TThe Villager October 2014 Issue No.53
www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
Your
FREE
Magazine
HEALTH & FITNESS • COFFEE BREAK • EVENTS • GARDENING • RECIPES
R Hughes Roofing GRP FLAT ROOFING
Mark Ellis Interiors Kitchens • Bedrooms Studies & Storage
Before
Looking for a new roof? Don’t felt it!
From door replacements to fully bespoke design
Fibreglass it! Fibre glass roofs are guaranteed no leaks, no rotting, non slip, easy to clean and maintain.
Extensive range of finishes including high gloss, curved and hand made solid wood.
After
20 year guarantee
Local workshop facilities in Pinvin to hand make any item for a unique design at a reasonable price
PVCU FASCIAS, SOFFITS AND GUTTERING with 15 year guarantee
Beautiful items made in wood to fit any nook, cranny or alcove.
Call Robert Hughes on:
07946 546291 or 01905 888774
Email roberthughes91@hotmail.co.uk 6 The Old Music Hall • Pershore Worcs WR10 1BJ
www.rhughesroofing.co.uk
www.markellisinteriors.co.uk
07976 301794
free consultation, 3D design & quote.
Marshalls of Evesham Marshalls of Evesham LtdLtd
Ma
Car Commercial and Commercial Vehicle Repairs Car and Vehicle Repairs www.marshallsofevesham.co.uk www.marshallsofevesham.co.uk
MOT Aircon Repairs MOT andand Aircon Repairs etcetc Maintenance Contracts Available Maintenance Contracts Available Marshalls of Evesham Ltd
and Commercial Vehicle Repairs Car, Van & Commercial Vehicle Repairs Car,Car Van & Commercial Vehicle Repairs www.marshallsofevesham.co.uk Contact Brian or Des Contact Brian or Des on on MOT and Aircon Repairs etc 01386 556808 01386 556808 07836 217354 07836 217354 Marshalls of Evesham Ltd Maintenance Contracts Available
E: brian@marshallsofevesham.co.uk E: brian@marshallsofevesham.co.uk Car and Commercial Vehicle Repairs Throckmorton, Pershore, Pershore Airfield, Throckmorton, Pershore, WR10WR10 2JH 2JH Car,Pershore Van &Airfield, Commercial Vehicle Repairs www.marshallsofevesham.co.uk
2
Contact Brian or Des on
Car
MOT
Mai Ma
Car,Car V
MOT
Ma Mai
E: Car Pershore Car, V
To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
MOT and Aircon Repairs etc
MOT
advertisement
Cloudy2Clear Windows – Service With A Smile! It’s been a crazy few months for Cloudy2Clear Windows. The company which specialises in repairing windows which are steamed up, broken or damaged by replacing the panes – not the frames has grown rapidly as homeowners take advantage of their services. Managing Director Paul Papandreou feels that it’s all about service. ‘Our product is simple. If your double glazing is misted up we can replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window, in any type of frame, and with a new 5 year guarantee. But it’s not just about saving people
money, although that obviously helps. Many tradespeople have struggled since last year and I honestly feel that during the good times a minority perhaps didn’t focus on customer care as much as they should have done. We make sure we turn up when we say we will, do the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle. I often get comments back from customers on how they really didn’t expect that sort of service which, in a way, is very sad for the service industry as a whole.’ Cloudy2Clear service the Malvern, Worcester & Hereford areas and Paul is finding that his approach is a major
factor in his success. ‘The truth is that it’s not just the personal satisfaction that I get from doing a good job but also it makes good business sense. I get a huge amount of business from friends and family of people
I’ve done work for, which just goes to show how much a little bit of effort is appreciated.’ So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Paul a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be happy to help!
STEAMED UP DOUBLE GLAZING? Don’t replace the Frames... just the Panes!
Broken or Damaged Windows? Faulty Hinges, Handles or Locks? Want The Latest Energy Saving Glass? All Glazing Backed By Our 5 Year Manufacturers Guarantee Priority Freephone
0800 61 21118 www.cloudy2clear.com ...we make saving money perfectly clear... Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding to advertisers
3
TThe Villager October 2014
Issue No. 53
Hello and welcome to the October edition of
TThe Villager
Publisher & Advertising
Grapevine Publications 3 Rye Street • Birtsmorton • WR13 6AS Tel: 01684 833715 Mob: 07754 170286 info@grapevinepublications.co.uk www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
Editor
Betty-Ann Ambury Info@grapevinepublications.co.uk
Advertising & Editorial Betty-Ann Ambury
Contributors
Andrew Brooks Amy Marshall Brian Joyce Pamela Green West Mercia Police
Photography
Front Cover and Pages 5 & 38 Mike Ambury
Next Issue Copy Date
10th October 2014
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.
4
On 15th September The Friends of St James hosted a talk by Air Marshal Sir Robert Wright and Air Commodore Graham Pitchfork on The Battle of Britain and Bomber Command. Mike and I went along to the talk - we were very lucky to be invited as guests of FoSJ - and what a brilliant evening it was. Both speakers were extremely interesting on a subject that I personally found enthralling. We again have several new advertisers: if you are planning on having Christmas in the sunshine, give Carrick Travel a call; if you'd like to know what happens to our rubbish, then have a look at the article on Budget Skips, and if you'd like to have your carpets looking like new for Christmas, then Chris James Cleaning are the people to contact. And last, but by no means least, if you'd like to stop your cat having unwanted kittens, then contact the Cats Protection who are offering help with this.
Betty
To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
contents 8
Carrick Travel
10
West Mercia Police
13
Focus Accountancy
14
Best-Laid Gardening Plans
16
Cat Neutering
19
Delicate, Pink & Beautiful
20
Budget Skip Hire
26
Johnston Scotia
31
Shuttercraft
32
ALM Fitness
36
Chris James Cleaning
38
What's happening in October
40
The Cheeseboard
42
Improve Your Photography
44
Coffee Break
45
Pershore Plum Festival
47
Miraculous Birth at WMSP
48
Your Community Directory
49
Rotary Club of Pershore
51
Index
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. Š 2014
Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding to advertisers
5
01789 762450 LOCKSMITHS and SAFE ENGINEERS • Lock sales, fitting & opening • Safe sales, fitting & opening • Key cutting • Electronic locking solutions • Full mobile service • Car key specialists Unit 12, 34 Tything Road, Alcester B49 6ES Phone: 01789 762450 Fax: 01789 400799
www.alcesterlocks.co.uk
Pinvin, Pershore
FABULOUS SELECTION OF FOOTWEAR FROM THE LEADING BRANDS FOR ALL THE FAMILY MOST STYLES IN FULL AND HALF SIZES ~ SIZE 3 - 8 LADIES & SIZE 6 - 12 MENS
Childrens' main fitting centre in the area for both CLARKS & START-RITE at Redditch Our Alcester shop also has a large selection OUR STOW SHOP SPECIALISES IN LADIES & MENS FOOTWEAR Owned and run by a local family BRANDS INCLUDE: CLARKS, ECCO, RIEKER, HOTTER, LOTUS, LELLI KELLY, ROHDE, GABOR, ANATOMIC, LOAKE, BARKER, START-RITE, GEOX, MERRELL, SKECHERS, SEBAGO, VAN-DAL, EQUITY, TAMARIS, TIMBERLAND ~ HANDBAGS BY RADLEY & TULA
KINGFISHER CENTRE, REDDITCH - REDDITCH Tel: 01527 62416 HIGH STREET, ALCESTER 4 PARK STREET, STOW-ON-THE-WOLD 6
To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
Guara n fitting teed Christ for mas
Add a little sparkle!
From a simple door swap to a full replacement kitchen... • Senior Citizens Discount • Trusted reputation • Free estimating, planning & design service • Fitted kitchens or replacement doors & worktops • Huge choice of doors, worktops, sinks, taps & appliances * Terms & Conditions apply, please ask for full details
Free planning & design service in the comfort of your own home or visit our showroom owroom
www.dreamdoors.co.uk
Call Mark for a FREE Quote on 01386 898409 409 Showroom: 42 The Tything, Worcester WR1 1JT Covering Evesham, Pershore, Worcester and all surrounding areas. Find us on Proud members of
www.dreamdoors.co.uk
Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding to advertisers
7
Escorted Touring around Australia with CARRICK TRAVEL
From the Red Centre of Australia to the Land of the Long White Cloud
S
o far away yet at the same time, so familiar, Australia and New Zealand are among the most exciting and rewarding of destinations. With our shared language and history and close cultural ties, the sense of ease and intimacy on arrival is immediate, but there is so much in these farflung lands that is different, too. The climate, the dramatic landscapes and the sheer scale of these countries, all tell us that we are very far from home, while the rich traditions of the indigenous peoples, the Aborigines of Australia and New Zealand’s Maoris, add an extra layer of wonder. From parched red deserts to lush tropical rainforests, from soft, white sandy beaches and warm, crystal-blue seas to snowcapped mountains and majestic
glaciers, the geographic diversity of these two countries is truly breath-taking. (And then, of course, there’s the unique wildlife. Nowhere else on earth will you see kangaroos, koalas, wombats or kiwis in their native habitat, and there are those great natural spectacles, like the Great Barrier Reef, the largest structure made up of living organisms on the planet, and the thermal geysers of New Zealand, looking like something from another world.)
and fantastic, comprehensive tours of New Zealand.
Titan has a superb selection of carefully created itineraries visiting both these remarkable countries, including, new for 2014, our Highlights of Australia tour. Other tours with departures this year include road, rail and air tours of the island continent of Australia
As always with Titan, scheduled flights and high quality, handpicked accommodation are included as standard, as well as the services of a knowledgeable tour manager throughout and, of course, door to door transfers wherever you live in the UK.
And if escaping the chilly British winter appeals, we have two unique festive season tours for you, Christmas and New Year Down Under, and Festive New Zealand. So, if you’ve ever dreamed of celebrating Christmas in the middle of a sunny Southern Hemisphere summer, or raising a glass to the New Year in Sydney Harbour, there’s still time to book for 2014 and 2015!
Carrick Travel 19 High Street Pershore Worcs WR10 1AA T: 01386 554262
8
Carrick Travel 57-59 Port Street Evesham Worcs T: 01386 41474
To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
Thinking Holidays?
Let C A R R I C K take care of it...
C A R R I C K T R A V E L is your local Independent Travel Agent. Contact us NOW to discuss your next holiday.
EVESHAM:
PERSHORE:
01386 41474
01386 554262
57-59 Port Street, WR11 3LH
19 High Street, WR10 1AA
We also have offices in: Leamington Spa, Stratford-upon-Avon, Kenilworth, Cheylesmore (Coventry), Solihull, Bourton-on-the-Water & Chipping Norton
Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding toEmail: advertisers Visit: www.carricktravel.com enquiries@carricktravel.com
9
GV0914
West Mercia
POLICE
SERVING - PROTECTING - MAKING THE DIFFERENCE
Safer Neighbourhood Teams : About your team Safer Neighbourhood Teams work with
There are a total of 82 Safer Neighbourhood
local people and partner agencies to
Teams within the West Mercia area. Below
identify, tackle and solve issues that matter
are the details for the teams within the
to the community where you live.
local area including email addresses.
They
If
consist of a Safer Neighbourhood Police
you are unsure which area you come under
Officer and one or more Police Community
please visit our website www.westmercia.
Support Officers.
police.uk here you can view exactly which team covers your area and can also see
Making neighbourhoods safer by cutting
what PACT events and priorities your local
day to day crime and anti-social behaviour
team has in place.
is at the heart of keeping people in West Mercia safe. Thanks to an investment in mobile tablet style computers, these will enable officers to spend more time on patrol on the street and in neighbourhoods. Officers will continue to come to people when they need them and provide a high quality service however you can contact us - in person (on the street, at community bases and at Partners and Communities Together [PACT] meetings), on the phone or online.
Evesham Rural North eveshamrn.snt@westmercia.pnn.police.uk Evesham Town North and Rural South eveshamtnrs.snt@westmercia.pnn.police.uk Evesham Town South and Rural West eveshamtsrw.snt@westmercia.pnn.police.uk Pershore Rural North and South pershorerural.snt@westmercia.pnn.police.uk Pershore Town pershoretown.snt@westmercia.pnn.police.uk
Get in touch
101 to talk to your local SNT or report a crime Only call 999 in an emergency, when a crime is in progress or life is in danger. 10
To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
Luke's Garden Maintenance Any gardening job quoted for, including: • Fencing • Hedge cutting • • Patio cleaning • • Mowing • Strimming • • Rubbish removals • • Tree work • • Vegetable patches rotovated • • Fence and shed painting • • Guttering cleaning • and more...
call now for a FREE, no obligation quote
Local ~ Professional ~ Reliable Find us on
Tel:
01386 244680
Find us on
Mobile: 07892447450
Marques Marques Traditional, trusted classic car service
Traditional, trusted classic car service
Routine servicing & MOT tests Routine servicing & MOT tests Repairs, maintenance & upgrades Repairs, maintenance & upgrades Full bodywork repair & paint facilities, including oven Full bodywork repair & paint facilities, including oven Bespoke car search, inspection & purchase service Bespoke car search, inspection & purchase service Sales – both on a commission basis outright Salesand – both on a purchase commission Call Mark & Rob: 01684 297698 or 07791 417191 basis and outright purchase Email: Enquiries@retromarques.co.uk
Strensham Business Park, WR8 9JZ (off M5/M50 jct)
or email lcgardening@yahoo.co.uk
Call Mark & Rob: 01684 297698 or 07791 417191 Email: Enquiries@retromarques.co.uk Call Mark & Rob: 01684 297698 or 07791 417191 Strensham Business Park, WR8 9JZ (off M5/M50 jct) Email: Enquiries@retromarques.co.uk
Strensham Business Park, WR8 9JZ (off M5/M50 jct)
beautiful & energy efficient Choose from our extensive range and enjoy high quality products combined professional design and quality installation. With years of experience we offer a relaxed and friendly service at great value prices!
Let us transform your home... No pressure, No hassle, just quality products and workmanship at honest prices
tel : 01386 800600
Windows, Doors & Conservatories
ETC Windows Doors & Conservatories are proud to be Worcestershire’s select installer for Vevo products
Unit 2, Site 14 Four Pools Ind Est. St Richards Road, Evesham, Worcs. WR11 1XJ
www.vevowindows.co.uk www.etcwindows.co.uk
LPG Installations:Servicing:Repairs
Oil Installations:Servicing:Repairs Gas Installations:Servicing:Repairs
Landlord's safety inspections and certification. All aspects of heating and plumbing undertaken from new boilers to replacing washers Contact us on t: 01386 793720 or 0845 5390 329 m: 07872 824482 or 07872 824481 We are based in Worcestershire
Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding to advertisers A+ PLUMBING QUARTER PAGE AD.indd
1
11
26/07/2011 13:23
SALLY’S Bargains 71 High Street, Pershore, WR10 1EU steve.tirebuck@btinternet.com
The Home Care Specialists
01386 554427
For good quality furniture, bric-a-brac and white goods. Come and see just what we have to offer by way of good quality second-hand furniture and bric-a-brac. And we now stock brand new electrical items, such as fridges, freezers and other white goods!
We also buy items of furniture or bric-a-brac.
You will be surprised at how reasonably priced our items are. If you cannot find what you are looking for, we will be happy to find the items you require.
OPEN Tues & Sat 8.45am to 4pm Wed, Thurs, Fri 8.45am to 4.30pm Local Delivery Available. No reasonable offer refused.
Do you need a Helping Hand? If you are looking for an alternative to residential care or extra support for those everyday tasks that are becoming difficult for you or a loved one – then we’re here to help - from 30 minutes per week to Live-in Care. Our Worcestershire care team has been providing award winning quality homecare since 1989 and can help with: personal care, housekeeping, help getting around or even to provide a break to an existing family member or care-giver.
To find out how we can help you, call: 01905 401 958 or visit: www.helpinghands.co.uk
EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) • •
• • •
— easy to learn, amazing results!
How much do you value happiness? This may feel out of reach if you are struggling with everyday life or have a long term issue such as anxiety, stress, depression or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/ME, Fibromyalgia or Physical Pain. Or you may be grieving the death of a loved one, a relationship breakdown or are upset about another negative event. You may think that you will always feel this way or have this problem. But thatʼs not true. There is a way out. Learn EFT not only to release any negativity and pain but also to transform other areas of your life (relationships, career, finances, social life, etc.)
Weight loss and eating disorders Grief counselling Stress, anxiety & panic attacks Anger management
For more information, an informal chat, or to book an appointment, please contact: Kim Marshall
07518 053311 kim@eftworcestershire.co.uk
www.eftworcestershire.co.uk 12
Improve your health and well-being . . .
. . . and bring more love, peace and hope into your life! Emotional Freedom Techniques are now being used in NHS after trials in Sandwell Hospital gave a success rate for over 97% of patients. See my website for further details.
EFT may sound strange but the results are truly amazing. It’s quick and easy to learn use it whenever you need to. Put your caution to the side and just try one session, it could be the best decision you make today! “I expected you to be good, I didn’t expect you to be a miracle worker!” client with Anxiety & Panic Attacks
To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
F
ast growing Focus Accountancy provides all of the services you would expect from a leading firm of qualified accountants, including:
Annual accounts Tax returns Bookkeeping and VAT Tax planning Business advice and support Payroll and CIS
All services are one hundred percent tailored to meet our clients’ individual wants, needs and expectations, and work is completed on a Fixed Fee basis which means that clients always know what they will be paying with no nasty surprises. Headed up by Tim Pearce who is a registered and approved “Growth Accelerator” coach, and supported by an experienced and professional team, Focus Accountancy are approved to accept the government’s growth vouchers which allows us to provide strategic business advice to eligible businesses at a greatly reduced investment. For more information on either of these two government initiatives call the office and speak to Tim.
or to find out more about our “pure online accountancy” services contact Beau Johnson at the office. To find out if Focus Accountancy can help you and your business, give the office a call and arrange a free, no-obligation meeting.
01386 579999 enquiries@focusas.co.uk www.focusas.co.uk
Call us to arrange a free no obligation appointment, at your place or ours, to see how we can help you and your business. Welcome to Focus Accountancy. We are a firm of accountants, tax advisors and business consultants based in Evesham, Worcestershire. We offer all of the services you would expect to find from a firm of accountants including:
Accountancy Tax Compliance
To further help our clients in today’s fast moving business environment we have partnered with Kashflow (the online software provider) to provide our clients with a fully integrated, online and easy to use bookkeeping solution. Kashflow was designed by businesses owners – not accountants. It is feature rich, can be used on the move and can automatically import and allocate bank transactions. To arrange a free trial of kashflow
Bookkeeping & VAT Payroll & CIS Business start ups
Phone 01386 579999 or Email enquire@focusas.co.uk Vale Business Centre, 9 Abbey Lane Court, Abbey Lane, Evesham, WR11 4BY
www.focusas.co.uk
Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding to advertisers
13
Best-laid gardening plans
A
s the nights draw in and the colder weather starts to descend, the thought of spending hours slaving away in the garden may not be as appealing as your favourite comfy chair and a cup of cocoa, but just a little bit of effort in these coming months could pay dividends in the spring. Whether you like your flora bright and bold or delicate and serene, there are spring flowers to suit all tastes. As well as cultivating your very own visual symphony of colour, why not consider the wildlife in your area and plant a few treats for the butterflies and bees to enjoy? To create a beautiful spring display in your garden next year, you need to begin planning and planting your bulbs now, according to the Horticultural Trade Association (HTA).
14
If you are new to gardening, or simply unsure which flowers would be best for your garden, HTA member and bulb supplier, Taylor's Bulbs, have put some information together on the most popular bulbs to get your spring garden started.
Hyacinth
Hyacinths are a favourite because of their beautiful scent. They are pillars of delicious fragrance in many different colours. Try planting them near an entrance door or along a footpath, so you can enjoy their perfume.
Allium
These are the stately globes of the bulb world. Large heads or small, they are all magnets for pollinating insects. Try planting purple and white together, or for something a bit different, try Nectaroscordum Siculum which is loved by bumble bees.
To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
Other bulbs which are good for wildlife, particularly insects, are Eranthis Cilicica (Winter Aconites), all crocuses and snowdrops.
a carpet of crocuses on a sunny February or March day, flowers fully open, showing their inner beauty. They are excellent for naturalising in grass or in a border.
These bulbs are particularly important as they flower early in the year when not much else is in bloom. On a sunny February day, you may see bumble bees searching for nectar. By planting a few of these bulbs, you can make a big difference to your local insect population.
Narcissus
Snowdrop
Snowdrops signal the end of dark winter days, flowering in January and February when not much else is in bloom. They are an important source of nectar for earlyemerging insects, particularly bees. They come in various heights and sizes.
Crocus
Again, early flowering and available in many different colours, they are a great source of nectar for insects. Nothing looks better than
The range alone makes them a favourite. If you are careful with your selection, you can have narcissi in flower for up to five months of the year from January through to the beginning of May. They come in all different heights and colours, single-headed, multiheaded and fragrant. What more could you ask for?
Tulip
The elegant 'ladies' of the bulb world, there is a tulip for every situation. Short or tall, single-headed, multi-headed and fragrant, pastel, primary and bold colours are all available. For more information on planning and planting your spring bulbs, visit: www.the-hta.org.uk/autumn
Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding to advertisers
15
the benefits of CAT NEUTERING
A
t Cats Protection we believe there are many benefits to having your cat neutered, in particular, reducing the number of unwanted cats. Throughout the summer months the adoption centre is inundated with litters of unwanted kittens, some of these from very young female cats. This puts a strain on our already stretched resources. If more cats were neutered, the number of kittens would
be reduced, meaning we would be in a position to help other unwanted cats.
To find out more, please call
To encourage neutering, for the month of October, we are offering a voucher scheme for un-neutered male & female cats over the age of 5 months.
www.eveshamcpl.org
If you are in receipt of benefits and have an un-neutered cat, then please contact the rescue centre during office hours to apply for a voucher. Please note this applies to people in the local area and we use specified vets.
DIRTY OVEN
Hate cleaning your oven?... Then let us do it for you!
SAFE TO COOK STRAIGHT AWAY
* All totally non-corrosive and safe solutions * Specialist equipment * OFTEN copied but never equalled * Non-caustic * No smells
ÂŁ5
OFF
PROMOTIONAL OFFER
Also specialists in cleaning: * Microwaves * BBQs * Hobs * Extractor Fans IF NOT TOTALLY SATISFIED * AGAs YOU PAY NOTHING
07730 620153
16
t: 01386 833343 Don't forget to check our our facebook page - Eveshamcats - to keep up to date with our news, and have a look at our website for more information about the Cats Protection. 89 Pitchers Hill, Wickhamford, WR11 7RT
Round up a tax specialist Crowthers help private clients complete Tax Returns and minimise tax bills For Income Tax and IHT Planning that makes sense: Ledbury: 01531 631500 Pershore: 01386 552644 tax@crowther.co.uk
www.crowther.co.uk
To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
MrDmr_A5_leaflet_v2a-OL.indd 1
Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding to advertisers
30/03/2014 07:35
17
S
H
C
S
Simon Haines
Garden Machinery Mobile Service & Repair for an estimate call
Will White t: 01386 860918 m: 07716 404489
Construction Services Ltd
● ● ● ●
General Building Conversions & Extensions Property Maintenance Groundworks
Over 16 years experience Telephone: 01386 550002 Mobile: 07971 002637 Email: simon@shcsgroup.co.uk www.shcsgroup.co.uk 32 Ashdale Avenue, Pershore, WR10 1PL
THE
Fabrik SHOP
24a Broad Street, Pershore
Tel: 01386 553 626
e: thefabrikshop@btinternet.com
Stockists of:
Dressmaking, patchwork and curtain fabrics as well as waddings, cutters, boards and useful craft items. Fat quarters from £1
E. Hill & Son Funeral Directors Established 1960
Independent Family Run Business Holders of Diploma in Funeral Directing Professional & Sympathetic Service Available 24 Hours Prepaid funeral plans available
01386 552141 www.ehillandson.co.uk
Fairfield House, Defford Road, Pershore, WR10 1HZ
18
To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
Delicate, Pink & Beautiful
I
stood and watched for ages as one long spindly leg supported a large feathered body, a long neck and an upside down beak. How could this be? Surely such a delicate, thin leg would buckle or overbalance, but no, the flamingo stood there guarding his mate. It seems Flamingos often stand on one leg; the other leg is tucked beneath the body; the reason for this behaviour is not fully understood. Research indicates that standing on one leg may allow the birds to conserve more body heat, but this isn’t proven. When Flamingos stand in the water they often stamp their webbed feet in the mud, and this stirs up food from the bottom of the water. Flamingos filter-feed on brine shrimp and bluegreen algae. Their beaks are specially adapted to separate mud and silt from the food they eat and are uniquely used upside-down. The filtering of food is helped by the their hairy lamellae, which line the mandibles, and of course the rough tongue. I often wondered why were they such a beautiful pink - this comes from the betacarotene in the food they eat. Did you know that WWT Slimbridge have six species of Flamingo? The most highly coloured
article and photographs by Pamela Green
ones are the Caribbean Flamingoes and they seem to be a noisy lot. There is continuous fighting and squabbling in the flock, especially when one male decides to intrude on another male’s courtship. You then witness heads swinging and lots of loud screeching. The Lesser flamingos and Greater flamingos seem to be a quieter bunch, as do the Chilean and Andean flamingoes. There is one James flamingo, and the guidebook tells us that he is 70 years old and a bit of a tyrant. He shares the compound and water with the Andean and Chilean flamingos, and he is the last of his species, as his mate died in 2010. He is very loud and bullies anyone who wades in his space. My favorite of all were the Greater flamingos' fluffy baby chicks. They are gray in colour, and so little. They wander through their parents' legs, and I’m quite amazed they don’t get trodden on. My day flamingo-watching was wonderful and very informative. There’s always something new to see all year round at WWT Slimbridge. With the beautiful sights, it’s a great place to spot wildlife and snap some wonderful photos.
Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding to advertisers
19
Getting it Sorted:
the ‘Green’ Skip Company B
udget Skip Hire, an Evesham based waste management company, are now able to recycle up to 90% of all the waste brought onto their site, thanks to the huge indoor facility in which they have recently invested.
We talked to them about their commitment to recycling and what the process involves. Why is recycling so important to you? The demand for skips from private individuals, businesses and builders is huge, which is why we have a range of different size skips, with different rates and terms. In most cases, we can deliver the required skip within 24 hours. Using skips to remove waste works well, but it doesn’t stop there; the waste still has to be disposed of. Landfill is expensive, which is why we have taken the step to invest in and expand our recycling programme. Our intention is to be at the forefront of the industry, which has earned us
20
the title of the ‘green’ skip company, and it is our recycling programme which makes it possible to offer the lowest rates available. What happens to the waste at your plant? The skip is unloaded and the waste is transferred to large conveyor belts which carry it into our indoor waste plant.
The sorting team then carefully sorts through the waste, removing anything suitable for recycling, such as paper, cardboard, plasterboard, wood, plastics, some PVCu, metal, hardcore and green waste. There are strict rules regarding the various different materials and we process each in accordance with these rules.
To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
What recycled products are produced? Paper, cardboard and plastic are packed into bales, to be sent for reprocessing.
Bricks and hardcore go through our large crusher and end up as either 40mm or 75mm stone, which is used as a substitute for quarried stone.
Plasterboard is also sent for reprocessing, and is made into new plasterboard.
Scrap metal is also reprocessed, and green waste is shredded and made into compost.
Wood is chipped for use as biomass fuel, or for the manufacture of chipboard.
We also recycle topsoil, which is then processed and screened, and we are proud to
say that our best grade of topsoil has been analysed and meets British Standard 3882:2007. It is available to gardeners, nurseries and other local businesses to buy it by the half tonne or tonne - for collection or delivery to suit. To find out more about skip-hire or to buy topsoil, please call us on 01386 841181.
Situated in Honeybourne, conveniently on the edge of the Cotswolds and only five minutes from Evesham town centre, Budget Skips are specialists in skip hire, waste management and recycling. • Clean crushed hardcore • Screened topsoil for sale • Builders Skips • 2, 3, 4 yard mini and midi skips • Larger skips available on request
• Specialists in skip hire, recycling and waste management • Large, efficient fleet of vehicles and machinery • Recycling 90% of all waste brought on to the site
Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding to advertisers
21
Tailor made English Language and English Literature tuition service Highly qualified ex-Head of English and practising SENCo (Special Education Needs Co-Ordinator) GCSE examiner with many years’ experience, superb results profile. Able to tutor across a wide range of ages and abilities, including GCSE, iGCSE, AS and A2 level. Extensive experience of developing an individual’s potential and raising self-esteem. Email support between sessions available DBS checked and references available on request
Please contact:
tutorexcel99@gmail.com or mobile 07719 078282
22
To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
Interpretations ... !! ”Mr. Clark, I have reviewed this case very carefully,” the Divorce Court Judge said, “And I’ve decided to give your wife £775 a week,” “That’s very fair, your honour,” the husband said. “And every now and then I’ll try to send her a few pounds myself.” An old man goes to the Wizard to ask him if he can remove a curse he has been living with for the last 40 years. The Wizard says, “Maybe, but you will have to tell me the exact words that were used to put the curse on you.” The old man says without hesitation, “I now pronounce you man and wife.”
Computer Problems? -
PC repairs and upgrades Spyware and virus removal Health checks and PC servicing Website design and site marketing PC’s and media centres built to order General troubleshooting & support Configuring wireless networks Email and Internet problems Advice and ongoing help Apple Mac and Windows p: m: e: w:
A blonde calls Delta Airlines and asks, “Can you tell me how long it’ll take to fly from San Francisco to New York City?” The agent replies, “Just a minute.” “Thank you,” the blonde says, and hangs up.
01386 550191 07435 964579 info@pendas.co.uk www.pendas.co.uk
Onsite support for all your PC issues, for both the home and business user
Pendas Computer Services Ltd - Pershore -
Two Mexican detectives were investigating the murder of Juan Gonzalez. “How was he killed?” asked one detective. “With a golf gun,” the other detective replied. “A golf gun! What the heck is a golf gun?” “I don’t know. But it sure made a hole in Juan.”
For all your Trade & DIY needs! Over 15 years experience
From Roofing Systems to Screws
A man is recovering from surgery when the Surgical Nurse appears and asks him how he is feeling. “I’m okay. But I didn’t like the four letter-words the doctor used in surgery,” he answered. “What did he say,” asked the nurse. “Oops!”
YOU CAN FIND IT ALL HERE!
While shopping for holiday clothes, my husband and I passed a display of bathing suits. It had been at least ten years and twenty pounds since I had even considered buying a bathing suit, so I sought my husband’s advice. “What do you think?” I asked. “Should I get a bikini or an all-in-one?” “Better get a bikini,” he replied. “You’ll never get it all in one.” He’s still in intensive care.
Tel: 01386 244042
Unit 2, Site 14, St Richards Road, Four Pools Ind Estate, Evesham, Worcs WR11 1XJ (Next to Howdens Joinery)
Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding to advertisers
23
Make a Difference……….. Could you help change the life of an older person struggling with their mobility? Our Footcare Service offers toe nail cutting to older people who struggle to manage their own foot health. We are looking for volunteers who could provide home visits or clinic based footcare services for older people in Worcestershire – we offer comprehensive support to all our volunteers including training, expenses and social events. If you could make a difference, contact us now on
0800 008 6077
volunteering@ageukhw.org.uk Age UK Herefordshire & Worcestershire Malvern Gate, Bromwich Road, Worcester. WR2 4BN www.ageukhw.org.uk Charity No: 1080545
HUXLEY IMAGING BESPOKE PICTURE FRAMING F i n e A r t Tr a de G u i ld me m be r
Free quotes and consultations. All types of framing undertaken – no job too small. • • • • • • • •
Prints, paintings Photos, certificates Sports Shirts Memorabilia, box frames Needlework, fabric Groupings & combinations Mirrors to order Sourcing prints & photography
t: 01386462026 m: 07738618470 e: richard@huxleyimaging.co.uk
www.huxleyimaging.co.uk 24
To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
Lady Cleaner & Gardener Honest & Reliable
Call Dee 07770 836414
& Elite Stoves
Curtains & Blinds by sunflower soft furnishings
inds
r
s
• Complete curtain design service
● Prompt, reliable & friendly service ● All types of flues & appliances cleaned. ● Cowls and bird guards fitted. ● Guild certificates issued after every sweep.
● Fully qualified by the Guild of Master Sweeps and fully insured. ● Stove/Log burner Installations. ● HETAS Approved Installer.
Call Eddie T 01905 700701 / 07895 612915 www.elitesweeps.co.uk
• Made to measure curtains, blinds, soft furnishings
ain
• Wide range of fabrics & wallpapers to view ure curtains, • Poles, tracks & all curtain shings accessories abrics • Roller, vertical, venetian view blinds all curtain • Complete fitting service
venetian
g
service
The Old Smithy, Worcester Road Grafton Flyford, WR7 4PW
t: 01905 381811 Smithy, er Road m: 07976 640307 Flyford, sal.williams@btconnect.com sales@sunflowersoftfurnishings.com 4PW
www.sunflowersoftfurnishings.com 381811 6 640307
tconnect.com
Garden Machinery Mobile Service & Repair
oftfurnishings.com
for an estimate call
Will White t: 01386 860918 m: 07716 404489
Come and experience
Pranayama Yoga in Worcestershire
The meaning of Prana is breath control; Yama meaning relaxation of the mind and Yoga meaning unity.
What Are The Benefits? • • • • • • •
Develops our concentration and focus Encourages self control over mind, body and spirit Enhances flexibility, muscle tone and strength Helps with our circulation, digestion and metabolism Improves self esteem and confidence Increases oxygen and reduces toxins in our body Relaxes the mind and body, helping to release stress and gain inner peace
It is my aim to help you achieve more well-being in your life and bring a more calm and positive outlook.
Contact Alessandra on
07887 877865 / 01386 552821 www.theartofpranayama.com Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding to advertisers
25
ScotiaCare Homeplan
Y
ou can almost guarantee if your central heating system is going to fail or, your boiler will break down, it’s when you can’t live without it ... during the winter. Unwanted boiler repairs are inconvenient and an expense we can all do without. Yet, when the average cost to insure your boiler for breakdown and repair is around £200 a year, it’s a risk some people are willing to take. Fortunately, for anyone living in and around Worcestershire, who want to avoid costly repairs and breakdowns, there is, thanks to Bredon based plumbing and heating engineers, Johnston Scotia, a cheaper alternative: The ScotiaCare Homeplan Maintenance Scheme. The ScotiaCare Homeplan is the brainchild of Scott Johnston, owner of family 26
business, Johnston Scotia. For over 30 years, Johnston Scotia has been taking care of local customers heating and boiler maintenance requirements and with the 3-in-1 ScotiaCare Homeplan, it’s less than half the price of most providers. “We’re able to keep our prices low because the maintenance scheme is for local residents only. This allows us to manage our time more effectively and keep our running costs down. “We’re a local business and by keeping our business model ‘local’ our engineers can reach more homes each day. They always carry stock and can easily pop back to the office to pick up any other spares they might need. They can also fix repairs quickly.” He adds: “Every day we hear stories from customers who have been paying far more than they need too for boiler cover. We provide cover for your boiler, heating system and
controls, hot water system, radiators, internal plumbing and household electrical system for less than £100 a year.” Customers can also look forward to a FREE annual boiler service and a £10 Costa Coffee gift voucher. But, above all, they will have complete peace of mind knowing their boiler and central heating system are covered for any breakdown or repairs with no hidden extras. Scott adds: “It takes just a few minutes to be covered. You can sign up online at www. johnstonscotia.com. Or, you are more than welcome to call into our Bredon office or pick up the telephone and call us on 01684 773747." To claim your £10 Costa Coffee voucher all you have to do is call the Johnston Scotia office and quote JSC9V.
To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
ScotiaCare ScotiaCare ScotiaCare Homeplan Homeplan Homeplan Established 1979
A fast, reliable service from expert local provider Aan fast, reliable service from A fast, reliable service from an expert local provider an expert local provider www.johnstonscotia.com
01684 773747
3 3 Great Great Products Products for for the the price price of of aa Boiler Boiler Service! Service!
The ScotiaCare Homeplan offers complete peace Homeplan of mind for offers all your boiler, The ScotiaCare The ScotiaCare Homeplan offers heating, water, and electrics completehot peace of plumbing mind for all your boiler, complete peace of mind for all your boiler, for only £7.99 per month. heating, hot water, plumbing and electrics heating, hot water, plumbing and electrics for only £7.99 per month. forfast, onlyreliable £7.99 per month. A service from an expert local provider A fast, reliable service from an expert local A fast, reliable service from an expert local provider. provider A fixed low cost of just £7.99 per month for the first 12 months. ongoing at £16.99 A fixed low cost Aoffixed just £7.99 perprice month for the A fixed low cost of just £7.99 per month for the per for a further years. price at £16.99 firstmonth 12 months. A fixed 2ongoing first 12 months. A fixed ongoing price at £16.99 per month for a further 2 years. per month for a further 2 years.
Boiler Cover - YES Boiler Cover Cover YES including repairs and annual boiler service Boiler -- YES including repairs and annual boiler boiler service service including repairs and annual Plumbing and Heating - YES Plumbing and Heating Heating -- YES YES Plumbing Electrical -and YES Electrical -- YES YES Electrical Sign up now to claim Sign up FREE now to to£10 claim your Sign up now claim your FREEgift £10 Costa Coffee card your FREE £10 Costa Coffee gift card Costa Coffee gift card
£7.99 £7.99 per month per month month per
What's included.. What's included.. •What's Boilerincluded.. Breakdown YES • Heating System & Controls YES Boiler Breakdown YES • Boiler Breakdown YES • Hot Water Systems YES Heating System & Controls YES • Heating System & Controls YES • Internal Plumbing Hot Water SystemsYES YES • Hot Water Systems YES • Home Electrics YES Internal Plumbing YES • Internal Plumbing YES • Radiators YES YES Home Electrics • Home Electrics YES • Radiators YES • Radiators YES Plus.. •Plus.. NO EXCESS Plus.. • FREE annual service NO EXCESS • NO EXCESS • FREE parts annual service • FREE annual service • FREE labour parts • FREE parts • FREE callout labour • FREE labour • Emergency FREE callout • FREE callout • helpline Emergency • Emergency helpline helpline
Established 1979 Established 1979 1979 Established
01684 773747 01684 773747 773747 01684 www.johnstonscotia.com
www.johnstonscotia.com www.johnstonscotia.com
Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding to advertisers
27
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
Pershore Rugs Pershore Retail Market Cherry Road, Pershore WR10 1EY
Rugs of all colours, shapes & sizes Doormats & Kitchenmats Curtain Accessories
Tel: 01386 555588 28
Call for a FREE
Inspection / Quotation t: 01905 841018 or m: 07899 964866
Dog Grooming by Julie
1 on 1 grooming tailored to your requirements Home visits can be arranged Minimal restraints used All breeds and ages, large and small, elderly and infirm Tel: 01386 438335 Mob: 07984 598319 Email: info@juliesdoggrooming.co.uk Please see my website for more details
www.juliesdoggrooming.co.uk
To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
Riverside pub & dining for all the family HALLOWEEN PARTY 31ST OF OCTOBER with kids games starting at 5pm and adults frolics to follow later.....
CHRISTMAS FUNCTION MENU THROUGHOUT DECEMBER to include coffee and mince pies - 2 courses £15.95 - 3 courses £19.95
CHRISTMAS DAY 4 COURSE LUNCH Adults £49.95 and Children under 12 £19.95 under 5's eat free
NEW YEARS EVE DINNER with a Scottish Hogmanay theme £29.95
STARTING SEPTEMBER 1ST 2 courses for £12 menu Food serving times are Tuesday to Saturday 12 - 2.30 then 6-9 Sunday 12-4
The Anchor Inn, Main Road, Wyre Piddle, Pershore, Worcestershire WR10 2JB
Tel: 01386 641510
mail@anchorwyrepiddle.co.uk
www.anchorwyrepiddle.co.uk Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding to advertisers
29
Mark & Will Hartley heating & plumbing • All heating and plumbing work undertaken • Aga • Rayburn • Esse • Stovax • Gazco: servicing and repairs by authorised engineer • New boilers natural gas/LPG installed • Landlord certificates • All boilers and Gas fires serviced and repaired • No job too small Tel: 013867 93221 Mob: 07846 198197
• •
30
M he
All heatin Aga • Ray repairs by To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk • New boile
Why Window Shutters?
P
opularity has grown after this hot summer as plantation shutters are designed to keep you cooler in summer and warmer in winter. The ability to control light in each panel, no matter the window shape, is a practical solution for light and privacy control. Shutters offer this benefit as each louvred panel is in effect a separate window covering, independently controlled. Peter, owner of Shuttercraft West Midlands based in Droitwich Spa, has earned a strong reputation around Worcestershire as a local design and made-to-measure specialist. Local bathroom showrooms now show examples of his shutters as fully waterproof materials can be ordered. Phone Peter for your nearest display in Alcester, Droitwich, or Halesowen. Peter asks Why pay more? A genuine competitive price is always offered without the gimmick of discounts from inflated ’buy it tonight
quotations’. I confidently offer price match or better. Bay windows are usually a nightmare with traditional curtains and blinds. Made to measure and installed by Peter these shutters look fantastic. Exclusively supplying S-Craft branded products Peter can also supply all wood venetian blinds to complement the shutter louvred look. Phone Peter for a friendly chat to discuss your ideas. He is also happy to call and offer a no-obligation, at home selection and sur vey. Visit www.shuttercraftwestmidlands.co.uk for a gallery of local installations. Evening and weekend at home appointments available. Pdf catalogue or by post on request.
Tel: 01905 852022 www.shuttercraft-westmidlands.co.uk
Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding to advertisers
31
Found: The Fountain of Youth
T
urns out the sought-after magic elixir has been right under our noses! I'm talking about water: pure, simple water.
And before you scoff at this idea, check if you are dehydrated. Sadly as many as 75% of adults suffer from mild, chronic dehydration, a condition that dramatically works against your weight loss efforts. Here is why water consumption must be at the top of your list in your quest for a fit, healthy and athletic body ...
Water does all that? Though you probably don't think about it often, water is the most essential element, next to air, to your survival. The simple combination of two parts hydrogen, one part oxygen makes up more than two thirds of your body and is involved in a host of bodily functions that we routinely take for granted. To name just a few:
• Water works to regulate the thermal condition of your body • Water serves as a lubricant in your joints • Water helps flush toxins from your blood • Water gives your skin a clear, glowing complexion • Water assists with digestion, pulling all the usable nutrients out of foods • Water aides in disease prevention - drinking 8 glasses a day has shown to reduce the risk of colon cancer by 45% and bladder cancer by 50%.
of water in order to drop weight, but did you ever wonder why? What does water have to do with decreasing your calories and increasing your activity level in an effort to shed pounds? 1. Water is a natural appetite suppressant: Fill your stomach with a glass of water before each meal and you will find that you won't eat as much. This also works on snacking throughout the day, keep hydrated all day long and watch as your desire to snack decreases. 2. Water increases your body's ability to efficiently metabolize fat: This process begins with your kidneys receiving enough water to function at their peak, which in turn helps your liver reach optimal efficiency in removing toxins and waste from your blood. With your liver working at maximum capacity, fat will be metabolized at a higher rate. This means a decrease in your overall body fat. (And who doesn't want that?) 3. Water is the perfect substitute for high calorie beverages: Want to super-charge your fitness results this summer? Well, this is the most effective way to utilise water toward your waistshrinking efforts. Most of us consume more than our share of calorie-packed beverages. Smoothies, shakes, frozen mochas, soft drinks...you get the idea. When you trade your high calorie beverages in for a tall glass of water you will expedite your results in a major way.
The Other Side of the Story ... Now you know that drinking enough water will help What about fitness and fat-loss? You've probably heard that you need to drink plenty you reach your fitness goals faster than ever, but you 32 To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
should also know that failing to drink enough water comes with serious consequences ... • Your body will shift into "preserve" mode—which means you will store more fat. • Bodily functions will slow—leading to an overall decrease in energy levels. • Headaches will become an expected nuisance—your brain is over 70% water. To avoid dehydration check out the following five Hydration Tips: Hydration Tip No 1: Caffeinated beverages, such as coffee, soft drinks or energy drinks, cause your body to lose water. After you enjoy a dose of caffeine replace the lost water by drinking twice that amount in water. Hydration Tip No 2: Add a slice of lemon to your water to spice things up. Hydration Tip No 3: Always carry water with you throughout your day; keep a bottle in the car, at your desk and next to your bed. Hydration Tip No 4: Exercise and hot summer days both increase your body's water requirements; make a mental note to drink before, during and after exercise or while out on a hot day. Hydration Tip No 5: Make it a habit to begin your day with a large glass of water then drink a glass before each meal and one between meals. Bonus Hydration Tip No 6: There is one other thing you can do to achieve your fitness goals in the shortest amount of time possible – work with a certified fitness expert like me! Want to know more? Just call or email today to set up a consultation, after all, getting you into great shape is my passion.
If you are interested in Personal Training, Group Training or attending any of the Fitness Classes I offer, go to www.almfitness.co.uk for more information! Alternatively call Amy on 07740 366419 or email info@almfitness.co.uk Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding to advertisers
33
Feta & Spinach Pie
Classic Crème Brulee
This vegetarian pie makes a cheap and cheerful meal to cheer up any weekday table.
A fool-proof recipe for this popular dessert, and which is guaranteed to put smile on any diner's face.
Serves 4
Serves 2
Ingredients 500g spinach A knob of butter 1 large onion, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, chopped 200g feta, crumbled 4 tblsp pine nuts, toasted 3 large free-range eggs, beaten 4 to 6 filo pastry sheets ½ tsp caraway seeds
Method ●
Preheat oven to 180°C, gas mark 4.
●
Wilt spinach in large pan over low heat. Allow to cool and drain well, squeezing out excess liquid manually.
●
Melt butter in frying pan, add onion and cook for five minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook for a further minute.
●
Remove from heat and add to a bowl with spinach, feta, pine nuts and eggs. Mix together and season well.
●
Spoon into a one-litre baking dish.
●
Brush pastry sheets with melted butter, lightly scrunch and lay over spinach mixture.
●
Sprinkle with caraway seeds and bake for 25-30 minutes, until crisp and golden.
●
Serve with tomato and red onion salad.
34
Ingredients 100ml milk 100ml double cream 1 tsp vanilla paste or essence 6 dessertspoons of sugar 2 eggs 2 dessertspoons of sugar for topping
Method ●
Preheat oven to 150°C, gas mark 2.
●
Make custard by heating milk, cream, vanilla and 3 dessertspoons of sugar in a saucepan, whisking until blended.
●
Slowly bring to boil.
●
While custard is heating up, lightly whisk eggs and 3 dessertspoons of sugar in a bowl until smooth.
●
Take milk mixture off heat as soon as it boils and, whisking all the time, add to eggs.
●
Sieve mixture into a jug and pour custard into ramekins.
●
Place in bain marie and cook in oven for 30 minutes.
●
Allow to cool.
●
Top each ramekin with a flat dessertspoon of sugar and use a blow torch to caramelise.
To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
CHASE Heating “Warming the heart of the community since 1969”
Plan now and start saving money on your fuel bills
Rayburn | Good Food | Hot Baths | Warm Home
Everhot Cookers The Electric Range We are now suppliers of Everhot Cookers Visit our showroom to see working models on display or call now to request a brochure…
01386 555 333
STOCKISTS of top brands
Charnwood Morso · Aga Parkray · Aarrow and more, all available to see at our showroom in Pershore
Rayburn Cookers on display including working models
HETAS Reg number 1981
Installation available from our qualified HETAS engineers Like us on Facebook Chase Heating Ltd
Chase Heating Ltd Racecourse Road, Pershore, Worcestershire, WR10 2EY Tel: +44 (0)1386 555 333 Fax: +44 (0)1386 552 269 E-mail: sales@chaseheating.co.uk www.chaseheating.co.uk Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding to advertisers
35
portable machine it means the drying times are considerably reduced.
About your carpets On a daily basis your carpet is subject to more wear and tear than any other item in your home which can affect its overall appearance. Soil and grit walked into the home daily can quickly damage carpet fibres leading to premature wear. Most manufacturers recommend that carpets and upholstery are professionally cleaned every 12-18 months. Allowing soil to build up will significantly reduce the life of a carpet
About us : Chris James Cleaning Chris James Cleaning is a family run carpet cleaning service based in Pershore, Worcestershire that strives to surpass our customers’ expectations in all that we do. We have invested heavily over the years in the latest carpet cleaning equipment and training, to provide the best possible cleaning results, whilst maintaining the highest level of care, consideration and professionalism at all times. With our equipment and expertise we remove not only the dirt, but also shampoo residue and water from your carpet, so that your carpets stay cleaner for longer. Unlike professional carpet cleaning, most rented carpet cleaning equipment leave carpets wet with detergent residue.
Our Equipment The equipment that we use is a British-built ‘Phoenix 450’ Truck Mount Hot Water Extraction System which is up to 200 times more powerful than a portable extraction machine. The machine has a built-in collection tank to store and carry fresh and waste water, with its own power supply – so no need to use your water or electricity. Only the vacuum hose and pre-treatment equipment are brought into your home or premises, and because it extracts water more effectively than any 36
Our Services Carpet cleaning Upholstery cleaning Stain removal and prevention Allergy and odour elimination Leather cleaning Commercial carpet cleaning Landlord/tenancy cleaning Stone tile and grout cleaning Please call us or visit our website to book a free no obligation quote.
Tel: 01386 640595
www.chrisjamescleaning.co.uk Your local carpet and upholstery cleaning specialists Carpet and upholstery cleaning Stain removal and prevention Allergy and odour elimination Leather cleaning Stone, tile and grout cleaning Commercial/ landlord and tenancy cleaning Fully Insured
01386 640595
www.chrisjamescleaning.co.uk info@chrisjamescleaning.co.uk When booking please quote vil14 for
15% OFF and claim your free spotter
We don’t cut corners, we clean them!
To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
NEVER LIE TO A WOMAN!!! A man called home to his wife and said, "Honey I have been asked to go fishing up in Canada with my boss and several of his friends. We'll be gone for a week. This is a good opportunity for me to get that promotion I've been wanting, so could you please pack enough clothes for a week and set out my rod and fishing box. We're leaving from the office so I'll swing by the house to pick my things up. Oh, and can you please pack my new blue silk pajamas." His wife thinks this sounds a bit odd, but being the good wife she is, does exactly what her husband asked. The following weekend he came home a little tired but otherwise looking good.
*All Interior & Exterior Work Undertaken *Domestic & Commercial *Paper Hanging *Insurance Work *Airless Spraying *Plastering *Wall & Floor Tiling Free Fully Itemised Quotations
His wife welcomed him home and asked if he caught many fish?
For a professional and reliable service please call:
"Oh yes!" he said, "Lots of salmon, some bluegill, and a few swordfish. But why didn't you pack my new blue silk pajamas like I asked you to?"
Tel: 01905 700142 Mob: 07867 813616
"I did," his wife replied. "They're in your fishing box ... !"
CHRIS BOTTRELL
Fully Insured member of the Painting & Decorating Association
A MORE PERMANENT SOLUTION TO A FLAT ROOF PROBLEM DON’T WASTE MONEY ON RE-FELTING
SOLVE IT WITH
Rubber roofing resists water, snow and sunlight and can be laid over old roofs Before
After
Tough Single Ply EPDM Rubber Roofing Membrane 20 YEAR GUARANTEE WITH A 50 YEAR PROVEN PLUS LIFE For a free no obligation survey and quote, call your approved residential installer
NCE
G.M. ROOFING INSBUARCAKEDTEE You only fit a rubber roof once!
AN
GUAR
• UPVC Roofline – Fascias Soffits & Gutters • Traditional Roofing • New or Repairs
Tel: 01386 800400 Mike 0751 316 9244 or Glen 0779 534 2498 www.gmroofingservices.co.uk
Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding to advertisers
37
Wednesday 1st October Alpine Gardening A talk by Christine McGregor, Director of the Alpine Gardening Society. 7.30pm. Free for members, £2 for non-members. Raffle and refreshments. Tel: 07854 362318. Bishampton Villages Hall, Bishampton, WR10 2LY. www. bishamptongardeningclub.org.uk Thursday 2nd to Saturday 4th October Diesel Enthusiasts Gala Our diesel traction event returns with a full dieselonly timetable operating on all three days and with a train service operating well into the evenings. THERE WILL BE NO STEAM SERVICE ON THESE DATES. Tel: 01562 757900. See website www.svr.co.uk for details. Number One Comberton Place, Kidderminster, DY10 1QR. www.svr.co.uk Friday 3rd October The Trials of Oscar Wilde European Arts Company presents a new play dramatising the libel and criminal trials of Oscar Wilde. Thursday 14th February 1895 was the opening night of The Importance of Being Earnest and the zenith of Wilde's career. Less than 100 days later, he found himself a prisoner sentenced to two years' hard labour. What happened during the trials and what did Wilde say? Was he persecuted or the author of his own downfall? Using the original words spoken in court, we can feel what it was like to be in the company of a flawed genius - as this less than ideal husband was suddenly reduced to a man of no importance. 7.30pm to 10pm. Tel: 01905 611427. Tickets £12.50. The Moors, Worcester, WR1 3ED. www. worcesterlive.co.uk Saturday 4th October Reduced Shakespeare Company An irreverent, fast-paced romp through the Bard's plays! Join these madcap men in tights as they weave their wicked way through Shakespeare’s comedies, histories and tragedies in a wild ride that will leave you breathless and helpless with
38
laughter. Not recommended for those with heart ailments, bladder problems or degrees in Elizabethan history. 7.30pm. Tickets £16, Concs, EAA £14 from: www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk and Evesham Almonry, Abbey Rd, WR11 4BG. Tel: 01386 446944. Evesham Arts Centre, Victoria Avenue, Evesham, WR11 4QH. Saturday 4th October Pershore & District U3A Open Day No longer in full time employment, retired or semi-retired? Come and find out more about our wide range of activities. Refreshments, displays and demonstrations. 10.30am to 1pm in Pershore Town Hall. For more information call Barbara on 01386 553497. Mon 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th October Quiz Night at The Old Oak Pub Every Monday at 8.30pm. Free entry. First prize £30 cash. The Old Oak Pub, 40 Stonebow Road, Drakes Broughton, Pershore WR10 2AP. Tel: 01905 841897. Thursday 9th October Dominic Kirwan: Celebrating 25 Years One of the most dynamic and best loved entertainers Ireland has ever produced takes to the road for his much anticipated 25th Anniversary Tour. Join Dominic for an evening of fabulous live music, with a look back at some of his greatest hits and best loved songs. 7:30pm. Tickets £18.50 from: www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk and Evesham Almonry, Abbey Rd, WR11 4BG. Tel: 01386-446944. Evesham Arts Centre, Victoria Avenue, Evesham, WR11 4QH. Saturday 11th October Vale Craft Guild Vale Craft Guild: Hand-made Crafts (no bought in goods allowed). 10am - 4pm. Entrance FREE. Tel: 01386 750795. Town Hall, Pershore, WR10 1BG. Saturday 11th October The Worcester Rep. presents - Voices of War This year sees the centenary of the First World War, and Voices of War promises to be one of the highlights of the war-related activities taking place this Autumn. This very special show includes songs from the Cathedral Chamber Choir, dance from The Academy, an excerpt from Vesta
To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
performed by Claire Worboys, readings from Ben Humphrey and Liz Grand, songs from Ben Humphrey and the Standard Bearers of the Royal British Legion. 2pm to 4.30pm & 7.30pm to 10pm. Tel: 01905 611427. Tickets £12.50, Children £10, Matinee £10. The Moors, Worcester, WR1 3ED. www.worcesterlive.co.uk Sunday 12th October Flea & Collectors Fair With up to 700 exhibitors in two inside areas as well as outside you are sure to find something everything from house clearance to good quality antiques and anything in between. Catering facilities, ATM machine and free parking. 7.30am to 3.30pm. £4. Tel: 01636 676531. Three Counties Showground, Malvern, WR13 6NW. www.b2bevents.info Sunday 19th October Farmers Market Buy some delicious fresh local produce from the Worcestershire Farmers’ Market Group at Webbs, Wychbold 3rd Sunday of the month, 10am to 2pm. Tel: 01527 860000. Free entry. Worcester Road, Wychbold, Droitwich Spa, WR9 0DG. www.webbs.co.uk Saturday 25th October St Martin’s informal Coffee Concert A musical coffee morning for charity. Come and join us for live music in an informal atmosphere, a cup of tea or coffee, delicious home-made cakes and biscuits. The brilliant musicians Holborne Brass present a light and entertaining programme of music for brass quintet - while you relax with coffee and cake. The musicians have kindly agreed to support St Martin's SMILE Appeal. 10.30am to 11.30am. FREE entry (donations to SMILE Appeal). Tel: 01905 351748. St Martin’s Church, London Road, Worcester, WR5 2ED. www. stmartinsworcester.org.uk Sat 25th October to Saturday 1st November Bring on the Spooks Keep your little imps occupied over the Halloween half term by taking part in our Bring on the Spooks activities! Each Halloween pack costs £1 and includes our gruesome Trick or Treatment trail, fiendish puzzles and the materials for a Monster Mask making session. Ideal for ages 4
and up. 10am to 5pm. Tel: 01386 446944. £5 adults, £2 seniors and students, Under 11’s FREE. Abbey Gate, Evesham, WR11 4BG. www. almonryevesham.org Sunday 26th October Potter’s Wheel Workshop - Day Course Ever yearned to go hands on with a potter’s wheel or maybe you need to fine tune your technique? Whatever your experience, beginner or improver, this is the course for you. The workshop starts at 10am; you’ll be assigned a potter’s wheel for the duration of the workshop. 10am to 5pm. Pre-booking essential. Tel: 01531 633886. £105 Includes refreshments, lunch, all materials, firing, glazing and the cost of posting your finished masterpieces. Home Farm, Eastnor, Ledbury, HR8 1RD. www.eastnorpottery.co.uk Monday 27th to Friday 31st October Half term fun for kids Pumpkin scooping, riverside ramble, face painting and children's fair rides. Pumpkin scooping 11am - 4pm £4.99 including pumpkin and battery tea light. Tickets available on the day. Riverside Ramble 11am to 5pm – free. Face painting £3 per child; fair rides 11am to 4pm £1.50 per ride. Webbs, Worcester Road, Wychbold, Droitwich Spa, WR9 0DG. www.webbs.co.uk Monday 27th to Friday 31st October Evesham Country Park's Halloween Spooktacular! Get those creative juices flowing and join us for pumpkin carving and crafts this Halloween at Evesham Country Park - it’s sure to be ‘spooktacular’ fun for all ages! More details on website www.eveshamcountrypark.co.uk. Evesham Country Park, Twyford, Evesham, WR11 4TP Friday 31st October Horrible Hospitals Discover the gory side of the hospital, looking at amputation and deadly diseases. Fun family activities include cat and bat trails, making scary microbes, eerie eyeballs and severed fingers - an ideal surprise gift for Halloween Night! Guided Tours at 11am,12noon, 2pm and 3pm. Tel: 01905 542373. University of Worcester City Campus, Worcester, WR1 3AS. www.worcester.ac.uk/yourhome/the-infirmary
Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding to advertisers
39
01684 891900
The Cheeseboard 100 Barnard's Green, Malvern, WR14 3ND
Wensleydale & Apricots by Andrew Brooks
W
ensleydale Creamery in the town of Hawes has been hand-making cheese for more than 100 years, and this is where the true taste of this type of cheese comes from.
One of the best blended cheeses on the market: white crumbly cheese with dried apricots, made with pasteurized cows milk and vegetarian rennet. This subtle blend of traditional Wensleydale cheese with the sweetness of succulent apricots leaves a creamy mild flavour taste in your mouth with the
freshness of the apricots. Sweet & fruity; a perfectly balanced flavour combination of fresh Real Yorkshire Wensleydale with the flavour of apricots, finished in orange wax. Serve it on a cheese board as a delicious sweet dessert cheese.
www.cheeseboardmalvern.co.uk
Weather Guard
Roofing Professionals Specialists in all types of roofing, Complete Roofs, Ridge Tiles, Lead Work, Chimneys, Fascias, Soffits, Guttering, Gutter Cleaning No job too big or too small Fully guaranteed and insured Written quotes available Phone Andy on 07795 958 245 Office 01905 888322 Email info@weatherguardservices.co.uk
www.weatherguardservices.co.uk 40
CR Decorating aims to meet and exceed your painting and decorating needs. Our Services include:
Our services include interior and exterior painting, decorating, tiling …. and more Call us now to discuss your decorating needs
Fully insured • Over 10 years’ experience Dineley Road, Peopleton, WR10 2EJ Call Chris Rabot on
M: 07801 271038 T: 01905 412150 E: crdecorating@gmail.com www.crdecorating.co.uk
To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
Monday to ursday 12noon THE e Berkeley e Berkeley
Berkeley
Bar, Restaurant, Weddings & Function Venue Bar, Restaurant, Weddings & Function Venue Evesham Road, Worcester, WR7 4QL Tel: 01905 345269 EveshamEmail: Road,Worcester, Worcester, WR7 WR7 4QL 4QLTel: Tel:01905 01905 345269 345269 Evesham Road, info@theberkeleyworcester.co.uk Email: info@theberkeleyworcester.co.uk Email: info@theberkeleyworcester.co.uk www.theberkeleyworcester.co.uk www.theberkeleyworcester.co.uk www.theberkeleyworcester.co.uk Food Served 9am until 9pm everyday FoodServed Served 9am 9am until until9pm 9pmeveryday everyday Food
Tribute Nights Christmasat atThe TheBerkeley Berkeley Christmas
Christmas at The Berkeley - Bookings Now Being Taken
Bookings Now NowBeing BeingTaken Taken -- Bookings
Festive Party Nights Festive Lunches New Years Eve Gala Friday 5th December 2 courses £12.95 per person Dinner & Disco £19.95 per person including coffee and mince pies Champagne & Canapés Festive Lunches Festive6th Party Nights New Years Eve Gala Saturday December 3 Courses £16.95 per person Festive Lunches Festive Party Nights Newon Years Eve Gala arrival Friday 5th December 2 courses £12.95 per person Dinner and Disco £19.95 per person including coffee and pies Friday 5thper December 2 courses £12.95 permince person DinnerGala and Disco 3 Course Dinner £19.95 person including coffee and mince pies £19.95 perDecember person Friday 12th including coffee and mince pies Served Monday toper Sunday 3 Courses £16.95 person Champagne and Canapés on Arrival Saturday 6th December followed by on Arrival 3 Courses £16.95 per person Champagne and Canapés Saturday 6th December £24.95 from12noon 5pm pies. £19.95per per person person including coffeeuntil and mince & petit fours 3 coffee Course Gala Dinner followed by £19.95 per person including coffee and mince pies. 3 Course Gala Dinner followed by Saturday 13thDecember December Friday 12th ServedMonday MondaytotoSunday Sunday from Friday 12th December coffee and Petit Fours Served from Dancecoffee away the night to our Christmas Day Lunch £24.95 per person £24.95 per person and Petit Fours 12noon until 5pm £24.95 per person 12noon until 5pm resident DJ Carriage’s at 1am Saturday 13th December Traditional four course Thursday 18th December Dance away night Saturday 13th December Dance away thethe night to to ChristmasDay Day Lunch £24.95per perperson person £19.95 person Christmas Lunch Christmas Lunch £24.95 per our resident DJ Carriage’s at 1am £59.95 per person our resident DJ Carriage’s at 1am Thursday 18th December Traditional fourcourse course Thursday 18th December Friday 19th December Traditional four Adults £59.95 per person £59.95 per person £19.95per perperson person ChristmasLunch Lunch Sorry no per under 18's £59.95 person £19.95 Christmas £24.95 perDecember person Children above the age of 5 Adults£59.95 £59.95per per person Friday 19th Sorry no under Adults person Friday 19th December Sorry no under 18s18s Saturday 20th December £24.95 perperson person £29.95 perthe child Children above the age £24.95 per Children above age ofof 55 £29.95per child £24.9520th per December person Saturday 20th December Children£29.95 under 5per eat free - from child Saturday £24.95 perDecember person New Year’s Day Brunch Children under 5 eatfreefreeFrom Sunday 21st New Year’s Day Brunch £24.95 per person New Year’s Day Brunch Children under 5 eat From thethe the children’s Christmas menu children’sChristmas Christmas menu. Sunday 21st December £16.9521st perDecember person children’s menu. Sunday Served from 11am until 6pm Served from 11am until 6pm £16.95per perperson person Served from 11am until 6pm £16.95 Boxing Day 3 course festive meal with Boxing Day Boxing Day 3 course festive meal with coffee 3coffee course&festive meal coffee £10.00 person deposit £10.00 per person deposit mum the day off and treat pieswith followed £10.00 perper person deposit Give mumthe theday dayoffoff and treat and mincemince piesfollowed followed bydisco disco Give Give mum and treat herher and mince pies by required on all Christmas and by disco until midnight required on all Christmas and her to boxing day brunch to boxing day brunch until midnight required on all Christmas and to boxing day brunch until midnight Sorry 18's SorryNo NoUnder Under18s 18s Served from 11amuntil until 6pm New Years Bookings New Year's Bookings Served from 11am until 6pm Sorry No Under Served from 11am 6pm New Years Bookings
Ja F Ma
Night
d Tom Jones
s £27.50 per person including courses and andaaglass glassof ofhouse housewine, wine,beer beeroror 2 courses so drink drinkfor foronly only£14.95 £14.95per perperson. person. so
od bill
Octobe
AvailableMonday Mondaytotoursday ursday12noon 12noon until 6pm Available until 6pm
Tribute TributeNights Nights
Desserts o
January – Rod Stewart October 31st -31st Dead Famous NightNight -Night Elvis Presley November 28th - 30th Neil Diamond & Tom Jones January 30th – Rod Stewart October October 31st––Dead DeadFamous Famous Elvis Presley February 27th –Take That Elvis Presley February 27th –Take That January 30th Rod Stewart February 27th Take That March 27th Michael Jackson November March 27th - Michael Jackson November 28th 28th––Neil NeilDiamond Diamondand andTom TomJones Jones March 27th - Michael Jackson
m �6pm
All 33-course course meal All £27.50 per person including meal AllTribute TributeNights Nights£27.50 £27.50per perperson personincluding including 3 course meal
20% off* off* your yourfood foodbill bill when whenordered orderedMonday-Friday Monday-Fridayfrom from6pm 6pm
*with *withthis thisvoucher voucher T’s & C’s apply ends 31/10/14
October Madness: Tribute Night OctoberMonday MondaySpecial Madness:
Desserts only £1.00 when a main meal isNight ordered. 20% off per person for any Desserts only £1.00 when aTribute main meal is ordered. from 6pm. booked andValid confirmed by 31/10/14 Valid from 6pm.
Valid Until 1st November £10.00 per person deposit required as confirmation Valid Until 1st November
& C’s apply endswhen 31/10/14 Please mentionT’s THE VILLAGER responding to advertisers
T’sT’s C’s apply tothis this voucher T's &&C's apply to voucher & C’s apply to this voucher
41
Ways To Improve Your Photography : Part I article & photography by Brian Joyce
S
imple - just buy the most expensive camera on the market, point it at the subject matter and you’re guaranteed to take top notch images just like Ansell Adams, David Bailey or Mario Testino ... right? WRONG! Perhaps then it starts with having an eye for composition and the image you want. Start by visualising the image you want to capture before taking the picture. Stop and think about what image you want – don’t just point and shoot. Of course, even when you do that, it doesn’t always come out the way you want it. Have you ever looked at a scene or a piece of architecture and thought, “Now that would make a great picture”, pressed the shutter and been completely disappointed with the end result? I know that I have and if I am being completely honest with you, more than once!
42
So what can we do to improve the images we capture? Well, let’s start today with some ‘C’s – Composition and Cropping. I have included a few images where I have made some very simple adjustments to create what I think are better photographs. Looking at the lovely Amelia against the yellow background, you might be forgiven for thinking the picture on the left is a reasonable image, but now look closer at both photos. On the left are some very distracting strands of her hair that I honestly didn’t notice when taking the original picture. Solution: crop in a little closer and you have a much better image altogether. Likewise the dog and lady owner. On the left of the photo is a large red blob - very distracting and it draws the eye away from the focus: the dog and lady owner.
To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
A similar issue with the rose. Beautiful flower, but just look at the way those daisies draw your eye away from the bloom; crop in closer and you see more of the bloom and less of the distracting daisies. So, there are three examples of where cropping can remove distractions or blemishes or even just change the main focus of the photograph for the better. Of course, cropping isn’t always about removal of distracting elements, it can also be for effect. Take the second set of images of our lovely model (in black & white) and you can see that I have cropped away a large portion of the left hand side of the photo to create the ‘after’ image on the right which now places Amelia on the rule of thirds position (that’s for next time folks) but also draws the focus more to her face and eyes, and has her looking into the space to the right of the image. A much more interesting image. Similarly, if you look at the photograph of the London Eye – the left-hand one is fine as a record shot of a trip to the capital. Now look at the effect you get when you zoom in or crop closer into the detail within the image. It has an almost abstract feel to it but you are left in no doubt as to the subject ... am I right?
So, there you are … just a few quick hints and tips which will hopefully have you creating better images. Watch out for the next edition of Hints & Tips when we will look at ‘light’ and its impact on our images.
BG Digital Photographs Digital Photography for you. Contact me to cover your event, photograph your product, take images of you or your loved ones. Getting married and want images of the whole event. Preparing product or website advertising and need images (including digitally manipulated), need shots taken of architecture, landscapes or landmarks.
Are you a model or an agent needing portfolio or fashion shoot photographs. All of these and more can be provided by BG Digital Photo-graphs. Just contact me by email, mobile phone or the contact form on the website. BG Digital Photographs, your friendly, experience local digital photographer in the Vale of Evesham.
BG Digital Photographs Primary Business Contacts: brianjoyce@usa.net
Mobile: 07949 273 948 www.bgdigitalphotographs.co.uk
Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding to advertisers
43
Trivia (answers on page 50)
Sudoku
1.
What is the largest North american member of the deer family?
2.
Which buxom Hollywood actress was dubbed "The Statue of Libido"?
3.
What is added to soap to make it transparent?
4.
When asked to name a colour quickly, what do most people answer?
5.
How many dice are used in Cluedo?
6.
What is IV plus VI in Roman numerals?
7.
What chess term comes from the Persian words meaning "The king is dead"?
8.
How many sides does a rhombus have?
9.
How many toes does Bugs Bunny have?
Fill in the blank squares so that each line, each row and each mini square contains the numbers 1 - 9 without duplicating the same number in any row, line or square
3 3
5
7
2
9
4
1 1
3
8
4
7
2
3
1
3
5
9
7
5
6 2
10. Which sport demonstrates the Fosbury Flop?
5
8
4
7
4
Coffee Break ACROSS
1 5 8 9
10 12 13 15 17 19 21 22 23 24
___ Gras, Shrove Tuesday (5) Disguise, conceal (5) Sewing implement (6) To Catch a ___, film starring Cary Grant and Grace Kelly (5) Tarka the ___, animal tale by Henry Williamson (5) Extremely (4,2) Of or relating to the Moon (5) Sign on (5) Raise (bread) (6) Exhaust (5) Supply with what is needed (5) Direction of some clues in this puzzle! (6) Mistreatment (5) Material used in making soft shoes (5)
5 6 7 11 14
Humidity, sultriness Reveal, divulge information (3.2) Chop (3) Fall back into illness (7) Assumed name (5)
1
2
3
4
Moulin ___!, Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor film (5) Stringed instrument, now uncommon (4) ___ Brydon, Gavin & Stacey actor (3)
16 18 20 5
6
7
8 9
10
11
12 13
14 17
19
20
15
16
18 21
DOWN
1 2 3 4
Speckled (7) Monarch's time in office (5) Drawn conclusion (9) ___ out, allot (4)
44
22 23
24
To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
Crowds Defy Rain For Pershore Plum Festival 2014 Despite torrential rain, this year's Bank Holiday Monday's festivities kicked off with the Plum Parade, led by the Plum Princess, Prunella Plum and the Plum Charmer, cheered on by thousands of visitors. Over the past seven years, Pershore's Plum Festival has single-handedly turned around the popularity of plums in Worcestershire. Old varieties have been re-introduced, new orchards planted and sales of the fruit are on the increase. As usual, plums abounded in every guise possible, including plum liqueur, plum jam,
plum cake, plum sausages and even punnets of plums in their natural state. Music filled Pershore, with street musicians, choirs and bands of all sorts entertaining the crowds. Hundreds of classic cars made their way to Pershore for the Festival, which was officially opened by a ditty from Trevor Harrison of Radio 4 Archers and Eddy Grundy fame. For the entire month of August, the market town of Pershore turned purple as a tribute to the most famous plum of all - the Pershore Purple. All the shops created purple window displays and there have been street celebrations leading up to last weekend's main event.
Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding to advertisers
45
GROOMING AT FERN'S •
fully qualified city and guilds level 3 dog groomer brand new premises located at the cattery full grooms available nails included in full grooms or separate collection and delivery service free within first 5 miles all breeds catered for professional one on one service quiet and stress free environment
www.groomingatferns.co.uk
01386 792554
Ferns Cattery, Alcester Road, Radford, Worcs WR74LS Arfernihough@hotmail.co.uk
SJM
SJM LOCKSMITH SERVICES
LOCKED OUT ? NEED A LOCKSMITH ! No call out charge Advice given Free onsite estimates Lost or broken keys Hard to open or damaged locks Lock replacement and repairs Additional door and window security Double glazing lock repair specialist Protect yourself and your property - upgrade to insurance rated locks Are you moving home? Have all your doors and windows security checked today!
LOCAL RELIABLE INDEPENDENT For more information call T: 01905 731 536 M: 07871 442 011
www.sjmlocksmith.co.uk 46
Fern’s Cattery Windmill Hill Field Alcester Road Radford WR7 4LS
Are you planning a trip? Now your feline friends can have a luxurious time too... - Purpose built cattery situated in beautiful countryside. - Our chalets are constructed to the highest standards using the most up-to-date materials to comply with the model license conditions. - All chalets are heated, secure, hygienic and designed to offer interested, comfortable accommodation. - Any medical conditions are catered for. - Collection and delivery service. - 24 hour veterinary care. - Fully qualified staff.
For more details contact Ayley on: Tel: 01386 792554 Email: ayley@fernscattery.co.uk www.fernscattery.co.uk
For Forall all allyour your your For plumbing plumbingneeds needs needs plumbing Gas Gassafe safe saferegistered registered registered Gas Landlord Landlordcertificates certificates certificates Landlord Boiler Boilerchanges changes changes Boiler System Systemupgrades upgrades upgrades System All Allplumbing plumbing plumbingwork work work All Bathrooms Bathroomsand and andTiling Tiling Tiling Bathrooms
FREE FREEQUOTATIONS QUOTATIONS QUOTATIONS FREE 01386 01386861676 861676 861676 t:t:t:01386 m: m:07976 07976 07976420150 420150 420150 m: 207290 207290 207290
To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
Miraculous Birth at West Midland Safari Park
M
ark O'Shea returned from a two-month expedition to East Timor to learn from colleagues at West Midland Safari Park that amazing events had taken place at home. On the evening of Tuesday 12th August the smaller of the two Green Anacondas on show in Mark O'Shea's Reptile World had given birth. Nothing unusual there you might think, until you learn that both anacondas in the collection are female, and neither has been near a male. Mark O'Shea, Consultant Curator of Reptiles, said, "What had occurred is known to scientists as parthenogenesis, literally Greek for 'virgin birth', and this appears to be first time the process has been documented for anacondas. There are two kinds of parthenogenesis: Obligate parthenogenesis is when the entire species is parthenogenetic and exists as unisexual (female-only) population that produces eggs or offspring that are clones of their mothers. The second kind - Facultative parthenogenesis - is different because it occurs in sexual species that contain both males and females. It occurs on very rare occasions when a female has been kept separate from a male, she simply produces eggs or, as in the case of the anaconda, newborn (neonates) which are clones of the mother. Litters or clutches are small and there is a high mortality rate. It was this process that resulted in the female anaconda at West Midland Safari Park giving birth to three live female neonates and five dead neonates". Mark, continued, "This form of virgin birth has only been reported on in very rare occasions in the past - in a
Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding to advertisers
rattlesnake, a rainbow boa, garter snakes and a Komodo dragon". The 'three sisters' are being raised behind the scenes and the mother is now back on show in Mark O'Shea's Reptile World and feeding well after the birth. West Midland Safari and Leisure Park is open daily from 10.00am until Friday, 7th November 2014. General information is available from the Park's official website www.wmsp. co.uk or by telephone 01299 402114.
www.wmsp.co.uk tel: 01299 402114 47
VETS & ANIMAL CARE
Directory
AGE UK & CARE IN THE COMMUNITY malvern Malvern & District Tel: 01684 560666 EVESHAM & PERSHORE South Wychavon Tel: 01386 422700 UPTON-UPON-SEVERN 15 High Street Tel: 01684 593633
CHEMISTS EVESHAM Lloyds Parmacy Tel: 01386 48899 Morrison Pharmacy Tel: 01385 40610 MALVERN Boots The Chemist Tel: 01684 572905 Lloyds Pharmacy Tel: 01684 573811 PERSHORE Boots The Chemist Tel: 01386 556860 UPTON-UPON-SEVERN Talbot Cooper Chemists Tel: 01684 592637
CITZENS ADVICE EVESHAM, PERSHORE & WORCESTER: Wychavon CAB Tel: 03444 111 303 MALVERN Malvern Hills CAB Tel: 01684 563611
HOSPITALS Evesham Community Hospital Tel: 01386 502432 Malvern Community Hospital Tel: 01684 612600 Pershore Hospital Tel: 01386 502070
48
Evesham Bowler Lewis & Partners Tel: 01386 442804 pershore Martin & Carr Tel: 01386 553631 UPTON-UPON-SEVERN The Stocks Veterinary Centre Tel: 01684 592606 RSPCA Tel: 0300 123 4999 CATS PROTECTION EVESHAM Tel: 01386 833343 CATS PROTECTION WORCESTER Tel: 01905 425704 RSPB Tel: 01767 693690
POST OFFICES Bishampton Tel: 01386 462873 EVESHAM Tel: 01386 423344 GREAT MALVERN Tel: 01684 573003 Inkberrow Tel: 01386 792201 Lower Moor Tel: 01386 861705 MALVERN LINK Tel: 01684 573634 PENDOCK Tel: 01531 650034 pershore Tel: 01386 552608 PEOPLETON Tel: 01905 840471 Upton Snodsbury Tel: 01905 381511 UPTON-UPON-SEVERN Tel: 01684 592634 WELLAND Tel: 01684 310377
TOURIST INFORMATION EVESHAM Tel: 01386 442348 MALVERN Tel: 01684 892289 PERSHORE Tel: 01386 556591 UPTON-UPON-SEVERN Tel: 01684 594200
COMMUNITY SUPPORT CHILDLINE Tel: 0800 1111 CHILD PROTECITON HELPLINE Tel: 0800 800 500 CRIMESTOPPERS Tel: 0800 555 111 WORCESTERSHIRE RAPE & SEXUAL ABUSE SUPPORT CENTRE Tel: 01905 611 655 SAMARITANS Tel: 01432 269 000
RAILWAY STATIONS EVESHAM Tel: 0845 700 0125 malvern Tel: 0121 634 2040 pershore Tel: 0845 700 0125
EMERGENCY SERVICES POLICE FIRE AMBULANCE Emergency: 999 FIRE BRIGADE Worcester Road, Malvern Minge Lane, Upton upon Severn Tel: 01684 572948 Defford Road, Pershore Tel: 01905 24454 Merstow Green, Evesham Tel: 01386 466388 WEST MERCIA POLICE Victoria Road, Malvern Station Lane, Upton Queen Elizabeth Drive, Pershore Abbey Road, Evesham Tel. 0300-333 3000 AMBULANCE SERVICE Victoria Road, Malvern Tel: 01684 561556 Spetchley Road, Worcester Tel: 01905 764226 GAS Tel: 0800 111 999 WATER Tel: 0800 783 4444 ELECTRICITY Tel: 0800 328 1111
To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
ROTARY CLUB of PERSHORE Charity number 1022572
Pershore Tree of Lights 2014 REMEMBER A LIFE Since 2000 the Rotary Club of Pershore has provided the Christmas tree in Broad Street, inviting individuals to dedicate a light in memory of friends and relatives no longer with us. Over that period in excess of £31,000 has been raised for charities chosen by the Club. For 2014 the amount raised will go to Pershore Riverside Youth Centre, Acorns Children’s Hospice and other Rotary sponsored charities. If you would like to help us you can do so via credit card or PayPal at:
www.pershoretreeoflights.com Alternatively you can send a cheque made payable to “The Rotary Club of Pershore” to: Rotarian Martin Butler, Driftway Barn, Hunts Fold, Naunton Beauchamp, Pershore. WR10 2LS. Please remember to send this completed form with your donation so that we know the names that you wish remembered on the Tree of Lights. Also please make sure that all the fields are completed so that we can reclaim Gift Aid. Your full name:____________________________________________________________________ First Line of Address:_____________________________________Postcode:__________________ Life/lives to be remembered:
A minimum donation of £5 is suggested for each life remembered. Gift Aid Declaration Please treat as a Gift Aid donation the enclosed donation totalling £___________ I confirm I have paid or will pay an amount of Income Tax and/or Capital Gains Tax in this tax year (6 April to 5 April) that is at least equal to the amount of tax that all the charities or Community Amateur Sports Clubs (CASCs) that I donate to will reclaim on my gifts for this tax year. I understand that other taxes such as VAT and Council Tax do not qualify. I understand the charity will reclaim 25p of tax on every £1 of this donation. Signature______________________________________ Lists of lives remembered will be displayed at the site of the tree in Broad Street, Pershore and the Book of Remembrance on our Club website www.pershore.rotary1100.org
Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding to advertisers
3
49
Answers to Trivia on page 44: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
The moose Mae West Alcohol Red One X (ten) Checkmate Four Six (three on each foot) The high jump
• For All Your Agricultural Needs •
... DO YOU WANTOKING FIELDS & PADDOCKS • GREAT LO DS ING / NO WEE • GREAT GRAZ T PU S AY ST AT • FENCING TH O PICKING PO RE MO NO • ALL
Answers to Crossword on page 44:
M O T T L E D
A R D I E N E H I E F G E V U N A R L E A R A I N O A C R A B U S E
M C L E D L E T O T E R S O E N V E N I E Q O S S L S U
O A K X T E R E R O L O A U I P G D E D E
US... THEN C 01386 791572 • 07833 944166
Four Husbands The local news station was interviewing an 80-year-old lady because she had just got married for the fourth time. The interviewer asked her questions about her life, about what it felt like to be marrying again at 80, and then about her new husband's occupation.
Q
"He's a funeral director," she answered.
Here are of the "Interesting," the some newsman thought.
mouthwatering dishes we offer
He then asked her if she wouldn't mind telling him a littleBloody aboutMary her soup first three husbands and what they did for a living. with warm home made breads £4.30
Quality lunches available every OpeningSunday Hours
Handpaused sliced smoked salmon with beetroot She for a few moments, needing time to cream, reflect onand allhorseradish those years. granary bread and butter £5.25 After short time, a smilecocktail came £5.25 to her face and Jumboacrevette and crayfish she answered proudly, explaining that she had Baked Cornisha Brie withwhen chilli jam first married banker she£4.95 was in her 20's, then a circus ringmaster * * * when in her 40's, and in herRoast 60's rib sheeye married a preacher, of Herefordshire beef,and now – in pudding £12 her 80's –Yorkshire a funeral director.
starters, main courses and sweets Meals Served
Roast loin looked of orchard The interviewer at pork, her, quite astonished, black pudding stuffing £9.99 and asked why she had married four men with Roastdiverse leg of lamb and onion sauce £9.99 such careers.
Quality lunches every Sunday Lively - Modern - Cosy atmosphere Good Food - Real Ales Lunchtime Specials: all main meals £6.50
Monday 6pm to 10pm Tues to Thurs 12noon to 3pm & 6pm to 11pm Friday & Saturday 12noon to 11pm ExtensiveSunday menu withtoa10pm selec�on of 12noon
from 12 noon to 2.30pm
Tues to Thurs 12noon 2pm fantas�c & 6pm to 9pm Have you seentoour Friday & Saturday 12noon to 2pm & 6pm to 9pm Trip Advisor reviews? Sunday 12noon to 3pm
The Dolphin, Main Street, Bishampton, WR10 2LX Tel: 01386 462343 50
Olive oil poached halibut, salsa verde ... wait for it ... and sauté potatoes £10.50
SheBaked smiled explained, married 1 for the fieldand mushrooms with"Icreamy money, for the show, 3toast to get ready, and 4 to Stilton2sauce on Foccacia £8.95 go." * * *
Sweets £4.70 To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 Home or visitMade www.grapevinepublications.co.uk Marmalade and chocolate bread
Index of Advertisers
Entertainment & Leisure West Midlands Safari Park
Accountants Crowthers 16 Focus Accountancy 13
Fencing A Job for John
Agricultural Services JM Paddock & Field Bathrooms & Kitchens A Job 4 John Dream Doors Mark Ellis Interiors Boiler Services Johnston Scotia Building & Construction Evesham Trade Centre Simon Haines Construction
50
6 7 2
26
23 18
Cars: Parts, Repairs & Sales Marshalls of Evesham Ltd 2 RetroMarques 11 Cleaning Services Chris James Cleaning Lady Cleaner & Gardener
36 25
47 6
Funeral Directors E Hill & Son
18
Gardening & Landscaping Garden Machinery Mobile Service & Repair Lady Cleaner & Gardener Luke's Garden Maintenance
18 25 11
Haberdashery & Material The Fabrik Shop
18
Hairdressers Hair by Colette
18
Handyman A Job 4 John
6
Health & Beauty ALM Fitness 32 EFT 12 Pranayama Yoga 25 Heating & Plumbing A+ Plumbing Johnston Scotia J S Plumbing Mark & Will Hartley
11 27 46 30
Chimney Services Elite Sweeps
25
Community Services Age UK Helping Hands Rotary Club of Pershore
24 12 49
Interior Design & Soft Furnishings Pershore Rugs 28 Shuttercraft 30 Sunflower Soft Furnishings 25
Computing & IT Services Pendas CS Ltd
23
Decorators, Painters & Plasterers A Job 4 John Aztec Painting & Decorating CR Decorating S.A .Cooper
Kitchens Dream Doors Mark Ellis Interiors
6 37 40 30
Education English Tuition Service Electricians Craig Merchant Electrical
22
28
Locksmiths Alcester Locks SJM Locksmith Services
7 2 6 46
M O T Marshalls of Evesham Ltd 2 RetroMarques 11 Oven Cleaning Ovenclean 16
Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding to advertisers
Pershore Retail Market Abbey Butchers Pershore Footwear The Sewing Lady
52 52 52
Pet Care Cats Protection Dog Grooming by Julie Fern's Cattery Grooming at Fern's
16 28 46 46
Picture Framing Huxley Imaging
24
Photography BG Digital Photographs
43
Plumbing & Heating A+ Plumbing Johnston Scotia J S Plumbing Mark & Will Hartley
11 27 46 30
Pubs & Restaurants The Anchor Inn The Berkeley The Dolphin
29 41 50
Recipes Recipes 34 Roofing Services G.M. Roofing R Hughes Roofing Weather Guard
37 2 40
Second Hand Dealers Sally's Bargains
12
Shoes Humphries 6 Skip Hire Budget Skip Hire Travel Agents Carrick Travel
20 8
Windows, Doors & Conservatories Cloudy2Clear Windows 3 ETC Windows, Doors & Conservatories 11 Mr Demister 17 Wood Burning Stoves Chase Heating Elite Stoves
35 25
51
Pershore Retail Market Cherry Orchard, Pershore, Worcs, WR10 1EY 01386 553232 www.pershoremarket.com
Pershore Footwear Range of ladies , gents and children's footwear
Tel: 01386 552782
The Sewing Lady Alterations, custom embroidery, soft furnishings, repairs to boat canopies, tents and leather.
Tel: 01386 556468
Abbey Butchers
local Specialising in ucts od pr produce ... all e. homemad
Tel: 01386 554349 52
To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk