go to www.familiesonline.co.uk and type ‘successful sleepovers’ into the search box.

Animalmania – “The mobile zoo that will come to you” The animals you may meet during our visits are hand tamed and extremely friendly, enabling a very hands on, fun and exciting experience! We also specialise in other types of children’s parties, face painting, princess and pamper parties and more. Book early to avoid disappointment. We are available for parties, schools, nurseries, playschemes. John or Carla on 01905 757136 www.animal-mania.co.uk Animal Encounters – Parties, school talks, birds of prey, reptiles and small mammals Trevor on 01885 410768 www.thbirdsandanimals.webs.com Fairytale Princess Parties – girls makeover parties with a twist of fantasy and glamour.

Sarah on 01905 735235 www.fairytaleprincessparties.co.uk Football Fledglings – 18 months to 10 years of age and taylor made to the child’s capabilities www.footballfledglings.com Forget-me-not Parties – themed children’s party packages. Michelle or Rachel on 01384 373443 www.forgetmenotparties.co.uk Funky Faces face painting and My Little Makeover Party – offer a broad range of exciting parties to choose from, parties that will be remembered and treasured forever. We are very experienced with birthday parties, promotional days, store openings, discos, christenings and seasonal events, always adding fun and colour to the occasion.

Call Jane 01905 763362 or Jo 07967 483878 www.funkyfaces.biz

Go-Kart Party – indoor or outdoor go-kart parties. Stewart or Emma on 01905 612141 www.go-kartparty.co.uk Green Frog Pottery – painting pottery parties. Carrie on 01684 561778 www.greenfrogpottery.co.uk Happy Faces – face painting, mini makeover parties, glitter tattoos and crafts, party bags Emma on 01299 871148 or 07773 000309 www.happyfaces4parties.co.uk Honeybourne Pottery – potters wheel, clay modelling and ceramic painting. Paul or Kath on 01386 832855 www.honeybournepots.co.uk Jenny’s Pampering is a small business that offers pamper parties for adults and children around Herefordshire and Worcestershire. We specialise in mini makeover parties for little girls that love make-up and love being pampered. Each party offers two hours of pampering, each child getting their hair nails and glitter make-up done.

They really do love it! Jenny on 07818 194737 www.jennyspampering.co.uk Jets Pottery Painting – pottery painting parties, soap and bath bomb making and teddy bear making parties. Sandra on 01527 873866 www.jetspotterypainting.co.uk Jo Jingles – music, singing and movement parties. Nici Khor on 01684 274024 www.jojingles.com/valeandtewkesbury Kiddy Leisure – off-road parties, go kart and bouncy castle hire. Paul on 01562 754594 www.kiddyleisure.co.uk KO Sport – Need help with a kids’ party? Our enthusiastic coaches will take your guests through a whirlwind of fun, games and competitions providing your child and their guests with a memorable party. All equipment provided; event fully supervised; even a gift for the birthday child. A worry-free experience for the parents! Kate on 01905 840396 www.kosport.co.uk/ Krafty Kids Parties – craft parties, face painting and balloon photos. Linnet on 07876 745128 or Juliet on 07853 951170 www.kraftykidsparties.350.com Life in the Rainforest Children’s Parties – rainforest parties with spiders, insects, snakes, frogs. Paul on 01386 49747 www.lifeintherainforest.co.uk

Party or special event coming up?

Fun filled parties:

Lots of themed parties available please contact us for details

Age 6-11’s Age 3-5’s Football Soccer Stars High energy dance Sporty Stars Multi Games Active Story Parties are themed inc Buzz and Woody, Shrek and the Bear Hunt.

01905 840396 or email sales@kosport.co.uk www.kosport.co.uk

May – June 2011

Why not book the ultimate party animal?

Hands on animal encounters for: All types of parties and get togethers, Schools, care homes for the elderly, Holiday clubs etc...

Coming soon by popular demand Be an animal keeper!

tel: 01905 757136 mob: 0789 1937480 www.animal-mania.org

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

Save £10 with this ad

9

Children’s Parties Looby Lou Parties – juggling,balloon modelling, face painting and magic. Louise on 07944 156798 www.loobylouparties.co.uk Monkey Music – singing, dancing and playing instrument parties. Kari on 01905 429546 www.monkeymusic.co.uk Party Ponies – mobile service pony rides for children’s parties. Tracey on 01527 574199 www.partyponies.co.uk Popstar Parties – plus dance diva and rock star parties for wannabe popstars with VIP treatment and a song recording. Mark on 01386 700640 www.popstarparties.org Red Hen Cookery Parties – fun cookery parties for children 4-12 and also teenage cookery parties. 01684 564776 www.redhencookery.co.uk Rugby Tots – provides parties for children, including play and party games, from their second birthday up to their fifth birthday and there are a number of different options available. All the Rugbytots packages include invitations and a unique Rugbytots gift for the birthday child.

Megan on 0845 313 3242 www.rugbytots.co.uk Sports Xtra – spy school Xperience, sports school Xperience and Dance Xperience parties Nicole on 07960 045794 www.sports-xtra.com Tumble Tots – parties where children can climb, balance and roll on equipment with songs and games. Lynne on 07818 556426 www.tumbletots.com/worcester Wannabe Workshops – Jeanne, who has been a model for the last 20 years and Tiffany, ex Miss Great Britain have set up a unique party business doing “model” parties for all ages. This is perfect for the age of 6+. We come to a venue supplied by you, and professionally apply make-up and style hair. The children take part in a fashion shoot and all the guests get to take home an A4 print. There are a list of activities to choose from pass the parcel to a mini fashion show.

Call us now on 07593 991960 www.wannabeworkshops.com

Children’s Entertainers Andy’s Magic – magic show, disco, balloon animals. 01562 825231 www.andysmagic.co.uk Allsorts Magic – magic, balloons, puppets, games and disco. David on 01905 771674 www.allsortsmagic.com Fantasy World Entertainment – puppet theatre & magic, Punch and Judy, balloon modelling, disco parties, party games and dancing.

Steve on 01299 828030 www.fantasyworldentertainers.co.uk Funbusters – children’s themed parties, bouncy castles, entertainment, discos.

01527 578200 www.funbusters.com Little Softies – soft play equipment for hire and tv character appearances to entertain.

Nicky on 07919 615928 or Julie on 07881 436893 www.littlesofties.co.uk Mr Genie Magic Show – children’s magic show with live rabbit. Phil 01562 754824 www.childrenspartyshow.co.uk Toontots – TV character appearances and games (Iggle piggle, Bob the Builder, Peppa Pig or Ben 10) Lin on 01905 352772 www.toontots.co.uk

10

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

Suppliers Big Bouncy Castles Inflatables – If you want to celebrate your child’s birthday with style, take a look at BBC Inflatables. With the largest and most innovative selection of inflatables in Worcestershire to choose from, you really will be spoilt for choice.

To ease your party preparation we are also able to offer imaginatively filled party bags and goods at great prices through our sister company www.partybaggers.co.uk. Jane on 01905 841902 www.bbcinflatables.co.uk .

Caroline’s Cakes – cupcakes, cookies, birthday cakes and novelty cakes made to order.

01905 769945 www.carolinescakesworcester.co.uk Evesham Bouncy Castles – Having an indoor or garden party and want to hire some bouncy castles, inflatable slides, sumo suits or soft play equipment? Evesham Bouncy Castles have all you need to make a party fizz. From themed bouncy castles to indoor bowling alleys and children’s obstacle courses, there is something for everyone inc a bungee run and gladiator joust, ball pool and soft play equipment.

07931 558493 www.eveshambouncycastles.com Mini Marmalade – one-stop shop for gifts and party bag gifts. 01223 968202 www.minimarmalade.co.uk Simply Chic – shop in Worcester and online for invitations and gifts. Cathy on 0845 075 8528 www.simply-chic.co.uk The Juicy Stuff – non alcoholic cocktails for children. 07877 349948 www.thejuicystuff.com The Little Cupcake Bakery – cupcakes for all occasions. Lynne on 01527 836825 www.thelittlecupcakebakery.co.uk The Ultimate Party Shop – party accessories and fancy dress shop in Worcester and online. 0870 850 1469 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! 01872 263692 www.treasuretrails.co.uk

May – June 2011

Children’s Parties Venues & Play Blackwell Adventure Park, Bromsgrove – lots of different activities to choose from for a party. 0121 445 1285 www.blackwelladventure.co.uk

FDC Sport – fun football parties in Redditch inc prizes, medals, invitations. 01527 585407 www.fdcsport.co.uk

Bowl Xtreme Ltd – ten pin bowling parties in Worcester. 01905 757475 www.bowlxtreme.co.uk

Forge Mill Needle Museum Redditch – Medieval themed party room with party games, medieval quest and themed crafts. 01527 62509 www.forgemill.org.uk

Bungo’s Family Play Barn – play centre in Bidford-on-Avon plus parties and laser for older children. 01789 778899 www.bungos-playbarn.co.uk

Ice Quest – Ice Skating and Laser Quest Parties in Malvern includes activity, hot snack, squash & invites. 01684 575222 www.icequestmalvern.co.uk

Chilly Kiddys – play centre plus parties in Stourbridge. 01384 444665 www.chilly-kiddys.co.uk

Imagination Street – soft play centre with experience rooms plus parties in Bromsgrove.

01527 836377 www.imaginationstreet.co.uk

Cob House, nr Worcester – Angling, Archery, Pond Dipping, Spy School, Bug Hunt parties or play on the timber trail. 01886 888517 www.cobhousefisheries.co.uk

Jugglers Soft Play Centre – soft play centre plus parties in Bromsgrove. 01527 837997 www.jugglerssoftplay.com

Coconut Island – soft play centre plus parties in Redditch. 01527 529040 www.coconutislandredditch.co.uk

Little Acorns – soft play centre plus parties in Worcester. 01905 424766 www.worcesterindoorplay.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

Marksman Leisure – laser tag parties in Hanbury from 7 yrs. Mark on 01527 575141 www.laser-shooting.com

Fantastico Indoor Play and Children’s party centre – is located in Kidderminster town centre. It is a great indoor play centre and an excellent choice as a party venue. Your party can be enjoyed in a relaxed and intimate atmosphere which parents love. The centre can be hired on an exclusive basis which proves to be both popular and great value. Party hosts ensure the children have a fantastic time, whether a traditional party is chosen or one of the themed parties. Come and try the fantastic experience! 01562 69222 www.fantasticoplay.com

May – June 2011

Party Bus Surprise – a fun packed party on Burtha, the yellow double decker bus.

01527 570093 www.partybussurprise.co.uk The Big Red Party Bus – a fun packed party on a double decker bus. Bruce on 01789 751055 www.thebigredpartybus.co.uk The Full Throttle Raceway – kart circuit plus under 9s mini raceway. 01384 377707 www.fullthrottleraceway.co.uk The Orchard Cafe – Knights and Princesses themed party with healthy organic party food 01905 766492 www.theorchardcafe.co.uk

Don’t forget to mention when you telephone that you saw the listings in Families Hereford and Worcester magazine 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 sealion show. 01299 400700 www.wmsp.co.uk Worcester Bowl – ten pin bowling parties in Worcester. 01905 420425 www.worcesterbowl.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 T:01684 572645 A choice of fun ‘n’ games, climbing, softplay, 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 or wet ‘n’ wild, bouncer and soft play, football, trampoline and team party games parties www.bewdleyleisurecentre.co.uk www.stourportsportscentre.co.uk www.wyreforestgladesleisurecentre.co.uk

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

11

Mum’s the Word!

Pictured here with Chris and Pui from CBeebies at the Palace Theatre in Redditch which is very handy as I am now 8 months pregnant with our second son! Great – more diggers and ride-ons (try Lawn Farm Toys in Welland for a great selection of outdoor toys from a local business!)

Sussanah Bramley is married to Robin, lives in Ryall, near Upton upon Severn and is Mum to Charlie aged 3.

We moved to Worcestershire just before Christmas 2009 when the snow arrived!

Having uprooted our then 2½ year old from a lovely circle of friends, groups and music classes where we were previously living in West London, I was determined to make a prompt start on integrating him into toddler society. It is all very well having a fun time making boats out of removal boxes, ripping up polystyrene packaging into “snow” and running round Homebase flushing the display loos but there’s only so much of that we can all take!

Our first stop was Teddy Bears Club in Upton. I remember walking in on that freezing cold day and being amazed by the wonderful reception. In London I feel you’re barely noticed as a newcomer to a busy local playgroup and this was a totally unexpected experience. Not only had we stumbled upon a small community gathering but it was their Christmas party!

We were made so incredibly welcome; they offered us party food, Charlie zoomed gleefully towards the play area and Santa even had a present for him at the end!

Our luck continued as we discovered the likes of disciplined activities such as Jo Jingles, Tumbletots and Rugby Tykes, plus another little playgroup in Upton at the Hill Centre. We found great family fun to be had at Clive’s Fruit Farm, Croome Park, Worcester Woods (I love the Orchard Cafe), Evesham Vale Light Railway (superfriendly team of people), Little Acorns Soft Play aka Worcester Indoor Play... More friends were made and in no time at all we had established a weekly routine, Charlie had friends to play with and I had mums to natter to!

Six months later, when we felt Charlie was more settled, we started him at preschool one morning a week. We’re lucky here in the Upton area as there are so many good ones to choose from. He attends Welland Pre-school and Castlemorton Caterpillars.

By this Easter he’ll be attending 3 sessions

Having put aside any focus on myself since we moved here, other than of course meeting some nice new mums, I decided to treat myself to a few pregnancy massages.

I’d had regular reflexology treatments throughout my pregnancy with Charlie and also swam and attended Aquafit and yoga classes. Oh what luxury that seems right now. It’s certainly different the second time round! I tried a couple of spas. The therapists were lovely and both were friendly and professional, but lacking, I felt, an in-depth knowledge of pregnancy. My friend Karen, the editor of this magazine, put me in touch with Melanie at Rushwick Therapies. Unlike the other therapists, she specialises in areas such as pregnancy and, having had children herself, really understood what I was feeling in terms of discomfort – both emotional and physical.

The first important difference I noticed at Rushwick Therapies was the fact that Melanie actually went through and discussed my medical (specifically pregnancy) history. Secondly, she asked what focus I would like for the session.

My ribs are particularly painful so she gave them a great work out! For my treatment she used a comfortable futon (she changes couches according to the needs of each client). Having previously experienced uncomfortable massages on hard couches or being obliged to sit upright / bent over a solid couch with nowhere to put my knees, apart from splayed outwards – not good when you have SPD (pelvic pain) – this was heaven! There is no doubt that you get your money’s worth with Melanie. This is all due to the personal treatment. She gets very involved in your particular case and it’s clear you’re not just on a production line – treatments are very, very individual.

I’m looking forward to my next massage!

Just before this article went to print Sussanah gave birth to a beautiful baby boy.

Congratulations and lots of love x.

For more information on places mentioned, please find contact details listed below.

A few benefits …

• Releases muscular tension in the body and helps with pain associated with pelvic girdle instability • Regulates blood pressure & stress hormones • Improved sleep • Improved circulation – better for baby’s nourishment & assists with removal of waste & swelling/oedema • Improves sluggish bowel movements • Enhances your connection with your baby

12

www.jojingles.com/valeandtewkesbury www.tumbletots.com/worcester www.rugbytykes.co.uk www.clivesfruitfarm.co.uk www.theorchardcafe.co.uk www.littleacorns.co.uk www.evlr.co.uk

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

www.nationaltrust.org.uk www.worcesterindoorplay.co.uk www.wellandpreschool.org Castlemorton Caterpillars – 01684 833282 www.lawnfarmtoys.co.uk www.rushwicktherapies.co.uk May – June 2011

Focus on Popular Local Class Amy Marshall ALM Fitness

How did you get started?

I’ve always been passionate about sport and have been part of a team from a very young age. I carried this passion on into my studies and gained a degree in Sports and Exercise Science at Worcester University.

I then gained my Personal Trainer qualification and Exercise to Music qualification and, after speaking to a few people in my local area, found that they were interested in me starting up aerobics classes and that there was a need. I got the ball rolling (so to speak) and set up my own business to see how it would go. I enjoy motivating people and seeing people get the results they want. What’s more I find it extremely satisfying to see people who may not have exercised before, actually start to exercise and enjoy it!

What does the future hold for the business?

Tell us a bit about yourself I’m Amy, I’m 27 years old, Worcestershire born and bred and the owner of ALM Fitness. I have a degree in Sports and Exercise Science, am a fully qualified personal trainer and exercise to music instructor and also a football coach. I’m extremely passionate about sports and exercise and have been ever since I was very young.

What is ALM Fitness?

ALM Fitness is my own brand new business which I launched in September 2010. I have found it to be a massive learning experience but, in such a short space of time, a very fast growing business. With so many strings to my bow, I have a lot to offer everyone!

It’s all still very new and I have loads of ideas and inspirations. Ideally I would like to start a few more classes in the local area and continue to build my business, offering new fitness opportunities should they arise.

Get more exposure for your Clubs and Classes by advertising in Families Hereford & Worcester magazine! Please call Karen on 0844 504 7224 for more information.

I’m a very sociable person so I enjoy meeting new people and getting to know them. The most positive thing I enjoy about my work is setting targets with clients, motivating them and seeing them get the results they’ve always wanted. To see the excitement in clients when they’ve achieved results and pushed themselves is so satisfying and makes my job worthwhile.

Any bad bits?

Personal Training – one to one personal training sessions or group personal training in and around your home to help you achieve the results you want.

My passion is my job and I love what I do, so there are no bad bits! It’s my business, my career, my life, so I will always strive to be the best!

•

Aerobics classes – A full body workout consisting of fat burning aerobics and mat based toning.

How do you fit work around your personal life?

•

Boot Camp – Don’t be put off by the name as it’s not as scary as it sounds.

You work at your own pace to get the results YOU want! Non-military fitness programs for men and women of all ages, shapes, sizes and fitness levels with brilliant fitness instructors who will get the very best out of you. Included with this I offer FREE nutritional advice.

May – June 2011

Alternatively, Amy is always willing to talk. You can contact her any time on 07740 366419 or email info@almfitness.co.uk

What is the best bit about what you do?

•

Alongside this I also run fitness classes through KO Sports for new mums called ‘Mums on the Run’ which is a chance for mums to get fit and socialize with their baby! For more information on class timetables please see www.almfitness.co.uk

If you’d like more information on classes and what Amy offers then visit her website www.almfitness.co.uk.

Unfortunately the main thing about running your own business is that your business comes first. Luckily, I have a good network of friends and the support I’ve had since starting has been amazing. I still manage to find a good balance of work and socializing.

What advice would you give other people looking to work for themselves?

Be prepared to work hard! At the end of the day, it’s your business, so if you want to be successful then you’ll only be as successful as the amount of effort you’ve put in. www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

13

What’s On 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.

THEATRE Artrix, School Drive, Bromsgrove, B60 1AX 01527 577330, www.artrix.co.uk Live Events Elite Academy of Dance & Gymnastics – Inspiration Students present an evening filled with dancing & singing.

Sun 22nd May 6.00 pm £9.00 (£8.00) Amy Greaves School of Dance presents Mystique A dance performance that showcases a variety of dance styles from Ballet, Street, Rock n Roll to Tap, Freestyle and Musical Theatre.

Sun 29th May 12.30pm and 6.30 pm £9.50 The Best of Story Bag – Vamos Theatre A high energy, storytelling show. Wed 1st June 2.00 pm £8.00 (£6.00)

14

Evesham Arts Centre Theatre, Victoria Avenue, Evesham, Worcs, WR11 4QH 01386 48883, www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk Musical Revue: Hits of the West End Shows A celebration of West End shows through song, music and dance Fri 27th - Sat 28th May 7.30 pm £6.00 For tickets tel Prince Henry’s High School 01386 765588 That’s Showbuzz An extravaganza of dance, music and drama. Sat 11th June 7.00 pm Tickets £11.50, £9.50 concs & children, Family ticket (2A+2C) £36.00 07738 338199 Malvern Theatres, Grange Road, Malvern, Worcs, WR14 3HB 01684 892277, www.malvern-theatres.co.uk Great Expectations Tues 3rd – Sat 7th May, Wed and Sat mats 2.30 pm, Eves 8.00 pm Tickets £24.50, £22.50, £20.50, £18.50, £16.50

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

The Am-A-Zing Thing A truly original story told with puppets, acting and live music. Ages 5yrs + Sat 21st May 11.00 am and 2.00 pm, Tickets £6.00

Number 8 Community Arts Centre, 8 High Street, Pershore, Worcs, WR10 1BG 01386 555488, www.number8.org.uk

It’s Gleemania 10 of the biggest pop stars of reality TV shows come together to create the ultimate pop group inspired by the TV show Glee. Thurs 26th May 7.30 pm, Tickets £23.50

Winnie the Pooh (U) Tues 31st May to Thurs 2nd June, Tues 31st May 2.00 pm & 7.30 pm; Wed 1st & Thurs 2nd June – 2.00 pm

Little Red Robin Hood A funny family show with generous helpings of slapstick, clowning and musical delights. Ages 4yrs + Sat 4th June 11.00 am and 2.00 pm, Tickets £6.00

Norbury Theatre, Norbury House, Friar Street, Droitwich Spa, WR9 8ED 01905 770154, www.norburytheatre. freeserve.co.uk Children’s Theatre These productions are short, small cast plays specially written and presented by adults for children and suitable for ages 3 - 10.

Sat 21st May 2.30 pm £1.50

Palace Theatre, Alcester Street, Redditch, Worcs, B98 8AE 01527 65203, www.redditchpalacetheatre.co.uk Fireman Sam Live – Pontypandy Rocks!

Join Fireman Sam and all his friends as Pontypandy hosts its first ever music festival.

Tues 31st May 1.00 pm and 3.30 pm £13.00, £11.00 Family ticket £44.00 High School Rocks!

A high energy production featuring all the best hits from High School Musical, Hannah Montana and Camp Rocks! Wed 1st June 2.00 pm and 6.30 pm £12.50 The Wizard of Oz presented by The Harlequins Thurs 24th – Sat 25th June 7.30 pm and 2.30 pm sat mat £12.00, (£10.00)

May – June 2011

Swan Theatre The, The Moors, Worcester, WR1 3ED 01905 611427, www.worcesterlive.co.uk I do like to be beside the seaside A play acted by adults provide fun, songs and audience participation for two to nine year olds. Sat 7th May 10.30 am and 11.45 am £1.50 Stig of the Dump A wonderful musical production with lots of opportunity for the audience to take part. Sat 28th May 2.30 pm £8.50 (£6.50) Family ticket £25.00 Star Stage present their own Wizard of Oz A stunning variety performance of song and dance.

Wed 1st June – Fri 3rd June 7.00 pm Sat 4th June 2.00 pm and 7.00 pm £9.00

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

Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove, Worcs, B60 4JR 01527 831363, www.avoncroft.org.uk Tues – Sun 10.30 am – 5.00 pm Tickets: £7.70 adults, £4.00 child (under 5s free), Family ticket £19.80 Things That Go Bump (in a museum at night) Fri 13 May 7.30 pm – 9.00 pm.

Twilight tours for children (suitable for families with children over 7).

National Open Mills Weekend Sat 14 & Sun 15 May See the Museum’s windmill and perry mill in action this weekend and hear about their histories.

The Edwardians Sun 29 & Mon 30 May Find out about life before the First World War.

Wars of the Roses Sat 25 & Sun 26 June Travel back in time to the troubled summer of 1455 and meet the knights, ladies and soldiers of the 15th Century.

Roman Sandal and stamp it with your style, create a Collage Mosaic, try your hand at Coin Rubbing and Roman Script and discover how the Romans buried their dead!

Sat 28th May 11.00 am – 4.00 pm (£1.00 per person)

Bewdley Museum, Load Street, Bewdley, DY12 1AT 01299 403573 www.wyreforestdc.gov.uk/ museum

A prospect of Worcester Charts the fortunes of Worcester through the eighteenth century from the years of recovery after the Battle of Worcester to the dawn of the Victorian city. 6th March – 17 July

Open 10.00 – 4.30 pm FREE admission Crafts Alive Get creative with a day of craft demonstrations and handson taster sessions. Mon 30th May 11.00 – 4.00 pm Summer Half Term Crafts Fun craft base activities for all ages. Monday 31st May – Friday 4th June

World War 1 – Secret Agent Days Wed 1 - Thu 2 June Learn everything you need to know to become a secret agent.

The Commandery, 109 Sidbury, Worcester, WR1 2HU 01905 361821, www.worcestercity museums.org.uk

Wartime Weekend Sat 18 & Sun 19 June Discover life on the home front in the 1940s.

Open Mon – Sat 10 am – 5 pm, Sun 1.30 pm – 5 pm, Cost: £5.40 adults, £2.30 5-16 yrs, under 5’s FREE, £4.10 concessions, Family ticket £12.50

Competition

Win

2 tickets to the NEC Baby Show

The Vintage Charm Company can capture the fingerprint, hand or foot print impression of a child or someone special to produce a unique and timeless solid silver charm. harm.

This keepsake charm can be added to a range of beautiful jewellery to be treasured always. There is a wide selection of products to choose from. These products are a big hit with parents and make lovely gifts for special occasions such as Mothers Day, Fathers Day, Birthdays and Christmas gifts.

The Vintage Charm Company will be offering one lucky reader the chance to win a pair of tickets to The Baby Show at Birmingham NEC between 20 - 22 May. To enter email editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk by Sunday 15 May 2011 and don’t forget to send your name, address and tel no. www.thevintagecharmcompany.co.uk

May – June 2011

What’s On

MUSEUMS

Outdoor Shakespeare Twelfth Night A light-hearted production for a summer’s evening of relaxation with a drink and picnic set in the beautiful Commandery Gardens.

Tues 7th – Sat 18th June, 7.30 pm Tickets £14.95 Worcester City Art Gallery & Museum, Foregate Street, Worcester, WR1 1DT 01905 25371, www.worcestercity museums.org.uk Museum Open Tues – Sat 10.30 am – 4.30 pm, Cost: FREE. Cafe, Shop and Art Gallery also open on Mondays.

Exhibitions Really Romans Family Day! Discover the wonderful Roman artefacts on display. Try on a replica Roman Helmet and be protected from the blows of battle!, make a

Worcestershire County Museum, Hartlebury Castle, Hartlebury, Nr Kidderminster, Worcs, DY11 7XZ 01299 250416, www.worcestershire.gov.uk/ museum Open Tues – Fri 10.00 am – 5.00 pm, Weekends and Bank Holiday Mondays 11.00 am – 5.00 pm Cost: £4.50 adults, £2.25 concessions, £12.00 family ticket (2 adults and 2 children) Hartlebury Helpers Club meets every other Saturday morning in term time – Museum Saturday Club for 7-11 year olds. Contact Sue Pope on 01299 250416 for more information.

Bats About Hartlebury – Part of Museums at Night initiative Children can meet at Hartlebury at 7pm to make their own bat mask, then from 7.30 all are welcome for a seasonal meal in the Café.

Afterwards enjoy an illustrated talk about these fascinating creatures and a walk around the Castle grounds using detection equipment to identify them. Adult tickets £16, children’s tickets £8 – must be prebooked. Friday 13th May 7.00 – 10.30 pm We’ll Meet Again...

Step back in time to the Second World War, meet both military and civilian characters and find out about their lives in the 1940s, become an evacuee and learn more about weapons, warfare and the Home Front. Bank Holiday Monday 30 May

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

15

What’s On Make Do and Mend – Holiday Activities Find out more about rationing and homelife in the 1940s and make some simple homemade toys. Make sure to collect your ID card and have it available at all times! Tuesday 31 May – Friday 3 June, 10.30 am – 4.30 pm Traveller’s Tales Join us for a colourful celebration of Gypsy, Roma and Traveller arts and culture as part of GRT History Month Sunday 12 June Father’s Day Free entry for all Dad’s on Father’s Day plus a special menu in the Café and a chance to meet some of our historic characters.

Sunday 19 June Forge Mill Needle Museum and Bordesley Abbey, Needle Mill Lane, Riverside, Redditch, B98 8HY 01527 62509 www.forgemill.org.uk Tues – Fri 11.00 am – 4.00 pm, Sat and Sun 1.00 – 4.00 pm, Cost: £4.15 adults, £1.10 child, £8.50 family ticket National Mills Day Visit the world’s only surviving water powered scouring mill. Find out about workers in the Victorian needle industry with Redditch Amateur Theatre Society. Sun 15th May 11.00 – 4.00 pm £2.00 adults, children free Medieval Festival Experience medieval life in the Knight’s encampment! Cooking and craft demonstrations, drill and arming of military men, falconry display and medieval music. Sat 4th and Sun 5th June 11.00 – 4.00 pm £2.50 adults, children £1.00, family £5.00 Outdoor Shakespeare: As you like it Sat 25th June 5.00 pm Outdoor Shakespeare: King Lear Sun 26th June 5.00 pm £5.00 In advance, £7.00 on the day or both performances £8.00 in advance and £12.00 on sat

EVENTS NCT – National Childbirth Trust 0300 3300770 www.nctpregnancyand babycare.com NEARLY NEW SALES Bromsgrove NCT Sat 7th May 10.30 am at Bromsgrove Methodist Church Centre, 19 Stratford Road, Bromsgrove B60 1AS Tel: Julie on 0844 243 6065 or email: Bromsgrove-nct@hotmail.co.uk Malvern NCT Sun 15th May 1.00 – 3.00 pm at Dyson Perrins Sports College, Yates Hay Road, Malvern, WR14 1WD Tel: Monica on 0844 243 6201 or email: nns.malvern@nct.org.uk 16

Worcester NCT Sun 22nd May 10.30 am – 1.00 pm at The Sports Centre, Bilford Road, Worcester, WR5 8DX Tel: Stacey on 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 GEORGIAN WEEKEND A weekend depicting the French and Indian War. A savage war of great drama that is the beginning of a story that eventually led to Thomas Harley laying the foundations of Berrington Hall. Free entry to all visitors in period costume. Sat 14 and Sun 15 May 10.00 am – 5.00 pm WORLD WAR 11 WEEKEND Learn about the part that Berrington played in WWII, see vintage vehicles plus lots more. Free entry to all visitors in period costume.

Sat 4 and Sun 5 June 10.00 am – 5.00 pm Brockhampton Estate, Greenfields, Bringsty, Herefordshire, WR6 5TB Tel: 01885 488099 THE BODGERS BALL Annual celebration of pole-late turning and greenwood turning. Fri 6 – Sun 8 May 11.00 am –5.00 pm CHILDREN’S LITERARY TRAILS Celebrate Hay festival during May half term by completing the children’s literary trail. Collect your prize at the end. Sat 28 May – Sun 5 June 11.00 am – 4.30 pm Croft Castle, Yarpole, nr Leominster, HR6 9PW Tel: 01568 780246 MAKE A WINDOW BOX Bring the children to plant up salads and herbs to grow through the summer at home. Sat 7th May 11.00 – 4.00 pm £3.50 per child CHILDREN’S LITERARY TRAILS Celebrate Hay festival during May half term by completing the children’s literary trail. Collect your prize at the end. Sat 28 May – Sun 5 June 11.00 am – 5.00 pm £2.50 per child FALCONRY WITH TREVOR HILL A day for birds of prey. Mon 30th May 10.00 am – 4.00 pm Croome Park, Croome D’Abitot, WR8 9DW Tel: 01905 371006 THE FORGOTTEN ISLAND TREASURE TRAIL Explore Croome with our fun family trail for the May half-term holidays. Sat 28 May – Sun 5th June 10.00 am – 4.00 pm £1.50 per trail

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

Hartlebury Castle FANTASTIC FATHER’S DAY WEEKEND Make and take home a craft for Dad. Sat 18 and Sun 19 June 11.00 am – 3.00 pm £1.50 per craft Hanbury Hall, School Road, Hanbury, Droitwich, WR9 7EA Tel: 01527 821214 THE GOLDEN YEAR – PLAY TIME The year is 1890 and Sir Harry and Lady Georgina are hosting a day of games and races inside and outside.

Sat 14 – Sun 15 May 11.00 am – 4.30 pm FAMILY ACTIVITY DAYS – FOOD GLORIOUS FOOD Enjoy a trail around the garden and ‘make and take’ activities. Tues 31st May and Thurs 2nd June 11.00 am – 4.30 pm 0.50 per item, £2.00 per trail NATURE DETECTIVES – POND LIFE Have a go at pond dipping and discover what creatures lurk in the pond at Hanbury. There will also be hands-on activities to take part in.

Sat 11th and Sun 12th June 11.00 am – 4.30 pm FATHER’S DAY FALCONRY Displays of falconry. Sun 19th June 11.00 am – 4.00 pm TEDDY’S BEAR PICNIC Bring your favourite teddy and enjoy a picnic on the Orangery lawn.

Sun 26th June 11.00 am – 4.00 pm 0.50 per item The Weir, Swainshill, Hereford, HR4 7QF Tel: 01981 590509 CHILDREN’S LITERARY TRAIL Celebrate Hay festival during May half term by completing the children’s literary trail. Collect your prize at the end.

Sat 28 May – Sun 5th June 11.00 am – 4.00 pm £2.50 per child

SPECIAL EVENTS, DAYS OUT AND FESTIVALS The Umberto Giannini Miss Worcester Family Fun Day Sun 8th May and Family Fun Day Sun 5th June (Under 18s admitted free) Free entertainment including bouncy castle, mega slide, bungee run, gladiator duel, bouncy boxing, stalls candy floss, circus workshop.

Prices vary see website. www.worcester-racecourse.co.uk Spring Gardening Show Thurs 12th – Sun 15th May 9.00 am – 6.00 pm.

Three Counties Show Fri 17th – Sun 19th June 8.00 am – 6.00 pm Prices vary see website. www.threecounties.co.uk Upton Jazz Festival Fri 24th 12 noon – 11.45 pm, Sat 25th 10.00 am – 11.45 pm and Sun 26th June 12.15 – 11.30 pm. www.uptonjazz.co.uk Evesham Balloon Festival Sat 4th – Sun 5th June Free Dawn and dusk balloon launches, hovercraft displays, fun fair on Crown Meadow, live music, food and drink and fireworks. www.eveshamhotairfest.com Throckmorton Airshow Sat 11th June 12.00 – 5.30 pm Tickets £20 per car (A charity event) An amazing line up of static and flying exhibits inc emergency vehicles, parachutes, police dogs, famous faces from TV cop shows and more. www.throckmortonairshow.webs.com

If you would like to feature in the What’s On Section, please email events@ herefordandworcs.co.uk May – June 2011