The Villager December 2012 by Betty-Ann Ambury

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Signposted off the A44 between Evesham Signposted off the A44 between Evesham and Pershore to the Vale Golf Club. Signposted off next the A44 between Evesham and Pershore next to the Vale Golf Club. and Pershore next to the Vale Golf Club.

follow follow the the tree, tree, arrow arrow Tel: 01386 462706 and santa signs. Tel: 01386 462706 follow the tree, arrow and santa signs. To advertise call 0845 224 7061 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk Tel: 01386 462706 and santa signs.

contents December 2012 “Many a small thing has been made large by the right kind of advertising.” Mark Twain

PUBLISHER & ADVERTISING

Grapevine Publications

3 Rye Street • Birtsmorton • WR13 6AS

Telephone 0845 224 7061 Mobile 07754 170286 info@grapevinepublications.co.uk www.grapevinepublications.co.uk

EDITOR Betty-Ann Ambury info@grapevinepublications.co.uk

ADVERTISING & EDITORIAL Betty-Ann Ambury FRONT COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Mike Ambury NEXT ISSUE COPY DATE

10th December 2012

EFT - The Path to Inner Peace

Age UK

Recipes

Question & Answer Time

Church Farm Joinery

Christmas at the Jinney Ring

ALM Fitness

8 Spa & Beauty Willow

Fladbury CE First School

Christmas Cards

The Pantry, Peopleton

MJs Real Deals

Holly's Christmas Past

The Evesham Pie & Ale Festival

Ice Cream Soda Vintage Clothing

Cherie 18Blair & The Cow

Coffee Time!

Events in November

Your Community Directory

Pershore Market

The aims of The Villager are to bring local buyers and businesses together to encourage the people of Worcestershire and surrounding areas to support these businesses to help the local community to flourish. © 2012. 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. 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. The use ofmention this publication canvassing, direct marketing or any other activity apart from sourcing local goods and services is strictly prohibited. Please THEforVILLAGER when responding to advertisers

ello, I’m Kim Marshall, and I’d like to tell you about the wonderful healing benefits of Emotional Freedom Techniques: EFT.

For many years I battled my own personal demon – anorexia - until I finally found the courage to ask for help. During my recovery I came to realise that, as with any emotional struggle, seeking help is the most important step, but it’s also the easiest one. Only you can make the changes necessary to turn your life around, but without the encouragement and support of people who understand your struggle this can sometimes be overwhelming. And this is where EFT can make all the difference to you. My personal experiences made me want to help other people, so I studied Counselling, trained as an EFT Practitioner and became AAMET (Association for the Advancement of Meridian Energy Techniques) Certified.

EFT - The Path to Inner Peace Emotional Freedom The Path to Inner Peace Do you suffer from anxiety, stress or depression? Do you want to ‘let go’ of this and really start enjoying your life? EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) helps to:  let go of any negativity so you feel calm and gain peace;  increase your positivity and well-being;  bring you self-acceptance and contentment. Gain more peace in your life, contact Kim on 07518 053311 www.eftworcestershire.co.uk

I have used EFT to help both my clients and my family, and I am still amazed at how quickly it can help, and with so many different problems. How it works is not really important, simply that it does, and in some instances almost immediately. I had one client who was struggling to cope with the emotional pain caused by something that had happened many years ago: within 10 minutes she was laughing about it! If you have a problem you are struggling to deal with, ask yourself the question: “Do I want to get better?” If the answer is yes, then please, contact me – I can help you with EFT.

Tel: 07518 053311

To advertise call 0845 224 7061 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk

Doors, windows, porches and conservatories • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Insurance backed guarantee FENSA registered Trader Register member Local references available Locally based in Worcester Tidy, polite & reliable Argon-filled, double-glazed units fitted as standard. Composite doors in a range of colours. Eight-point locking system on all new PVC doors. Order to installation within a fortnight! Range of prices to suit No pushy salesmen Full design service Call Free! 0800 0832 660 info@pjimprovements.co.uk

Stay safe and healthy this winter…….. Staying Warm and Well over the winter months, both inside and outside of your home, is vital for remaining healthy. We can help you prepare for the cold weather through our range of services and support designed especially for the winter season:     

Winter Warmth Checks - an all-round health check for your home Help around the home including shopping, preparation of light meals and pet walking Installation of draft proofing Advice on cheaper fuel And much more…..

For more information or to book a Winter Warmth Check, call us on 01386 422700 Age UK Herefordshire & Worcestershire 12 Vine Street, Evesham, WR11 Tel: 01386 422700 Email: evesham@ageukhw.org.uk Web: www.ageukhw.org.uk

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Christmas Fruit Garland Dough

140g self-raising flour 250g plain flour 10ml baking powder

3ml cinnamon 3ml salt 75g butter

40g castor sugar 2 large eggs 250ml yoghurt

Filling

450g jar mincemeat 80g marzipane

12,5ml sherry

12.5ml lemon juice

Icing

50g icing sugar

8 glacĂŠ cherries

50g flaked almonds

Sieve together flours, baking powder, salt and cinnamon. Rub in butter to form fine breadcrumbs, and add sugar. Beat eggs and add enough yoghurt to make up 300ml. Add to dry ingredients to form a soft dough. Remove from bowl, knead gently on a lightly floured surface then roll out to form a rectangle. Grate mazipane over rectangle. Mix together mincemeat, lemon juice and sherry and spread mixture evenly over rectangle. Roll up lengthwise like a swiss roll and transfer to a greased baking tray. Form into a ring and join ends. Using a sharp knife, cut slices into ring about 40mm apart; don't cut right through. Twist each slice slightly so that the filling is visible. Brush with milk or beaten egg yolk and bake at 2000C for 25 - 30 minutes. Mix icing sugar with a little water to make a glacĂŠ icing and drizzle over ring. Decorate with cherries and almonds. Leave to dry and serve the same day.

To advertise call 0845 224 7061 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk

Qualified Plumbing & Heating Engineer

THE FABRIK SHOP

All Work Guaranteed

24a Broad Street, Pershore. Tel: 01386 553 626 e: thefabrikshop@btinternet.com

No Call Out Fee

Stockist of: Linens, Cotton Poplins, Lawns and fabrics for evening wear

No Job Too Small

Full range of fleece, patchwork cottons, waddings, stencils, cutters and boards

01386 793616 07910 681481

Fat quarters from £1

Craft Kits make an ideal Christmas present info@wpph.co.uk • www.wpph.co.uk

CLIVE CAMPION 1/4pp advert for Guide to Pershore 2012.

Painter & Decorator

Interiors, Exteriors & Exhibitions

Simon Haines Construction Services Ltd

● ● ● ●

Over 23 years of experience

General Building Conversions & Extensions Property Maintenance Groundworks

Free Quotations

Over 16 years experience

Mob: 07768 104525

Telephone: 01386 550002 Mobile: 07971 002637 Email: simon@shcsgroup.co.uk www.shcsgroup.co.uk

Email: clivecampion@sky.com

32 Ashdale Avenue, Pershore, WR10 1PL

References available on request

Tel: 01527 401427

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With Christmas almost upon us, many of us will have a tendancy to over-indulge, so we thought it might be a good idea to get a few healthy eating tips from our favourite doctor:

Question & Answer time with Dr. Yu Tok K@k Q: A:

Doctor, I've heard that cardiovascular exercise can prolong life. Is this true? Heart only good for so many beats, and that it! Don't waste on exercise. Everything wear out eventually. Speeding up heart not make you live longer; it like saying you extend life of car by driving faster. Want to live longer? Take nap.

Q: A:

Should I reduce my alcohol intake? Oh no! Wine made from fruit. Fruit very good. Brandy distilled wine, that mean they take water out of fruity bit so you get even more of goodness that way. Beer also made of grain. Grain good too. Bottom up!

Q: Is swimming good for your figure? A: If swimming good for figure, explain whale to me. Q: Is getting in shape important for my lifestyle? A: Hey! 'Round' is shape!

Q: Aren't fried foods bad for you? A: YOU NOT LISTENING! Food fried in vegetable oil. How getting more vegetable be bad? Q: A:

Will sit-ups help prevent me from getting a little soft around the middle? Oh no! When you exercise muscle, it get bigger. You should only be doing sit-up if you want bigger stomach.

Q: A:

Is chocolate bad for me? You crazy?!? HEL-LO-O!! Cocoa bean! Another vegetable! It best feel-good food around!

Q: A:

How can I calculate my body/fat ratio? Well, if you have body and you have fat, your ratio one to one. If you have two body, your ratio two to one.

Q: A:

What are the advantages of participating in a regular exercise program? Can't think of one, sorry. My philosophy: no pain . . . good!

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year The Spotted What!? When a conservation and wildlife adviser called John Clarke put a small and unobtrusive advertisement in a selection of parish magazines, the response was remarkable . . . John writes with knowledge, warmth and humour. Birdwatchers will love this book. John's book is a tribute to the Spotted Flycatcher and may well help to halt its decline. He is The Flycatcher Man.

To order a copy now at the low price of just ÂŁ3.99 plus ÂŁ1.50 p&p, call: 01684 833715 8

To advertise call 0845 224 7061 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk

EE ON FR ATI OT QU S

Plumbing

For all your plumbing needs: safe registered  Landlord certificates  Boiler changes  System upgrades  All plumbing work  Bathrooms and Tiling

Pershore Rugs Pershore Retail Market Cherry Road, Pershore WR10 1EY

Rugs of all colours, shapes & sizes Doormats & Kitchenmats Curtain Accessories

Tel: 01386 555588

 Gas

t: 01386 861676 m: 07976 420150

QUALITY DENTURES DIRECT

Telephone: Reg No. 207290

MALVERN DENTURE CENTRE

01 684 574507

209b Worcester Road ● Malvern ● WR14 1SP

■ Local company based in Worcestershire ■ Vast knowledge of felt, tile and rubber roofing systems ■ Fascias, sofit and rain water systems

Morton Hall Lane Holberrow Green Redditch Worcestershire B96 6SD

Call for any help and advice 01386 792638 01527 526207 07516 225321

■ Supplies to trade and public ■ Large stocks of roofing products including felt, tiles, lath and fixings ■ A good selection of reclaimed tiles and slate ■ All work fully guaranteed and insured ■ Free no obligation quotations

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Church Farm Joinery is a small, family run business, who design and produce high quality bespoke items of joinery and furniture. Our team of three craftsmen have a collective experience of over 70 years between them. Based on our small farm which is nestled in the sleepy hamlet of North Piddle, our workshop has been producing beautifully crafted joinery for the past decade. Our customer base spans across the counties of Worcestershire, Herefordshire, Warwickshire, Gloucestershire, Somerset and the Cotswolds. At Church Farm Joinery we specialise in the manufacture of traditional hand-made joinery items such as wooden windows, staircases and doors, but find ourselves increasingly in demand for our expertly designed, high quality kitchens, bathrooms and fitted bedroom furniture. Church farm Joinery itself is a branch of our parent company David Smallcombe ltd Traditional builders, who have been established in Worcestershire for over 26 years. The joinery workshop was initially set up to service the construction company, but soon found itself in need of expansion owing to the demand for our products. The benefits to our customers of our affiliation to David Smallcombe ltd, is that we can offer a comprehensive design, manufacture and fit service on all of our kitchen and bathroom projects. Please visit our website

www.churchfarmjoinery.co.uk for further information and to see examples of our work. If you would prefer to contact us directly to discuss a project you can call Dan on

01905 380088 or send an email to mail@churchfarmjoinery.co.uk

To advertise call 0845 224 7061 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk

The Nathan, Radford, Inkberrow, Worcestershire,WR7 4LN www.mhf.uk.com

Skip Hire We are renowned for our skip hire services in and around the surrounding area. Our service is secondto-none, our drivers are polite and considerate, and we always go the extra mile for our customers. BUT did you know that here at MHF (UK) Ltd we also sell and hire hook, cable and chainlift trucks and drawbar trailers? We are a major supplier of spares for demountables and have a wellequipped workshop and trained mechanics. SPECIALISTS IN GROUND DEMOUNTABLE HOOK & CABLE TRUCK HIRE ● SALES ● SPARES ● REFURBISHMENT ● CONTAINERS ● WASTE DISPOSAL

Registered Office: Address as stated Incorporated in England Company Reg No. 2721020 VAT Reg. No. 770281436

Fax: 01386 792184

Tel: 01386 792354 For a personal and helpful service with:

SELF-ASSESSMENT TAX RETURNS BUSINESS ACCOUNTS VAT RETURNS COMPUTERISED ACCOUNTS Contact Paul Jenkins, Chartered Accountant

01386 552223 paul@pjaccounts.co.uk 39 High Street, Pershore, WR10 1EU

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e g tim nin s y e Da Ev ma ties r d an ist Pa site d r n eb Chals aour w e M see

Christmas at the

Jinney Ring

Atmospheric, rustic barn buildings in the countryside are home to:Quirky Gift Shop, Farmhouse Restaurant with home-made food all day, Craft Gallery and working craft outlets with unique handmade gifts including Clothing, Jewellery, Pictures, Glass, Soaps, Pottery, Wooden gifts, Speciality Chocolate, Christmas Trees, Wreaths and Decorations plus so much more. Open all year round: 10.00am (Sun 11.00am) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5.00pm including Bank Holidays except Christmas Day and Boxing Day Free Admission and Parking

Tel: 01527 821272

www.jinneyring.co.uk

Hanbury, between Droitwich and Bromsgrove, Worcestershire B60 4BU 12

To advertise call 0845 224 7061 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk

My Worcestershire Free Solar FREE solar panels means:  

My Worcestershire Free Solar is all about giving away free solar to qualifying properties in Worcestershire. There are no fees, no catches. FREE.

Your electricity bill will reduce – saving you money You will be reducing your carbon footprint, helping the environment, and helping the country reach it’s carbon efficiencies targets

How can we do this? In April 2010 the government introduced an initiative called the FIT Scheme. The FIT scheme allows investors to be paid for all the electricity that panels generate. This means that if you let us put panels on your roof, you benefit from free electricity, and we sell what is left over back to the grid.     

You must own your property (mortgaged is fine) Have a south facing roof or within 30 degrees of south Your roof must be free from shading No slate roofs, thatched roofs, or listed buildings Have 24 square metres of interrupted space on your roof (larger semi detached and detached properties on the whole are fine)

To apply go to www.myworcestershirefreesolar.co.uk or call 01905 676222

covering pershore and surrounding areas . . . . . . evening and weekend appointments always available Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding to advertisers

Five Top Tips to help You stay Healthy over Christmas

ive yourself a gift this Christmas: stay healthy during the Festive Season. 1. Exercise

Remember to keep up with your exercise routine. Just because you were out and about the night before is no excuse to sleep in and forego your workout. Staying active will help you feel better. I promise! Try and exercise outside as much as possible. If a run is too much, how about calling a friend who was out with you the night before and take a brisk walk around the park.

2. Relaxation As much as Christmas is a lovely time to catch up with all your friends and family, remember to take some time out for YOU. Take a few moments in the day to practice meditation or stress-relieving breathing techniques. We’re conditioned to think that Christmas is all about giving, so how 14

about taking the time to give to yourself as well this year. Don’t get stressed out over Christmas present buying. Plan your shopping in advance, write a list of all the presents you need to buy and avoid the frenzied crowds.

3. Nutrition

Remember to make healthy choices this Christmas. It’s easy to get carried away with all the puddings and chocolates and shortbread and party food, but before over-indulging remember how it’s going to make you feel the next day. Remember to eat plenty of vegetables, fruits and whole grains. If you do like enjoying Christmas treats, limit your portion size.

4. Water

Drink plenty of water to keep you hydrated. If you do drink alcohol, remember to alternate every alcoholic drink with a glass of water and please don’t drink on

To advertise call 0845 224 7061 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk

an empty stomach. Best to have a healthy snack before you go to the party as it will also prevent you from snacking on unhealthy party food. Dandelion tea is a great herbal tea to drink throughout the days when you know you’re going to be out and about, partying and drinking alcohol at night, as it helps to detoxify the liver.

Traditional Upholsterers & French Polishers Cane and Rush work Loose covers and Replacement cushions Custom-made, renovation and repairs Choice of exquisite fabrics

Telephone: Workshop

01827 899866

5. Sleep

Get plenty of rest and aim for 7-8 hours of sleep every night. It’s not going to make or break your life if you don’t go to EVERY party. How about having a night in? Create a relaxing spa experience at home, snuggle up on the sofa with a good book or DVD and get to bed early.

Simon

07980 064289 Jane

07712 895694 e-mail: jeinteriors@btinternet.com

And if all that fails, please don’t beat yourself up about it. Take each day as it comes and strive for a healthier day the next day.

For more information on Personal Training, Classes and other services I offer call Amy 07740 366419 or visit www.almfitness.co.uk or email info@ almfitness.co.uk Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding to advertisers

veryone knows that looking good means feeling good. At Willow Spa & Beauty our aim is to make you look great and feel even better!

From a single treatment to a whole day of pure self indulgence, we have a package to suit everyone. One dual and two separate treatment rooms, a hydrotherapy hot tub, relaxation rooms, terrace and conservatory, all set in peaceful gardens, with ample parking. A full range of treatments and packages, along with refreshments on offer: there is something for everyone. We encourage you to stay and relax long after your treatment has finished. Start in the bubbling jets of our hot spa, followed by a wide choice of pampering, with lunch or supper served in the conservatory or on the terrace. Or simply visit to experience our luxury Vintage Style Tea. We would love to welcome you to the Spa and you do not have to have any treatments booked to enjoy your tea and soak up the atmosphere. Set in the quiet Worcestershire village of White Ladies Aston, near Worcester, our tranquil country setting and experienced therapists will help you to relax, so you can’t help but unwind. The serene countryside encourages you to relax and enjoy one of the many treatments on offer: why not make a day of it and pamper yourself with a tailored package? We also have Gift Vouchers available to suit all price ranges: the perfect Christmas present.

Tel: 01905 345605 CHRISTMAS SHOPPING EVENINGS AT WILLOW SPA & BEAUTY Something else to look out for is our Christmas Shopping Evenings in November: 7.00pm - 9.30pm, Wednesday 7th, 14, 21st, 28th and December 7.00pm - 9.30pm, Wednesday 5th & 12th for shopping, treatments and GIFT VOUCHERS for both the Spa and Gift Shop. ALSO ENJOY A FREE GLASS OF MULLED WINE AND MINCE PIES. MINI FACIALS £5. PLUS £1 PER TICKET RAFFLE IN AID OF ST. RICHARDS HOSPICE. NEW - O.P.I. Gel Nail System Manicure for your Christmas celebrations and many other occasions £26 December OFFER Back Massage normally £25 NOW £12.50 Happy Christmas to you all from Nan, Vicky, Phittawan, Debbie and David at Willow Spa & Beauty White Ladies Aston Worcester WR7 4QQ 01905 345605 Email mail@willowspa.co.uk www.willowspa.co.uk

To advertise call 0845 224 7061 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk

Home Handyman Painting  Decorating  Tiling Someone to do those odd jobs around the house

No job too small

Tel: John 01386 550263 Mob: 07770 442851 email: johnstbbrt@gmail.com

CRAIG MERCHANT ELECTRICAL SERVICES

Part p' Domestic Installer Registered

• New Builds & Extension • Full/Part House Rewires • Outdoor Security Lighting • Mains Smoke Detectors • Extra Sockets & Lights • Night Storage Heaters • Fuseboard Changes

Call for a FREE

Inspection / Quotation t: 01905 828004 or m: 07899 964866

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Fladbury CE First School

orld War II was officially declared at Fladbury CE First School last week!

The children are learning about life in the war and why we wear poppies in remembrance of those who fought for freedom. The pupils put their backs into making an Anderson air raid shelter in the school grounds as part of the project. These shelters were given to people to erect in their own gardens to protect them from bombs. Pupils found out what life was like in the war, and afterwards all their hard work was rewarded with a swing dance session – a dance brought to the UK by American troops stationed here in the war. Mr Rhys, their class teacher, was delighted with the way the project went: ‘Everyone entered into the spirit of things and the children really learnt a lot about life in World War II – the hardships but also the community spirit. It was a great success.’ To find out more about the work of the school, contact Tessa Richardson, Head Teacher, on:

Tel: 01386 860301 Heating & Plumbing Gas Safe Registered Engineer

Mark Hartley

[based in Inkberrow]

Gas & LPG Boiler Servicing from £65

Tel: 01386 793 221 Mob: 07846 198157 18

To advertise call 0845 224 7061 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk

STEAMED UP DOUBLE GLAZING? Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t replace the Frames... just the Panes!

Broken or Damaged Windows? Faulty Hinges, Handles or Locks? Want the latest energy saving glass? 5 year guarantee on new double glazing.

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0800 61 21118

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Christmas Cards

Article by Marion Freeman

ill the increase in modern technology and higher postal charges this year make any difference to your tradition of sending Christmas cards?

It is now pretty well established that the first proper Christmas card was one inspired by Sir Henry Cole, founder of the Victoria & Albert museum, although this could have had its origins in what was known as the ‘Christmas Piece’. This was a paper, painstakingly produced by 18th century children to wish their parents the compliments of the season, whilst showing them how their education was progressing. In addition, at this time visiting cards were extensively used and these were often embellished at the festive season with Christmas greetings or the addition of variously designed coloured scraps, produced in the main by German printers. Henry Cole was born on 15th July 1808 and on leaving school aged 15, he obtained work at the Public Records office, later becoming the assistant keeper there. Being a true art lover he helped establish an art shop at12 Old Bond Street, London and also assisted Prince Albert in promoting the Great Exhibition in1851. He also assisted Rowland Hill in his postal reform plans, launched the National Training School for Music (later the Royal College) and was associated 20

with plans for the Royal Albert Hall. Another of his acquaintances was William Mulready, R.A. who was producing pictorial envelopes, and they had discussed the production of a special Christmas envelope to be issued at the same time as the Penny black stamp was introduced on 6th May 1840.

Sir Henry Cole's

With his time at a premium, in 1843 Cole hit upon the idea of commissioning the artist John Calcott Horsley to design a card that could be sent to his family and friends, whilst also selling some to other time-stricken members of the public. This first card showed a design depicting three aspects of Victorian life, separated by rustic poles entwined with vines. The central panel showed a happy family raising their wine glasses with two side panels portraying two acts of charity - feeding the hungry and clothing the naked. There were spaces on the top and bottom for the recipient and sender’s names and a simple message reading ‘A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you’. A 1000 of these rectangular cards were produced, hand coloured and lithographed on stout cardboard, and sold for one shilling each. This first attempt at a commercial Christmas card received only a lukewarm response and Cole didn’t repeat his experiment, but the following year the idea was taken up by WA Dobson, an artist of the Royal Academy,

To advertise call 0845 224 7061 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk

who sent out hand-coloured cards. It is also thought that William M Edgley, son of a painter of miniatures, also published a card, probably in 1849. Although progress was slow, by the 1860’s the sending of Christmas cards was much more in evidence. Designs became more ambitious showing robins, plum puddings and other traditional scenes, and came in a variety of shapes and sizes Cards that could be hand finished were sold in sheets, as were scraps that could be stuck to homemade cards, and a new innovation – the Christmas card verse - was introduced. During the 1860’s and 1870’s new colour printing processes not only enabled costs to be lowered but also allowed more delicate works to be produced. Prizes were offered for original designs with acknowledged artists of the time producing new designs or allowing their work to be depicted on Christmas cards. Twenty years later sending of cards to friends and family was an established tradition and it was obvious the custom was here to stay. Many factors contributed to the increase in the sending of such cards: expanding railway routes throughout the country, many with travelling post office services, and the general improvement in education for the poorer classes. Both contributed to more folk using the facilities offered by the Post Office, and when in 1840 the cost of postage was reduced to a ha’penny for a card, this resulted in a large increase of postal usage. By 1880 the custom of sending cards was so well established that the Post Office introduced their annual call to the public to ‘Post Early for Christmas’.

With the general rise in the exchange of Christmas greetings, a wide variety of designs came onto the market. Amongst them are those known as ‘animated’ which pulling a tassel or tab, changed the appearance of the card. Along the same lines are mechanical cards; by m a n i p u l at i n g part of it, the card could be transformed into a toy model. Other designs included paintings of flowers, often accompanied by dried versions of the real thing, and one of the most popular had a front panel that when lifted, revealed a series of drawings or photographs. Homemade cards became a hugely important part of the card scene, and many and varied were the designs and types that came into being: from children’s hand-drawn pictures to montages of postage stamps, and the addition of glitter, pictures, motifs or scraps. Private individuals, businesses and organisations still commission personal cards. John Smith, exMayor and well-known Pershore citizen, each year would have such a card produced, the front showing a local photograph, inside a seasonal greetings and a copy of one of his poems commemorating the passing year.

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Chase Heating | Racecourse Road | Pershore | Worcs | WR10 2EY

Plan NOW to save money in winter 2012

Start saving money on your fuel bills! Today's woodburning stoves not only keep your living space lovely and warm they provide a luxurious focal point to your home in both traditional and modern styles.

Invest in a woodburner - make your house a home! Contact us for our latest brochure

SUMMER FUEL OFFERS... Kiln Dried Logs by Certainly Wood £5.99 per bag 10 BAGS £50 Kiln Dried Kindling by Certainly Wood £3.99 per box. BUY 4 GET ONE FREE Burning Briquettes £5.80 per 10kg pack. 10 PACKS £50

Visit our large showroom

to view our extensive range of quality Wood-burning Stoves and Range Cookers - working models on display.

NOW IN: Kiln Dried Wood, Coal, Kindling and Eco Fuels.

Chaseheating ‘Warming the heart of the local community since 1969’

tel: 01386 555333 www.chaseheating.co.uk OPEN MONDAY - FRIDAY 9AM TIL 5PM SATURDAY 9AM TIL 1PM 22

To advertise call 0845 224 7061 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk

The Pantry, Peopleton

as featured on the TV programme BBC Countryfile Fresh British & Continental Bread & Patisseries • High Quality Meat & Cheeses Local Honey & Eggs • Fresh Fruit & Vegetables • Pickles & Preserves Plants & Fresh Flowers • Gardening Supplies • Flower & Vegetable Seeds Newspapers, Greetings Cards, Gift Paper & Stationery • Post Office Traditional bicycle delivery service to Peopleton - unique in our area.

“Come and experience how good village shopping can be !!” Open: 8am – 6pm Monday – Friday 9am – 12noon Sat 9am – 11am Sun Post Office: 9am – 3.30pm Mon- Fri.

Tel: 01905 841616 (Shop & Orders) 01905 840471 (Post Office)

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fter spending nearly six months unemployed, Michael Gosling made his mind up to start a business, which would give him both independance and job satisfaction. He attended a few auctions and bought some items which he sold on Ebay. Then he spoke to a friend in Upton, Bob Fletcher, who had opened a small shop, selling bits and pieces of secondhand items for people on a commission basis. Bob told Mike how well it was going and how surprised he'd been by the response he'd had. Michael, with the support of his wife Jayne, started to research shops and the second-hand business, and MJs Real Deals was born.

MJsRealDeals Unit 6-7 Bakers Arcade, 54, High Street Pershore WR10 1DU

SECOND HAND DEALER Tel: 01386 552031 Mobile: 07846 390357 E-Mail: mjsrealdeals@sky.com PLEASE CALL IN TO BROWSE OR BUY

Why give your items away? We can often sell them for you On a 50/50 basis

After finding a vacant unit in Bakers WE ACCEPT ALL MAJOR CREDIT/DEBIT CARDS Arcade Pershore, the shop opened on 1st May this year, initially in a smaller unit but now in the larger unit as more and more items came in. Michael was determined to offer people the chance to be able to sell their good quality items rather than just give them to Charity or worse still, take them to the tip. To cover the overheads, items are sold on a 50/50 basis, which means the seller gets paid for their goods and the buyer gets a good quality item at a reasonable price. From Furniture to knick-knacks MJ's Real Deals is certainly worth a visit.

MJs Real Deals SECOND HAND DEALER

Tel: 01386 552031 Mobile: 07846 390357 Email: mjsrealdeals@sky.com 24

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43 Merstow Green | Evesham | WR11 4BB

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26/07/2011 13:23

Holly’s Christmas Past The Holly and the Ivy, when they are both full grown . . . . . December and the winter solstice approaches; a time of year when we can really connect with raw nature and empathise with ancient man’s preoccupation: “Will Spring ever return?” Most Western cultures associate Holly with Christmas, but this tree has a long rich history of symbolism, dating back centuries before the time of Christ. Almost every Ancient pre-Christian culture shares similar traditions. At around December 25th, the Egyptians, Babylonians and Persians each held raucous parties and gave gifts to honour their respective sun gods. Romans celebrated Saturnalia, when they witnessed the rising sun overpower Winter and gained hope for the return of Spring. This required a week long session of binge drinking, riotous behaviour and gluttony (sounds familiar!) in honour of the god of Agriculture, Saturn. They decorated their homes with evergreens, especially Holly, inviting house gods to reside within, blessing their household with good fortune. Some Saturnalian customs are perhaps best forgotten. During this period of lawlessness, Lucian writes of intoxication, general ‘bad behaviour’, human sacrifice and the consumption of humanshaped biscuits, in an attempt to ‘kill Winter’. Something to think about, this Christmas, when handing your child a gingerbread man! Pliny the Elder tells us that Holly planted near a farm or house would repel poison, defend against lightening and witchcraft, amongst other benefits. In some districts of Sweden today, there is a guardian holly tree on every farm. Ilex aquifolium

Thus faith in the holly tree spread from the ancient

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world through to China, Western and Northern Europe via the Romans, Celts and Vikings; with its symbolism of death of Winter and rebirth of Spring, eternal life and hope; embedding the Holly in both Pagan and Christian cultures. Certainly the Druids believed the sun favoured the holly. Other plants succumbed to harsh winter weather, but magical holly remained strong and green all year, with its bright, red winter berries. A strong belief system which permeated the Celtic world. Holly was often worn during ceremonies. Therefore cutting down or damaging the tree of eternal life would bring bad luck and was punishable by death! A vestige of this superstition is prevalent today in many parts of the UK. Druids believed the prickly leaves hanging in windows and doorways would deter evil spirits and witches. Also, boughs of holly in the home provided shelter for elves and fairies, bringing good luck and protection. How they acquired said branches without damaging the tree remains a mystery! It features in the Celtic myth of the twice yearly battle between Oak and Holly kings; each ruling over nature for half the year. You may know the medieval version of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, armed with his Holly club. Holly continued to play an important role during the transition from Pagan to Christian beliefs in 4th century. The prickly leaves of the now holy tree represented Christ’s crown of thorns and the red berries, his blood. Thankfully medieval holly medications have disappeared. As expected, there were a whole range of applications curing everything from gout to small pox, with dubious efficacy; including thrashing your chilblains with holly branches to ‘chase the chills out’. Although I believe Dr Bach has a few remedies . . . . . But the ancient symbolism lives on in literature and custom. The carol 'The Holly and the Ivy' (1710) hybridises Christian and Pagan imagery. We use the foliage to decorate church and home. And if you see an old cottage surrounded by a holly hedge, likely it was planted to keep out evil spirits.

Ilex aquifolium 'Silver Queen'

Oh, and don’t forget to burn your holly on Twelfth Night . . . . . . otherwise it’s bad luck!

. . . . of all the trees that are in the wood, the holly bears the crown.

Hilary Collins Design ConsuItant & Horticulturist Envisage . . . gardens by design at Grafton Nursery www envisage-gardens.co.uk t: 01386 898196 or 01684 878571 Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding to advertisers

aturday 15th September saw Evesham once again host to a great local event: the Townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s second Pie & Ale Festival.

No paucity of Pies and there was most certainly beer (Ale for the uninitiated) in abundance. Local brews went by the quaintest of names like Crop Slasher and Piddle in the Hole from the Wyre Piddle Brewery, Worcester Sorcerer (Saucer... er?), Asum from Evesham Brewery and Mellow Yellow brewed in the Black Country. I favoured the Crop Slasher, less for the name, certainly for flavour and maybe also because I used to live there (Wyre Piddle) years ago. For the record, I was told by the Editor that I MUST sample the produce - my excuse and I am sticking to it (Editor's note: Well done Brian, this was above and beyond the call of duty!).

assisted by Shawn Riley, Evesham Market Town Partnershipâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Manager. The author can attest to this opinion being accurate since he followed instructions, did his duty and partook of pie himself. The kids enjoyed the donkey rides, bouncy castle, balloons, the opportunity to perform, dance and sing on stage and finally . . . magician Kris Krendo. Kris met his match and wondered what had hit him when he invited young Kelsie Taylor-Slade up on stage to assist, as she virtually stole the show much to the amusement of the audience. Kris had the kids enthralled and involved in his show and after he had finished, took off to be the maestro behind the Punch & Judy show. Earlier in day 11-year old Aimee RobinsonClayton wowed the audience with her wonderful singing voice.

Winner of the Best Homemade Pies were produced, judged and eaten, all in the Pie went to Jody Alexander late summer while Sadie Downey, from the sunshine in the Outdoor Pig Company, lead Market Square. the way in the professional Very tasty they categories, named were too as the Champion for the Best Pork Judge, Daren Pie and Best Overall. Bale of the Hop Pole Inn and the Great Ale . . . Worcester Food . . . Great Pie . . . A m b a s s a d o r, . . . Great Day! explained as he awarded the To prizes, ablycall 0845 224 7061 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk Article & Photograpy by Brian Joyce advertise 28

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Ice Cream Soda

Vintage Clothing Vine Court  Vine Street  Evesham  WR11 2NN Ice Cream Soda Vintage Clothing is set in the heart of Evesham, down a small shopping mall situated at the top end of Vine Street opposite the market square. There you will find an eclectic mix of true British vintage, which prides itself in the knowledge of all things from the past. When you step into this astonishing shop you cannot help but reminice of days gone by. We sell anything from real vintage pieces that have been carefully chosen by the owner, to reproduction pieces styled from old vintage patterns. The shop only stocks items from the 1930's to the 1970's, and with prices within reach of the current climate, you will find something for everyone. Attached to the clothing shop is Millkies Milk Bar where you can sit and listen to old time favourites whilst enjoying the fabulous milkshakes that are hugely popular, as well as hot and cold snacks. We also offer in-house vintage hairstyling and parties for hen nights with a difference, where you can bring your friends for a vintage makeover and experince our wealth of knowledge of all things vintage. And then there's 'Gertie', our retro caravan. She travels the country doing anything from festivals to weddings and garden parties, selling homemade cupcakes and teas out of vintage china cups. All these experiences are all available from Ice Cream Soda Vintage Clothing. Come and take a peek - you will pleasantly suprised.

'Gertie'

tel: 07808 792896 Open: Wednesday to Saturday 30

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Cherie Blair & The Cow! Cherie Blair is touring the countryside in a chauffeur-driven car. Suddenly, a cow jumps out into the road, they hit it full on and the car comes to a stop. Cherie, in her usual charming manner, says to the chauffeur: "You get out and check - you were driving." The chauffeur gets out, checks and reports that the animal is dead. "You were driving; go and tell the farmer," says Cherie. Five hours later, the chauffeur returns totally plastered, hair ruffled with a big grin on his face. "My goodness, what happened to you?" asks Cherie. The chauffeur replies: "When I got there, the farmer opened his best bottle of malt whisky, the wife gave me a slap-up meal and the daughter made love to me."

148 A1 Thermoline / Vale Stoves

9/20/11

12:54 PM

Page 1

"What on earth did you say?" asks Cherie. "Well" says the chauffeur, "I knocked on the door, and when they answered, I said to them: I'm Cherie Blair's chauffeur and I've just killed the cow . . . !"

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S and H

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From this ... ... to this!

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Number Workout Fit the numbers 1-6 once in every hexagon so that where the hexagons touch, the numbers are the same. No number is repeated in any hexagon.

6 2 1 6

6 4

5 6

3 2

5 1

that each line, square contain duplicating the line or square

1. Who sang "Secret Love" in the 1953 film Calamity Jane? 2. Which Goon played Bluebottle and Major Denis Bloodnok? 3. Which "party" saw 342 chests dumped? 4. Who pushes the witch into the oven Hansel or Gretel? 5. What gas filled the ill-fated zeppelin The Hindenburg?

3 2

6. What dark subject do speliologists study?

7. Which Shakespearian character declares "Cry 'Havoc!' and let slip the dogs of war"?

Trivia

(answers on page 37)

1 2 3

Coffee Time!

Fill in the blank squares so each row and each mini the numbers 1 - 9 without same number in any row,

Sudoku

2 5

2 4

Fill in the blank squares, ensuring that the numbers add up to the number in the grey box to the left of the row or above the line. Only numbers 1 to 9 can be used and no number can be repeated in the same row or line.

4 5

Kakuro

8. Who dies first - Romeo or Juliet? 9. Which city has a nil birthrate? 10. Who illustrated Peter Rabbit?

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Events in

December Saturday 17th Nov to Monday 24th December Christmas Grotto at Webbs, Wychbold Children will love this winter wonderland grotto where they will see the animated elves in their workshop before meeting Father Christmas. They will then enter the spectacular toy warehouse and choose their own fantastic gift worth at least £5. Entry times vary. Please see www.webbsdirect. co.uk for full times. Grotto entrance £6 per child includes 1 accompanying adult. additional adults £2 each. Worcester Road, Wychbold, WR9 0DG Saturday 1st Dec 2012 Save the Children, Coffee Morning Christmas cards, books, festive cake stall, raffle, tea, coffee and cake. Please come and join us and support Save the Children. Contact: Julia Grant on 01905 820138. Free entry. 10am to 12 noon. St. Mary’s Church House, Squires Walk, Kempsey, WR5 3JD Thursday 29th Nov to Sunday 2nd December Worcester Victorian Christmas Fayre We are open for the duration. Come and see Santa. Try our scrumptious Pork Baps and Coffee Shop Specials. See Pictures of old Worcester. Dare you brave the Stocks? And new for this year: “Experience a Magic Lantern Victorian Extravaganza, can you believe your eyes!” “Dickens Christmas Carol”, “A Children's Christmas” and more. (The Magic Lantern will not be there Sunday). Thurs 29th Nov 4pm - 9pm, Fri 30th Nov 11am – 9pm, Sat 1st Dec 10 am – 7pm, Sun 2nd Dec 11am - 5pm. www.tudorhouse.org.uk Wednesday 5th December Christmas Joy with The Julian Singers Beautifully arranged Christmas songs, delivered with pinpoint precision and amazing dynamics from the Julian Singers, energetically produced by their conductor Sheila Quine. “Tudor House must be the ideal venue for this intimate music, as good as having musicians performing in my living room.”anon Starting at 7.00pm. Tickets £7.50, Friends & Volunteers of TH £6.50 (to include wine or soft drink and a mince pie) available from Tudor House. Open Wed and Sat from 10.00 am - 4.00pm and Thurs from 1.00pm – 4.00pm, and Tourist Information, The Guildhall. Call Judy 01386 553536 / 01905 612309 www.tudorhouse.org.uk

Saturday 8th Dec 2012 Worcester Festival Choral Society - Handel’s Messiah WFCS are delighted to be joined once more by soloists from the Royal Academy. 7:30pm. £7 £25 Tickets available online and at Worcester Live, Huntingdon Hall, Crown Gate, WR1 3LD. Tel: 01905 611427. Children 9-15 years accompanying an adult admitted free. Parties of 10 or more booking together – 10% reduction. Worcester Cathedral, Worcester WR1 2LA. www.worcesterfestivalchoralsociety.org.uk/concerts.php Friday 14th December Vale Craft Guild Craft Fair As part of Pershore Late Night Christmas Shopping event, Vale Craft Guild will be showcasing the original and unique products hand-crafted locally by craft workers and artists. This is an opportunity to meet the makers and purchase their quality goods at affordable prices: watercolour paintings, textiles, teddy bears and much more. Opening Times: 5.30pm – 8.30pm Free Admission. Pershore Town Hall, Worcestershire, WR10 1DS Saturday 15th December Christmas Craft Fair Lots of lovely hand made items sold by the makers at this delightful venue, hot snacks, pies and wines or soft drinks etc. A vast variety of work for sale. Call Jill for info 07754950939. No admission fee. 11am till 4.30pm approx. If weather is good some stalls maybe outside. The Morgan pub, Malvern, WR14 3EQ. www.jillpeertreatments.com Saturday 22nd December Christmas Craft and Gift Fair A lovely craft and gift fair with high quality gift ideas for yourself or for loved ones. Shabby chic textiles, skincare, jewellery, jams and chutneys. Free Admission 10am-4pm. The Town Hall, Evesham, WR11 4RW Monday 31st December New Year's Eve Party Starting from 7pm till late come and join us letting the New Year in. Everyone welcome; limited seats available . Music from the 60’s to present. Tickets £12.50 pp. Contact The Lenchford on 01905 620229 for further details. The Lenchford Inn, Shrawley, WR6 6TB. www.thelenchfordinn.co.uk

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FABULOUS SELECTION OF FOOTWEAR FROM THE LEADING BRANDS FOR ALL THE FAMILY

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Answers to Trivia on page 34: (1) Doris Day (2) Peter Sellars (3) The Boston Tea Party (4) Gretel (5) Hydrogen Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding to advertisers 37 (6) Caves (7) Mark Anthony (8) Romeo (9) The Vatican (10) Beatrix Potter

VETS & ANIMAL CARE