Ledbury Focus April 2017 by Betty-Ann Ambury

Issue No. 143 142

April 2017

Ledbury Focus Ledburyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Favourite Monthly Magazine 6,000 copies delivered to Ledbury and nearby villages Your Free Magazine

KITCHENS BATHROOMS BEDROOMS

Opening hours Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm

Unit 8, Spring Lane, Malvern Link, Malvern, WR14 1AL

01684 892230 www.orillo.org 2

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: betty@grapevinepublications.co.uk

IMPORTANT HMRC NOTICE for all

Small Business or Self Employed From April 2018 HMRC require around 50% of you to submit Digital Tax returns 4 Times a Year as well as VAT returns Don't Worry . . . we're Here to Help . . . we will . . . • Supply our simple to use HMRC Approved Accounting Software WITHOUT CHARGE plus administer your work for £0.49 per day • Take care of your Accounts and Bookkeeping, and deal with HMRC compliance and queries • Offer FREE expertise to new businesses and arrange Start Up Loans to £25,000 - just 6% • Free Auto Enrolment + Payroll - £0.25% of run Call our local ofﬁce:

01531 633167 email: info@businesswiseservices.co.uk

www.businesswiseservices.co.uk

ATouch of Class

To advertise call Nadelle on 01531 650494 or nadelle@ledburyfocus.co.uk

Time-Served Local British Craftsmen

Specialising in: Restoration, Refurbishment,

Bespoke Painting and Decorating

FREE Hunter Alignment/Tyre Check

Painting & Decorating Hand Painting with every MOT & Service - Internal & External of Kitchen Units

Providing a Personalised Quality Service for all Makes &Models

Wallpapering & Specialist Paint Effects

Complete Updating of Tyres Rooms PRESTIVIO - Key Dealer

For a reliable and friendly service call Alan Potter for details

01989 780128 or 07879 684567 www.touchofclassdecor.com Ledbury Focus 2 To advertise call Nadelle on 01531 650494 or nadelle@ledburyfocus.co.uk

Ann Cam Primary School Dymock

Ann Cam continues to be a Good School ‘... a harmonious, supportive environment in which children learn well, are happy, safe and secure.’ Ofsted March 2017

Spaces in reception for September 2017 are still available Enquiries and visits welcome tel: 01531 890424 email: admin@anncam.gloucs.sch.uk

Bring Mum, for a real Mothers Day meal in our licensed Grapevine Restaurant Sunday 26th March

Come and see our SPRING offers!

Bookings now being taken, please pick up a menu or telephone 01452 841151 for details

These lovely cottage Garden Plants 3 for £10 1L Alpines 3 for £10 Baby Bedding from £1.00 each

£4.95

Also see our range of veg plants!

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: betty@grapevinepublications.co.uk

Shaw healthcare in Ledbury National care provider Shaw healthcare are proud of their presence in Ledbury and how closely they work with NHS Hereford and Hereford County Council. Two dedicated sites in the town offering an array of health services. A large employer for the community, offering staff clean, safe and happy working environment’s and a selection of valuable staff benefit’s. Always offering a safe caring environment’s for the elderly people of this historic market town of Ledbury. We welcome volunteers into our services who wish to help and support local older people.

Ledbury Health & Care Centre, Market Street, Ledbury

Leadon Bank, Orchard Lane, Ledbury

Ledbury ICU 14 bedded intermediate care unit – NHS Funded – 24 hour nurse led. Ledbury Minor Injuries Unit Open 7 days a week – NHS funded – 24 hour nurse led. Tel: 01531 632488 - press option 1 Ledbury Nursing Home 36 bedded general nursing home. Market Lodge 10 bedded specialist Acquired Brain Injury service.

52 flats – 39 one and 13 two bedroom extra care flats for older people. A large restaurant offering a snack and lunch menu. 20 place daycare service. Orchard place A 10 bedded residential and respite service offering single en-suite rooms.

For any enquiries, further information or questions please contact: Jane Harris | Relationship’s and Sales Manager: Email: Jane.Harris@shaw.co.uk Tel: 07816 600 834 Ledbury Focus

Hello Readers...

Ledbury Focus Publisher & Advertising Grapevine Publications (Worcestershire) Ltd 3 Rye Street • Birtsmorton • WR13 6AS Tel: 01684 833715  Mob: 07754 170286 info@grapevinepublications.co.uk www.grapevinepublications.co.uk

Editor Betty-Ann Ambury betty@grapevinepublications.co.uk

Advertising & Editorial Betty-Ann Ambury

Contributors

April means Easter - for some a long weekend and a chance to relax for a few days, for others a meaningful time of reflection, and for all ... hot cross buns and Easter Eggs. Whatever it means to you, have a wonderful Easter weekend. April also means we are well into spring, which hopefully means milder - dare I say warmer weather, and now that the clocks have gone back, longer evenings in which to enjoy it. And if you're looking for something to do in the longer evenings, Jonathan Bishop at Foliation has some excellent hints and tips on how to keep your lawn looking great - but before you give your grass that much needed trim, spare a thought for the wildlife in your garden. If you have the space, leave a small patch uncut and unweeded to provide a home for all the smaller creatures that are so essential to a healthy ecology. For more advice on this subject, have a word with the Herefordshire Wildlife Trust.

Age UK Geraldine Holbourn Helen Mawson Herefordshire Wildlife Trust Jan Long Johnathan Bishop Leadonvale Vets Trevor Langley West Mercia Police

Age UK also have some useful hints and tips for Spring Cleaning, from which we could all benefit, so dig out your dusters and start clearing out clutter!

Front Cover Photo

On the business side, we welcome several new advertisers - look out for them as you browse through this month's issue - as well as our usual selection of articles and editorials to entertain you.

Mike Ambury

Printers

DC Print (Yorkshire) Ltd Tel: 01977 642331

Next Issue Copy Date 10th April 2017 DISCLAIMER. All information published is correct according to those who supplied it and no responsibility is taken if it is not. Care is taken to ensure all advertisements are truthful and no liability is accepted for errors or emissions. Artwork is accepted on the understanding that there are no copyright restrictions.

Eastnor Cricket and Bowling Clubs are holding their annual open days this month, so if you fancy trying your hand at either of these sports, now's your chance!

And that's it for now - see you again next month.

Betty ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. All artwork and copy appearing in this publication is copyright and may not be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. The right to refuse advertisements is reserved. The use of this publication for canvassing, direct marketing or any other activity apart from sourcing local goods and services is strictly prohibited. © 2017

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: betty@grapevinepublications.co.uk

Contents... 48

The Master's House

Eastnor Bowling Club

Ancient Woodland

West Mercia Police

Effective Treatment for Anxiety

Weavers Gallery

Vet Talk

Coffee Break

Community Contacts

Ledbury Naturalists

Index of Advertisers

22 5

Shaw Healthcare

Eastnor Cricket Club

Age UK

New Opportunities

April Time - Lawns

What's on . . . April

78 Ledbury Focus

Clubs & Groups

Market Theatre

Ledbury Market

Wine Matters: Italy

Ledbury Heritage Centre

HOME FROM HOME BOARDING FOR YOUR DOG(S) Set in a lovely rural retreat near Newent in Gloucester with 3 acres of secure paddocks. We Offer: Luxury boarding kennels with heating and covered runs Small family run business Home boarding also available All boarders must be fully vaccinated 30 years experience Fully licensed & insured References available Inspection welcome by appointment Very competitive Rates* Book Now To Avoid Disappointment Call ALISON MATTHEWS on

01531 89 03 28 / 07876 40 66 21 Email: alisonmatthews879@btinternet.com

Opening Times: Mon to Sat 9am-12pm & 3-6pm Sunday by arrangement *Discounts For More Than One Dog 8 advertise call on 01684 833715 or email: betty@grapevinepublications.co.uk 2 To call 29/01/2015 09:14 78 Orchard.View.A5.ad.indd To advertise Nadelle 01531 650494 or nadelle@ledburyfocus.co.uk

To advertise call Nadelle on 01531 650494 or nadelle@ledburyfocus.co.uk

Diane Fullerton MTI

Professionally Qualified

Massage Therapist

Personally tailored therapies to: • Relieve muscle & joint pain • Increase mobility • Aid relaxation • Reduce stress & anxiety • Promote well-being • Treat specific conditions

First Floor  Bethesda Physiotherapy Clinic Lodge Cottage  The Homend Ledbury  HR8 1AR

Also available:

• Home Visits • Workplace Treatments • Gift Vouchers

01531 636507 / 07879 286544 diane@theuncommontouch.co.uk www.theuncommontouch.co.uk

Your best friend in business

Pilgrim Landscapes Let’s start spring cleaning! • Garden and grounds maintenance • Mowing/strimming • Tree/shrubs – pruning/felling • Garden clearance/ care Call Simon today on:

01531 671023 Quality craftsman with over 20 years' experience

Managing your business finances has never been easier Find out about our range of accounting and taxation services: Ledbury: 01531 631500 Pershore: 01386 552644 enquiries@crowther.co.uk www.crowther.co.uk

t: 01531 631149

m: 07970 717337 106 Bridge Street Ledbury  HR8 2AN Ledbury Focus

w 9

“Can I say again thank you so much for the help I’ve had, you are truly amazing!” Mrs S, Customer, Bluebird Care Herefordshire

Bluebird Care Care in your home We provide care visits from 30 minutes through to full live in care and support. Please get in touch to find out more about our services and how we can help support you.

Winner

Bluebird Care Herefordshire

Francise of the Year 2015 South West Region

Call today to find out more 01981 570 732

bluebirdcare.co.uk/herefordshire

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: betty@grapevinepublications.co.uk

Eastnor Cricket Club

he new cricket season is fast approaching and Eastnor Cricket Club have been hard at work making preparations both on and off the field and volunteers would be most welcome for the Nat West Cricket force weekend on 1st and 2nd April to help get the ground and facilities ready for the new season. On the playing front the 1st and 2nd teams will this season be competing in the Worcester Cricket league starting on Saturday 22nd April while the 3rd and 4th teams start the Marches league fixtures on Saturday 29th. New players for all sides and the social Sunday matches are always welcome at the club. The first event of the social season has been arranged for Friday April 7th with a musical casino evening to be held by kind permission of James Hervey-Bathurst at Eastnor Castle. Live music will be provided by the talented Ian Oliver and there will be the chance to try your hand at the Casino tables with a buffet supper provided and of course

Ledbury Focus

there will be a bar. Tickets are priced at ÂŁ10 each for this event including a glass of bubbly on arrival. The youth section are aiming for a successful season this season and registration evening will be held on Wednesday April 19th at the ground with coaching to commence the following week and this year the club will also be taking part in the ECB All Stars cricket initiative for juniors. For tickets to the Castle event or any further details on the club where new members are always welcome please contact: Steve Onions at Clubsport Ledbury

t: 01531 635242 Jim Sandford

t: 01531 633055 Cynthia Hughes

t: 01432 270815 Also check out the club website for further news at:

www.eastnorcricket.clubbuzz.co.uk

New Showroom & New Machinery Dealership

01531 636926

Garden Machinery Service and Repairs for all types of Garden Machinery Sales of Mowers, Chainsaws & Strimmers to suit your needs at an affordable price Unit 7 Lower Road Trading Est, Ledbury, HR8 2DJ

Much Marcleand Church of England Much Marcle Church of England Primary Nursery School Primary and Nursery School

At Much Marcle Nursery school we pride ourselves on our educational excellence, providing children with the At Much Marcle Nursery school we pride ourselves on best our educational possible start,providing in a warm friendlywith andthe happy excellence, children best environment. possible start, in a warm Our and play happy based environment. activities are Our tailored children’s friendly play to based activities are tailored interests developing skills and abilities at their pace. to children’s intereststheir developing their skills and abilities at their pace. Limited spaces available. Limited spaces available. admin@muchmarcle.hereford.sch.uk admin@muchmarcle.hereford.sch.uk www.muchmarcle.hereford.sch.uk www.muchmarcle.hereford.sch.uk

01531 660607

Computer Problems? Virus and Spyware removal Upgrades and part sales Hardware and software fault repairs Software & hardware setup service Broadband & network setup service Photo and file backup/recovery service Save £'s and have your old PC running like new Full service and security checkup from £40 Now installing CCTV systems with mobile access live mobile phone viewing

We’ve got the solution to your computer problems

Free local pickup and return service • No fix No fee

JB COMPUTER & LAPTOP REPAIRS Call Jason on 01531 634977 or 07989 222350 email: jbcomputers@tesco.net 12

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: betty@grapevinepublications.co.uk

Spring Cleaning!

pring is here, it’s time to dust off the cobwebs, tidy up, remove clutter, get your affairs in order and get help with paperwork, cleaning and household tasks. Here are some tips to help you with your spring cleaning and make your home safer: yy Go through kitchen cupboards, the fridge, the freezer and vegetable rack and get rid of rotten food and all those out of date items yy Clean out the medicine cabinet and take expired medication or those no longer prescribed, to your GP or Pharmacist to be disposed of

yy Replace lightbulbs where needed and ensure that rooms, hallways and stairs are well lit

duster or cleaner with an adjustable handle. Alternatively, ask someone else to do it for you

yy Remove clutter from the walkways in and outside your home but don’t try and move heavy objects or furniture by yourself

yy Consider having grab rails fitted in the bathroom and make sure you have a non-slip mat by the bath and shower

yy Donate unwanted items such as books and clothing, to a local charity shop

yy Put your financial affairs in order. Sort out paperwork, review direct debits and standing orders, investigate cheaper energy suppliers

yy Reduce the risk of falling by removing trip hazards, making sure loose carpets are fixed securely, rugs and mats are nonslip and electric cables/leads do not trail across the floor yy Move hard-to-reach items that are frequently used to lower, more accessible areas yy Dust overlooked places such as corners, ceiling lights, lampshades and blinds to eliminate mites, which can cause allergies and respiratory issues

yy Get advice about financial support you may be entitled to such as benefits, grants and reduction in Council Tax yy Check your Will and make sure it is up to date – if you haven’t got a will then get one drawn up yy Consider arranging Lasting Powers of Attorney, so that someone you trust will be able to make decisions for you about your health, welfare and finances should the need arise

yy Avoid cleaning anything that is beyond your reach – instead use a yy Test batteries in smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries if telephone: 0333 0066 299 necessary (ask someone to email: contact@ageukhl.org help you with this) www.ageuk.org.uk/herefordandlocalities yy Check electrical sockets are Registered Charity Number: 1093512 not damaged or loose Ledbury Focus

If you would like some help with your spring clean; practical help, information or advice, please contact Age UK Hereford & Localities – we’re here to lend a hand!

Pressed Flowers • Tapestries • Paper Butteflies • Display Cases

Specialising in 13amp & Oil Aga’s

Pressed Flowers • Tapestries • Paper Butteflies • Display Cases

• Family Photos • Textiles TheBouquets Ledbury Bookkeeper

Aga Sales Installations Servicing

• Is your bookkeeping a burden? • Are your records in a mess? • Need more time to focus on your business?

Bryan Call Jones Aga

Aga Renovations Contact me, Michelle Conversions 01531 248200 Relocations • New TV aerials bryanjones.aga@gmail.com michelle@ledburybookkeeper.co.uk • Freesat & Sky Installation 07504 559229 www.bryanjonesaga.com 01432 882141 Let me assist you in managing your business • Extra TV points ﬁtted • Set-up and installation of equipment • Problem solving • New build and older homes covered • Fully insured Discreet and professional service using the safest methods to protect your family

R ay St yles Pest Control

01531 592092 Rats

•

Mice

•

01885 490353 or 07768 625 477 and ask for Ray

Rabbits

•

Flies

•

Moles

• Wasps

Bouquets • Family Photos • Textiles

e: aardvark@alpens.co.uk www.aardvarkinstallations.co.uk

round Work Specialist GJamjarz Computing with over 30 years experience

Fully insured Plant Operator:Computer Repairs

FOUNDATIONS Hardware & Software DRAINAGE OLD OR NEW Installations KERB LAYING Maintenance

EDGING Trouble shooting

BLOCK PAVING

Training

TURFING & FENCING

Setups

GARDEN LANDSCAPING

Advice

GARDEN MAINTENANCE Call Charlie on 01531 80 50 10 All at competitive prices! or 07804 021 027 Telephone Mick Kitchin Email: charlie@jamjarz.co.uk 07533 264989 anytime Ledbury Based 01531 635705 evenings

14 14

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: betty@grapevinepublications.co.uk To advertise call Nadelle on 01531 650494 or nadelle@ledburyfocus.co.uk

Greg - Decor

Painting & Decorating ¥ Wallpapering ¥ Interior painting ¥ Exterior painting ¥ Window frame painting ¥ Stripping out damp areas ¥ Plasterboarding & skimming ¥ Repairing wooden window frames ¥ Removal & replacement of coving ¥ Redecoration of whole room

¥ Redecoration of whole house

or any other building inquiry considered... For a high quality finish & a fully insured service that you can trust.

Call me for a quote. Greg.

For your FREE home visit

Text or call me on: 07517 537784

or email your request to:

gregdecor1@gmail.com

Ledbury Domestic Repairs

Ledbury Domestic Repairs provide a repair service for all your household appliances.

I offer an efficient and fast service at very competitive prices covering Washing Machines Tumble Dryers Cookers Dish Washers Vacuum Cleaners Professional Installation of New Machines & Removal of Old Machines

Matt Barwick 07875 875 490 - 01531 636414

Local Professional Handyman A reliable service you can count on established for over 20 years

you may like to make an appointment to see me

Bath to Shower Conversions All Plumbing Work Flat Pack Assembly Household DIY Tiling & Laminate Flooring Painting & Decorating Carpentry Odd Jobs & Repairs

e: james.buildersyard@btinternet.com

Call Matt on

Victoria Road, Ledbury, HR8 2DA

If you have . . . • • • • •

Anxiety and tension Physical pain or discomfort Long term chronic illness Seasonal ailments A lack of balance or focus in your life

m: 07775 601551 James Wood B Ed, RSHom, PG Hom, Dip IH, MFHT Homeopath and Kinesiology Integrated Healing Practitioner

Ledbury Focus

07966 849 721 Quick • Professional • Experienced

New Opportunities

o clear or not to clear the wild wood? Over the years gales had blown the hybrid willows into an impenetrable tangle of fallen trees and branches. Bracken had infiltrated, reaching elephant grass heights, smothering everything that once grew in a paddock of sweet vernal grass and wildflowers. This winter I bit the bullet. In came the chain saw gang and out came the willows, roots and all. The clearance disclosed a hidden gem; a wych elm tucked away in a corner. More resilient to Dutch Elm disease, than English elm, this one had survived in isolation, undisturbed for years. I was delighted to have it; tall, strong and maybe thirty years old. With the willows gone, what to do with the new space? Restoration of the meadow seemed the obvious solution. But, being quite a keen gardener, it was very tempting to re-plant with exotic trees and shrubs. I could fill a sheet of paper within minutes of longed for plants. But my garden isn’t just for me, its for all the wildlife visitors too. The creepy crawlies, the foxes, the hedgehog, the bees and butterflies and the birds, not to forget the bank voles and the little shrew I discovered a few weeks ago. And of course there are the slowworms, the grass-snakes…. it's a list almost as long as my desired plants. So I compromised. I planted a small stand of silver birch and a liquid amber called Midwest Sunset, two oaks, one from America and one from Asia. A couple of rowans have joined two others already there and a snake bark maple called W hite Tigress. There is still a huge amount of open space where the bluebells were 16

already coming through in February. W hat else will appear I’ve yet to be delighted, or horrified, by. Bracken most certainly, so I’ve planned a deadly campaign of eradication with a strimmer the moment its fronds are tall enough to cut. It will be a long, on going task and one that I may not entirely win. Faced with an enormous pile of stumps, I decided to take inspiration from Highgrove and make a stumpery. Willows are not ideal, they rot quickly, but one has to go with what one has. Originally a Victorian invention to stage ferns, stumperies are ideal habitats for invertebrates. Fun to make and plant up they can fill shady corners of the garden unused for anything else. Stumps are not essential. Logs, dug into the ground a little way work equally well. With the arrival of invertebrates, so too come other, creatures and the garden becomes an essential micro-habitat for all manner of animals. Photos and article by Geraldine Holbourn

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: betty@grapevinepublications.co.uk

Mark Coulter Painting & Decorating Interior & Exterior woodsideluxurycattery.co.uk

Call for a free estimate/quote Fully insured

01531 631146 07963 312531 mark.coulter74@yahoo.co.uk www.mcoulterpaintinganddecorating.co.uk

A small and exclusive luxury cat hotel providing the love, care and individual attention that your cat deserves.

Set in calm and peaceful countryside surroundings in Redmarley close to Ledbury. Conveniently located for the villages, towns and cities of the 3 counties of Herefordshire, Gloucestershire and Worcestershire. For booking enquiries or viewing please give us a call.

T: 01531 651808 E: Debbie@woodsideluxurycattery.co.uk

A J Roberts Farm & Garden Services • Domestic & Commercial Grass Cutting • Hedge Trimming • Fencing Of All Types • Tree Surgery • Firewood For Sale • Paddock Maintenance • Agricultural Contracting • 100-170HP Tractor & Driver For Hire

T: 07841 756911 or 01531 248311 E: ajroberts2015@hotmail.com

Garden Sheds ● Workshops ● Garages Summerhouses ● Stables ● Poultry Housing Ledbury Focus

Playing with Clay . . . C

lay is a fantastic medium. It’s a natural material, universally inclusive and reacts to the touch, no matter how slight the intervention. Everybody can make their mark. For the past 20 years, ceramic artists Jon & Sarah Williams from Eastnor Pottery & The Flying Potter have been sharing their passion for clay with tens of thousands of children aged 3 months and upwards. They regularly visit some of the most forward thinking and creative early year’s settings in and around the West Midlands. Eastnor Pottery & The Flying Potter’s philosophy is firmly rooted in the Reggio Emilia approach which doesn’t impose ideas on the children but provides a creative environment and framework for them to

explore and develop their own ideas and skills. There is considerable emphasis on materials and young participants get hands-on with clay in a range of forms and consistency. Whether its thick, wet slip whizzing around on a potter’s wheel or a fired vessel struck with a beater to produce a sonic effect, the couple’s practice is a multi-sensory, materials based celebration of infinite possibilities. Projects often have a literacy, language or numeracy focus, exploring areas of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and how clay can enhance all aspects of learning. The Nursery children at Ledbury Primary School (LPS) have been working with Jon on a long-term project to promote language through playing with

clay. Parents and carers are invited to join their children for the sessions, sharing in the exploration and learning. Apart from the potential for creative expression, the children grow in confidence and independence working with clay on a regular basis. The language and vocabulary they use increases in length and complexity week on week. Jon can really see the difference from one session to the next in how they communicate with him and each other. It’s remarkable how much the children remember about technique and the process of working with clay. They become quite the ceramic experts by the end of the sixweek block, LPS is certainly contributing to a generation of future potters!

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: betty@grapevinepublications.co.uk

THE PRACTICE

SMALL FRIENDLY ACCOUNTANCY PRACTICE NOW OPEN IN LEDBURY We offer all accountancy services including: • Self Assessment Tax Returns • Business Start Up • Vat Returns • Annual Accounts • Management Accounts

Here’s what Nursery teacher Rose Burrow has to say about the project "Jon is a good role model for all of our children. He engages each child not only through the creative aspect of pottery but he encourages the children to develop their own sense of being. This is the most important element of early year’s education.”

We are a small family business and we are aware how hard you work running your business; let us ease the strains and stresses of your accountancy affairs with jargon free advice and one to one support. We will work together to achieve your goals, supporting each other using our strengths to best advantage. Contact us today:

Number 7 The Southend, Ledbury, HR8 2EY

website: www.thepracticeledbury.co.uk email: Andrew@thepracticeledbury.co.uk

Telephone: 01531 631380

EASTNOR POTTERY & THE FLYING POTTER

POTTER’S WHEEL EXPERIENCES for families, groups and individuals

BOOK YOUR SESSION TODAY!

01531 633886

admin@eastnorpottery.co.uk www.eastnorpottery.co.uk Ledbury Focus

Brown’s Bathrooms & Plumbing Services  All aspects of plumbing All aspects of plumbing undertaken undertaken Full bathroom installations • Wet rooms  Full bathroom Wall and floor tiling installation’s 01886 884072  Wet rooms • Free quotations Fast reliable 24-hour service  Wall floor tiling specialist No718709 job too small • and Leadwork 07847 RELIABLE, FRIENDLY AND EFFICIENT

 Fast reliable 24hour

RELIABLE, FRIENDLY service AND EFFICIENT

e-mail brownsbathrooms@outlook.com Web www.iabrown-plumbing.co.uk

 Free quotations 01886 884072 • to07847 718709  No job small

brownsbathrooms@outlook.com  Leadwork specialist www.iabrown-plumbing.co.uk

Dog Grooming With Love •Clipping •Scissoring •Trimming •Hand Stripping •Bathing •Catering for all breeds

Gill East - Professional Groomer For Bookings call me on 01531 670711

www.creativecanines.co.uk

Herefordshire’s Most Inspirational Plant Centre Our Annual Heuchera Sweet April showers . . Festival . Do spring May flowers

Sat Sun 20th So it's19th time to & plant, plant, plant Sept ...

Free Talk at 2pm each day Cottage Garden Plants - Lupins, Foxgloves, Hundreds of stunning Heucheras Delphiniums, etc., and of course our selection including NewofVarieties! of over 100 varieties Heucheras

Learn "How to Grow Tomatoes" Sat 22nd & Sun 23rd April Free Talk each day at 2pm

Heuchera "Collectors Corner" "Collectors Corner"ofofrare, rare, unusual and ‘Sugar Plum’ unusual andnew newplants plants

Trees, Spring Shrubs, Roses, Clematis,Bulbs Climbing Flowering Plants - Now more plants than ever! in Stock Pansies & Violas for instant Spring colour New Fuchsias, SeasonBegonias Fruitnow Bushes, Geraniums, available for Summer colour Ornamental and Fruit Trees Earlyarriving Season Vegetable - Brassicas, early plants September Lettuce, Beans, Peas, Tomatoes, Cucumbers, etc.

LEOMINSTER Verzons Hotel

A417 HEREFORD



Trumpet Inn

A4172

A438



LEDBURY

Newent Plant Centre @ The Nest Find us just 3 miles west of Ledbury on the A438 - look for the sign for "The Nest"

DYMOCK & NEWENT

Friendlyadvice advice always Friendly always availablefrom from Mark, Mark available andhis his team and

enquiry@newentplantcentre.co.uk Open 7 Days a week 01531 670121 enquiry@newentplantcentre.co.uk Open 7 Days a week www.newentplantcentre.co.uk 01531 670121 www.newentplantcentre.co.uk @ The Nest, Little Verzons, RHSGold GoldMedalists Medalists Little Verzons, Hereford Road, RHS Road, Ledbury HR8 2PZ Hereford Follow us on Facebook Twitter Ledbury HR8 2PZ Follow us on Facebook &&Twitter

underarms ~ arms ~ legs ~ bikini ~ hollywood ~ brazillian ~ eyebrows ~ lip • Suitable for Eczema & Psoriasis sufferers • Gentle & effective with no soreness or broken hairs • A superior alternative to waxing, with longer lasting results • Men's grooming now available

Call Georgina on 01531 631557 or 07980 021398 to book www.sugared-smooth.co.uk

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: betty@grapevinepublications.co.uk

CLOTHES & ACCESSORIES FOR MEN

k TROOP k GAGLIARDI k MISH MASH k

ellow was the colour brightening Ledbury Town Centre when volunteers from Marie Curie local Team Ledbury held their annual Spring fundraising collection event selling their iconic daffodils. Raising almost £1000, the team were delighted with the kindness and generosity they received from members of the public. Peter Jones and Kim Cockrill commented that many people had a personal story to tell about loved ones who had benefited from Marie Curie nurses providing support for those with life limiting conditions with comfort and compassion for all the family. Spokesperson Bruce Foster said that Marie Curie is now the beneficiary of funds from another source, details of which will be announced soon. article and photos by Jan Long

top: Peter Jones with Kim Cockrill and “Harrison” the bear below: Paggie Jones (Paggie is a Cornish name, not a misspelling!)

VISCONTI LEATHER k RAGING BULL k COLOURS & SONS

GUIDE LONDON k PANTOFOLA D’ORO k DARIO BELTRAN

Yellow Brightens up Town Centre

k EDWIN JAGGER k GARCIA k MERC k

OPENING HOURS

Monday - Friday, 10am - 6pm Saturday, 10am - 5pm 1 Tudor Mews, The Homend, Ledbury HR8 1BT Telephone: 01531 635371

renaissance-menswear.co.uk Ledbury Focus

choose. There are many products on the market, readily available from garden centres. Read and follow the supplierâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s instructions and make sure any powder or granules are spread evenly without lumps which can burn the existing grass. If it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t rain within three days, water in.

Creating Your Garden Paradise article by Jonathan Bishop

April Time

LAWNS

pring is finally here and garden work now kicks off. Among the main tasks is to keep your lawns looking good. Most people look at their lawns during the summer months when they are out enjoying their garden. Summertime is when they notice how poor it looks but, to get it looking at its best, work needs to start now. April is an ideal time of the year to spread a lawn feed combined with weed and moss killers. The amount to use will depend on the product you

Fourteen days after treatment the lawn will need scarifying. This means raking either by hand or by using a scarifying machine which can be hired from most tool hire shops. If your grass is long then mowing before scarifying will help. The aim of scarifying is to get out all the dead moss and weeds and remove old thatch (dead grass matter). If this dead organic matter is not removed it can add more wet material for mosses to grow on. (This is the part that many people miss when working on their lawns). Treatment of a lawn badly affected by moss can result in bare areas where soil can be seen. In this case, a top dressing with grass seed needs to be done promptly to fill the gaps before weeds seed into them. Make a top dressing by mixing grass seed and compost in a bucket and spread thinly into the gaps. Compost will act like a sponge when watered (this must be kept damp). Do not mow over these seeded areas until the new grass is six inches tall, then make sure your mower is on a high cut and then lower on each following cut.

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: betty@grapevinepublications.co.uk

Later in the growing season your lawn may suffer soil compaction, especially if it is exposed to heavy usage such as children and pets running around using it as the neighbourhood playground or racetrack. Fine soil can also compact and when it rains puddles can appear. The simple way combat compaction is to aerate the lawn by creating holes all over it using a garden fork. There are aeration tools on the market which take out a small plug of soil. These are good especially on clay soils as the plug holes can be filled with compost to help improve soil quality and drainage.

move leaves off the lawn during winter months by regular raking.

Feeding the lawn Feeding is important for any plant, so don’t forget the lawn. I find a liquid feed is best as it quickly gets down to the grass roots. A feed high in nitrogen will make your lawn look lush and a dark green but, like any feed, this makes plants grow and the more lawns grow the more they need mowing.

• Thin your carrot seedlings to achieve good-size carrots - do this in the evening when fewer carrot flies are around. Plant at different times through the month, and plant in different areas of the vegetable garden. Carrot fly can miss a row.

Autumn time I would recommend an autumn lawn weed and feed as this will buck up your lawns ready for the winter when there is less sun about. It is also important to

Garden Tasks for April • Harvest asparagus spears when they are no more than 18cm tall, as any larger and they will start to get too stringy. Don’t cut spears if the plant is only one year old but leave to grow. Enjoy the 2 to 3 week harvest in following years. • For quick and easy pea supports, push some twiggy sticks around your pea plants now. The tops of hazel branches are good.

• Prepare vegetable seed beds by removing all weeds and forking in plenty of compost. Cover prepared soil with sheets of black plastic to keep it drier and warmer in preparation for planting. This will help the roots of new plants and seedlings establish quicker.

If you have an upcoming event please let me know. If you have a problem in the garden then please contact me and I will do my best to answer your questions. Are you interested in Foliation looking at any aspects of your garden from hard to soft landscaping, small to big projects? Get in touch with your questions or to discuss your garden project call my office number 01531 821336 or email: jonathan@foliation.co.uk Foliation Ltd 44 Lakeside, Newent, Glocestershire GL18 1SZ Follow me on Twitter @JonBishop15

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To advertise call Nadelle on 01531 650494 or nadelle@ledburyfocus.co.uk

Ledbury Focus September 2015.indd 28

Ledbury Focus

15/08/2015 15:03

What's on ... in April Saturday 1st & Sunday 2nd April Daffodil Weekend & Spring Fayre Trading tables in the hall each day £5 per table. Please call 01531 890453 or email jenniferthick@aol. com to book. Jewellery, secondhand books, cards, etc., for sale. Light refreshments available including the popular cream scones. 12noon – 5pm. Each day guided walk of approximately one hour to see the wild daffodils. Starting at 2.30pm from the Wintour’s Green outside St Mary’s Church. Proceeds to Dymock Parish Hall funds. Dymock Parish Hall, GL18 2AG. Sunday 2nd April Cheeki Monkeys BIG Baby & Children’s Market Pop-up Baby & Children’s Market and Fun Family Day Out. Buy & sell babies’ & children’s toys, clothes & equipment. Pre-loved Stalls £12 Craft & Business Stalls also available. To book visit www.cheekimonkeys. co.uk. 10am - 12pm. Adults £1.50, children FREE. The Edinburgh Dome, Imperial Road, Malvern, WR14 3AW. m.facebook.com/Cheeki Monkeys WR6 WR13 andWR14/ Friday 7th April Can we restore our native carnivores to southern Britain? Talk by Johnny Birks To celebrate 50th anniversary of the Ledbury Naturalists’ Field club Johnny will explore our complex relationship with mammal predators in Britain, starting with the historical extermination of the wolf, brown bear and lynx, and the nearextinction 100 years ago of the wildcat, pine marten and polecat. He will consider the ecological and socio-economic consequences of

these bouts of predator removal, and will ask how these might affect the recovery of carnivores like the polecat and pine marten. He will also cast envious eyes across the English Channel to celebrate the recovery across national borders of much more challenging carnivores, such as the wolf. 7.00 pm in The Burgage Hall, Church Lane, Ledbury. All welcome, non-members £3 pay at the door. Tel. 01531 632485 for more information. Saturday 8th April Songs of Praise Cradley Singers' forthcoming concert is on at 7.30pm at Bosbury Church, with Musical Director Kate Cheetham, Organist Colin Myles and Treble Soloist Robert Foskett, featuring Mendelssohn, Schubert, Parry, Stanford and Vaughan Williams among others. Price £10 incl.refreshments. Donations to Bosbury Church. Tickets: Ruth Jeffries 01531-635610, Judith Soper 01886-832354 or or on the door. Sunday 16th & Monday 17th April Woofields Farm - Open Garden for NGS 2-acre garden on working farm: an eclectic mixture of planting, colour all year round. Variety in shape and texture. Spring bulbs and shrubs. Borders planted with roses, clematis, wide range of herbaceous plants, many alstromeria, gravel garden, ornamental pond. Natural pond recently re-landscaped and planted by Peter Dowle. £8, children free. Light lunches and afternoon teas at Coddington Vineyard. 12 noon to 4.30pm. Tel: 01531 640583. Open for charity. Woofields Farm, Ledbury, HR8 1JJ. www.ngs.org.uk/

Wednesday 19th April Herefordshire Historic Churches Trust 'Music in Quiet Places' Clothworkers Consort of Leeds - St. Bartholomew’s Church, Much Marcle, is hosting one of the finest Choral ensembles in the North of England, following their invitation to be in residence at Hereford Cathedral at Easter. This prestigious Choir was formed in 2001 and compares favourably with many Oxbridge Chapel Choirs. They are based in the School of Music at University of Leeds and have sung at many U.K. Cathedrals, and toured abroad. The music has everything from early music to the Beach Boys. The Concert is free with a retiring Collection in support of the Trust and the Church. www.hhct.co.uk Thursday 20th April Keith Stuart A Boy Made of Blocks is a tearjerking, hilarious and most of all trueto-life novel about the power of difference and one very special little boy. Alex has always struggled to connect with his eight-year-old autistic son Sam, and the strain has pushed his marriage with Jody to breaking point. Tickets £3 redeemable against the book at the event. 7pm. Tel: 01989 564464. Rossiter Books, Ross on Wye, HR9 5HL. rossiterbooks.co.uk Saturday 22nd April Canon Frome Cricket Club Ball We are holding an Indian-themed Ball at Canon Frome Court to raise funds for improvements to the pavilion. Arrival drink, Indian 2-course meal + Poppadoms, Chutneys and Naans + Live music + Dancing, Raffle etc. For tickets (£40) email: canonfromecc@gmail. com, or tel. 07904 637716 . Dress Code: Black-tie to Bollywood!

Are you hosting an event in Ledbury or the surrounding area? Upload your event for FREE! Visit: ShowMeLedbury.co.uk Follow the link for ‘Events & Entertainment’ - ‘List Your Event’

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: betty@grapevinepublications.co.uk

Clubs & Groups 1st Ledbury Scout Group 07803 015344 01684 584900 Agricultural Society Amateur Dramatic Society 01531 670843 Angling Association 01531 633600 Army Cadets Ledbury 01432 359917 enquiries.hwacf@rfca.org.uk Facebook.com/HWACF 01531 634710 Art for Pleasure Arts and Crafts Group 01684 310437 Badminton Club 01531 632430 Bell Ringers Eastnor 01432 853271 Bell Ringers ledburychurchbellringers@gmail.com Bowling Club Ledbury 01531 631680 Bowls Club Eastnor 01531 634530 Boxing Club Ledbury Amateur 01531 631879 Bridge Club 01531 670226 Carnival Association 01531 633172 Community Voluntary Action 01531 635339 Country & Western Club 01531 635682 Cribbage 01531 635116 Cycling UK, Ledbury Group 01684 564018 Eastnor Cricket Club 01531 633055 EFT Group 01531 631603 Evergreen Club 01531 636790 Ex-Round Tablers 01531 632298 01531 634785 Guides and Brownies Hereford Deer Management www.hdms.org.uk Herefordshire Photographic Society e: dachsman78@yahoo.co.uk 01432 850554 Horticultural Society 01531 632489 Ladies Guild RNLI 01531 633286 Ladies Welcome Club 01531 636176 Ledbury Allotment Association 01531 632220 Led Amateur Dramatic Society 01531 632093 Ledbury Area Cycle Forum chairman@lacf.org.uk 01531 890835 Ledbury Art History Group Ledbury Art Society 01531 631099 Ledbury Choral Society 01531 635081 Ledbury Cricket Club 01531 633012 Led Community Brass Band lcbb@hotmail.co.uk 01531 821423 Ledbury Community Choir Ledbury & District U3A 01531 633637 Ledbury & District Civic Society 01531 633853 Led & District Floral Art Club 01531 635404 Ledbury and District Harriers 07960 866381

Ledbury In Bloom 01531 641817 Ledbury & District Sports & Recreation 01531 633703 Ledbury and District Amateur Swimming Club clubsecretary@ladasc.co.uk Ledbury Ladies Afternoon Club 01531 633620 Ledbury Fairtrade Group 01432 890532 Ledbury Food Bank 01531 633643 Ledbury Food Group 01531 633637 Ledbury Friendship & Activity Club 01531 633787 Ledbury Fundraising Group for Marie Curie Cancer Care ledbury.mariecurie@btinternet.com Ledbury German Circle 01531 633429 Ledbury Motorcycle Club 01432 860069 Ledbury Probus Club ledburyprobus@gmail.com Led Library Development Group 01531 632133 Ledbury Quilters 01989 720379 Ledbury Short Mat Bowls Club 01531 631272 Ledbury-Stromstad Twinning Association 01531 636176 Ledbury Support Group St Michael’s Hospice 01531 635404 Ledbury Swifts Football Club 01531 631675 Ledbury Tennis Club 01684 301643 07523 863214 Ledbury Town Archery Club Ledbury Town Football Club 01531 631463 Ledbury Youth Centre 01432 261589 Ledbury WI 01531 636808 Ledbury Naturalist Field Club 01531 635355 Ledbury Walkers’ Club 01531 634884 Parkway (Ledbury) WI 01531 632076 01531 634871 Ploughing Society Rifle and Pistol Club 01531 636808 Ring & Ride 01531 635503 Rotary Club 01531 890696 Royal British Legion 01531 632491 Rugby Football Club 01531 631788 Skittle League 01531 632338 Simply Singing 01684 576681 Swimming Pool 0845 241 2590 Table Tennis Club 01531 630168 Theatre Club Ledbury 01531 632101 Trumpet Agriculture Society 01531 670608 WEA Ledbury 01684 540624

To advertise your event or list your club or group, email info@grapevinepublications.co.uk27 Ledbury Focus

m o r f s d r a c t s Po Hi, I’m Sandie

live in Ledbury and would like to introduce you to a series of sixpostcard sized stories that I’ve written.

the Past

They are all inspired by places, or events that happened in or around our beautiful town. The first five stories move through history, recording a moment in time from an ancient pre-historic past to the nineteenth century. The last postcard is different. It’s not set in the past. It simply asks a question of us all about the sort of future that we will create. I don’t really know what started me thinking about writing the ‘postcards,’ except that we are fortunate, I think, to live in Ledbury. From our town, in every direction that we travel, we are surrounded by beautiful countryside and a rich history.

Postcard from the past - The Battle of Ledbury 1645 - Elsebeth’s Story

The events of the Battle of Ledbury are well recorded, but when it was happening how did it feel to the people who lived here? Below is Ellsebeth’s story.

id. rd 1645 and I am afra Lo r ou of ar Ye e th in It is 22nd April d of muskets, of battle un so e th to s ke wa e Sh ms. y noise of My babe cries in my ar e savagery of the angr th d an ep de g tin en m ong. cries, of wounds tor ason or its right or wr re its e, ttl ba is th of g d. death. I know nothin ning I must find brea or m e th in at th d an e hungry I know only that we ar e sound of chyard now. I hear th They fight in the chur Michael’s the mighty door of St t hi ey th as lls ba t ke Oak. mus erce the flesh of ancient dawn. and All Angels and pi e th e se y pray that we will safel d an ees kn y m to ll fa I my arms. town. My babe cries in is th of w do wi a , eth I am Elsb ere is no food. She is hungry, but th t at, someday, the peasan th y sa I en wh h ug la They eir Do you hear my words? e squire. That our babes will not starve in th th is It as t . will be as importan ccour as is their right su ive ce re ll wi ak we e d th cradles and the old an it so in yours? not so in my time. Is 28

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: betty@grapevinepublications.co.uk

Ledbury Funeral Services Ledburyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Only Local Independent Service for all your funeral requirements Contact Hilary Jones who will be happy to discuss all your funeral requirements, whether traditional or contemporary

Day and Night Service â&#x2014;&#x160; Chapel of Rest

01531 633388 132 The Homend Ledbury HR8 1BZ

TAXI Ledbury Private Car Hire Lebury Focus

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Airports, Docks, Races, Train & Bus Stations, Schools, Bars & Restaurants

Phone 07976 288140 Ledburycars@aol.com Ledburyprivatehire.com

No trip too short No journey too long

October 2015

The Homend Shopping Mall Independent retailers under one roof The Attic Rooms

Pre-loved furniture & new furniture. HUGE shop at the back of The Mall & front window also.

We are DOG Friendly

Opening Hours 9.00am to 5.00pm Monday to Saturday

We fix mobile phones All makes, all models!

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Screens, Digitizers, Batteries, Charging ports, Buttons, Hinges, Speakers, Microphones and more!

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The £ Place Firefly Collectables Specialising in gifts and homewares that have a purpose. Magnifying glasses, marcasite jewellery, hooks, doorstops, bookends, umbrella pots, hat and coat stands, candle snuffers, clocks and desk bells are just a small selection of what you will find!

Units to rent from £300 a month

This Spring... Transform and Rejuvenate Your Driveway, Patio or Paths

For free advice and a no obligation quotation call Colin today on 01531 633672 30 6

Our professional restoration service uses a revolutionary pressure rotary cleaning system to restore a wide variety of surfaces, restoring your drive,patio and paths to its ‘just laid’ finish. Our machines are purposely designed to provide a unique deep clean, effective enough to remove unsightly tyre marks, most oil stains, weeds, moss and slippery algae.

To call advertise callon 01684 833715 or email: betty@grapevinepublications.co.uk To advertise Nadelle 01531 650494 or nadelle@ledburyfocus.co.uk

masefield solicitors LLP an independent firm of solicitors providing a quality service you can rely on

Need help with wills, probate & estate administration, trusts or inheritance tax?

Charles Masefield

Nia Jones

Charles Masefield TEP has great experience gained over a legal career spanning more than 30 years. He has been a member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) since 2003. STEP is the leading international organisation for professionals working in this field. Charles is assisted by Nia Jones who is a solicitor and an affiliate member of STEP, and Rex Robins who has been with the firm since 2012 and is currently a trainee solicitor. We can help you  protect your interests with advice when you make your will  assist you with the estate administration process at a time when you might need that extra bit of guidance and support  advise you on protecting your assets through trusts  prepare powers of attorney that let you appoint someone you want to help you with your affairs  provide tax advice on the implications of transferring property and dealing with assets in an estate  give assistance in the preparation and submission of your personal tax returns to HMRC  make court applications should the need arise Our clients have told us that, amongst other things, we are reliable, professional, supportive and knowledgeable. We can visit you at home by arrangement. Why not see how we can help?

Rex Robins Telephone : 01531 632377

Ledbury Focus

E-mail : law@masefield.co.uk

Website : www.masefield-solicitors.co.uk

Volunteer at YHA Summer Camps for CV boosting experience

ocal people who are considering a career working with young people are being given a special opportunity to volunteer at YHA ‘s Summer Camps in 2017 to gain vital experience and boost their CV. Youth Hostelling charity YHA (England and Wales) is calling on people to volunteer at its popular weeklong GoXtreme and Action Adventure residential Summer Camps which are held during July and August. As well as the opportunity to work with 10-16 year olds, YHA will provide training in safeguarding and behaviour management as well as food, accommodation and travelling expenses throughout the volunteering experience. The volunteering opportunity is open to anyone who is 18 and has had any previous experience working with children. They must be available to have a DBS check as well as be available for a week or preferably two weeks in July and August. Volunteers must also be available to undergo a residential training course on the 14 and 15 July. YHA Summer Camps give young people the chance 32

to be independent, try outdoor experiences, grow in confidence and make new friends. Each year hundreds of young people attend YHA Summer Camps at Youth Hostels in Edale and Ravenstor in Derbyshire, St Briavels in Gloucestershire, Okehampton and the South Downs in Sussex. The Summer Camps are an action packed five days, featuring activities such as rafting, canoeing, rock climbing, weaselling, archery and quad biking. Crewenna Dymond, Head of Volunteering at YHA (England and Wales) commented: “As YHA is a charity, volunteers are essential to enable us to create these unique and memorable experiences. Volunteering to help at YHA Summer Camps is a uniquely rewarding experience for anyone, but particularly people who are considering a career that involves working with young people. However, the camps are as fun-packed for the volunteers as they are for the children and we always get great feedback.” The closing date for applications to become a YHA Summer Camps volunteer is 22 May 2017. To find out more about volunteering, visit https://jobs.yha. org.uk/volunteer/ or apply here https://jobs.yha. org.uk/volunteering-form/.

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: betty@grapevinepublications.co.uk

Chiropodist/Podiatrist Jonathan Lyne

A net Satur The s write Midla those not jo 9pm f The F No To librar of Led ticket

BSc (Hons) MSSCh MBChA

Professional Solutions James CMCIEH, CMIOSH All areas around Ostler Ledbury covered HOME VISITING SERVICE Family run business specialising in:

Fabrications • Bending • Polishing Repairs of Stainless Steel Mild Steel – Aluminium Also manufacturing of Stainless Steel Balustrading

0800 9788 934 For an appointment please call 07599 340 947 or 01684 891 848 07530 843336

HCPC registered www.Positive-Pest-Control.uk

Electrical Services

From made-to-measure one-offs to larger orders - no job too small

There Song 11am at the feltin Septe ticket The Jo – The 7pm t librar availa event

T: 01531 636262 M: 07792 671914 or email David or Carol Cooke d.cooke521@btinternet.com

Tree Surgeon All Aspects Of Tree Work

NPTC Qualified & Fully Insured

John Walsh 01531 670423 07970 879381 johnrfwalsh@gmail.com

Domestic Installer Intruder Alarms L.E.D Lighting Landlord Condition Reports Portable Appliance Testing 24/7 Call Out No job too small For a friendly reliable service please call

Daniel Gatenby t: 01531 635901 m: 07581 010711 e: spinely@hotmail.co.uk

We’ll cours childr

Finall your to spe 2020. heref where budge ask a

Tree Surgeon

Boiler Installations, Landlord Certificates Servicing & Breakdowns All Aspects Of Tree Work All aspects of Plumbing and Heating c7769 NPTC Heat Qualiﬁ ed & Fully Insured Air and Ground Source Pumps Under Floor Heating John Walsh Full Bathroom Design and Refurbishments

accredited installer for air source heat pumps

01531 670423 07970 879381 01531 634727 / 07792 909998 johnrfwalsh@gmail.com craig.s.taylor@sky.com

Ledbury Focus

Open 556739

Quick

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perpetuapress design & print

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tel 01531 820816

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Printing SOLUTIONS

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Full upholstery service Free quotation and advice

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Internal Stationery

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invoice books order Forms delivery pads

large format posters banners outdoor signs ADVERTISING BOARDS

Cushion inners made to measure

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Cushion cover make up Window seating Bespoke footstools and ottomans

Telephone: 07496 766 224 e-mail: croysdale4@aol.com 33 New Street Ledbury

www.perpetuapress.net

Ledbury Focus

September 2015

Ledbury Construction

‘suppo

16/08/2015 21:34 (Formally Ledbury Driveway

Ledbury Focus September 2015.indd 3

CRO-0003 Advert templates V4.indd 2

CAR & COMMERCIAL Block Paving We have moved to the Front• Extensions of Little Marcle •Road

OUT OF HOURS for Business Customers Service & Repairs on Request Is your vehicle in need of a service or repair, but you can’t get it to us in normal business hours? That’s no problem, here at ALFA TECH simply request an appointment to keep you on the road.

• En Suites Servicing

• Tarmac & Repairs MOT’s Cars • Vans • •Landscaping Class 7 • Conversions Commercial Vans & • Renovations • Fencing Motor Homes •Stone & Brickwork • Rooﬁ The One Stop Shop for all ng of

Servicing and MOT needs. •your Plastering • Rendering

MOT’s while you•wait • Foundations Drop Kerb Registered in our comfortable waiting area • Drainage

• All aspects of general bu

01531 631978 or 07837 024286 www.alfa-tech.co.uk Little Marcle Road, Ledbury, HR8 2DR

The Complete Building Solution - No jo •MOTs •Services •Tyres •Exhausts •Diagnostics •Air Conditioning 34

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: betty@grapevinepublications.co.uk Ledbury Focus

April

at the Theatre

SHOWS Remembering Edward Thomas (Hosted by Friends of Dymock Poets)

Saturday 1st April 11am – 4.30pm All Day Ticket £12/students £5 to include tea/coffee

Sofia Buckingham in Concert Saturday 1st April 8pm Tickets £12/students £8

Twelfth Night

(Live Screening National Theatre)

Thursday 6th April 7pm Tickets £15/students and over 60’s £12.50

Scorched

(presented by Open Sky Productions)

Saturday 8th April 8pm Tickets £10

Join a celebration of Edward Thomas’s poetry and prose commemorating the centenary of his death in the First World War. Lunch available to order Tel 01531 892920 / contact@dymockpoets.org.uk After years of writing emotional and real songs ‘Sofia Buckingham’ has recorded an album to be released in March showcasing her work from solo guitar and vocal to full-band rock. She will be joined by her producer Andy Brotherton also on guitar and will include music from this album.

(Live Screening The Royal Ballet)

The Live Screening from National Theatre ‘Twelfth Night’, ship wrecked on the rocks Viola is washed ashore but her twin Sebastian is lost. Where music is the food of love, and nobody is quite what they seem

The Dark Earth and the Light Sky

‘Scorched’ Brilliantly received at Edinburgh Fringe 2016 is inspired by writer Lisle Turner’s Grandfather. Memories of 1941 Egypt in WW11 then 1991 England where Jack reigns from his armchair in the rest home.

Jewels

Tuesday 11th April 7.15pm Tickets £15 /students and over 60’s £12.50 (presented by LADS)

Thursday- Saturday 27th – 29th April 8pm Tickets £10 /students £5

FILMS

Tickets £6.00 Students & Film Club Members £3.00 (unless stated otherwise)

Benny and Joon

Friday 14th April 8pm 1993/12/98mins

The Live Screening from The Royal Ballet ‘Jewels’ is George Balanchine’s evocation of the sparkle of emeralds, rubies and diamonds, it is a brilliant ballet classic Presented by LADS ‘The Dark Earth and the Light Sky’ by Nick Dear is a moving evocation of the life of Poet Edward Thomas leading up to his death in WW1 his friendship with Robert Frost and his marriage to Helen. Films ‘Benny and Joon’ Benny runs a small car repair shop while looking after his mentally ill sister Joon. Then after losing a bet, he brings another eccentric into the house Sam (Johnny Depp). Benny soon becomes jealous as they fall in love .

Tickets for all events can be booked on line at www.themarkettheatre.com Live Show Tickets: The Master’s House, St Katherine’s car park Mon/Thu/Fri 9.30am - 4.30pm  Tues 9.30am - 6pm  Sat 9.30am -12.30pm  closed Wednesday Or phone 07967 517125 for all shows and films Ledbury Focus

Making houses into homes... Clover are a local Ledbury based family business you can trust for all your home improvements. We cover all sorts of projects, you name it, we can do it! Proud to be endorsed as a Which? Trusted Trader

Warmer weather is the best time get building projects started so if you need additional living space but an extension is not an option, why not transform the space you already have using your loft or garage?

We now offer payment options that can be used to finance any of our projects

We’ve used Clover for all our major works, there is no comparison really to other companies. We can rely on you, you’re here when you say and we’re always fully satisfied with the standard of work.

We want you to love the work we do for you and to love how we do it We are situated at Wall Hills Farm on the Hereford Road just off the Ledbury Bypass. To find out more, arrange a visit or discuss a project, please call Clover on 01531 631965 or email info@cloveryourhome.co.uk

Find us on Facebook: Clover Your Home Follow us on Twitter: @CloverYourHome Pichells Place, Wall Hills Farm, Hereford Road, Ledbury, Herefordshire, HR8 2PR www.cloveryourhome.co.uk 36 To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: betty@grapevinepublications.co.uk

Stock photos for illustration purposes only

• Building Projects: Extensions and New Build, Bathroom and Kitchen Re-fits, Loft and Garage Conversions, Stonework, Electrical work, Plumbing work • Stoves and Logs: Wood-burning Stoves, Barn-stored, seasoned Logs • uPVC and Timber: Conservatories, Replacement windows and doors, Roofline and Guttering, Automated Garage Doors

Ledbury Country Market Is On The Move

ithAeffect fromservice Friday 7you Aprilcan Ledbury Country Market sells a reliable count on Ledbury Country Market wide selection of home produced •Painting & Decorating will move location from St vegetables, fruit, eggs, cakes, Plumbing Workpuddings, biscuits, bread and savoury Katherines Hall to•All the Burgage Hall. The opening time will remain items. We sell a popular range of •Flat Pack Assembly as 8.30am to 1.00pm and we are charcuterie and also craft items, open every Friday apart from a DIY •Household garden plants, cut flowers and MOT’s Classes 1&2 & 4&7 couple of weeks after Christmas. •Tiling & Flooring vegetable seedlings when in season. Burgage Hall is on Church Lane, Everything is fresh and produced • Carpentry situated behind the museum on the within a 15 mile radius of Ledbury right hand side walking good and Motorcycle Tyre Sales •Oddtowards Jobs &StRepairsby people with a passion for Car Michaels & All Angels Church. It can quality and value. Islands. More information can be Finance Available - subject to contract also be approached alleyway 849 721 found on www.ledburycountrymarket. Call Mattvia onthe 07966 Used cars, motorcycles We also provide tea, coffee and fruit beside Ledbury News near the Market co.uk, or on the nationaland website est over 20 years House. It is slightly smaller than our juice with home made biscuits, cake www.country-markets.co.uk. We are wheelchair accessible vehicle sales current venue but will be lovely and always keen to meet potential new and toasted teacakes. Motorcycle MOT’s warm in comparison! After 30 plus producers so if you think NE you might & Sales Ledbury Country Market is aNEW! Repairs ! see years at St Katherines we are taking be interested please comeW and the opportunity to try a different venue co-operative and a member of the what we do and learn more about what following the Burgage Hall becoming network of Country Markets in is involved. We look forward to greetavailable every Friday morning. England, Wales and the Channel ing you at our new venue from 7 April! Quick Professional Experienced

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Ledbury Focus Ledbury Focus

Interior painting & decoration service

Bespoke footstools ottomans telephone: 01531and 637352 mobile: 07496 766 224 Call Martin Weager on Telephone: 07496 766 224 e-mail: jim@ledburyupholsterer.co.uk 01684 564 360 croysdale4@aol.com 33 New Street Ledbury Mobile:e-mail: 07970 278 838 www.ledburyupholsterer.co.uk martinweager@hotmail.co.uk 33 New Street Ledbury September 2015

37 3

Tiling Slating Lead Work slating and lead work

BODKINS

Evans L i ve

“Do you and your elle horse need a break h c i or just a change All Repairs AllRoof roof & Chimney chimney repairs ?including undertaken, tiling, • of scenery • •

Stabling & Grazing

Use of All Facilities

Knitting yarns, needles and accessories • Threads Excellent Hacking Buttons • Ribbons • Fabrics Jump Facilities General haberdashery and much more …

Come andEco pitch 07837 498968 Friendly Installation Horsebox & Lorry Storage Eco Friendly Installation your caravan, tent for Specialists Flat Roofs 67 The Homend, Ledbury, HR8 1BP Specialists for Flat Roofs Floodlit areana Just a few miles from LedburyTel: 01531 634833 or horsebox for • 07920 for availableHire 01684 561791 |07920 001611 Call Dean 01684 561791 001611 bodkinsledbury@hotmail.co.uk over night stays” Local Pub within walking distance

Could you host an International Student?

To advertise call Nadelle on 01531 650494 or nadelle@ledburyfocus.co.uk

Marcle Decorators High quality painting and decorating services All aspects of decoration for interior and exterior work Honest, friendly and tidy service by experienced decorators ... We provide FREE quotations with no obligation to you

Call Simon on 01531 660342 or 07877 338712 e: marcledecorators@gmail.com www.marcledecorators.co.uk 38 80

To call advertise call on 01684 833715 or email: betty@grapevinepublications.co.uk To advertise Nadelle 01531 650494 or nadelle@ledburyfocus.co.uk

WINE MATTERS:

Italy Chiarieri. This red wine is regularly chosen be connoisseurs. The intense bouquet leads enticingly to the experience on the palate, perfectly, for this full-bodied wine. The name of this production is inspired by Hannibal, who is regarded as one of the greatest military commanders of all time and reputedly stopped at the area, near the Adriatic, using wine to restore strength to his soldiers. These powerful red wines make wonderful accompaniments, to numerous dishes.

taly needs little introduction, being well-established as a leading manufacturer and producer of many excellent commodities and products, which are exported globally. Art, history, gastronomy, plus tourism and sport are further interests and attractions, amongst others, which Italy has to offer. The cuisine of Italy is ‘legendary’ and Italian wines are renowned around the world. Italy has some very old wine producing areas. Many wine regions are located throughout the country, such as, Abruzzo, Calabria, Lombardy, Piedmont, Tuscany and Umbria, amongst numerous others, all with their own identity and character. I located multi awardwinning Chiarieri, in Pianella, and Ledbury Focus

was very impressed by the quality of their range of wines. For almost 100 years the Chiarieri family has been producing excellent wines, with knowledge and expertise passing from one generation to the next. Chiarieri produces wines to suit all palates and I found their range to include a most-acceptable Granaro (Montepulciano d’Abruzzo D.O.C.). This ruby-red wine is produced using 100% Montepulciano grapes. The bouquet is superb and the mouthfeel, plus palate sensation, very pleasant, indeed. A popular wine, which graces many tables and is enjoyed on numerous occasions.

Chiarieri Pecorino (Colline Pescaresi I.G.T.), I also found impressive. This white wine, utilising 100% Pecorino grapes, has a good aroma and mouthfeel. Fruit flavours, on the palate, are very evident and this appealed, to me. Again, a wellbalanced wine, which will pair with many dishes, perfectly. Passion and dedication, from a family committed to producing exceptional, highquality wines. All details of the full range of wines can be located on their website. www.chiarieri.it As always, Enjoy!

Trevor Langley

Vinum Hannibal Riserva (Montepulciano d’Abruzzo D.O.C.), is another splendid production from 39

then conversion to the Heritage Centre as we now know it by Malvern Hills District Council and opened in 1978.

Ledbury Heritage Centre

he Heritage Centre in Ledbury will be opening this year on Saturday 1st April. We will be open, as usual, between 10.30am and 4.30pm every day until the 31st October. There are changes ahead for us this year, since ownership has passed from Herefordshire Council to Ledbury Places. We are waiting for the outcome of the Heritage Lottery bid, which, if successful will result in some exciting changes for the building itself and our heritage offering. We are most grateful for the support we have had over the last three years from the Civic Society. Without the foresight of the Civic Society in obtaining the licence to run the centre for the last three years, there would have been a real risk that the building could have been put on the market and access ‘lost’ to Ledbury as an important heritage building for our town and its visitors.

The building has a huge ‘smoking’ chimney which we believe local butchers from the Butcher Row in the High Street may well have used to smoke their carcasses. We have a large number of photographs from the Tilly collection which show how Ledbury used to be; displays about the building of the railway and the canal, of John Masefield who was born in the town, and Elizabeth BarrattBrowning who lived with her family in Hope End. We have hands-on activities for children – popular with adults too.

There is another very exciting project beginning this year called ‘Joined up Heritage’. Sponsored by grants from the Heritage Lottery Fund, Ledbury Town Council, Ledbury & District Civic Society and the Pippin Trust, ’Joined up Heritage’ will reach out to Ledbury’s heritage buildings, (including the Heritage Centre), and their volunteers to link them together wherever and whenever possible with interesting and exciting events and themes, aimed at encouraging visitors and local people to become increasingly involved in Ledbury’s wonderful heritage.

2016 was a successful year for us, with visitor numbers exceeding 25,000. Our visitors came from all over the British Isles and from as far afield as the Far East, North, Central and South America, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand and of course Europe. It always heartening to read comments that our visitors put in the Visitors’ Book about the atmosphere and age of the building, the many photographs we display of ‘old Ledbury’, and not least, comments about the friendliness and knowledge of our volunteers, without whom of course we could not open our doors.

The Heritage Centre was built at the end of the 15th century. This very atmospheric building has had many different uses, from its beginnings when it was built in 1480 by East Anglian Woollen merchants, to a Latin Grammar School, accommodation for five families in the 19th and 20th centuries, and

We currently have over 50 enthusiastic volunteers. Some have been with us for many years but each season there are a number of new volunteers who join us. They always receive a warm welcome and soon feel ‘one of the team’. If you are interested in joining us please ring 01531 633637.

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: betty@grapevinepublications.co.uk

%Q GFWECVKQPCN r &C[ 9GGMN[ (NGZK CPF (WNN $QCTFKPI r t [GCTU

1RGP &C[ $CPM *QNKFC[ /QPFC[ UV /C[ CO s RO Private visits are also available at any time (QT OQTG KPHQTOCVKQP RNGCUG EQPVCEV -CVJGTKPG %QZ 4GIKUVTCT r TGIKUVTCT"VJGFQYPU OCNEQN QTI YYY VJGFQYPUOCNXGTP QTI WM Ledbury Focus

LDA MEATS of Ledbury

Traditional butchers using traditional methods, all meats are pr

April Specials Rolls Topside/Silverside Rolls Brisket Rolls Roasting Rib Sets of Ribs (4-Bone) Boned Leg Pork (whole) Leg of Pork (with bone) Boneless Shoulder Pork Loins of Pork Half Legs of Lamb Front of Lamb (shoulders) Whole legs of Lamb Fresh English Chicken (8) Fresh Chicken Leg 10lbs Frozen Ducks Corner Gammon Joints Mini Gammon Steak 5lbs

Tradition £7.60 £6.80 £6.95 £10.50 £4.00 £2.95 £3.80 £6.00 £8.80 £4.40 £8.20 £2.95 £7.50 £6.60 £3.00 £5.00

Taken fr traditional pig cured in spe sugars to succulent dry £8

Gareth’s H Fag

Made fresh eve blend of 5 diff shaped into 5oz only 6

Free delivery service for areas: Ledbury, Ross, Hereford, Upton, Evesham, Worcester, Pershore & Tewkesbury on orders over £25.00

Telephone:

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PIG ROASTS NOBODY CR LIK

All Major Credit accepted.

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roperly matured on our premises. Ministry inspected cutting plant License number 4761.

nal Bacon

5lb Packs

Minced Beef Diced Beef Braising Beef Rump Steak Sirloin Steak Pork Chops Pork Belly Homemade Diced Pork Pork Steaks ggots. Lamb Chops ery week with a ferent herbs and Diced Lamb z - 6oz portions at Lamb Steaks 60p each Chicken Fillets Diced Chicken Breast

rom large gs, the pork is ecial salts and produce a y cure bacon. 8.80

CARCASES Whole or half lamb Whole or Half Pig Fore Quarters Beef Hind Quarters Beef

SAUSAGES & BURGERS £11.00 £15.00 £16.00 £22.50 £40.00 £10.00 £10.00 £10.00 £12.00 £22.00 £25.00 £25.00 £15.00 £12.00 £5.20 £3.00 £4.95 £6.75

This Month’s Special 5Kg Chicken Fillets

S AVAILABLE RACKLES ‘EM’ KE US.

All made fresh on the premises and made with our own local meats. All Sausage & burgers made with 100% meat Burgers 24 x 4oz Per Box Or 12 x 8oz Per Box £12.00 Beef Burgers £10.00 Pork & Apple £15.00 Lamb & Mint 70p Gluten free burgers The Proper Sausage Plain Pork Pork & Garlic Pork & Chilli Pork & Leek Pork & Tomato Pork & Chive Pork & Apple Cumberland Smokey Pork Steak & Onion Venison Gluten Free Pork Mix 5lbs Bags Only

£5.80 £5.80 £5.80 £5.80 £5.80 £5.80 £5.80 £5.80 £5.80 £5.80 £5.80 £5.80 £10.00

ALL PRICES ARE PER Kg and SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY UNLESS OTHERWISE STATED .

Ledbury Focus

Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction

8 week course @ Hereford Yoga Centre Introductory Session: March 29th  2pm to 4pm  £15

Full 8 Week Course

Dates: April 26th; May 3rd, 10th, 17th & 24th; June 7th, 14th & 21st. 1pm to 3.15pm

Full Day Practice: May 28th  10am to 4pm

Cost: £220  early bird rate £200 if booked before March 30th For full details go to www.tinaabbottcounselling.co.uk To book a place, please contact: Tina Abbott email: tinaabbottcounselling@gmail.com Tel: 07778 036024

o you’ve obviously become aware of this Mindfulness craze sweeping the world? But what is Mindfulness? How could it benefit you? Tina Abbott explains: Mindfulness is a very simple form of meditation which has become increasingly popular in the west due to discoveries about the mind-body connection in health and illness in the last 25-30 years. In that time, researchers have discovered that the mind and the body are intimately connected. It is now known that thoughts, beliefs, emotions, and stress all have a significant impact on health and illness.

Mindfulness’ roots lie in Buddhism and it has been made applicable for general use through the work of pioneers of using meditation for health care purposes such as Jon Kabut-Zinn. He has promoted mindfulness -as a secular practice accessible to anyone - through his highly acclaimed and evidence based stress reduction programme used in medical centres across the world to help people deal with the stress of modern day living, anxiety, depression and chronic pain. 44

Mindfulness is a tool individuals can learn to use for themselves to promote their own health and well-being. Research has shown that individuals who learn and practice these skills daily are likely to have a better health outcome than those who do not. In particular, research has shown that the ability to concentrate attention can promote deep relaxation in the body, and that the ability to be more mindful in each situation can help break the destructive habitual reactions to stress. Mindfulness is intentionally paying attention, moment to moment to one’s experience, fostering an attitude of gentle curiosity and compassion. It is an adaptable tool which can be practised anytime and anywhere, says Danny Penman, author of Mindfulness: A practical guide to finding peace in a frantic world. To practise mindfulness, says Penman, a person must focus on what is happening inside their body and mind in real time -

a technique that Penman refers to as "full conscious awareness". The simplest way to practise mindfulness is to sit upright in a chair, close your eyes, and focus on the sensations that your breath makes as it flows into and out of your body, says Penman. As your mind begins to chase after different thoughts, bring your awareness back to the sensations of the breath. You’ll need to do this continuously as the mind will constantly wander even if you are a practiced meditator! This is totally normal, it’s what minds do, we simply need to keep bringing the attention back. If you’d like to find out more why not come along to an Introductory Session on March 29th 2-4pm at the fabulous new Hereford Yoga Centre? If you find you enjoy it there is a full 8 week Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction course starting on April 26th. For further details, go to www. tinaabbottcounselling.co.uk or contact Tina at tinaabbottcounselling@gmail. com or on 07778 036024.

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: betty@grapevinepublications.co.uk

tbarrow@muchmarcle.hereford.sch.uk www.muchmarcle.hereford.sch.uk 01531 660607

Reflexology Relax Restore Revive Carol Clark FFR (Cert.) MFHT Heidi Tulloch At Colwall, Cradley & Newent or home visits within Three (Doctorthe of Chiropracti c) Counties Area

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Ledbury Construction PAVE YOUR WAY

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resurfacing specialists & Groundworks Limited Make Your Outdoors Great Again ALL WORK IS FULLY GUARANTEED with our Inspirational Ideas

email: ledburycandg@gmail.com www.ledburyconstructionandgroundworks.co.uk ◊ Driveways ◊ Patios ◊ Block Paving

Ask about our Drive Cleaning Service

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

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Extensions ■ Block Paving Great Deals on En◊Suites ■ Natural Tarmac Sandstone Conversions Landscaping ◊ Tarmac ◊ ■Vehicle Crossing Renovations ■ Fencing ◊ Drop Kerb Entrances Stone & Brickwork ■ Rooﬁng Plastering ■ Rendering ◊ Large Selection of Products Foundations ■ Drop Kerb Registered Drainage ■ All aspects of general building For all enquiries call Colin Jones 01531 633672

w w w. p a v e y o u r w a y. c o . u k Marshalls Approved Installer

Call us on 01531 632414 or 07901 761656 for a on quotation 10 Year Guarantee on Products - 5 Year Guarantee Workmanship

Av. drive £120

To advertise call Nadelle on 01531 650494 or nadelle@ledburyfocus.co.uk

Chiropodist/Podiatrist Jonathan Lyne

Ledbury Focus September 2015.indd 50

BSc (Hons) MSSCh MBChA

HOME VISITING SERVICE

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Discreet and professional service using the safest methods to protect your family

All areas around Ledbury covered For an appointment please call 07599 340 947 or 01684 891 848 HCPC registered Ledbury Focus

01885 490353 or 07768 625 477 and ask for Ray 45

01531 633895 / 07796 162027

All Jobs Welcome. Collection & Delivery Service Onsite Servicing

Chainsaws Lawm Mowers Strimmers Hedge Cutters

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A month Later, the farmer met up with Donald and asked, “What happened with that dead 15/08/2015 horse?” PB

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Donald said, “I raffled him off. I sold 500 tickets at five dollars a piece and made a profit of $2495.” The farmer said, “Didn’t anyone complain?” Donald said, “Just the guy who won. So I gave him his five dollars back.” Donald recently moved into the White House . . .

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: betty@grapevinepublications.co.uk

Marina’s Gallery

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A seasonal celebration of apple s, orchards and cider in the Herefordshire parishes of the Marcle Ridge

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House, Office, Shops, Garage & Shed CLEARANCE Ebay/Facebook Collections Waste/Rubbish Removal Office/Home Moves

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The Warmth of a Real Coal Fire

Ward’s Gardens Providing an experienced quality service

All Aspects of Landscaping Garden & Tree Maintenance Lawn Mowing & Strimming Hedge Cutting Fencing, Decking & Patios

For quality pre-packed coal delivered to your door at competitive prices contact Nick Fish at: A W Parker Coal Merchants Ltd Ledbury 01531 631675 or 07483 350639 www.awparkercoalmerchants.co.uk

Tim Ward - Landscape Gardener - Fully Insured s e Y o u r P r o p e r t y ' s F u l l P o t e n t i a l"

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The Master's House

Energy Self-Sufficiency – Pipe Dream or

Best Time to Switch from Oil or LPG to a Reality? Heat Pump?

It’s now a reality! Battery NOW!Storage systems are

to 12 noon now available; produce your own electricityTuesday 4th April : 10.00am ith the Master’s House first

The Government are increasing the tariffs

An Absolute Beginners Guide to Tablets

from April 2017,you but you can it. install now when need and receive the extra rates in April 2017!

Learn simple computer skills, including how to use the summer is fast approaching and with internet, and pick up plenty of tips. Tablets will be provided packed program events. or you can bring your own. Booking isof essential. Free

this two hour beginners’ workshop. Get started on a tablet in anniversary behind us, our se during the day useSource it during evenings for Air andand Ground Heat the Pumps

Why Now? There will be a capped limit introduced in April 2017 which could reduce your payments, especially if you were looking at Ground Source Heat Pumps.

Tuesday 4th April : 4.45pm toPanelled 5.45pm The beautiful Room is now a Ledbury Readers’ Group functioning exhibition space and will b A friendly adult readers’ group held in Ledbury Library. the Art week in join September. No bookingofrequired, just drop in and us and books will be provided. We’ll be discussing The Grapes of Wrath Further by John Steinbeck. Freeinformation is available in the

Activities and Events Calendar June to

Tuesday 4th April : 7.00pm to 8.30pm September 2016 Herefordshire in the Great War – talkobtainable by Bill Laws from Ledb HerefordianLibrary. author and historian, Bill Laws, talks about his GSM Limited offers a local service, free of latest book Herefordshire’s Home Front in the First World Renewable Solutions Means You Can Benefit charge surveys, comperhenisve quotations are: War with a Highlights focus on Ledbury in and August the surrounding area. From: His book reveals how the king turned former chauffeur and great customer care Tuesday 2ndmost August 7-8.30 p.m. George Butcher into England’s famous ploughman; Being Environmentally Friendly the gaolingBringing of plucky Welsh Heritage munitioneer Elsie Abel who to Life! Call: saved the Rotherwas National Filling Factory from an Controlling your Energy Tickets £3.00 01531 828 782 explosion; the fate of the German mistress Mary Bernstein and her child caught hiding in Hereford; and the wounded today andFeed-in-Tariffs book your FREE Survey Philip Songhurst from Orcop soldier given his family home by publicImagemakers ta Lower Energy Bills about interpretation ofhome The Master subscription. This isthe the story of Herefordshire at Battery Storage during the and Great War. £3.00 about the benefits gained from eng

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Thursday 6th April : 7.00pm to with heritage in9pm an interactive and crea

Locally based, GSM and are Thermal purveyours of : LEDBURY POETRY SALON Solar Panels

Monday 8th August 10.30 a.m. to n

Rhiannon Hooson and Open Mic Air Conditioning Smart - Air Source Heat Pumps Battery Storeage - Ground Controls and –Switches

Rhiannon Hooson’s collectionJar is The Other City, BFG'sdebut Dream Workshop. published by Seren. She was born in Mid Wales and now drop-in lives in the Free Welsh Marches after time spent living in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. “This is a beguiling debut”. This£5year’s (Graham Mort) (payableSummer at the door)Reading Challenge

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enquiries@gsmlimited.com

Our Advice Is Free! Help is here: 01531 828782 Visit us:Email GSM,us: Oldenquiries@gsmlimited.com Station Road, Newent, GL18 1BB Visit us: GSM, Old Station Road, Newent, GL18 1BB

based on Roald Dahl, so to celebrate, h

Tuesday 11th April : 10.00am to 12 noon BFG Masks fill his Mythical Monster andempty Storytimeglass jars with dream Become a beastly monster injar thisaway family with you; wh yourmythical own dream workshop. is Create your own mythical monster mask, draw what d a winksquiffler or phizzwizard a page for the library’s Monster Book of Monsters, and would theofBFG to deliver? listen to some stories like for plenty inspiration. Suitable for little monsters under 9 years old. Free drop in 48

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: betty@grapevinepublications.co.uk

April Programme

EXHIBITION Saturday 15th April : 10.00am to 12.30pm ith Master’s House Thursday 11th 10and a.m. - 12 Thursday noon 11th August 10 a.m. 12 noon Thursday 30th March to Saturday 15th -April Landscape ofthe the Imagination – aAugust seriesfirst of poetry TRANSLATE THE HOUSE econd drawing workshops anniversary behind second Terracotta Potsus, toour Grow Your Own Terracotta PotsMASTER’S to Grow Your Own To celebrate the culmination of the Translation Project at To find out more about this project, which was launched in h it a summer is fast approaching and with it a Free drop-in The Master’s House, join us for an exhibition of the October 2016, askdrop-in at Ledbury Library Counter. £5 per session Free packed program of events. translated materials produced and an open access interactive Monday Eastnor 17th April :Pottery 10.00am towill 12.30pm help you spin your Eastnor very will help youacross spin Europe. your very timeline ofPottery the key events happening Over House Tour Master’s fully The beautiful Panelled Room is now a fully thesupply past five months, volunteers across thesupply county have own terracotta pot to take home andown terracotta pot to takefrom home and Friends of Theexhibition Master’s House offerand the opportunity to be come together toseeds translate Master’s be partfunctioning space will be your part with seeds toHouse grow you herbs with the and toThe grow yourHouse own leaflet herbsinto and taken on you a detailed tourthe of The Master’s to give an own different languages spoken, read, and written within of the Art week in September. flowers. Suitable allofages flowers. Suitable for all insight into its architecture and the for history the beautiful Herefordshire’s boundaries andages places the history of The 15th Century building. Tickets/donations gratefully Master’s House into the context of wider European events Further information is available in the Tuesday 23rdLibrary August 11-12 noon received Tuesday 23rd August 11-12 noon over the centuries. Opening Times

o bury

Activities and Events Calendar June to Odysseus &tothe Cyclops Odysseus & the TOUR Cyclops BOOK A PRIVATE OF THE MASTER’S Friday 21st April : 11.00am 12.30pm September 2016 obtainable from Ledbury HOUSE A Good Read? Readers’ Group Free drop-in Free drop-in Would you like to book a tour of The Master’s House Library. A good read, or not a good read? Bring along a book on a day and time thatadventure suits you? and We are verya happy you’ve read. Share and adventure perhaps a small and bring Join in your on thoughts this epic Join ina on this epic bring to book groups on an individual basis, so please get Highlights inbook August are: snippet from the in this friendly and informal readers’ Greek myth to life in this lively and Greek interactive to will life try in this interactive in touchmyth and we and lively arrangeand a mutually group. Second Friday of each month. The perfect way to storytelling session. Suitable for under storytelling 12’s. session. Suitable for under 12’s. convenient visit. We do ask that each visitor makes a Tuesday 2nd August 7-8.30 p.m. get some new reading inspiration. Free donation, which goes directly towards future events Bringing Heritage to Life! SaturdayChildren 22nd April : under 11.00am to years 12 noon 8 old must be Children supervised under 8 yearsofold be supervised and activities. Minimum 10must per group.

Tickets £3.00 Ledbury at Young allWriters’ times.Group with Sara-Jane Arbury

at all times. THE MASTER’S HOUSE GIFTS AND CARDS Professional writer and poet, Sara-Jane Arbury, leads a We have a range of gifts and cards available to buy, all alks Philip Songhurst from Imagemakers talks young writers’ group to explore creative writing in a fun beautifully designed and finished, to serve as a and imaginative way. Come and think crafty Tours of the House take Tours of ofyour the Master's House take r’s House about the interpretation ofMaster's The about Master’s Housewillreminder visit. The gift cart iswill open for characters and beginnings, middles, and ends – you are business on specific days but if there is no onep.m. in on Monday, 8 August place p.m. on Monday, 8 August from 6.30 gagingand about place the benefits gained from engagingfrom 6.30 sure to be inspired! Booking is essential. Visit www. attendance when you visit, please take your purchase ative way. with heritage in anp.m. interactive way. - 8.00 and Wednesday, 31 August - 8.00 10p.m. and Wednesday, 31 August 10 writingwestmidlands.org to reserve aand place.creative Suitable for to the library counter. 9-14 year olds. £5 per a.m. tosession 11.30 a.m. Tickets are free. a.m. Theto 11.30 a.m. Tickets are free. The BOOKING AND TICKETS noon Monday 8th August 10.30 a.m. to noon Friends of the Master’s House offer Friends the the Master’s House offer the Tuesday 25th April : 2.00pm to 4.30pm Call: 01432of 383499 BFG's Dream Jar Workshop. Landscape ofopportunity the Imagination –to a series of poetryon anda detailed Email: ledburylibrary@herefordshire.gov.uk be taken opportunity tour to be taken on a detailed tour Free drop-in drawing workshops Tickets willanbeinsight availableinto 6 weeks before the event from to give an insight into the architecture to give and the architecture and A series of poetry and drawing workshops. To find out Ledbury Library unless otherwise stated. Tickets that e is This Summer Reading Challenge is history this 15th century history of this beautiful 15th century more year’s about this project,of which wasbeautiful launched in October have not been collected the day before the event, 2016, ask Ledbury Library £5 per session help the based onatRoald Dahl, soCounter. to celebrate, help the building. building. unless otherwise advised, will be reallocated.

ms. Take BFG fill his26th empty jars to with dreams. Take Opening Hours: Wednesday Aprilglass : 2.00pm 4.30pm Donations welcomed on completion Donations of welcomed on completion of Master’s House Tour hetheryour it own dream jar away with you; whether it Mon, Thurs, Fri 9.30am to 4.30pm the tour. the tour. of The Master’s offer the opportunity to be Tuesday 9.30am to 6.00pm dreamisFriends a winksquiffler orHouse phizzwizard what dream taken on a detailed tour of The Master’s House01531 to give an631873 Wednesday closed Contact telephone: Contact telephone: 01531 631873 would likeitsthe BFG toand deliver? insight into architecture history of this beautiful 15th Saturday 9.30am to 12.30pm Century building. Tickets/Donations gratefully received

Ledbury Focus

Sunday closed

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Growing throughout Ledbury since 1998

50 66

68 or email: To advertise call 01684 833715 betty@grapevinepublications.co.uk advertise call Nadelle on 01531 65049 To advertise call Nadelle on 01531 650494 or To nadelle@ledburyfocus.co.uk

he Bowling Season is on us again. The Open Day for Eastnor Bowling Club - now in its 87th year is on 9th April 2017 at 2pm. The Club is situated in the beautiful tranquil surroundings of the Deer Park, in the small village of Eastnor just astnor Bowling Club to was in outside Ledbury. The entrance theestablished Club is opposite 1930. toSituated opposite Eastnor Castle, the entrance Eastnor Castle.

entrance to the club is through the old woodOpen Day is a very informal time to meet and greet yard in the Deer Park, with ample parking in before the start of the bowling season. We are a friendly the club grounds. club and our door is always open to new members, so if

you like to give bowlingEngland, a try, or would like tothe We would are affiliated to Bowls and with freshen up old skills, you will be made very welcome. All success we've had in County Competitions we are you need is a pair of flat shoes, so come along and enjoy very proud that our players are going on to the the hospitality at Eastnor and maybe make new friends.

Nationals at Leamington.

On the day, you can have the help of our experienced Coach or have a roll up with the members here. If you want to try something different we will also have the game of cornhole - a fun game for all ages. There will also be a BBQ and cake stall, with tea and coffee, or if you prefer something a little stronger the Bar will be open. Club Night is every Friday from six during the bowling season. We have a couple of Social Days, the first one is on Saturday 15th April and another on Sunday 3rd September; both start at 2pm. If you require more information, please contact Pat on 01531 650603 or Rose on 01531 633010 or have a look at our web site www.eastnorbowlingclub.co.uk.

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During the winter months after the bowling season is over, club members meet for games nights, and to play cards etc. Our regular quiz nights, which include supper, are very popular and Saturday 23rd April • z winners Fully trained and experienced technicians, checked Ladies vs Gents Social Day z the take home a variety of fun prizes. fully CRB Everyone • z pride Our team are dedicated customer with a can join in for a fun filled afternoon z We ourselves on being ato friendly clubsatisfaction and friendly personal service welcome everyone regardless of age or ability, and Sunday 12th June • our extraction cleaning and amazing z Rapid Socialcleaning Day allz clubdrying games steam are mixed. results for your upholstery and carpets Scarecrow Competition with a Royal theme For those who are new to bowls - and anyone • z 100% delighted or your money back z who'd like a few tips to improve their game - we Friday Nights are Club Nights throughout the • z Amazing stain removal cleaning. You to will be impressed z have a fully qualified coach on hand ready help season,with so why not come along up, or just Tanya andfor Billya roll Russell the results of our training and powerful equipment and advise you. pop in for a drink and a chat. owners of Billy Russell Floorcare z • z Minimum disruption for you, and we can move your furniture

We have some fixtures planned for the coming months, so please make a note of these dates:

For more informationFREE aboutCONSUMER the club please have a GUIDE Don’t call any carpet cleaning look at our website Call today to book your free quotation 01531 810013 company until you’ve www.eastnorbowlingclub.co.uk Sunday 17th April downloaded and read our or contact: Open Day FREE Consumer Guide: SHOCKING truths about Captain Rose onThe T: 01531 633010 Bring the family and stay for tea - junior and adult Carpet Cleaning woods available so come and give it a try Secretary Pat on T: 01531 650603

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Ledbury Focus

photo courtesy of Evan Bowen Jones

photo courtesy of Herefo

Exploring Herefordshire’s landscapes with Herefordshire Wildlife Trust . . .

Ancient Woodland

erefordshire boasts 46,688 acres of ancient or ancient semi-natural woodland. These include oak, beech, ash and yew dominated woodlands though ancient woodlands usually contain a variety of trees, often with an understory of hawthorn and other small trees and shrubs. To be described as ancient, a site must have been continuously wooded since around 1600. That’s not to say that any individual tree 52

must be over 400 years old (though many such venerable examples may be found in an ancient woodland), just that the site cannot have been felled and replanted as this will reset the wood’s ecological clock. Many ancient woodlands have only survived as conditions were too steep, too wet or too infertile to be converted to agriculture. While many ancient woodlands are now managed for nature conservation purposes, nearly all the woodlands of Herefordshire were intensively managed in the past. Most woodlands were managed by

coppicing – cutting trees to the base and allowing to regrow. The wood which was harvested would be used for firewood or charcoal but also, as the regrowth produced straight poles, for crafts such as hurdle making. Undulations and hollows in the ground are often indications of past quarrying which was carried out across Herefordshire from the Neolithic period to the Twentieth Century. In places, you may even spot the remains of lime kilns. In fact, the peaceful woodlands though which we stroll today were often alive with people and industry in centuries past.

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: betty@grapevinepublications.co.uk

ordshire Wildlife Trust

photo courtesy of Ian Yenn

Wildlife to spot There is no lovelier place than a woodland in spring. Managed ancient woodlands boast a wealth of wildflowers in their glades and along woodland rides including wood anemone, bluebells, ramsons, primroses. Rarer species such as the early purple orchid, herb paris and greater butterly orchid can also be found if you know what to look for. Herds of fallow deer are often spotted in Herefordshire woodlands; in woodlands managed by coppicing, areas are often fenced to protect young coppice from deer which like to browse the regrowth. Ancient woods are also home to many birds. Warblers such as black caps and chiff chaff are likely to be spotted as well as nuthatches, treecreepers and woodpeckers while visit near to dusk and you may well hear the â&#x20AC;&#x153;twit-twoo-ingâ&#x20AC;? of a tawny owl.

photo courtesy of Herefordshire Wildlife Trust photo courtesy of Herefordshire Wildlife Trust

As the weather warms, many butterflies can be spotted in woodlands, especially where woodland rides, (broad, open paths,) are kept open. Early in the year look for the brimstone butterfly which are quickly followed by specked woods, commas, gatekeepers and peacock butterflies. In areas of Herefordshire, the wood white butterfly is also thriving and Butterfly Conservation are currently running a project in the West Midlands to conserve this rare species. . . . continued on page 54 Ledbury Focus

Events at Herefordshire Wildlife Trust April 2017 Gruffalo's Spring Picnic Saturday 8th April 10am - 3pm Come and celebrate spring with the Gruffalo at Queenswood! This special community event will include art and music workshops, live music, local food producers, stalls, face painting and wildlife encounters. WildPlay will be providing activities in the arboretum including an egg hunt, woodland art and den building. Also why not get involved in our SPRING BAKE OFF competition! Oh, and of course, bring a picnic and share it with our special visitor, the Gruffalo!! Venue: Queenswood Country Park, Dinmore Hill, Nr Leominster Cost: Free (usual parking charges apply)

. . . continued from page 53

Where to find them Herefordshire Wildlife Trust manages several ancient woodlands. Two contrasting examples can be found on the Woolhope Dome in the east of the county: Lea & Paget’s wood is a beautiful, airy broad-leaved woodland where spring flowers abound while close-by Nupend Wood is dominated by a limestone ridge where a narrow path winds through dark yew trees. The Doward in south Herefordshire, is a heavily wooded landscape brooding above the Wye Valley. Explore Leeping Stocks, Woodside and Miners Rest and look out for pale primroses and, as spring turns to summer, woodland butterflies. Find an ancient woodland near you at: www.herefordshirewt.org/ wildlife/reserves Love your Woodland One way to cherish our ancient woodlands is to volunteer with a group which carries out the woodland management, practiced for centuries, which extends the life of these woods. Herefordshire Wildlife Trust run volunteer work parties across Herefordshire – no previous experience required! Find out more at www.herefordshirewt.org/volunteer. 54

Spring Family Foraging 2pm – 4pm Monday 10th April An afternoon of foraging for wild food on the Downs with Liz Knight of Forage Fine Foods. A free workshop running as part of the Bromyard Downs Project, in partnership with the Bromyard Downs Common Association. Venue: Bromyard Downs Common, Bromyard Cost: Free Booking: Booking essential: 07341 736182 or email h.welsh@herefordshirewt.co.uk Walk and Draw at Lea & Paget’s Wood Thursday 20th April 10am - 12.30pm Herefordshire Wildlife Trust’s artist in residence, Richard Bavin, will give an introductory drawing workshop in the Trust’s scenic Lea & Paget’s Wood nature reserve. No previous experience of drawing is necessary. Venue: Lea & Pagets Wood, Hawkers Lane, Fownhope, Herefordshire Cost: £20 (includes materials) Booking: Booking essential: www.herefordshirewt.org tel: 01432 356872 Annual Fritillary Day Saturday 22nd 10am - 2pm Herefordshire Wildlife Trust staff and volunteers will lead guided walks of the rich array of wildflowers and, including the nationally rare snake’s head fritillaries, which grow on the Lugg Meadow. There will also be WildPlay activities on offer for children. Venue: Lower House Farm, Ledbury Road, Tupsley, Hereford HR1 1UT Cost: £5, children up to 14 yrs free; no booking required.

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Pre & Post Join 55

and so can give the impression that you are speaking directly with someone.

Advice for a Safer

COMMUNITY Non-emergency calls We would like to remind our communities that the best way to reach us in non-emergency situations is via 101. Remember in an emergency dial 999. Over the past few months we have received a number of calls from residents who have left voicemail messages with us. In order for us to provide the best service we can, we need to get your reports via the appropriate channels so we can act accordingly. Voice mails are not checked on a regular basis and should not be used to report crime. 101 should be used in nonemergencies and all other enquires, including advice on police matters and to report crimes which have already happened, where there is no sign of an offender. 101 is an easy-to-remember number for the public to call the police, designed to reduce the number of non-emergency 999 calls. An operator is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to deal with your enquiry Having these two different numbers means that we can respond more quickly to genuine emergencies, such as when someone is in immediate danger, a 56

crime is happening right now, or a suspect for a serious crime is nearby. A call to 101 costs just 15 pence no matter how long your call is. Not only is this cheaper than some forces' local numbers, the single rate for every call means you know exactly how much your call will cost. Did you know you can report a crime to us online? We now have a simple form you can fill out online, rather than calling 101. If you need to report a crime, try it here: https://www. westmercia.police.uk/article/2366/ Report-a-crime "Angry man" prank calls Ledbury SNT are raising awareness after numerous reports in the area about prank phone calls. Two numbers that the calls are being received from are 07520 635809 and 07520 615342. Both numbers are known for prank calls, however there are other 07520 numbers reported as well. The calls are pre-recorded generated responses about a variety of scenarios. In one, an angry sounding man claims you have hit his car, in another he claims you are stealing his wi-fi. The calls can leave the recipient confused, annoyed and sometimes frightened. Whilst they are pre-recorded messages, they anticipate the recipient’s response

Whilst this doesn't necessarily need to be reported to Police, we would advise anyone with particular concerns to contact us, otherwise ignore the call. You could contact your local provider who may be able to put a block on calls such as these and if you are getting calls at night you could put your phone on night mode or switch it off. If you receive a call from a 07520 number you can check to see if it’s known as a prank number by simply putting it into a search engine such as Google. The numbers are untraceable and are believed to come from a prank call app. Penalty points and fines for drivers using mobile phones have doubled From Wednesday 1st March 2017 motorists caught using mobile phones at the wheel will receive six points on their licence and a £200 fine. Newly qualified drivers, who have a ceiling of six points for their first two years on the road, could immediately lose their licence if they are caught. Mobile phones in cars can be beneficial and can provide security and assistance in an emergency. However, they are distracting if used when driving and this increases the risk of a collision. To drive safely you must concentrate on the road and a split-second lapse in concentration if talking on the phone could result in a collision. Drivers who use a mobile phone, whether hand-held or hands-free: • are much less aware of what's happening on the road around them • fail to see road signs • fail to maintain proper lane position and steady speed • are more likely to tailgate the vehicle in front • react more slowly and take longer to brake

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: betty@grapevinepublications.co.uk

• feel more stressed and frustrated • are more likely to enter unsafe gaps in traffic Be safe not sorry Even the most careful driver will be distracted by a phone call or message as concentration and observation skills will be affected. • keep your mobile phone switched off when driving and let your voicemail pick up any missed calls • only use a mobile phone once you have stopped in a safe place. • never stop on the hard shoulder of a motorway, except in an emergency • using a hands-free device is not illegal but will reduce your level of concentration while driving, putting yourself and other road users at risk - if you must use one, say you are driving and end the conversation quickly • a mobile phone can be used in a genuine emergency • on a motorway it is best to use a roadside emergency telephone as the emergency services will be able to locate you more easily Other distractions Mobile phones are not the only distractions for a driver. To drive safely avoid: • trying to read a map • inserting a CD or tuning the radio • playing loud music that may make you unable to hear other sounds • arguing withProfessionally your passengers Quali�ied

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Massage Therapist PACT Partners and communities together (PACT) meetings are regular meetingsDiane organisedFullerton jointly between the safer MTI neighbourhood policing team, local councillors and partners. They are your tailored chance to raise issues affecting Personally therapies to: your local area and the next Ledbury PACT meeting is •Relieve & joint pain Monday 10th April atmuscle 7pm in the Council offices. We will provide feedback on the current priorities: Anti-social •Increase mobility behaviour (ASB) in the town and speeding in New Street. •Aiddiary relaxation Date for your The next •Reduce Ledbury Community will be on Saturday stress & Day anxiety 10th June and we will have the mobile police station in •Promote well-being the High Street. •Treat specific conditions

01531 636507 / 07879 286544 diane@theuncommontouch.co.uk www.theuncommontouch.co.uk Ledbury Focus

Effective Treatment Treatment for PMS / Premenstrual Syndrome for Anxiety by Helen Mawson, BScDIpM, Hons,BTAA, DipMBAUK by Helen Mawson, BSc Hons,

Symptoms of anxiety Overview In this article, I share with you some information concerning PMS/Premenstrual We all respond differently to Most people will experience some Syndrome and hormonal imbalance, how it affects women and how I work in stress, trauma or threatening sort of anxiety at some point in Contact me for more practice to help clients suffering the condition symptoms situations so our symptoms will their livesfrom and this canof this condition.

information

What is PMS? I offer a free 15-minute PMS / Premenstrual Syndrome telephone consultations so is the name given to the range of you can find out more about symptoms that can affect a woman the therapies I practice and up to 2 weeks before the start of how they could help you. her period. PMS affects most women at one point in their life T:for01531 579 035 and some can be extremely painful; physically, emotionally M: 07904 457 075 and mentally. According to the NHS 1orinemail 20 women me atexperience symptoms that are severe enough helen@complete-balance. to stop themco.uk living their normal lives. The can effects of find PMSout / Hormonal You also more imbalance on my website: information

The effects of PMS can be acute www.complete-balance. for some women co.ukand will vary from person to person some of the more common symptoms include:Newsletter

Sign up for my newsletter • Mood swings via my website in order to • Irritability receive information and • Depression promotional offers. • Abdominal pain • Leg pain 58

vary from severe to less severe with a whole host of symptoms • Water retention included. • Breast pain

I want to share some tools and • Food cravings techniques that you can start NB:immediately This list is bytonohelp means using you exhaustive! reduce anxiety and stress in your lifeSelf-help and become calmer tips to PMSand andmore balanced. Hormonal imbalance Someis self-help What anxiety? tips that may help with chronic pain to include: The body responds a stressor Start practising by• interpreting it as a meditation threat, when and or mindfulness we feel threatened our nervous system to thisstretching by • Doresponds some gentle flooding bodies with stress andour or Yoga hormones including adrenalinerest • Practice the constructive and cortisol. These hormones position daily to lengthenget the body to take flight yourrevved Psoas up muscle or• to Gently stay andmassage fight. This response your K1 and is a primitive one hard-wired into K27 points to balance your our nervous system and for most Kidney energy of us, this response is firing a lot • Consider supplementation of of the time. The result of this is specific vitamins and minerals that our bodies are being flooded such as specific B vitamins with stress hormones on a regular and Magnesium. basis which can cause a whole Forofmore information on selfhost problems including help tips have a look at my anxiety.

also differ. The symptoms experienced will also be different website or drop me an email. when the anxiety has been present for longer. How I can help with PMS

I have worked with many women Some common symptoms of experiencing PMS and varying anxiety may include: degrees of hormonal imbalance • Increased heart rateI /have found over the years. What palpitations is that certain Bowen procedures • Digestivewith problems combined lifestyle changes and some nutritional tweaks can • Depression make a significant difference to • Breathing difficulties the symptoms these woman • Changes in behaviour experience.

Feeling overwhelmed / I• share below some specific overloaded procedures that I have used successfully practice to treat • Dizziness in / light headedness PMS. • Communication problems The Bowen Pelvic • How I work withprocedure: anxiety One of the procedures that I have I will often use a combination of found to be hugely beneficial for the therapies that I with practice women struggling paininand order to treat anxiety andduring its the associated problems symptoms. The Bowen the time of their period is The Technique, for example, has the Pelvic Procedure. This helps severalpelvis procedures thatand arebalance very whole stabilise effective in helping the several body and usually done over weeks and will result recovercan from anxiety. Ofteninthe lasting in theevent pelvic trauma balance of a stressful is

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: betty@grapevinepublications.co.uk

structure. the muscles locked intoOften the body at a cellular supporting pelvis are verythe level which the might be causing tight andBowen can beseems contracted in anxiety. to work women struggling with cramping. well to release these memories Releasing these with the and patterns thatalong can be causing fascial trains connected to them problems, sometimes even years will deep relaxation afterbring the trigger. I may alsoand offer will often alleviate painful advice and test clients for specific symptoms. remedies and nutritional

supplements that could help with The Bowen Kidney procedure: the symptoms are the This procedurethat canthey address experiencing. I will mostlevel kidneys directly at aalso physical likely to treatrecommend problems inself-help this area. It will also work a subtle techniques thatonclients canlevel use addressing the Kidney meridian. for themselves on a daily basis to help ease their symptoms.

This procedure is often very important when treating Self-help tips to help withPMS anxiety and hormonal imbalance as Change your posture kidney energy is often depleted If you are feeling anxious, in individuals struggling. changing your posture could help

youterms comeofout of that feeling In Traditional Chinese quickly. For example, you Medicine (TCM) ourwhen kidneys are where feelingwe in astore difficult space are our vital emotionally or mentally, gently energy and general vitality. The pay attention to your posture. balance of kidney energy is Next, remember a time when you crucial and essential to good felt in ahealth good space and notice overall and balance. When the are well the changes. qi or howkidneys your body posture energy in a person is balanced Then notice how your mood and well and this qi / energy changes and that good feelingcan be distributed as it is needed. grows. When the kidneys are damaged The ability super-hero pose: qi / this to distribute • Stand upright and tall with energy becomes impaired. your legs hip distance apart,

The Bowen place yourPsoas handsprocedure: on your hips The Psoas pronounced (so-as) and gently expand your chestis a deep core muscle approximately so you are standing even taller. 16Hold inchesthis long. It directly links posture for 2 -5 theminutes. ribcage to the trunk and legs on both sides of the body.

• It has been proven that

The Psoas has functions adopting thismany posture for as to perform when it is contracted little asand 2 minutes will decrease Ledbury Focus

andthe not fully lengthened amount of cortisol or engaged it can have ayour de-stabilising whizzing around body effect the pelvic andon increase levelsstructure. of This is turn canEssentially have significant testosterone. this is implications for helping you feelwomen less stressed experiencing PMS. and more confident. In Bowen, I can either apply the De-stress points: Psoas procedure directly or work The de-stress points are located gently with the Psoas via on the forehead and the middle of applying the Pelvic and Kidney the head. When these points are procedure. Balancing this muscle held,helped the stress response diluted. has many womenisbecome These points are physiologically free of cramping and pain around wired intoofour stress and fear the time their menses. The response and when balancing effect thatheld thishelp reduce anxiety andthe fear.body as a procedure has on whole will have a much deeper De-stress Technique: impact upon an individual. Often • The first points are located on people feel a deep sense of the forehead about a thumb relaxation and peace once the width from the hair line on Psoas is balanced.

most people you will feel a

In bump practice on either side of your I treat everyone holistically and forehead. individually. I will take a detailed • The second point is located on consultation from you before we thewith midline of your head on start a course of treatment.

your crown. If you are finding it Whilst I mostly always usepoints, The difficult to locate these Bowen Technique to treat clients simply put your head in your these days will also my on hands by Iplacing youruse palms Kinesiology training to offer the forehead and hold your advice on remedies or nutritional head. and other lifestyle changes that • While these points or may helpholding with whatever you are with your head, in your hands, struggling with.

you need to think about the

It may also be applicable to treat stress that you are facing i.e. the with Kinesiology where there are situation that has occurred or significant emotional or other that is yet to occur. It is useful issues to be dealt with.

to get as stressed, upset or

You will also probably havewhile some wound up as is possible homework to do which holding the points so will it can support we do diffusewhat as much of in thethe tension treatment! as possible.

Useful remedies: The remedies I use for anxiety, stress and calming Contact methe fornervous more system include: information • Rescue remedy / 5 flower remedy – This is 30 a great remedy I am offering minute, totaster have in your medicine sessions on the 23 cupboard or handbag. It is aSeptember from 10am combination 5 of theme Bach 1pm. Please of contact for flower more remedies. information and to • Mimulus – book. A Bach flower remedy used to treat fears, Iparticularly also offerfears free of 15-minute known telephone consultations things like upcoming exams,so you can tests, find out moreorabout driving meetings other the therapies events you fear.I practice and how they help you. • Argent Nit –could A homeopathic remedy that is used to treat T: 01531and 579 035 apprehension anxiety especially regarding M: 07904 457an075 approaching event. or–email me at • Aconite A homeopathic helen@complete-balance. remedy that is excellent for intense fear,co.uk shock, and anxiety. Nutritional deficiencies: Sometimes when we are deficient can vitamins also findand outminerals more inYou certain information on my website: the symptoms of stress can be www.complete-balance. exacerbated.

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Apple & Apricot Oatmeal Muffins If you are bored with cereal or toast for breakfast, try something different instead and get one of your five a day in the process. These delicious muffins can be served warm, or made the night before and served cold.

INGREDIENTS 175g oatmeal

METHOD yy

Preheat the oven to 180Â°c, 350Â°F, or Gas Mark 4.

Lightly grease a muffin tin with the vegetable oil.

Sieve bicarbonate of soda, baking powder, cinnamon and flour into a large mixing bowl and add the oatmeal.

Add the pureed apple, diced apple, egg whites, honey and apricot yoghurt into the dry ingredients and stir gently until well mixed and all the flour is incorporated.

Pour the mixture into the greased muffin tin, dividing equally.

Bake in the oven for 25 minutes, or until lightly browned on top.

1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 175g wholewheat flour 470g jar pureed apple 1 eating apple 4 egg whites, beaten 150ml honey 125ml apricot yoghurt vegetable oil Makes 12

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017 marks the tenth anniversary of the opening of Weavers Gallery, an independent exhibition space in Ledbury which hosts exhibitions by local artists. The owner, Amanda Wright, has a particular interest in textiles, but past shows have included a variety of styles of paintings and crafts as well as textile art. Early exhibitions featured members of the quilting and embroidery groups that Amanda was connected to, and members of local artists’ cooperative ‘Artistree’ who rented the premises when it was owned by Herefordshire Council. But as the venue has become more widely known, it has attracted artists from across the three counties, with some groups returning annually. Local artists who have regularly supported the gallery include Angie Hughes, Jeanette McCulloch, Jill Exell, Tony Bateman, Gilly Hancock and the late Mike Purkiss.

Ledbury Focus

Two important events each year are the Ledbury Poetry Festival and h.Art, both of which attract large numbers of visitors to the gallery. Since 2009, to coincide with the Poetry Festival, Amanda has organised a display of mixed textile art on a literary theme, which draws people from further afield. The ground floor at Weavers Gallery is a studio where Amanda teaches regular patchwork and quilting classes. It is also a venue for Caroline Owen-Thomas’ calligraphy classes, and other groups use it for occasional meetings. During the last two Poetry Festivals it was the venue for a display of work by Ledbury Book Art, and this will be repeated again this year. To celebrate this milestone, there will be an exhibition of work by past exhibitors at the gallery 27th to 30th April 10am to 5pm. This year’s theme for the Poetry Festival is ‘Fantasy’ and the exhibition will be open 29th June to 9th July 10am to 5pm.

Abigail O’Gram Computer Problems?  Horticulturalist    

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66 52

To call advertise call on 01684 833715 or email: betty@grapevinepublications.co.uk To advertise Nadelle 01531 650494 or nadelle@ledburyfocus.co.uk

Vet Talk

with Martin Leith BVetMed MRCVS

ungworm (Angiostrongylus vasorum) in dogs has featured heavily in the press in recent years, mainly due to the availability of new products to treat and prevent it. Although relatively rare in this area, it is fairly common in west Wales and other parts of the country. We had a very interesting case of this just last week. A seven month old Jack Russell was brought to the surgery, which was said to be vomiting blood on a regular basis over the last three days. Whilst we could not find any symptoms of vomiting, we decided to x-ray this little dog but could see nothing in the dog’s abdomen (belly). An x-ray of the chest showed a large collection of fluid and inflammation within the lungs. This immediately raised alarm bells, and we decided to perform an endoscopy (viewing with an endoscope) of the trachea of this dog. This showed a lot of blood and mucus in the trachea, and when we did smears in our laboratory we found a huge number of lung worm larvae. We immediately telephoned the owner with the little dog still under anaesthetic and on further questioning we did discover that this dog had not only been vomiting, but other members of the household had noted coughing! We duly started treatment for

Ledbury Focus

Have yourself a merry, trouble-free pet Christmas Lungworm

in Dogs

It’s that time of year again when we prepare our houses for the festive season, putting up decoration and filling the house with lots of tasty goodies. Unfortunately many of our pets can’t resist joining in this festive fun. Whether it’s the cat that eats tinsel, the puppy that pinches those lungworm anddark thankfully beautifully wrapped chocolatesthis form little under the treehas or the doggone that eatshome the Christmas dog now and iscake that you have only just finished decorating! better. Lungworm is very serious These are all potentially life threatening cases as it causes haemorrhaging within that we have seen that fan easily be avoided with the lungs and a bit of thought andcan extracause care. clotting

problems and ultimately death. Top tips for a trouble-free pet Christmas:

What causes it? Dogs are very good at sniffing out edible Adult lungworms are found in presents under or on the tree. Keep these out theof heart andChristmas pulmonary reach until morning.arteries, Dark and the worms laypoisonous, eggs which chocolates are very even a small amount canlarvae. be very serious. hatch into These pass into Be careful with flowers and plants, Lilly thepollen airways of the lung, are then (even when a cat just brushes up coughed passed in nasty the dog against it)up and and Mistletoe are both poisons.Slugs and snails swallow faeces. andand raisinsthis are poisonous for dogs theGrapes larvae completes theso keep an eye on those mince pies. lifecycle. Otherdecorations dogs getwellinfected Keep Christmas out of reach eating andkittens snails. as cats,the andslugs especially love those sparkling baubles.

Whilst you mayitthink that this However tempting is to give them a bigis a Christmas treatlife – beware, muchare in one go very strange cycle,toodogs very tends to haveand an unfortunate ending! of inquisitive a huge number

Should you have ANY suspicion that your pet might have eaten something it shouldn’t please contact us immediately as swift action is essential for successful treatment.

Everyone at Leadon Vale would likeeat to slugs wish and yousnails. a Merry dogs My own Christmas Happy New dog when he and was younger usedYear. to hoover upalways slugs and as if of they We are onsnails the end a were the greatest delicacy on earth. phone if you have any concerns Dogs do not have to eat slugs and overtothis period. snails get festive lungworms - the lavae are also found in snail trails which Find at: Lower Road Trading can be us present on dog toys.

Estate, Ledbury, HR8 2DJ

Lungworm is easily preventable by regular monthly treatments with a product called Advocate, which is a spot on treatment that is available at the surgery. For more information you can go to www.lungworm.co.uk which is a site produced by the makers of Advocate.

Anne Stokes UK Signing Event at

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DOWN

ACROSS 1 Distress signal (6) 5 Cuba's capital (6)

9 Self-importance (3) 11

Impolite (7)

Destroyed (7)

Declare (5)

Stage whisper (5)

Wall-painting (5)

Banal (5)

Seed (3)

22 Sir Edward _____, English composer (5) 23 Brink (5)

19 20

Berkshire racecourse (5)

Piece of grass (5)

Shout (4)

Dog's cry (4)

Swerves (5)

Nude (5)

Bap (3)

Attach (3)

Unoccupied (5)

Coaching (8)

Foreigh (5)

Dam-building rodent (6)

Voracious (6)

Chess piece (4)

25 Spacious (5)

Trivia (answers on page 82) 1.

In which novel does the parrot called Captain Flint appear?

Which young actor died in a car crash in California in 1955?

What would you expect to find in a sarcophagus?

In the Bible, who was Bathsheba's first husband, at the time when she caught King David's eye?

What does the term AWOL mean to a soldier?

In World War II, what was the Manhattan Project?

In what field was Maria Montessori famous?

The film Ring of Bright Water told the story of which type of creature?

Before British coinage was decimalised, how many old pennies made a florin?

10. In which sport did Mike Getting become famous? Ledbury Focus

Sudoku Fill in the grid so that each line, row and 3 x 3 box contains the numbers 1 to 9 without repetition.

4 5 7

9 6

2 8

3 2 1

4 8

3 5

4 2

6 6969

Riding Lights Theatre Company presents

CROSSLIGHT A passion play for Lent 2017 Written by Paul Burbridge and Les Ellison Directed by Paul Burbridge. Designed by Anna Gooch

‘A fascinating psychological drama … The show asks questions of its audience about what we learn through failure, the importance of forgiveness and the power of redemption … Tremendous.’ (York Press, 2016) Riding Lights Theatre Company is performing their passion play, Crosslight, at venues across the UK this Lent. The show is touring from Thursday 16th March to Saturday 15th April. Crosslight is a communal experience of theatre and worship which draws its audience into the Easter narrative. It tells the events of Christ’s Passion though the eyes of one disciple who failed, despite everything he believed so passionately. Caught in the crosslight of the flickering candles at the last supper, the torches of Gethsemane, the firelight in the courtyard, by the searching gaze of his Lord, Simon ‘the rock’ is shattered. The disciple chosen to lead, is in pieces. As he hangs from the cross, Jesus is surrounded by a jeering crowd, laughing at his claim to be the Son of God. A small group of family and friends stands by until the agony ends. But the great friend who, more than any other, has stood by Jesus throughout the story is conspicuous by his absence. 70

Audience responses:

‘What a beautiful piece of theatre. It drew us together and pointed us to the cross.’

The Passion (adapted from Murray Watts' award winning screenplay for The Miracle Maker). Riding Lights, alongside York Theatre Royal and York Museums Trust, also staged the epic scale, outdoor production of the York Mystery Plays 2012.

Riding Lights has a long history of producing passion plays including Inheritance, The Narrow Road and

Ticket prices and a full list of tour dates can be found online at: www.ridinglights.org/crosslight

‘A unique and unforgettable experience.’ ‘A moving and powerful masterpiece.’

St Michael and All Angels Parish Church, Ledbury

Tuesday 11th Wednesday April833715 at 7.30pm : Tickets: £10 or £5 concessions To & advertise call12th 01684 or email: betty@grapevinepublications.co.uk

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Making houses into homes • Conservatories • Composite front doors • Bi-fold, French, patio doors • Replacement windows • Heritage range of sash windows • Fascia, soffit and guttering • Automated garage doors • Energy efficient sealed glazed units Stock photos for illustration purposes only

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What Is Hypnotherapy?

here are lots of misconceptions about hypnotherapy. Many people think it will be something like a Derren Brown performance, or that they may be made to behave like a chicken. Whilst stage hypnotists can certainly do this (though only if the person WANTS to act like a chicken!), it is nothing like the clinical hypnotherapy that happens in the treatment room. Neither will the therapist dangle a watch in front of you, or ask you to “look into my eyes”! Hypnotherapy is a form of complementary therapy that utilises the power of positive suggestion to bring about subconscious change to our thoughts, feelings and behaviour. The process itself aims to alter our state of consciousness in a way that relaxes the conscious part of the mind while simultaneously stimulating and focussing the subconscious part. This heightened state of awareness - reached using skilled relaxation techniques - allows the therapist to then make appropriate suggestions. Solution focused hypnotherapy looks at what the client would like to achieve, rather than the reason why they booked the appointment. It focuses on the present and the future instead of the past, which is why it can provide a positive effect in such a short space of time. Many people appreciate the fact that there is no need to look back at difficult or traumatic events from their past. The hypnotherapist may ask how the client’s life would improve if they fix the problem, and specifically what would have changed. This provides a

specific goal for the client to aim for while making the solution clear. What can hypnotherapy help you with? Hypnotherapy is widely endorsed as a treatment for habit breaking, stress related issues and for a range of longterm conditions, and in recent years has been gaining steam in the medical world after a recommendation from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recognised hypnotherapy as a treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). It can also help with confidence problems, anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences and specific phobias such as water, spiders, needles and flying; it is very effective at dealing with vomiting and nausea during chemotherapy; it can help mothers have a quick childbirth, regularly without the need for pain relief or medical intervention; it can help insomniacs overcome their sleep problems; it can help people focus and improve on their sporting or business goals; it can help people quit smoking or other inappropriate habits and addictions.

Lesley Leach is a solution focused hypnotherapist. She trained at the prestigious Clifton Practice in Bristol, widely considered to be the gold standard of Solution Focused training. She offers a free of charge initial consultation, a chance for you to establish whether hypnotherapy is a suitable therapy for you, and for you to start to focus on your goals and your preferred future. If you would like to learn more about how solution focused hypnotherapy can help you, please contact Lesley by email to info@lesleyleachhypno therapy.com or call on 07769 940894. You can find out more at her website: www.lesleyleachhypnotherapy.com.

Hypnotherapy for children and young people is highly effective and is completely safe. Children tend to respond very well to hypnosis as they are naturally quite imaginative and use their subconscious minds a great deal more than adults do. Hypnotherapy can help to address a number of issues commonly experienced in childhood, including exam nerves, sleep problems, bedwetting, fears, eating disorders and low self-esteem.

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HEALTH & HOSPITALS ST.KATHERINE’S SURGERY Market Street (off Bye St) Monday - Friday 8am - 6pm Tel: 01531 633271

NTACTS

EMERGENCY SERVICES

MARKET SURGERY Market Street (off Bye St) Monday - Friday 8.30 - 6pm Phone calls taken from 8am Tel: 01531 632423

POLICE FIRE AMBULANCE Emergency: 999

LEDBURY COMMUNITY HOSPITAL Tel: 01531 632488

WEST MERCIA POLICE Ledbury Police Station Worcester Road Tel: 101

NHS DIRECT Tel: 111 ST.MICHAEL’S HOSPICE Bartestree Hereford Tel: 01432 851000

CRIMESTOPPERS Tel: 0800 555 111 GAS Tel: 0800 111 999

DAY LEWIS PHARMACY Bye Street Monday - Friday 9.00am - 6.00pm Saturday 9.00am - 1.00pm Tel: 01531 632693

WELSH WATER Tel: 0800 281 432 SEVERN TRENT WATER Tel: 0800 783 4444

BOOTS CHEMIST High Street Mon - Sat 8.30am - 5.30pm 01531 632687

ELECTRICITY Tel: 0800 328 1111

BANKS BARCLAYS BANK The Homend Monday - Friday 9.30am - 4.30pm Tel: 0345 755 5555 LLOYDS BANK High Street Mon & Tues 9.30am - 4.30pm Wednesday 10am - 4.30pm Thurs & Fri 9.30am - 4.30pm Saturday 9am - 1pm Tel: 0345 300 0000 NATWEST The Homend Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm Tel: 0345 301 9763 TSB 19 The Homend Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm Saturday 9am - 1pm Tel: 01531 634774

MEDICAL LOANS SERVICE Jenn Jones 01531 632745 HEREFORD COUNTY HOSPITAL Union Walk Hereford HR1 2ER Tel: 01432 355444 GLOUCESTERSHIRE ROYAL HOSPITAL Great Western Road, Gloucester GL1 3NN Tel: 0300 422 2222 WORCESTERSHIRE ROYAL HOSPITAL General and A & E Charles Hastings Way Worcester WR5 1DD Tel: 01905 763333

HELP & SUPPORT ALZHEIMER’S SOCIETY Hereford Tel: 01432 371137 CHILD PROTECTION HELPLINE Tel: 0800 800 500 CHILDLINE Tel: 0800 1111 COMMUNITY SAMARITANS Tel: 01432 269000 Tel: 0845 790 9090 DASH (Drugs Services Herefordshire) Tel: 01432 263636 DIVORCE RECOVERY WORKSHOP Tel: 01684 560394 HEREFORD & WORCESTER ADVISORY SERVICE ON ALCOHOL Tel: 01905 27417 HEREFORDSHIRE RAPE & SEXUAL ABUSE SUPPORT CENTRE Tel: 0870 242 2230 HEREFORDSHIRE CARERS EMERGENCY CARD SCHEME Emergency Support System For Carers Tel: 01432 356068 LEDBURY CHILDREN'S CENTRE email: ledburychildrenscentre@ herefordshire.gov.uk www.herefordshire.gov.uk www.facebook.com/hfdscouncil Tel: 01432 383840 LEDBURY OUTREACH www.herefordshirecab.org.uk Tel: 01432 270536 MARRIAGE CARE (Relationship Counselling) Ledbury & Hereford Payment by donation Tel: 0800 389 3801

SUPERMARKETS CO-OPERATIVE New Street Tel: 01531 635905 TESCO Orchard Lane Tel: 01531 629807

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WORSHIP CATHOLIC CHURCH OF THE MOST HOLY TRINITY New Street Saturday Mass 5.00pm Sunday Mass 10.30am Tel: 01531 635354 ST MICHAEL’S PARISH CHURCH Church Lane 8.00am Holy Communion (BCP) 9.30am Parish Communion & Young Church 2nd, 3rd & 4th Sunday of the month 10.30am Parish Communion with Baptism 1st Sunday of the month 6.30pm Evensong 1st & 3rd Sunday of the month Tel: 01531 631531 BAPTIST CHURCH The Homend Sundays 10.30am Worship except the first Sunday in the month. All-age family Messy Church usually first Saturday each month 3.30pm-6pm - replaces Sunday service (info Facebook 'Messy Church Ledbury') Tel: 07960 322528 METHODIST CHURCH The Homend Sundays 10.30am Worship Tel: 01531 634242 LEDBURY QUAKERS Burgage Hall Church Lane 1st & 3rd Sunday of each month 10.30am Meeting for Worship Tel: 01531 634575 PENTCOSTAL FELLOWSHIP Community Centre Lawnside Road Sundays 10am Praise & Worship Tel: 01432 352545 LEDBURY ELIM CHURCH Ledbury Primary School Long Acres Sundays at 10.30am Further info Peter Williamson Tel: 07802 573173

Ledbury Focus

LOCAL SERVICES AGE CONCERN Tel: 01531 631280 THE LEDBURY COMMUNITY Hall Hire Tel: 07976 150049 LEDBURY FOOD BANK Tel: 01531 633643 LEDBURY REGISTRAR Tel: 01531 632306 LEDBURY COMMUNITY ACTION Tel: 01531 635339 RING AND RIDE Tel: 01531 635503 MOBILITY CENTRE Tel: 01531 635339 VOLUNTEER’S CENTRE Tel: 01531 635339 CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU Tel: 01684 563611 BBC HEREFORD & WORCESTER 94.7/104/104.6 FM Tel: 01905 748485

EDUCATION BUSY BEES PRE-SCHOOL Tel: 01531 248087 LEDBURY CHILDREN’S CENTRE Families with children 0-5 Tel: 01432 383840 PALS Breakfast and After School Club Tel: 01531 632940 LEDBURY PRIMARY SCHOOL Long Acres Tel: 01531 632940 JOHN MASEFIELD HIGH SCHOOL Mabels Furlon Tel: 01531 631012

VETS & ANIMAL CARE LEADON VALE VETERINARY CENTRE Tel: 01531 632276 RSPCA (cruelty, neglect concern 24hrs) Tel: 0300 123 4999

PUBLIC SERVICES LEDBURY LIBRARY Master’s House Monday: 9.30am to 4.30pm Tuesday: 9.30am to 6pm Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 9.30am to 4.30pm Friday: 9.30am to 4.30pm Saturday: 9.30am to 12.30pm Sunday: Closed Tel: 01432 383499 POST OFFICE Monday - Friday 8.30am - 5.30pm Saturday 9am - 12.30pm Tel: 01531 632678 ROYAL MAIL DELIVERY OFFICE Tel: 01531 633311 Last Collection P.O 5.30pm At box in town 5.45pm HOUSEHOLD RECLAMATION SITE Little Marcle Road Wednesday 8.00am - 6.00pm Saturday 8.00am - 6.00pm Sunday 9.30am - 1.00pm TRAVEL National Rail Tel: 0845 748 4950 National Travel Line (Buses) Tel: 0871 200 2233 TOWN COUNCIL Church Lane Mon, Tues, Wed & Fri 10am - 2pm admin@ledburytowncouncil.gov.uk www.ledburytowncouncil.gov.uk Tel: 01531 632306 County Councillors: Ledbury North Councillor Liz Harvey epjharvey@herefordshire.gov.uk Tel: 01531 631718 Ledbury South Councillor Emma Holton Emma.Holton@herefordshire.gov.uk Tel: 07901 595764 Ledbury West Councillor Andrew Warmington Andrew.Warmington@herefordshire. gov.uk Tel: 07985 082262 Herefordshire Council Tel: 01432 260000

CAT PROTECTION Tel: 0845 3977 074

MP Bill Wiggin (con) Tel: 01568 612565

RSPB Tel: 1767 693690

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50 Years of Ledbury Naturalists’ Field Club

n 23 February 1967, the first gathering of the Ledbury Naturalist & Field Club took place in the Royal Oak, Ledbury. The meeting was the brainchild of founder member and Honorary Secretary Dudley Brook with his walking friend Bill Richards. Their vision was for a small group of wildlife enthusiasts to meet. They must have been astonished when 100 people turned up, and 60 joined the nascent club at 12s 6d a head! The first president was Major Hervey Bathurst of the Eastnor Estate, and the inaugural chairman was James Murray, a local vet. Plans were made for four meetings a year with additional walks around local woodlands led by Dudley Brook. An annual bulletin published from 1967 announced the club activities, and in 1981 became a newsletter that documented news and observations of wildlife, much as it does today.

Before long, the year-round programme had begun and the club had morphed into the Ledbury Naturalists’ Field Club, or, simply, Led Nats. There was a junior section with regular activities for youngsters, and campaigning regarding local wildlife issues. Winter talks and summer walks were accompanied by conservation work on local habitats led by another founding member and local GP, Michael Harper. Conservation work parties to improve wildlife habitat eventually became focused on Queenswood, Dymock, where coppicing during the winter months continues. The areas cleared have been named the Michael Harper Reserves in recognition of Michael Harper, who, until recently, regularly monitored moths and documented the rich fauna of the wood. In 1999, Peter Garnett, founding member and then Hon. Secretary, proposed that the club record the wildlife in a specific site each year. This began with the newly established Town Trail and Riverside Walk and has continued since. A band of enthusiasts from the club picked up the challenge after Peter's death in 2006, and has completed 16 surveys that have contributed greatly to local knowledge of the plant and animal life around Ledbury. The constancy and loyalty of Led Nats members is remarkable. In the 50 years of its existence, the club has had only four chairmen and two presidents. We are proud that our

President Michael Harper and founding father Dudley Brook still attend winter meetings, and Michael has been out looking for moths on recent summer walks. In recent years, we have established a website and an annual public lecture as well as initiating a children’s summer walk. Membership is growing, with numerous younger members joining, but inevitably we are losing older members through attrition. Our vision for the future is to uphold that of our predecessors, and to become pro-active in environmental issues, as in the early days. We must meet the challenge of engaging with young people, before their increasing disconnect with the natural environment reaches more worrying levels. We urge you to join us. Led Nats are friendly souls who will love nothing more than to encourage you to venture into the natural world and discover what is there. Enjoying nature is free. Visit our website at www.ledbury naturalists.co.uk for an application form and contact details. photos: top - Dudley Brook left - Mike Harper

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: betty@grapevinepublications.co.uk

Cook for Syria

Saturday, 29th April, 2017

A feast of

Middle astern E Delights A mouthwatering buffet of authentic Middle Eastern cuisine, a glass of wine to welcome and music – PLUS an exciting Auction of Promises

Please bring your own wine or beer Booking strongly advised – limited places available

£30+ will buy you a ticket to this special fundraising evening

Chez Pascal 8 New Street, Ledbury HR8 2DX Doors open at 6.45 pm Tickets available from Handley Organics, 5 High Street Ledbury HR8 1DS • Tel: 01531 631136

LEDBURY REFUGEE SUPPORT

all proceeds to Ledbury refugee Support

www.ledburyrefugeesupport.com Ledbury Focus

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Building & Construction Clover Conservatories 36 & 71 4 Eltech Property Services Ledbury Construction Ltd 45 Mick Kitchin Builder 14 NFP Sectional Buildings 17 Steve Chandler Building 73 Butchery LDA Meats

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Carpets & Flooring Ledbury Carpets & Interiors

Cleaning Services Bliss Cleaning Services Diamond Cleaning Services Drive Revive Billy Russell Floor Care

Electricians Acorn Electrical Services B & B Services J Hill Electric MCL Electrical

Accountants Business Wise Services 3 Chestnut Accountancy Ltd 50 Crowthers 9 Greendawn Accounting Ltd 73 Leadon Valley Accountancy 10 19 The Practice

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“Those Good Old Days of Music Hall” Dress up, turn up and sing up!

‘Those Good Old Days of Music Hall’ is coming to Ledbury and Droitwich very soon; not the TV programme but Worcester Gilbert & Sullivan Society taking a break from the well-loved G & S operettas to bring a touch of musical glamour to the stage. This promises to be an entertaining and fun-filled evening in the traditional style of the music hall, a veritable myriad of music and mirth, packed with well-loved songs, close harmony singing and comedy all under the watchful eye of a venerable virtuoso of vocabulary - our worthy Chairman Mr. Colin Wilks. You will be transported from the seaside to Vienna, then on to London for a good old Cockney knees-up at the local public house, first having witnessed the Society’s first venture into murder mystery (except there’s not much mystery about it!) A special guest is the ever-popular and multi-talented Mr. Barry North, a firm favourite with local audiences providing tributes to the music hall superstars of yesteryear – Max Miller, Marie Lloyd and Frank Randle. Throw in a veritable vermouth of vocal vivacity in ventriloquism, tantalising terpsichore, and the lilting loquacity of a Barbershop Quartet, and you will be transported back to Those Good Old Days of Music Hall. So dress up (only if you want to), turn up, and sing up. You’ll be glad you did The show will be at The Market Theatre, Ledbury on 19th and 20th May starting at 7.30pm and at The Norbury Theatre, Droitwich on 26th and 27th May starting at 7.30pm and a matinee at 2.30pm on the 27th May. For tickets and more information please visit

www.gasworcs.com

or contact the theatre box offices 82

Answers to Trivia on page 69: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.

Treasure Island James Dean A corpse Uriah the Hittite Absent without leave Development of the atomic bomb Education Otter 24 Cricket

Answers to Crossword on page 69: ACROSS: 1. Mayday 5. Havana, 9. Ego, 11. Uncivil, 12. Wrecked, 13. State, 16. Aside, 17. Mural, 18. Trite, 19. Pip, 22. Elgar, 23. Verge, 25. Roomy DOWN: 2. Ascot, 3. Divot, 4. Yell, 5. Howl, 6. Veers, 7. Naked, 8. Bun, 10. Add, 14. Empty, 15. Training, 16. Alien, 20. Beaver, 21. Greedy, 24. Rock

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“Open Business” OPEN 4 4BUSINESS recently started your ownown business? • HaveHave youyou recently started your business? Are• you thinking about starting your own business in the near future? Are you thinking of starting your own business? Would you like to start your own business? • Would you like to start your own business?

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onFor Saturdays (so or no to need takeplace time off more details booktoyour on work!) theworkshop, fee includes all course theand next please contact: material and refreshments.

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