The worcestershire grapevine november 2015 v2 by Betty-Ann Ambury

TThe Worcestershire

www.grapevinepublications.co.uk

November 2015 Issue No. 65

Your Free Magazine

BUSINESS EDITORIALS  HEALTH & BEAUTY  COFFEE BREAK  LOCAL EVENTS

ALL TYPES OF BUILDING WORK CONSTRUCTION DRIVEWAYS • BLOCK PAVING TARMAC • DRIVEWAY REPAIRS RE-SURFACING

MULTI-SURFACE CLEANING

DRIVEWAY SEALING PATIOS • FENCING • TURFING

Restore your driveway to its former glory

LAWNS • GARDEN CLEARANCE RUBBISH REMOVAL

Block Paving, Driveways and Patios Using the latest pressure washer systems these areas can be restored to their former glory. We then re-sand and if required seal on completion. Walls, Brick and Stonework We can also clean decking, fencing, roof tiles and more. All customers are entitled to a 14 day cooling off period

• 20 Years Experience • Personal and Professional Service • Show Drives available for viewing • Written Recommendations and References • Free Competitive Estimate and Advice

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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

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& Elite Stoves Free surveys & no obligation quotes!

OPKILL LIMITED

We deal with Rats, Mice, Birds & Moles

● Prompt, reliable & friendly service ● All types of flues & appliances cleaned. ● Cowls and bird guards fitted. ● Guild certificates issued after every sweep.

Registered business address:

Greenfields Close Drakes Broughton Worcestershire WR10 2BD

Wasps, Bees & Hornets

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Crawling insects & Flying insects

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Mon-Sat 8am-8pm

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Call Eddie T 01905 700701 / 07895 612915 www.elitesweeps.co.uk

Annual service contracts

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

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d as! e te istm n a ar Chr u G for ng i t fit

design We also ooms dr & plan abskeus for details

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Find us on

Grapevine TThe Worcestershire

November 2015

Issue No. 65

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

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

Advertising & Editorial Betty-Ann Ambury

Contributors

Hello & Welcome ... ... to the November issue of The Worcestershire Grapevine ... last one before the Christmas magazine ... time to think about your Christmas shopping, and to get you started, Cosmos Party & Toys (page 13) have lots of ideas and choices. As always at this time of the year, there's plenty of events to get you in the Christmas mood: Cosy Hearts (page 17) are having their annual craft fair this month; Inkberrow has a Christmas play (page 35) and there's lots happening on the Severn Valley Railway (page 24). But before that, there's Hallowe'en at the end of October, so have a look at pages 11 and 26 for some spooky fun.

Amy Marshall Fran Holder Lesley Miller Pamela Green

Photography

Front Cover & Pages 7, 38 & 39 Mike Ambury (photo bottom of page 7: country manor house in Wick near Pershore)

Printers

DC Print (Yorkshire) Ltd Tel: 01977 642331

Next Issue Copy Date 10th November 2015

St Richard's Hospice are still running their Lights of Love campaign, so if you interested, have a look at page 49 for more details. And once again, we are expanding our distribution and need more people to deliver magazines for us. This is a great way to get yourself out and walking around your village or town, whilst earning a little pin or pocket money ... give me a call if you'd like to know more. Well, I'm off now to start my Christmas shopping, so see you again next month. Until then, keep well, and happy reading.

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.

Betty

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

contents 11

A Spooky Walk

Age UK: Volunteering

Pershore High School

Cosy Hearts Craft Fair

The Magic of Christmas

Severn Valley Railway

All Hallows Eve

Q & A with Haines Watts

West Mercia Police

Alpaca ... an Unusual Animal

Humbug & Mistletoe

What's on in November

ALM Fitness

The Cheeseboard

Coffee Break

Creating Your Garden Paradise

Community Contacts

Lights of Love

Distributors Wanted

Index of Advertisers

Christmas Market

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. ÂŠ 2015

Please mention THE WORCESTERSHIRE GRAPEVINE when responding to advertisers

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ScotiaCare ScotiaCare ScotiaCare Homeplan Homeplan Homeplan Established 1979

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A SPOOKY WALK

ON ON THE THE SPECTACULAR SPECTACULAR WILD WILD SIDE SIDE A A

filled with puzzles, games and To add to the atmosphere s Spooky Spectacular filled with puzzles, games and To add to the atmosphere s Spooky Spectacular an exciting scarecrow hunt is there are some memorable opens to visitors on an exciting scarecrow hunt is there are some memorable opens to visitors on the perfect way for even the characters to meet as well, Saturday, 3rd October 2015, the perfect way for even the characters to meet as well, Saturday, 3rd October 2015, youngest of spooks to enjoy such as Winnie the Witch, over 100 scarecrows and youngest of spooks to enjoy such as Winnie the Witch, over 100 scarecrows and the season - they can even 1,700 pumpkins will be used Goblins Zanzy Bog and Feezle, the season - they can even Zanzy Bog and Feezle, 1,700 pumpkins will be used Goblins earn a sticker prize at the Werewolves Lychan and Lupin. to theme this month long Werewolves Lychan and Lupin. earn a sticker prize at the to theme this month long end! It is ghoulishly good fun festival at West Midland end! It is ghoulishly good fun Throughout the entire event festival at West Midland for half term and takes in the Throughout the entire event Safari Park. Now in its sixth for half term and takes in the staff will be dressed in all Safari Park. Now in its sixth creepiest of all days that is staff will be dressed in all year, new attractions this creepiest of all days that is kinds of guises to capture the year, new attractions this Halloween. kinds of guises to capture the spooky season will include Halloween. essence of this spooky time spooky season will include essence of this spooky time dinosaurs that are Hours will be extended until of the year. And, as the dinosaurs that are Hours will be extended until of the year. And, as the illuminated after dark and a daylight fades, that is the time 9.00pm on weekends and illuminated after dark and a daylight fades, that is the time 9.00pm on weekends and spell writing competition! during the October half term when the creepiest of all spell writing competition! during the October half term when the creepiest of all holiday throughout the spooks are released. Visitors There are specially themed holiday throughout the spooks are released. Visitors There are specially themed Discovery Trail, Land of the are also encouraged to dress live shows - all with new Discovery Trail, Land of the are also encouraged to dress live shows - all with new Living Dinosaurs and Theme up and take part in the storylines - and animal Living Dinosaurs and Theme up and take part in the storylines - and animal Park, with the event finishing Halloween season. encounters galore. Visitors Park, with the event finishing Halloween season. encounters galore. Visitors on Sunday, 1st November get the chance to join in with on Sunday, 1st November There are creepy competitions get the chance to join in with 2015. There are creepy competitions The Tale of Baron 2015. and eerie hands-on activities The Tale of Baron and eerie hands-on activities Snakenstein, Close Encounter Further information and ticket for the entire family to take Snakenstein, Close Encounter Further information and ticket for the entire family to take of the Furry Kind, Ghastly booking is available from the part in with the chance of of the Furry Kind, Ghastly booking is available from the part in with the chance of Goblins & Creepy Critters, Park's official website winning one of a variety of Goblins & Creepy Critters, Park's official website winning one of a variety of along with The Sea Lion, The www.wmsp.co.uk Enquiries by safari-inspired prizes. An all along with The Sea Lion, The www.wmsp.co.uk Enquiries by safari-inspired prizes. An all telephone 01299 402114. 11 new children's activity booklet Witch and the Waterhole. Please and mention THE WORCESTERSHIRE GRAPEVINEactivity when responding to advertisers telephone 01299 402114. new children's booklet Witch the Waterhole.

Dalton Bookkeeping Bookkeeping service based in Inkberrow

VAT returns

Payroll and CIS

Credit control

Bookkeeping

Fern’s Cattery Windmill Hill Field Alcester Road Radford WR7 4LS

01386 576122 Debbie Dalton

www.daltonbookkeeping.co.uk

01789 762450 LOCKSMITHS and SAFE ENGINEERS • Lock sales, fitting & opening

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

• Safe sales, fitting & opening • Key cutting

GROOMING AT FERN'S •

• Electronic locking solutions

fully qualified city and guilds level 3 dog groomer

• Full mobile service

brand new premises

• Car key specialists

located at the cattery

Unit 12, 34 Tything Road, Alcester B49 6ES Phone: 01789 762450 Fax: 01789 400799

www.alcesterlocks.co.uk

Garden Machinery Mobile Service & Repair for an estimate call

Will White t: 01386 860918 m: 07716 404489

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

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

Cosmos Party & Toys

Birth • 1ST Birthday - 12 Years Christening Gifts • Christmas Decorations Toys • Cups • Balloons • Plates • Invites Confetti • Napkins • Loot Bags • Tableware Heleum Gas • Bunting • Pinatas • Costumes & much more

01531 660991 Enquires:

info@cosmospartytoy.com

www.cosmospartytoy.co.uk Please mention THE WORCESTERSHIRE GRAPEVINE when responding to advertisers

www.recon

it is to cut your own toenails? Or how much time and understanding it takes Worcester. to apply for a disability Malvern Gate, Bromwich Road, WR2(blue) 4BN badge? Or what a difference a visit once a week makes to a reconnections@ageukhw.org.uk | www.reconnectionsservice lonely person? We are coming up to the time when people traditionally make New Year resolutions which often include considering doing some good in the world. Becoming a volunteer isn’t difficult. It simply requires some planning and commit-ment on your part. It is a o you volunteer? I wonder why? Is it because genuinely win-win offer, not one you can buy in the no-one will pay for what you need to do? Is it supermarket but a badge you can own with distinction and because it is something you enjoy doing? Or is it because is respected in our communities like no other. you genuinely and passionately want to help other people and contribute to a better society? Or are you simply Volunteering is no respecter of age. You can be 18 or 80 bored with doing nothing? (although we don’t usually get them to change light bulbs!). You can be single, married, with or without Research tells us that it can be any of the above and a children, parents, grandparents, whatever. You can myriad of other reasons, but all of them have one thing in volunteer daily, weekly, monthly, annually or just ad-hoc. It common, the volunteer has to get something out of it. doesn’t cost you anything except your time as good Volunteers are the ‘heart and soul’ of a voluntary or volunteering organisations pay expenses to ensure community organisation. They are often the ‘engine’ of volunteer-ing is an opportunity available to everyone. delivery. In our case they support every programme we Have a think about it. Give us a call or go on our website deliver to older people directly, or indirectly and we are and if you can’t help, we will point you to others you can always looking for more. help. Our volunteers provide support in a myriad of ways. Think how nice it will be when asked what do you want Have you ever thought how difficult or dangerous it is to for Christmas and you answer “I want to volunteer”! change a lightbulb when you are 80? Of how challenging

Volunteering

Are you, or someone you know, feeling lonely? Reconnections offers a one to one service aimed at supporting people to reduce their feelings of loneliness.

WORCESTERSHIRE

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reconnect You don’t need to live your life alone

Reconnections Worcestershire will help you every step of the way.

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Malvern Gate, Bromwich Road, Worcester. WR2 4BN reconnections@ageukhw.org.uk | www.reconnectionsservice.org.uk

Charity No: 1080545

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EARLS CROOME EARLS CROOME EARLS CROOME GARDEN CENTRE GARDEN GARDEN CENTRE CENTRE

THE

Fabrik SHOP

24a Broad Street, Pershore

Tel: 01386 553 626

e: thefabrikshop@btinternet.com

Layers Pellets & Mixed Layers Pellets & Mixed Layers Pellets & Mixed Layers Pellets Mixed Poultry Corn & (20kg) Poultry Corn (20kg) Poultry Corn (20kg) £7.95 each Corn or three for £20 Poultry (20kg) £7.95 each or three for £20 £7.95 each or three for £20

orofthree for&£20 Also£7.95 stockingeach a Range Horse Feed Bedding Also stocking a Range of Horse Feed & Bedding Also stocking a Range of Horse Feed Also stocking a Range of Horse Feed & & Bedding Bedding

Specialist Wild Bird Feed Centre Specialist Wild Bird Feed Centre Specialist Wild Bird Feed WR8 Centre Specialist Wild Feed Centre Worcester Road (A38),Bird Earls Croome, 9DA

Stockists of:

Dressmaking, patchwork and curtain fabrics as well as waddings, cutters, boards and useful craft items. Fat quarters from £1

Worcester Road (A38),01684 Earls Croome, Telephone: 592143 WR8 9DA Worcester Road Road (A38),01684 Earls Croome, Croome, WR8 9DA 9DA Telephone: 592143 WR8 Worcester (A38), Earls Telephone: 01684 592143 Telephone: 01684 592143

SALLY’S Bargains 71 High Street, Pershore, WR10 1EU steve.tirebuck@btinternet.com

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For good quality furniture, bric-a-brac and second-hand bikes.

N A Taylor

Plumbing & Heating Gas Safe Registered

Come and see just what we have to offer by way of good quality second-hand furniture and bric-a-brac.

Boiler Servicing from £50

And we now stock brand new electrical items, such as fridges, freezers and other white goods!

Gas Fire Service from £50

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.

Boiler Repair Landlord certificates

All types of Plumbing work ex-British Gas Engineer

NO JOB TOO SMALL

FREE QUOTATION Call Nigel on

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Nat selected for Worcestershire Under 18 County Rugby Squad tournament this week against Shropshire, Herefordshire and Greater Birmingham.

ershore Sixth Form student, Nat Maginnis, has been selected for the Worcestershire Under 18 County Rugby Squad. Nat (16), from Crowle, has been selected to play scrum half in a

The Worcestershire squad of 22 players was selected after two trials over recent weeks and will be playing in front of North Midlands selectors at the tournament. Nat is captain (OR a keen member) of the Pershore High School rugby team and plays his club rugby at Droitwich Rugby Club. Nat said: "I am honoured to have

been selected to represent my county and would like to thank Pershore High School for having nominated me to attend the trial and my coaches both at school and Droitwich Rugby Club for all their support . Matt played scrum half for Worcestershire, we played two games against Greater Birmingham Under 18s and Herefordshire Under 18s, each match was 30 minutes long, the games were held at Droitwich under the floodlights last Wednesday, I was the youngest on our team.”

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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

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MOT

Cosy Heart Crafts Annual Christmas Craft Fair in aid of

Saturday 14th November 2015 10:00am – 3:30pm

Leedons, Childswickham WR12 7HB Featuring: Mr Chill’s Traditional Sweet Emporium Mary Kay Makeup and Skincare Mandmade Glass Ash White Trading Forget me Knot Jewellery Crafty Nutter and many more!

Tombola, Raffle, Tea, Coffee and Cakes Please mention THE WORCESTERSHIRE GRAPEVINE when responding to advertisers

Speed Trap ... ! CR Decorating aims to meet CR exceed Decorating to meet and youraims painting and and exceed your painting decorating needs. and decorating needs. Our Services include: Our Services include:

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SEPTIC TANKS and CESSPITS Domestic Waste Services

A bloke was driving in the middle of nowhere, when the police stopped him and asked to see his driving licence. He asked why they had stopped him and they said that he was speeding. He said that he couldn’t show his licence because he had been done for drink driving five times and that it had been confiscated. They then asked to see the car registration papers and he said that they couldn’t because he had just murdered the owner, put her in the boot and stolen the car.

C an

The two coppers backed off a bit and called for back-up. Within minutes five police cars screamed up, lights flashing and sirens blaring. They asked the driver if they could look in the boot and he said, “You certainly can.” Opened the boot and it was as clean as a whistle.

They sort of looked at the cops who had called them with raised eyebrows, and then asked for the car registration papers. These were immediately produced and all appeared to be perfectly in order.

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Then they asked for his driver’s licence. He IN PAIN? P pulled out his wallet and showedARE themYOU a clean * Back and Neck Pain licence.

* Muscle/Tendon/Ligame “What’s going on?” said the backup man, "We * Sports were told you had murdered someone and had Massa a body in theKathryn boot andFussey no car and papers and no Alex Hall HPC Registered drivers licence." Evening Appointments and Home Visits available.

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Tuesday Afternoon Tea Club invites you to a

Christmas Flower Arranging Demonstration by

Andrew Lloyd (National Flower Arranger)

“The Magic of Christmas” On

Friday 13th November 2015 at Inkberrow Village Hall - Sands Road Doors open at 6.30 pm - Starts at 7.30 pm £10.00 to include a glass of wine A donation will be made to Inkberrow Church Fabric Fund and Macmillan Cancer Support

Tickets available from Carole Husband on 01386 792396 or Pat Edwards on 01386 792654

n Friday 13th November 2015 all roads will lead to Inkberrow Village Hall in Sands Road, Inkberrow where Andrew Lloyd a National Flower Arranger from Stourbridge will be demonstrating “The Magic of Christmas”. Andrew is well known in the flower arranging world for his imaginative, creative and inspirational work with flowers.

He travels the length and breadth of the British Isles performing his demonstrations. In October he will be demonstrating in Ross-on-Wye for the Area President’s Day, a prestigious event in the flower arranging calendar. He is also kept very busy with his flower shop in Stourbridge – “Flowers by Andrew”.

This event in November will put us all in the mood for Christmas while raising funds for Macmillan Cancer Support and Inkberrow Church Fabric Appeal. Tickets for this event cost £10 to include a glass of wine and are available from Carol Husband on (01386) 792396. Please book your ticket early to avoid disappointment.

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s the clocks go back and the nights draw in, we recommend that you keep your cat in at night. Sadly many cats loose their lives on the roads, especailly when it is dark. The change in the times and the darker evenings can change visibility and can affect cats routines, leading to more accidents on the roads. November also brings bonfire night and fireworks. Again, where possible, as a matter of safety it is is advisable to keep cats in on November 5th, so they don't become frightened by the noise of the fireworks. Another event in this month is

National Black Cat Day on 27th October. This is a day that is aimed at raising awareness of the many black cats in Cats Protection care. Sadly many black, and black & white cats are constantly overlooked in favour of cats of other colours. Molly (pictured here) is a one of the lucky black cats who has a home. However there are many other black cats in care needing a home, can you make them lucky too?

95 Pitchers Hill Wickhamford, WR11 7RT

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Santa set to steam in for lots of festive fun!

he chestnuts are ordered, the halls are ready to be decked and one very special guest is nearly on his way – the Severn Valley Railway is right on track for a truly fun-filled Christmas to end its Golden Jubilee year in celebratory style. The famous attraction is preparing for its busiest time of the year, with tens of thousands of passengers expected to join the festive fun during December. Star of the show, none other than Father Christmas himself, will be arriving with his jolly team of elves, fresh from Lapland to launch a busy range of familyfavourite services, including the much-loved Santa Steam Specials, running on selected dates from December 5th to 24th. The SVR’s fleet of resident steam locomotives will be buffed and polished, ready to take families on exciting return steam train journeys from Kidderminster, through the scenic Severn Valley, to meet Santa in his special grotto at Arley Station. Santa’s team of elves will be on hand to welcome visitors, and after meeting the big man himself, each fare-paying child will receive a present. Visitors can then soak up the festive atmosphere of Arley Station at their leisure, enjoying some seasonal music favourites and indulging in some traditional treats including hot roasted Chestnuts, before boarding the train for the return trip to Kidderminster. Always a sell-out, visitors are encouraged to book early to avoid disappointment. 24

Keeping a busy schedule this year, Father Christmas will also be welcoming families on board his Santa Herald services, on December 21st, 22nd and 23rd, when he will visit everyone on the train, handing out presents and posing for festive ‘selfies’ during the journey to Highley, so don’t forget your camera! Schools and nursery groups looking for an exciting trip out can enjoy the Christmas Cracker Express services, on selected dates from December 1st to 16th. For fans of a good seasonal sing-along, the SVR’s Christmas Carol Trains, on December 12th and 19th are ideal. Visitors can board the diesel train for a jolly journey, stopping off at Bewdley and Arley to sing carols before the train takes them on to The Engine House Visitor Centre at Highley for a rousing evening of carol singing, led by the New Dimensional Experience Choir on the 12th and the Kidderminster Male Choir on the 19th December. Visitors can also warm their vocal chords with a warming glass of punch and mince pie to start. A truly indulgent festive dining experience is also on offer on the SVR’s Christmas Dining Trains and Festive Season Luncheon Trains. These special dining trains offer visitors the chance to wine and dine in style while travelling through the picturesque Severn Valley countryside from Kidderminster to Bridgnorth and return, for Christmas luncheon or evening dinner. Advance booking is essential for these services.

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Alternatively, the Christmas Carvery Service, offering return diesel train travel from Kidderminster to The Engine House Visitor Centre, enables visitors to enjoy the many exhibits on offer before enjoying a leisurely lunch. And when all the excesses of Christmas are over, those looking for a way to relax can enjoy the SVR’s Festive Season Services, running from Boxing Day until January 3rd. Leisurely steam train trips along the Severn Valley will be on offer throughout the period and the Engine House Visitor Centre, with its range of interactive exhibits, will be open. Clare Gibbard, the SVR’s marketing and communications manager, said: “Christmas is always a magical time of year, for all ages and our range of festive services are undoubtedly some of the most popular in our entire events calendar. “Last year, we welcomed more than 32,000 passengers on our Santa Steam Specials and Santa Heralds alone, and we are looking forward to another sell-out year to round-off our Golden Jubilee in style.” Tickets for the Santa Steam Specials, Santa Heralds and Christmas Carol Trains are now on sale. For more information, visit www.svr.co.uk For bookings: • Santa Steam Specials/Santa Heralds/Christmas Carol Trains – tel: 01562 757900 • Christmas Dining Car bookings – tel: 01562 757900 • Christmas Carvery at the Engine House – tel: 01746 862387

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All Hallows Eve

ll Hallows Eve or Hallowe’en, more popularly known as Trick or Treat, very likely stems from the Druidic culture in Ireland, Britain and Northern Europe. The roots lie in the feast of Samhain, celebrated annually on October 31st to honour the dead. In the eighth century, Pope Gregory III marked November 1st for celebrating all saints and martyrs which became the festival of All Saints Day, and incorporated some of the traditions of Samhain. The evening before was known as All Hallows’ Eve and later Hallowe’en. This day marked the end of summer and harvest, and the beginning of the dark, cold winter, a time of year

that was often associated with human death. To commemorate the event, Druids built huge sacred bonfires, where the people gathered to burn both crops and animals sacrifices to the Celtic deities. During the celebration, the Celts wore costumes, typically consisting of animal heads and skins, and attempted to tell each other’s fortunes. In the late 1800s, there was a move in America to mould Hallowe’en into a holiday more about community and neighbourly get-togethers than about ghosts, pranks and witchcraft. In Lancashire, 'Lating' or 'Lighting the witches' was an important Hallowe’en custom. People carried candles from eleven to midnight. If the candles

burned steadily the carriers were safe for the season, but if the witches blew them out then the omen was bad…. Many places in England combined Hallowe’en with Mischief Night, celebrated on November 4th, when children played practical jokes on their neighbours. Hallowe’en was thought to be when mischievous and evil spirits roamed freely. As in modern poltergeist lore, mischievous spirits could play tricks on the living—so it was safer to hide from them by wearing costumes. Masks and costumes were worn to scare away the ghosts or perhaps to keep from being recognised by them. Going from door-to-door seeking treats (Trick or

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Treat) may result from the Druidic practice of begging material for the bonfires and possibly also related to the Catholic concept of purgatory and the custom of begging for a soul cake. The Jack-O-Lantern apparently comes from Irish folklore about a man named Jack who tricked the devil into climbing a tree. Once the devil was in the tree, Jack carved a cross on the trunk preventing the devil from coming down. The devil made a deal with Jack not to allow Jack into Hell after he died if only Jack would remove the cross from the tree. After Jack died, he couldn't go to Hell nor could he go to Heaven; he was forced to wander the earth with a single candle to light his way. The candle was usually placed in a turnip to keep it burning longer. When

the Irish came to America in the 1800's, they adopted the pumpkin instead of the turnip. European immigrants, especially the millions of Irish fleeing to America to escape Ireland’s potato famine of 1846, helped to popularise the celebration of Hallowe’en nationally. Taking from Irish and English traditions, Americans began to dress up in costumes and go house-to-house asking for food or money, a practice that eventually became the trick-or-treat tradition. Ghostly origins or fun for children … you decide! Whichever you pick, it still carries a dark history folks, so just check over your shoulder as you go out and about on October 31st … in the dark!

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Q & A with

will then pay tax on any dividends received over this level. Q: So it sounds like I am going to pay more tax. Is that right? A: Not everyone will be worse off. For example individuals that are higher rate tax payers and receive dividend income could be better off.

From April 2016 the way that dividends are taxed is changing and this has prompted lots of questions from savers and small business owners. Q: I have heard that the way that dividends are taxed is changing. What are the main changes? A: From April 2016 the 10% dividend tax credit will be withdrawn and a new £5,000 dividend tax allowance introduced. Q: I own some shares as part of my savings portfolio. What does this really mean for me? A: You will pay no tax on the first £5,000 of dividends you receive in any tax year – regardless of your other income. The dividend tax allowance is an additional allowance on top of the personal allowance and the personal savings allowance. You will pay tax on any dividends received over this level. Q: I run my own limited company and pay myself a small salary and top up my income through dividends. What does this mean for me? A: Under the old rules you effectively paid no tax if your dividend income is taxed within the basic rate tax band. However under the new rules only the first £5,000 of dividend income will be tax free. You

Q: What are the new rates of dividend tax? A: For basic rate tax payers (that is for those with taxable income of up to £42,700) any dividends received over £5,000 will be taxed at 7.5%. For Higher rate tax payers (those with taxable income over £42,700) the rate of tax paid will increase from (an effective rate of tax) of 25% to 32.5%. Q: So what does that really mean? A: In real life a business owner drawing a salary of £10,600 and dividends of £23,000 in dividends will pay around £1,335 a year more in the next tax year. Q: Is there anything I can do to try to mitigate this increase in tax? A: In short Yes. Careful planning could help reduce any tax increases. For example business owners may want to consider bringing dividends forward into this tax year or utilising a spouses dividend allowance. Like all things tax, the legislation is complex and advice should be sought in respect of your personal circumstances before any action is taken. For personal and business tax advice and to see how Haines Watts can help you call us now.

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Vehicle Crime:

Catalytic Converter Thefts

ecently catalytic converters have been stolen from vehicles in the Evesham and Broadway area. This is due to a rise in the value of the precious metals they contain. Thieves tend to target vehicles such as vans and 4x4s that have a higher ground clearance making the converters more easily accessible. However, all types of vehicles are vulnerable. Take steps to reduce the chances of your vehicle being targeted. Tips on how to protect your vehicle: • Keep your vehicle in a garage if you can. • If you park it on a driveway, install motion activated lighting. • Otherwise, park in a well lit, populated area. • Forensic security marking kits are available to mark your catalytic converter. • Locks are also available that can be fitted to your converter. • Use high visibility signage to deter thieves. We need to know about any suspicious activity around parked vehicles. Please contact us with any information about what is happening in your area. Please call 101 to speak to your safer neighbourhood team. Call 999 if you witness a crime in progress. Contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org to report information anonymously.

Pinvin, Pershore

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Curry Nights at The Village Shop

Delicious home-made curries … you won’t find these dishes on other menus!

Cottage Delight

tasting sessions at The Village Shop

Tuesday 24th November 10am to 4pm Come along and try some of the delicious sauces, pickles, jam, etc., from Cottage Delight

Week ending 7th November Nihari - slowed cooked lamb shanks with ten different spices, giving this dish a unique flavour

Week ending 15th November Kidney & Liver Curry - a delicious curry with a thick rich sauce

Week ending 22nd November Meat Pilau served with vegetable raita and curry sauce – this dish is usually eaten only on special occasions

Week ending 29th November Pakora Curry (v) - a unique home-made curry not found in other restaurants Fully licenced

T: 01386 462873 M: 07880 981635 Main Street, Bishampton, WR10 2LX Please mention THE WORCESTERSHIRE GRAPEVINE when responding to advertisers

article and photography by Pamela Green

f you are looking for unusual things to do at the weekend, why not try visiting an alpaca farm. My husband and I visited a park while on holiday in Devon. We found the alpacas amusing and very entertaining.

segregated is to control breeding. Machos are kept in separate fields to the Dams and their young. Alpaca donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like the rain so when the weather is wet or cold, they are usually housed in barns to protect their fleece.

The alpaca is an interesting animal and one that has become quite fashionable. They are domesticated, fibre-producing animals that resemble the llama, but are smaller. They originate from Peru, Chile, Bolivia and Ecuador, but have now become popular in England. The alpaca are social animals that live in family groups. They were domesticated by the Inca and bred primarily for their fibre, which remains the main reason for farming them today.

In April every year the park employs a professional sheerer and the fleeces are collected. There are around 26 natural colours in alpaca fleece, ranging from various shades of white, fawn and brown to black. A black fleece will sometimes have brown tips where it has been exposed to the sun, but during grading these different colours can either be separated or can be blended to create a natural fabric with individual character. Darker fibres such as jet black are often blended with brown fibre to make interesting yarns.

Alpaca are gentle, inquisitive animals and it is quite something to hear them 'humming' when they surround a new visitor, or when something arouses their interest. I gently stroked one and he nestled against my hand. His face was amusing and he had lovely eyes. Males are known as Machos, female are Dams, the babies are Crias, and they are undeniably cute in every-way. I have heard lots of people say that alpacas spit. They do usually spit at each other; this is a way of expressing dominance. If they spit at humans they are expressing fear, but usually they are friendly creatures, are highly social animals, and do not like being alone. The only time they are 32

A one-year-old alpaca will produce a 2kg fleece, and the adults can produce up to 3kg, but 2.5kg is a good average. The best quality fleeces are from animals 2-5years old. After shearing, each fleece is kept separate in a named bag and it is then cleaned of vegetation and any contamination, and graded for quality and colour. Fleeces of a consistent colour and quality will be then sorted for specific yarns. The best fibre comes from male alpaca, perhaps because they are spared the efforts of bearing young, although the females also produce high quality fibre. The fibre is softest in young alpaca

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and grows coarser with age; the term ‘baby alpaca’ refers not necessarily to the fleece of a cria (baby alpaca), but to the softest and finest fleeces. I was amazed when we entered the shop and I touched a hat, it was so unbelievably soft, and the quality of the garments I saw was exquisite. On sale were quilts, pillow, sweaters, coats, hats, scarves and gloves. It is said that during her reign Queen Victoria owned two alpacas and that an alpaca coat became a must have fashion item. We found alpacas very interesting animals and never stopped asking our guide questions. One thing everyone in our group wanted to know was "... can you eat the meat of the Alpaca?" Straight away our guide replied; “I’ve never tasted any of the meat, but why would you want to eat an animal that looks so cute and produces such a valuable fleece?” The Alpaca Park we visited is set in 100 acres of stunning natural countryside, with many walks and some unbelievable scenery. It has been awarded 8 Gold levels of achievement from Devon Wildlife Trust, and it can be reached by the A3072, nr Halwill Junction, Devon, EX21 5DL. But, if you don’t want to go that far, there are many parks and farms locally that will gladly show you around.

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All in all our day at the park was really fascinating and the animals were great fun. Afterwards we were served with a fantastic Devon Cream Tea, what a treat! So why not have a captivating day out at an alpaca farm! Please mention THE WORCESTERSHIRE GRAPEVINE when responding to advertisers

Pork with Lentils Serves 2 2 pork fillets 2 cloves garlic, sliced 2 sage leaves 2 thin-sliced rashers streaky bacon 300g Puy lentils, rinsed 2 pieces of celery, diced 2 small carrots, diced 2 shallots, diced 100g diced bacon 100ml chicken stock 100ml white wine 100ml double cream 2 tsps Dijon mustard

• Wrap the pork in the bacon and roast in the oven for 35 minutes. • Wash the lentils. Saute the diced vegetables for 5 minutes before adding some diced bacon. • Add the lentils and the chicken stock and simmer for 30 minutes. • When the pork is done, remove to a warm serving dish and slice.

• Heat oven to 180C

• Deglaze the roasting tin with white wine, add the cream and mustard and reduce slightly.

• Make some slits in the pork and insert slices of garlic and sage leaves.

• Serve the sliced pork with the lentils and mustard sauce, and some mashed potato, if desired.

Chocolate Fudge Traybake Makes 28 squares • Preheat oven 170 C / Gas Mark 3. Grease and line a 20x30cm baking tray. 2 tsps baking powder 310g plain flour 60g cocoa powder 200g caster sugar 175g runny honey 250ml vegetable oil 1 tspn vanilla extract 125ml milk 4 egg yolks 220g raw beetroot, peeled and grated 4 egg whites, stiffly whipped into peaks 50g flaked almonds, toasted 34

• Mix all the ingredients together well, except the egg whites. • Once thoroughly mixed, gently fold in egg whites. • Tip into prepared tray and bake in preheated oven for 35-45 minutes. • Remove from oven and cool for five minutes. • Turn out onto wire tray and ice with your favourite chocolate icing. • Top with flaked almonds and cut into squares.

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Care workers

Full/part time work Evesham/Pershore area

Car owner essential Experience preferred but not essential as training provided Good rates of pay plus mileage allowance Call our friendly team for an intial chat on 01386 764830 (weekdays between 8-30am and 5pm) or email worcesterandwychavon@bluebirdcare.co.uk

Inkberrow Players Present:

Hotels & Pubs catered for

Humbug & Mistletoe

Friday 4th and Saturday 5th December

A What’s What of Christmas

Inkberrow Village Hall

Come and find out the stories behind some Yuletide traditions! A fun evening of readings and songs, sketches, poetry and prose to set you up for Christmas!

Doors open 7.30pm Performances start 8.00pm Licensed bar Over 14’s ONLY Tickets £8 available FROM 1ST NOVEMBER AT INKBERROW PO AND THE VILLAGE SHOP

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For all your Trade & DIY needs! Over 15 years experience

From Roofing Systems to Screws

YOU CAN FIND IT ALL HERE!

The Home Care Specialists

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.

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“Christmas is coming, the geese are getting fat ...” Christmas Orders now being taken all fresh local: Turkeys • Geese • Chickens & Cockerels • Beef CALL NOW TO PLACE YOUR ORDER! also Pork Pies • Wide selection of pickles, chutneys and sauces Homemade sausages and sausage meat Extra mature cheddar • Home cooked Ham All products gluten free 64 High Street, Pershore WR10 1DU

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Everything you need to compliment your Christmas dinner Trading for over 20 years … will be trading for another 20 years to come! 36

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Berkeley The

Evesham Road, Worcester, WR7 4QL Tel: 01905 345269 Email: info@theberkeleyworcester.co.uk www.theberkeleyworcester.co.uk Food Served 9am until 9pm everyday

To launch our New Menu for the month of November Only All our Main Courses £10 and Under

Available Monday to Saturday 12noon-9pm

Christmas and New Year atThe Berkeley Party nights from £21.95 per person Festive Lunches from £12.95 per person Christmas Day Lunch £59.95 per person New Years Eve - Michael Buble Tribute £39.95 per person Bookings now being taken

Star Inn, Bridge Street Pershore, WR10 1AJ, Tel: 01386 561356 Email: info@starinnatpershore.co.uk Food Served 12noon until 9pm everyday

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Wednesday 4th November Evesham & District U3A Open Day Evesham is a thriving U3A group with over 800 members attending groups ranging from archaeology to yoga. Visitors will be able to speak to group leaders, and if they wish sign up to join one of the groups. Find out about the joy of learning new things with like-minded retired or semi-retired people of all ages. 12 noon to 3 p.m. at the Town Hall. Wednesday 4th November The English Garden - by Chris Beardshaw The highlight of Bishampton & District Gardening Club's year - plantsman, presenter and designer, Chris Beardshaw is coming to talk to us about what makes an English Garden so recognisable and how to achieve it. 7.30pm. Free parking and disabled access. £10 for members, £15 for nonmembers. Raffle and refreshments. Tel: 07854 362318. Bishampton Villages Hall, Bishampton, WR10 2LY. www.bishamptongardeningclub.org.uk Wednesday 4th November Ed Byrne - Outside Looking in That bloke … you know … the Irish guy … no, not the bald one … the other one … you know him … the one Carol from work really likes! Wait, that might be Jason Byrne. Anyway, funny chap - has a new show! Tel: 01905 611427. £19. Huntingdon Hall, Crowngate, Worcester, WR1 3LD. www.worcesterlive.co.uk/events_review.asp Friday 6th November Jig Doll - Hannah James Solo Show A rarity in folk music, Hannah is a singer, musician and innovative clog dancer. 7.30pm. Tickets £8 advance from www.cubebookings.ticketsource. co.uk or £10 on the door (un-allocated seating). Tel: 07966 178808. The Malvern Cube, Albert Road North, Malvern, WR14 2YF. www. malverncube.com Saturday 7th November Worcester Warriors v Newcastle Falcons 3pm. Tel: 01905 454183. Pershore Lane, Hindlip, Worcester, WR3 8ZE. www.warriors.co.uk/rugby/ matchcentre/index.php Friday 13th November Murder Mystery at Stanbrook Abbey This exciting evening kicks off in style as you are

greeted with a chilled glass of Prosecco and meet your fellow investigators. Absorb this stunning building as you search for clues; discuss your theories and findings over a delicious 3-course dinner; once the killer has been rumbled, dance the night away to a live band. £65 pp. Tel: 0330 3337 222. Callow End, Worcestershire, WR2 4TD. Saturday 14th November Aber Valley Male Voice Choir Charity concert with the Aber Valley Male Voice Choir in aid of EIL UK's FAIR Play - Football Against Intolerance & Racism programme for young people aged 15-17 to explore racism, peacebuilding and community cohesion. Start time 7pm. Tickets £10. Tel: 01684 562577. St Mary’s Church, Kempsey, WR5 3JH. www.eiluk.org Saturday 14th November Sherry Babys Evesham Arts Centre welcomes back Sherry Babys and their hugely popular celebration of Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons: The Jersey Boys. The Sherry Babys take the stage at 7:30p. Tickets £20 from Evesham Almonry tel: 01386-446944 and www.EveshamArtsCentre.co.uk Saturday 14th November Mosaic Workshop at Jinney Ring Craft Centre Suitable for beginners to advanced; no drawing or artistic skills required. You will be delighted with the results. Take home your stunning piece of mosaic to impress friends and family. 10am to 4.30pm with a break for lunch. £50 includes all materials. To book contact Victoria tel: 01527 821272. Hanbury Road, Hanbury, Bromsgrove, B60 4BU. www.jinneyring.co.uk/acatalog/Mosaic_ Course.html Sunday 15th November The Full English An all-English programme heralds the start of our three-year cycle of Elgar symphonies, beginning with his first, deemed an ‘immediate and phenomenal success’ by The Musical Times. Tickets £11, £13, £15, plus concessions. Child half price. Theatre booking fee applies. Tel: 01684 892277. Malvern Theatre, Malvern, WR14 3HB. www. chandos.org.uk

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What's on in November Saturday 21st November Children’s Theatre Short mini Panto's, with lots of audience participation, performed by adults especially for children aged 3 years plus. Doors open 2pm. Tel: 01905 770154. £1.50. Friar Street, Droitwich Spa, WR9 8ED. www.norburytheatre.co.uk Saturday 21st November Christmas Bazaar Parish Christmas Bazaar. Popular annual event; lots to see, do, buy and eat. Entry 50p, children free. 2pm to 4pm. Tel: 01527 832913. St Michael’s, Hanbury Road, Stoke Prior, Bromsgrove, B60 4JT. Saturday 21st November St Richard’s Hospice Snowdrop Ball Join us for our annual celebratory ball. Evening commences 7pm; includes delicious three course meal and cofffee. Live band and disco plus casino. Grand raffle and auction of attractive prizes. Dress code: black tie/posh frocks. £50 pp. 7pm to 1am. Tickets contact Rachel Jones on 01905 763963 ext 2031 or rjones@strichards.org.uk. Sixways Rugby Stadium, Warriors Way, Worcester, WR3 8ZE. www.strichards.org.uk Saturday 21st November Worcester Philharmonic Orchestra A concert celebrating the music inspired by the New World of America. £12 (children free) Season tickets available at the door, from orchestra members, Tourist information Centres in Pershore, Worcester and Malvern or from Blue in Pershore. Tel: 01684 310487. Pershore Abbey, Pershore, WR10 1DT. www. worcesterphilharmonic.co.uk Saturday 21st November Paul Daniels & Debbie Mcgee! The Intimate Magic Show: the legendary "godfather of magic" Paul Daniels and co-star Debbie McGee bring their Intimate Magic show to Evesham. Prepare to be amazed! The magic begins at 7:30pm. Tickets £17 (£15 concs) available from Evesham Almonry tel: 01386 446944 and www. EveshamArtsCentre.co.uk Saturday 21st to Friday 27th November Annual Inkberrow Exhibition of John Harris Watercolours The Sports Pavilion, Sands Road, Inkberrow, WR7

4HJ. Free parking, free admission, warm welcome. 10am to 5pm daily. www.harris-watercolours. com. Friday 27th & Saturday 28th November Christmas Fayre in the Cloisters Quality craft and gift stalls. Mince pies and mulled wine. Refreshments. Young Enterprise stalls in College Hall. 10am to 4pm. Tel: 01905 732900. Free entry. Chapter Office 8 College Yard, Worcester, WR1 2LA. www.worcestercathedral. co.uk Saturday 28th November Charity Concert at Pershore Abbey In aid of the Midlands Air Ambulance. Featuring the music of Pershore composer Andrew Hemming, performed by an ensemble of local musicians and a choir. Concert starts 7.30 pm. Tickets £10 proceeds to the Air Ambulance. Available on the door; to reserve tickets tel: 01386 552873. Saturday 28th & Sunday 29th November Christmas Craft Fair Step back in time and join us to celebrate a traditional Christmas, as you browse amongst a variety of food and craft stalls to choose unique Christmas gifts. Traditional carol singing; Alcester Silver Band; Victorian demonstrations; Father Christmas. A truly traditional Christmas event for all ages! 11am to 4pm. Tel: 01527 62509. Adults£1, children free. Needle Mill Lane, Riverside, Redditch, B98 8HY. www.forgemill. org.uk Monday 7th to Saturday 12th December The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe Don't miss this thrilling musical adaptation by Pershore Operatic and Dramatic Society (PODS) of C.S.Lewis' classic tale. Performances from 7.30pm Monday 7th to Friday 11th December; Saturday 12th December at 2.30pm and 7.30pm at Number 8 Community Arts Centre, Pershore, WR10 1BG. Tickets from the Box Office tel: 01386 555488. www.number8.org. Sunday 13th December Grand Christmas Whist Drive Guaranteed prize win. Admission £2. 4pm. Tickets tel: 01527 834921. Venue: Astwood Bank Club 5 Dark Lane, Astwood Bank, B96 6AS.

39 ToWORCESTERSHIRE advertise yourGRAPEVINE event, email Please mention THE when betty@grapevinepublications.co.uk responding to advertisers

It’s really simple, but works like magic ...

his article is only for those who are fed up with trying to lose fat and inches through diet and exercise. You are probably thinking: What’s the deal? Why won’t the weight come off ? You are doing everything you can think of to make it happen. There’s one simple thing standing between you and a slimmed down, amazingly fit body. One - Simple - Thing. And here it is … you eat too many calories. That’s it. Solve this problem and your dream body will quickly and easily become reality. Don’t give me the excuse that, “I only eat healthy calories.” That’s great, but even healthy calories add up to extra pounds when we let them go unchecked. 40

Back to Basics: Why Calorie Counting Works You may have heard about the professor from Kansas State University, Mark Haub, who performed a famous junk food diet. Professor Haub proved a powerful lesson for anyone who still has weight to lose, so let’s listen up. In a demonstrative experiment for his nutrition class, Professor Haub ate a diet of pure junk food for two months. This included sweets, chocolates and packaged snacks – the kinds of things you find in a vending machine. You would expect him to gain weight, right? Well, there was one catch. He was only allowed to eat 1800 calories each day. Yes, those calories were pure junk, but the limit was firmly put at 1800 calories.

Before the experiment, Professor Haub’s typical calorie intake was closer to 2600 calories. So his junk food diet put him at an 800 calorie per day deficit. Within two months he had dropped 30 pounds, bringing his BMI from overweight down to normal. I’m NOT recommending a junk food diet as your answer for fat loss! What I am pointing out is how powerful a reduction in calories is when it comes to lowering your body weight. Do you know how many calories you eat each day? If you are not sure, don’t worry, because you are about to learn about the one fat loss tool that will change everything for you. First we need to get to the bottom of how many calories

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you are eating each day, even those healthy calories. Keeping a food diary doesn’t involve lugging around a diary, writing down each food item throughout the day then looking everything up at the end of the day to manually tally calories like it used to. These days food diaries have gone digital and tracking your calories only takes seconds of your time. Here’s what you can do: 1. Download a food diary application to your smart phone. At the touch of your fingers you’ll be able to look up food items and instantly see your running calorie tally.

2. Meet with your doctor to find a daily calorie count that will allow for safe weight loss and then diligently maintain that number. Eat healthy, fresh foods, and when you decide to indulge, make sure to do so within your target calorie range.

to making food choices and will quickly result in pounds lost and goals achieved.

3. Meet with me for a consistent and challenging exercise routine. My exercise programmes are specifically crafted to get you into amazing shape as quickly as possible.

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These three, simple steps will give you structure and clarity that you need when it comes

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Once your goal weight is met, your target calorie range will be adjusted for maintenance.

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The Cheeseboard 100 Barnard's Green, Malvern, WR14 3ND

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Stinking Bishop by Andrew Brooks

harles Martell began making Stinking Bishop cheese from the milk of his herd of Gloucestershire cattle, to increase awareness of the breed, which had previously been near to extinction. The remarkable smell of the cheese is in the rind, which is washed in perry (the name for cider made from pears) made from the Stinking Bishop variety of pear. The pear was named after an infamous Ledbury farmer, Frederick Bishop, nicknamed Stinking Bishop, who was born in the mid-19th century and known for his drunken temper. One story is that he blasted a kettle that was on his stove at home, as it annoyed him. He is reputedly buried in the churchyard of the Parish Church of Colwall, a village between Ledbury and Malvern.

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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.

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Stinking Bishop cheese, despite its alarming name and smell, is mild-flavoured and quite delicious. The smell arises from bacterial action on the perry, soaked into the rind.

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Coffee Break Trivia (answers on page 50) 1. What organisation did Robert Baden-Powell found in 1908? 2. Who said: 'If you want something said, ask a man; if you want something done, ask a woman'? 3. Who owned the Daily Mirror newspaper between 1984 and 1991? 4. In the popular children's nursery rhyme what is Wednesday's child full of? 5. Genuphobia is the fear of what part of the body? 6. Used to measure the height of horses, how many inches are there in one hand? 7. What letter is represented by a single dot in Morse code? 8. The song 'Send in the Clowns' was written for what musical? 9. Clarence Pier is an amusement pier in which English coastal city? 10. What is the English meaning of the Russian word 'glasnost'?

Sudoku Fill in the grid so that each line, row and 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 to 9 without repetition.

1 9

8 1

2 1 9

3 2

3 2 4

7 4

ACROSS

1 6 7 8 10 13 16 17 18 19

Ice-cream holder (6) Stick to (6) Crockery item (6) Regretful (6) Rapid (6) Basement (6) Sign for Sagittarius (6) Per person (6) Wreckage (6) Scottish dish (6)

6 7 8 10

DOWN

1 2 3 4 5 9 11 12 13 14 15 16

Upkeep expenses (5) Mother-of-pearl (5) Dawdle (5) Audacity (5) Healthy (4) Arm bone (4) Couple (4) March (anag.) (5) Collision (5) Untruthful (5) Smells strongly (5) Appends (4)

16 17 18 19

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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

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crucial. The last thing you want to do is put a 100 foot tree in your back garden that ends up being too close to the house.

Creating Your Garden Paradise article by Jonathan Bishop

In this November’s issue I am looking at Choosing a Tree for your garden. You have to do some research to see what sort of tree you are after and then if it will grow in the sort of conditions you have: do you have clay soil or well drained, sun spot or shade. • do you want an evergreen (one that holds its leaves) or deciduous tree (one that loses its leaves)? • are you after one for autumn colours or one for berries for the winter? When you have chosen the kind of tree you are looking for, you need to consider height. There are a lot of trees out there that produce an interesting bark or other features, but the height is 46

Once you have chosen your tree and it is in the right position, i.e. full sun, part sun or shade, not too close to the house, doesn’t grow to 100 foot, not too invasive and you can create the right kind of planting underneath it, then it is time to go to a garden centre or nursery to look for your tree. There is a brilliant book called “A Plant Finder” and once you have looked out your species, this will tell you which nurseries in the country grow or stock it. The internet is another good way of finding a reputable supplier. I always recommend going to look at your tree first. Some Pointers to Looking at Your Tree • has it got weeds growing around the pot? If it has it might mean that it has been in the nursery for a long time. This is not a good thing as it could be pot bound. • can you lift it up or is it rooted into the gravel or the weed matting on which it is sitting? • does it look healthy? If it has been pot bound it might have been there for a long time and hasn’t had enough water; the leaves may not be looking as lush and green as they could be. This might be the time to leave the tree if you are not happy with it.

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â&#x20AC;˘ does it have a straight stem and evenly balanced branches - some trees that weep may not. Staking a Tree Try to stake your tree with the stake at the back away from where the tree is mainly viewed. There are a few options for staking: an upright single stake, a diagonal single stake or two stakes with a cross rail - this will depend on the tree. A large tree would need the two-stake option; a feathered tree (one with branches to the ground) would need a cross stake to miss the branches, but most need just one upright stake at the back of the tree. Once the stake is in, use a tree tie (buckle tie) at the top of the stake so no branches can rub on it and the tree cannot move in the wind. I would recommend tacking a nail through the tie into the stake, which will make sure the tie does not slip down. Check this every year because it will need to be slackened as the trunk gets wider. Planting When planting your tree you need to dig a hole twice the size of the pot your tree is in - this will

ensure that the new tree roots are growing into prepped soil rather than the edge of compacted soil. If you have a very large pot and you want to get the hole right, use your spade to measure the size of the pot and you can measure this up to the hole. Mix the dug out soil with bone-meal, blood, fish and bone, or just compost, depending on your soil and what your chosen tree likes. Fill the hole with some of this soil/compost mix so that when the tree goes into the hole,the base of the tree is at the same level as it was in the pot - you can kill a tree by planting it too deep. This is now a good time to get your stake in and check your tree is upright from both the front and the side (do not tie at this point). I would then recommend watering in the plant by filling the hole with water and leaving to soak in; then back fill and use your heel to firm in. Now tie the stake and remove any labels, as labels in high winds can damage branches. Then sit back and admire. Next month I will look at creating movement in your garden.

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

www.foliation.co.uk

Follow me on Twitter @JonBishop15

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VETS & ANIMAL CARE Evesham Bowler Lewis & Partners Tel: 01386 442804

NTACTS AGE UK

pershore Martin & Carr Tel: 01386 553631 UPTON-UPON-SEVERN The Stocks Veterinary Centre Tel: 01684 592606 RSPCA Tel: 0300 123 4999

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CATS PROTECTION EVESHAM Tel: 01386 833343

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RAILWAY STATIONS EVESHAM Tel: 0845 700 0125 malvern Tel: 0121 634 2040 pershore Tel: 0845 700 0125

EVESHAM Lloyds Parmacy Tel: 01386 48899 Morrisons Pharmacy Tel: 01385 40610

Bishampton Tel: 01386 462873

MALVERN Boots The Chemist Tel: 01684 572905 Lloyds Pharmacy Tel: 01684 573811

GREAT MALVERN Tel: 01684 573003 Inkberrow Tel: 01386 792201

FIRE BRIGADE Worcester Road, Malvern Minge Lane, Upton upon Severn Tel: 01684 572948

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WEST MERCIA POLICE Victoria Road, Malvern Station Lane, Upton Queen Elizabeth Drive, Pershore Abbey Road, Evesham Tel. 0300-333 3000

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EMERGENCY SERVICES POLICE FIRE AMBULANCE Emergency: 999

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MALVERN Tel: 01684 892289

GAS Tel: 0800 111 999

Malvern Community Hospital Tel: 01684 612600

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WATER Tel: 0800 783 4444

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HOSPITALS Evesham Community Hospital Tel: 01386 502432

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2015

2015 Reg.Charity No. 515668

Remember and celebrate the life of someone special

November Friday 6th 2.30pm & 7pm, Worcester Cathedral, WR1 2LA

Tuesday 17th 6pm, The Sacred Heart Church, Droitwich Spa, WR9 8AZ

Wednesday 25th 2.15pm, Pershore Abbey, WR10 1DT

December Tuesday 1st 6pm, The Great Malvern Priory, WR14 1DT

Dedicate a light in memory of a loved one this Christmas Lights of Love is free to attend and open to everyone More information please ring 01905 763963 or go to www.strichards.org.uk/lightsoflove Kindly sponsored by

George Crump & Son Funeral Directors Incorporating Crumps Florist

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Dedicate a light in memory of a loved one this Christmas

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An Israeli sense of humor at the United Nations set the record straight. An ingenious example of speech and politics occurred recently in the United Nations Assembly and made the world community smile. A representative from Israel began: "Before beginning my talk I want to tell you something about Moses: when he struck the rock and it brought forth water, he thought, 'What a good opportunity to have a bath!' Moses removed his clothes, put them aside on the rock and entered the water. When he got out and wanted to dress, his clothes had vanished. A Palestinian had stolen them!" The Palestinian representative at the UN jumped up furiously and shouted, "What are you talking about? The Palestinians weren't even there then!" The Israeli representative smiled and said, "And now that we have made that clear, I will begin my speech." Answers to Trivia on page 44: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.

The Boy Scouts Margaret Thatcher Robert Maxwell Woe The knees Four E A Little Night Music Portsmouth Openness

Answers to Crossword on page 44: ACROSS: 1. Cornet, 6. Adhere, 7. Saucer, 8. Rueful, 10. Speedy, 13. Cellar, 16. Archer, 17. Apiece, 18. Debris, 19. Haggis DOWN: 1. Costs, 2. Nacre, 3. Tarry, 4. Cheek, 5. Well, 9. Ulna, 11. Pair, 12. Charm, 13. Crash, 14. Lying, 15. Reeks, 16. Adds

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Accountants Crowthers 33 Haines Watts 28 Bathrooms & Kitchens A Job 4 John Dream Doors

30 5

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Building & Construction Evesham Trade Centre 36 Simon Haines Construction 45 Butchers Manor Farm Butchers

Cars: Parts, Repairs & Sales BD Auto Services 42 Marshalls of Evesham Ltd 16 Cleaning Services Chris James Cleaning Chimney Services Elite Sweeps Community Services Age UK Aspen Retirement Bluebird Card Helping Hands St Richard's Hospice

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Roofing Services G.M. Roofing

Second Hand Dealers Sally's Bargains

Shoes Humphries 45 Village Shop Bishampton Shop

19, 31, 43

Waste Disposal Active Welfare

Windows, Doors & Conservatories Cloudy2Clear Windows 3 ETC Windows, Doors & Conservatories 21 Wood Burning Stoves Chase Heating Elite Stoves

Please mention THE WORCESTERSHIRE GRAPEVINE when responding to advertisers

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C herr y Orchard, Orchard, P ershore, W Cherry Pershore, Worcs, orcs, WR10 1EY 01386 553232 www.pershoremarket.com w w w.pe . rshoremarket.com

Christmas 2015 Opening Hours

CCherher y OrOrchharard, PPerershoorre, WWororcscs, WR10 1EY CCherher CChery553232 hOrOercrhharyaOrOrdrwww. oertcsc.sc,omoWR10 01386 wc, hharPwPeraewrd.sph,ershoremarket ePPeroorrsrerh,sohWWorroroemrecsc,asWWor,rkWR10 m1EY 1EY 0138601386 www.www. ewrswh.poershoremarket 553232553232www. wpershoremarket errsemhaorkemt.acromokmet.comom

Monday 21st Dec Tuesday 22nd Dec Weds 23rd Dec Thurs 24th Dec Friday 25th Dec Sat 26th Dec Sunday 27th Dec Monday 28th Dec Tuesday 29th Dec Weds 30th Dec Thursday 31st Dec Friday 1st Jan Saturday 2nd Jan

Open 9.00-4.30 Open 9.00-4.30 Open 9.00-4.30 Open 9.00-3.00 Closed Closed Closed Closed Closed Open 9.00-4.30 Open 9.00-3.00 Closed Open 9.00-4.30

Enjoy the Brass Band on Saturday 19th December and our spectacular Christmas lights display

Do all your Christmas shopping under one roof Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got everything you need for a wonderful Christmas, all your fresh foods, gifts and much more 52

T: 01386 553232 E: Pershore@pershoremarkets.co.uk www.pershoremarket.com To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: betty@grapevinepublications.co.uk