Life in the Village - Cotswold Edge - Winter 2017 by Lisa Lambon

COTSWOLD EDGE Wi nter 2 0 1 7 FRE E lifeinthevillage.co.uk

Life in the Win!

Sweet Treats

Belle House Crème Caramel & Poached Fruit

One of ten bundles of beautiful indoor pots & planters

Be Smart Be Safe

And

Expert advice on how to keep your family safe online

One of five sets of a family game

Fit for the Red Carpet

Plus

The health benefits of dog grooming

A delicious box of luxury chocolates worth £35

Flights of Fancy

Aveda colour solutions inspired by the natural world

Winter Bird

Watching HO MES

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G ARDENS

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FO O D

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L EI SURE

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A traditional game...

acts like glue for family and friends so this winter I’m planning some marathon all-day sessions. There’s nothing I like better than gathering around the kitchen table with faces I love, secure in the knowledge that within minutes we’ll all be transported into a precious bubble, freed from our daily worries (and phones), united by a single goal, with laughter and the spark of competition in the air. So we’re delighted to have teamed up with Orchard Toys who have been making educational games and puzzles for generations to offer you the chance to win one of five sets of ‘Cheeky Monkeys,’ in time for Christmas. We’re also giving away ten bundles of beautiful indoor pots and planters from Elho and a luxury box of chocolates. All you need to do to is visit www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk and enter your details. Don’t forget that in between printed issues you can access Life in the Village wherever you are by following us on twitter @lisalambon or visiting our website where you’ll find our four magazines and much more in digital format. Until next time, enjoy the winter.

Editor Lisa Lambon

01684 773135 07776 340736 lisa@lifeinthevillage.co.uk @lisalambon

Contents Winter 2017

Enter our three new competitions online Competitions & Offers 9 Competition Win one of ten bundles of beautiful indoor pots and planters with Elho 25 Competition Win a delicious box of luxury chocolates with

Gusterson Palmer & James 26 Light + Longevity with Director of L+L, John Lannen

Life in the Village

29 In Confidence with solicitoradvocate Lucy Sherry of

47 Competition Win one of five sets of Cheeky Monkeys with Orchard Toys

32 Christmas in Wychavon with Steve Knight

48 Money Saving Vouchers Choose from a range of offers

Local Life 6 Welcome 10 Hanging Around with Worcestershire wildlife expert Wendy Carter Front cover image: © www.Shutterstock.com/Goer This page, left to right, Blue tit courtesy of Bas Yates via Worcestershire Wildlife Trust, Birds of Paradise Collection 2017 courtesy of Aveda, www.shutterstock/ www.shutterstock/otsphoto

21 Local Property with of Andrew Leggett, Director of

17 Flights of Fancy with Aveda Colour Specialist Graham West 19 Caring for your Pets with vet Meg Archer of Folly Gardens

Thomson & Bancks

36 Community Base with Communications Manager Helen Griffee of St Richard’s Hospice 41 Policing South Worcestershire with Superintendant Kevin Purcell 42 Crème Caramel with Poached Fruit with Belle House chef Steve Waites 44 Life in the Village on twitter 49 Index

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MAKE YOURS A HAPPY HOME THIS WINTER WITH ELHO

Bringing more nature into people’s daily lives 10 lucky winners will receive a prize bundle of two Brussels Diamond Orchid High pots in vibrant cherry, a Brussels Herbs Single pot in white & three funky B.for Soft Air planting orbs in white worth over £40 STYLISH LIVING WITH ELHO

Be happier, healthier and boost your energy this winter by introducing green into your home. Let Elho inspire you with their range of beautiful indoor pots, planters and accessories. Ten lucky winners will receive a prize bundle which includes two Brussels Diamond Orchid High pots in vibrant cherry. The raised bottom ensures optimal aeration and watering for the plants’ roots, so you can enjoy your orchids for a long time. Accompanying them will be a Brussels Herbs Single pot in white meaning you can still grow your own, even though it’s cold outside. Raise fresh mint, basil – or sage for your Christmas stuffing – on a sunny windowsill. Three funky B.for Soft Air planting orbs in white will complete the package. Easy to hang from the ceiling with a stylish cord, just slot in 9cm plants to bring colour to any dull corner.

HOW TO ENTER It’s easy! Just visit lifeinthevillage.co.uk and complete your details by 26/01/2018.

Terms & Conditions One entry per household. UK residents only. Competition closes on 26/1/18 and winners will be notified by 2/2/18. The winners will be sent their prizes by post; delivery may take up to three weeks. Plants are not included. Judges’ decision is final. Prizes not redeemable for cash. By entering this competition you agree to be contacted in future by Life in the Village. Your information will not be shared with any third party. To unsubscribe at any time send an email headed ‘unsubscribe’ to unsubscribe@lifeinthevillage.co.uk

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PHOTO: Blue tit Bas Yates

PHOTO: Coal tit John Caswell

Hanging Around With several species of garden bird in decline, Wendy Carter of Worcestershire Wildlife Trust offers a guide to tits and crests. Nurture them this winter and you’ll be rewarded with a garden full of colour. “Hello, hello, I’m here, I’m here, come on, come on...” Listen closely and you’ll find this is the sound of a flock of tits and crests moving through the trees during winter. For protection, food-finding and warmth, these small birds often hang around together at this time of year. Long-tailed tits, in particular, tend to move as extended family parties and will often pick up other birds along their feeding routes. If you take a walk in your local park or through woodland this winter keep an ear out for the constant 10

contact calls that betray their presence. Find a flock and you can be sure that behind the acrobatic jumble of feathers, there’s a whole world to discover. Most tits and crests are small and plump - they’re primarily insect-eaters, whether spiderhunters or caterpillar-nibblers. As with all birds, however, winter forces them into finding alternative food so during colder months any seeds on your birdtable will become much more appealing to them and highenergy fat and nuts even more so. So how can we begin to distinguish one from another and what are their various habits?

Blue tit Blue tits are one of our most familiar and best-loved British birds, with a distinct trilling song which goes ‘tsee-tsee-tsee’. In my house, we’ve dubbed them the bandits of the garden world because of the distinct black eye mask that runs across their otherwise white-feathered faces. With their royal blue crowns, lemon undercarriage and greenblue wings, they are easy to spot. For many of us they will also be the smallest visitors to our garden but that doesn’t make them the meekest! Although they’ll sometimes be found deferring to bigger birds vying for space on feeders, they’ll

PHOTO: Great tits Bob Coyle

Great tit When I compare two static photos of a blue tit and a great tit, it’s obvious that they’re completely different yet, in real life, when they’re moving within

a tree at home, it sometimes seems more difficult than it should be to tell which is which. So what are the clues? Remember that blue tits are, well, blue, and vividly so, particularly on the crown. Great tits, on the other hand, have a glossy black cap, are much bigger and much darker overall. Their deep egg-yellow breast has a broad black mark running down the centre of it, shaped almost like an inverted diamond. It’s this that you can also use to distinguish the sexes; in males the band is thicker and reaches further down between the legs than it does in females. On sunny winter days, especially in late January and February, male great tits will often be one of the first birds you can hear laying claim to territory and yelling their presence to any females within hearing distance. Their spring call sounds a bit like ‘teach-er teach-er teach-er’ or some say a bicycle pump or even a squeaky wheelbarrow!

“

I’ve heard stories in wildlife circles of goldcrests hitching rides on the backs of larger birds during their marathon migration to the UK … I’d absolutely love to know if it’s true!

“

usually give as good as they get. They’re known to adore peanuts and are also famed for breaking the foil off milk bottles and feeding on the creamy top. When it comes to parenting their young blue tits can also be feisty, often hissing and pecking when protecting their nests from any form of threat. With some birds, it’s relatively easy to tell the males from females but with blue tits it’s tricky. Recent research has shown that the naked human eye struggles to see the brighter blue colours of the male birds. However, if you were to study a male and a female blue tit side by side under a ultraviolet light the difference is apparently remarkable, the blue crown of the male being much more vivid than that of the female.

PHOTO: Firecrest Ian Carke

Coal tit Coal tits aren’t quite as flamboyant as their garden cousins - they’re grey on top and their undercarriage is buff rather than citrus or egg yellow. With them, the vivid coloured wings of blue and great tits are replaced by duller grey tones – but they’re still beautiful birds with glossy black crowns and ‘beards’. Listen out for their unique song which sounds like a repetition of the phrases: 'situi' and 'tsevi'. Coal tits are similar in appearance to the woodlanddwelling marsh tit and much rarer willow tit but their white wingbars and the flash of white in the black of their crown gives the game away when you’re trying to work out which is which (marsh and willow tits have plain wings and pure black caps). For me, coal tits represent one of the great conundrums of the bird watching world which is why certain species 12

PHOTO: Goldcrest Wendy Carter

seem to prefer other people’s gardens, no matter how hard you try to attract them. For eight or nine years now, I’ve been completing a weekly bird count for the British Trust for Ornithology’s Garden Bird Watch scheme. In all that time, I’ve only recorded a coal tit in my garden once or twice yet I know plenty of Worcestershire residents who have regular coal tit visitors. Some people are even successful in attracting them to nest in a bird box rather than the usual hole in a tree. I can’t work it out. Coal tits are traditionally birds of coniferous woodland and there are conifers in my garden and those of my neighbours. But there is still so much we have to learn about the bird world so, for now, I console myself with the idea that the features of the surrounding landscape just aren’t quite right for them.

Long-tailed tit The local name for these gorgeous little bundles of feathers (bottom right) is mumruffins (if anyone knows why, I’d love to hear from you) but they’re also called lotties for short, or lollipops because their long tails make them look a little like a lollipop on a stick. With incredibly long tails for their body size, their name says it all. Together with a beautiful combination of pinkish, white and black feathers, these tits are perhaps the easiest of all to recognise. With a quick flick of their tail that helps them keep their balance, they seem to be constantly moving. I have a flock that regularly visits my garden and they’re so hard to count because they simply never stop darting about. A couple of years ago I had the great privilege of observing a pair of long-tailed tits building their nest. I spotted them repeatedly going in and out of a gorse bush on the edge of woodlands so I sat quietly, some

PHOTO: Great tit Wendy Carter

PHOTO: Coal tit John Caswell

PHOTO: Long-tailed tit Karen Summers

way back, and watched through binoculars. They were bringing back feathers, moss and lichen together with spider webs that seemed to be used to glue the whole domed construction together. It’s thought that they line their nests with feathers, using as many as 1,500 to make a sumptuously soft bed for the eight to twelve eggs the females lays. It’s always worth looking out for repeated activity in one spot of your garden; had I not seen this pair coming and going, again and again, I would never have spotted their nest as it was so well hidden. Goldcrest Goldcrests (top left) are

rarely seen in gardens but can often be found with tit flocks following a feeding circuit in winter; all the birds involved will be constantly calling to one another as previously described, presumably as a headcount. These small birds – about half the size of a wren and weighing only about the same as a 10p coin – are an attractive blend of moss greens and buffs with a striking golden crest set in black on their crowns. This crest is mostly hidden but can be raised by birds in alarm, anger or courtship and it’s certainly worth looking out for. I’ve only ever seen a raised crest once and it’s a sight to behold! 13

PHOTO: Long-tailed tit Wendy Carter

During winter, our resident goldcrest numbers are swelled by those from the continent; these tiny birds rely almost entirely on insects for their food so, as it gets colder elsewhere in Europe, they head for Britain’s milder climes. Your best chance of seeing goldcrests in good numbers is by heading to the east coast so during autumn I like to take a trip to see them arrive on easterly winds from Scandinavia and further north and east. It amazes me that Europe’s tiniest bird is one of the many species that makes this immense journey - on my various trips I’ve seen bushes full of them looking for food after a long and tiring flight. Their stamina is also renowned during breeding for although it’s our smallest songbird, the goldcrest can lay up to twelve eggs in a clutch, which is about one and a half times the adult female's bodyweight. Firecrest Close cousins of the goldcrest, 14

PHOTO: Long-tailed tit Wendy Carter

firecrests (pictured on the previous page) are more scarce. As with goldcrests, the UK population of firecrests increases during the colder months with arrivals from the continent. Unlike goldcrests who breed in gardens across the UK, (usually nesting in conifers) only small numbers of firecrests will reproduce here. Although they are rare, it’s certainly worth looking out for firecrests this winter as record numbers are reported to have arrived on our south coast. So how do you distinguish the two? Both are tiny and their colourings are similar but rather than having an ‘open’ face, firecrests have a clear black stripe across their eye which is lined with white above it, giving them a unique look. Almost incredibly, I’ve heard stories in wildlife circles of goldcrests hitching rides on the backs of larger birds during their marathon migration to the UK … I’d absolutely love to know if it’s true!

How to encourage birds Over the past 50 years, the decline in many of our 'common' garden birds means several are now ‘red listed’ as species of extreme concern. No-one knows the reasons for this for sure but changing agricultural practices and a lack of food have taken their toll. Feeding the birds in your garden throughout the year can really help. By putting out a range of food and water in different locations, you could attract up to 50 species. Good bird foods to try include suet, sunflower seeds, unsalted peanuts, mealworms and coconut halves. You can also put out scraps of baked potato, oats, sultanas, currants and raisins, pieces of apple, uncooked pastry or mild grated cheese. Find more ways to encourage birds to your garden by browsing our website and downloading our free factsheets including Feeding Garden Birds and Bird Boxes at www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/ gardening-factsheets

PHOTO: Long-tailed tit Bob Tunstall

WWT winter events include:  Sat 2nd & Sun 3rd December 10am-1pm. Log & Wood Chip sales at Tiddesley Wood, Pershore  Thur 7th December, 7.30pm A Flutter in the Hills – the Butterflies of the Malverns. Lyttelton Rooms, Malvern, £2.50  Sat 9th December, 10-12noon Christmas Wreath Making for families at Lower Smite Farm. Booking essential, £10 per family.  Tue 12th December, 7.30pm A Fascination with Snails. Wulstans Hall, Pershore, £2.50  Wed 13th December, 7.30pm Confessions of a Teenage Skull Collector. Bishop Allenby Hall, Worcester, £2.50

 Thur 4th January 7.30pm  Pine Marten Recovery in Wales. Lyttelton Rooms, Malvern, £2.50  Sat 6th & Sun 7th January 10am-1pm. Log & Wood Chip sales at Tiddesley Wood, Pershore  Thur 1st February, 7.30pm The Flora of Herefordshire. Lyttelton Rooms, Malvern, £2.50  Sat 3rd & Sun 4th February 10am-1pm - Log & Wood Chip sales at Tiddesley Wood, Pershore  Wed 21st Februry, 7.30pm Nature Conservation & the Urban Development. Bishop Allenby Hall, Worcester, £2.50  Thur 22nd February, 7.30pm Bees, Plants and their

Get Three Months’ Membership Free! Join Worcestershire Wildlife Trust before 28/02/18 & get 15 months’ membership for the price of 12! Please call and quote ‘Life in the Village’.

Environment. Wulstans Hall, Pershore, £2.50 For full details of events visit www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/ whats-on For daily updates about wildlife around the county please follow us on twitter @WorcsWT

To find out more about Worcestershire’s wildlife, becoming a member, volunteering or our programme of events visit www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/whats-on Call us on 01905 754919 @WorcsWT

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Caring for your pets Vet Meg Archer of Folly Gardens, who has a specialist interest in animal dermatology, on the health benefits of dog grooming. The onset of winter means many pet owners find themselves wishing if only their dog could put on a pair of wellies and use an umbrella… but until that day comes we have to find other ways of keeping them (and our homes) clean. Mud, rain and early morning dew make it tricky to keep your pet looking and smelling good. Most dogs will seize any chance they can get to paddle in puddles or roll in grass so it’s not long before the clean-up operation needed when you get home makes every walk feel like an expedition. Factor in short legs, long hair or a pale coloured coat and it’s even more of an issue. A fleece or waterproof coat will offer some protection but the most practical solution lies in grooming. Bathing and brushing your dog is much more than just preening and fluffing, it’s a important way to keep your dog healthy. For this reason many owners choose to have their

dog’s face, ears and legs trimmed and their body clipped short for winter. Short hair is quicker to wash and dry and it’s also much easier to brush. Regular bathing and grooming brings many health benefits, especially in long-haired dogs or breeds like westies, boxers and pugs who are more likely to develop skin conditions. Daily brushing can help remove dead hair, dirt and dandruff and will bring out the natural oils in the fur giving it a healthy shine. Grooming also acts as a basic medical check. Look out for any unusual lumps and bumps, matts, parasites like ticks and fleas, dry patches, grass seeds (in summer), and issues with nails, teeth, ears and eyes such as overgrowth, infection or inflammation. It can be hard to keep it all up at home so we’re delighted to have extended our dog grooming service, now available at our Bishop’s Cleeve clinic as well as Crofts in Tewkesbury. Our experienced team offers the full range of services designed to keep your pet happy, healthy and ready for the red carpet.

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eâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve reached a point in the year where tradition - the transmission of customs or beliefs from generation to generation - becomes more important than at any other. Some of our traditions are steeped in history and followed to varying degrees by a wide variety of us whilst others are individual and personal to our family. Although most traditions will have been passed to us through our parents and grandparents, we also have the freedom to start our own special ways of marking time that will, in turn, be passed down through the generations for years to come. As a team, we often find ourselves reflecting on these ideas because as well as being local and independent, we like to

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Timber

Bathrooms Ironmongery Landscaping Flooring & Doors Building Materials www.bpsbuildit.co.uk

01684 275 545

BPS Tewkesbury 22

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20% off Hepplewhite Fitted Bedroom Furniture ordered by 31/12/17 Code LITV17

At Vale we’ve been in business since 1969, always offering a personal and friendly service If there’s lots of wasted space in your bedroom it might be time to give our team a call. We design and fit storage in a range of styles to suit your home and budget. We also stock a huge range of beds from Somnus, Slumberland and Myers. This winter we’re excited to be showing samples from the bespoke Stuart Jones range of beds and ottomans. Pop into our friendly showroom at 54 Cheltenham Road, Evesham, WR11 2JZ T: 01386 76 59 59 E: info@thevalegroup.co.uk www.thevalegroup.com

WIN A DELICIOUS BOX OF LUXURY CHOCOLATES WORTH £35 Including a selection of milk, dark & white chocolate

Will you be the lucky winner? It’s easy! Just visit lifeinthevillage.co.uk by Wednesday 31st January 2018 and enter your details. CHOCOLATE MAKES LIFE BETTER

Enjoy a bumper box of top-selling luxury chocolates, including a delicious selection of milk, dark and white treats, delivered direct to your door.* From pralines to soft centres to champagne truffles ...everyone has their favourite chocolate and this top-selling selection is virtually guaranteed to please every palate. Give it to someone you love for a birthday, anniversary or celebration, share it with friends and family, or treat yourself for lasting moments of pleasure. The prize will be delivered using a standard shipping service, in protective packaging to ensure no loss of quality. *Shipping is available nationally, in the UK. Terms & Conditions: One entry per household. Open to UK residents only. Competition closes Wednesday 31st January 2018. Winners will be notified by Monday 5th February 2018 and will receive their chocolates by post. Judges’ decision is final. Prize not redeemable for cash. No correspondence will be entered into. By entering this competition you agree to be contacted in future by Life in the Village. Your information will not be shared with any third party. You can unsubscribe at any time by sending an email headed ‘Unsubscribe’ to unsubscribe@lifeinthevillage.co.uk

Treat yourself or someone you love to lasting moments of pleasure

HOW TO ENTER

Simply visit lifeinthevillage.co.uk and enter your details by Wednesday 31st January 2018

Light + Longevity

With a free annual inspection and ten year guarantee quality comes as standard with an L+L installation explains John Lannen. Why do you offer a free annual inspection? Our business model was founded on three simple ideas; respect for every customer, the importance of doing each job properly and a desire to provide a long term guarantee on our products. During 36 years of manufacturing and installing double glazing, our commitment has been to provide the best quality products, value and customer service available locally. Back in the 1980s, we settled upon an approach that remains in place today - the

assurance of a ten year guarantee across our entire range, backed up by a free annual inspection. What’s the aim of the scheme? We want to resolve any anxiety customers might have about their investment. Regardless of what products we supply, we’ll actively protect them, year on year, for a decade. Providing this level of aftercare is a huge undertaking. Every day our team installs windows in two or three properties and the following year, on the anniversary of each installation, we send a member of our team to carry out a full inspection. Multiply that two or three houses by 52 weeks a year

and ten years of the life of the guarantee and you’ll realise the scale of the operation but it’s one we’re happy to offer as a concrete expression of our ethos. Pro-actively caring for our installations means we’re able to regularly review the performance of our products, prevent any issues from developing and prolong their life. As manufacturers, it also gives us valuable insight over time which has helped us evolve new design, engineering and installation solutions. How do customers respond? People are usually delighted to take part because it’s a no hassle

Company Promotion

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way to protect their investment. Many customers feel it adds value to their property because even if you sell your home you can pass your guarantee on to the new owner at no extra cost. What other assurances do L&L offer? Our ten year guarantee is insurance backed by QA National Warranties. We are members of FENSA (reg. No.11182) and the Glass and Glazing Federation. We are fully audited members of the government’s Trust Mark Scheme and a Which? Trusted

Trader. Over the years we’ve collected hundreds of letters from customers telling us how much they appreciate the care with which we approach their home. So many repeat buy or recommend us and this has been central to our long term success. Why not visit our impressive showroom in Tewkesbury where you can talk to us about the options for your home and experience our extensive range of products. Alternatively, call us on 01684 295038 to arrange a free home visit.

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Windows & Doors Conservatories Porches Bi-fold Doors Secondary Glazing Glazing Repairs Garden Buildings

01684 295038 sales@ll-installations.co.uk www.ll-installations.co.uk

Showroom: Red Lane, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire GL20 5BQ Open Monday - Thursday: 8:30-17:00, Fridays: 8:30-16:00 and Saturdays: 09:00-13:00

do you have an event to promote

...then why not use Life in the Village Cotswold Edge. As well as advertising we offer Leaflet Design, Print & Drop. With three sister magazines, Life in the Village - Bredon, Avon & Severn and Folly View you can reach up to 12,800 potential customers in the villages between Persh ore, E vesh am, B roadway, Tewkesbury and Upton upon Severn. To find out more contact Lisa on:

01684 773135

lisa@lifeinthevillage.co.uk www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk

Company Promotion

manually up to a maximum of £50; records held manually up to a maximum of £50. If a patient has passed away, their Executor may apply for their records under the Access to Health Records Act 1990, in relation to which there are no maximum copying charges. GP records are generally retained offsite by the Primary Care Trust for 10 years post death.

Please visit our website to view our many client testimonials

In Confidence Lucy Sherry, Solicitor-Advocate at Thomson & Bancks on your right to access medical records.

nder the Data Protection Act 1998, living adults with capacity or their representatives can have access to their medical records, whether held by the GP, NHS or a private hospital. Where there are no nominated individuals, requests for access to information relating to incapacitated adults should be granted if it is in the ‘best interests of the patient’. A health record is any record which consists of information relating to the physical or mental

health of an individual made by a health professional in connection with the care of that individual, such as: a computerised or manual form  a medical opinion  notes made during consultations  correspondence between health professionals  test results  x-rays, videotapes, audiotapes, photographs and tissue samples. Unless a particular record’s contents may be reasonably deemed to harm a patient psychologically and it cannot be redacted to remove those comments, full disclosure of all records must follow within 40 days of a request accompanied by payment of the relevant administration fee: health records held on computer up to a maximum of £10; records held in part on computer and in part

Lucy offers advice and representation by way of private funding, a legal expenses insurance policy or ‘No Win, No Fee’ arrangement. An initial interview is offered free of charge, should you have any queries about making a personal injury or medical negligence claim. Lucy is based in Thomson & Bancks’ Cheltenham office but appointments are also available in Pershore or Tewkesbury.

Get AWARD WINNING advice at our HETAS approved showroom near Tewkesbury

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Imperial Carpet Care Ben Bowers Heating Solutions Ltd

x bag of kindling wood, 1 x tube of 100 fire lighters, 1 x stove thermometer, 1 x moisture meter & 1 x bottle glass cleaner

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Pamington Christmas Tree Centre Growers of Quality Christmas Trees Since 1976     

Traditional Norway Spruce Needlefast Nordmann Fir Trees from 3-12ft Freshly cut to last longer Netted for easy transportation

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Pamington Farm Pamington, Tewkesbury GL20 8LX Find us just off the A46 or B4079

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Christmas in Wychavon The picturesque towns and villages of Worcestershire draw visitors from far afield so why not enjoy the traditional festive atmosphere and keep your preparations close to home this Christmas?

ake your Christmas shopping a leisurely experience by enjoying all that’s on offer close to home this December. Wychavon’s historic high streets offer a wide choice of independent stores stocking unique gifts, crafts and specialist local produce. Take your time… and combine shopping with one of our traditional festive events or a meal at one of our many superb pubs, cafes and eateries. You’ll tick off your list at superfast speed with none of the scramble associated with travelling to a city centre. With the festive lights being switched on in Pershore, Evesham and Droitwich Spa on 25th November, the area will be transformed into a glistening 32

wonderland - a magical setting for your final preparations. Evesham Rotary Tree of Light Turning on Ceremony 2017 Workman Gardens, Thursday 7th December, 6pm for 6.30pm A 90ft high tree, set on the banks of the River Avon, draped with over 1000 lights, the Rotary Tree of Light means there’s no mistaking the arrival of Christmas in Evesham. When lit, its prominent position means it can be seen from miles around, a stunning addition to the town’s annual Christmas lights. Christmas is a time for families, for remembering, celebrating and giving but at this time the loss of a loved one can be most keenly felt. The name and the symbolism of this

spectacular tree are reminders that there is light and hope in the bleakest of circumstances. The Tree of Light enables sponsors to remember loved ones whilst at the same time raising funds for worthwhile causes which support others who are in need. Join The Rotary Club of Evesham at 6pm on Thursday 7th December for mulled wine (non-alcoholic), mince pies and a selection of carols accompanied by singing from The Prince Henry's Academy Choir. Evesham Christmas Market Browse a mix of independent and chain retailers in the town centre and enjoy an extension of the usual twice-weekly market which will run for five days in the week up to Christmas Day.

and join Pershore Community Choir (formerly known as Move On Up) for a festive sing-along with carols, classic Christmassy numbers and traditional songs from around the world. Starts at 8pm in the Foyer at No8 Arts Centre, High St, Pershore, WR10 1BG. Admission is free.

childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trails and activities, last minute gift ideas and festive fun. Almonry Heritage Centre, Evesham, WR11 4BG.For full details call 01386 446944 or visit www.almonryevesham.org

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Droitwich Spa Christmas Market, Victoria Square, Fri 15th - Sat 23rd December Visitors to Droitwich Spa this winter will be amongst the first to experience the recently improved High Street which provides an enhanced setting for a range of traders. Plus the launch of Droitwich Salt this year offers the opportunity to add a brand new local produce to your dinner table.

Come and Sing, One-Day Singing Course for Men Saturday 2nd December 11am to 4pm Enjoy a free one-day singing course for men at St Andrews's Centre, Church Walk, Pershore, WR10 1BB. Vale Harmony Chorus, in conjunction with Harmony Foundation, part of a national music charity, is offering this course to encourage more men to sing. The day is aimed at both newcomers and those who may not have sung for a while. To book your place call 07766 524833 or email info@valeharmony.co.uk www.valeharmony.co.uk

Christmas Sing-Along 8pm 12th December Singing is one of the joys of the Christmas season so come along

Christmas at The Almonry, Evesham, Thursday December 21st 10am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4:30 pm Get into the Christmas spirit with

Broadway Late Night Shopping Friday 24th November & 1st December 2017 5.30-8.30pm A classic Dickens Christmas setting and a delightful selection of traditional stores are to be found in Broadway with traditional fairy lights hanging in the trees against the backdrop of Georgian architecture, and a huge choice of pubs, cafes and restaurants. Enjoy live music, street entertainment, Santa's grotto, a Tree of Light, mulled wine and plenty of festive treats.

For full details and to explore our calendar of events visit:

@Wychavon

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Hard Landscaping  Garden Makeovers  Ground Maintenance

Fencing • Turfing • Decking • Patios • Block Paving Groundworks inc. Levelling & Terracing • Tree Felling Ground Maintenance • Soil & Hardcore Removal Logs & Top Soil For Sale Established 20 years. For further information or a free quotation Call Simon Rose

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do you have an event to promote

It’s the ideal way to raise your business profile locally. With three sister magazines, Life in the Village - Bredon, Avon & Severn and Folly View - you could reach up to 12,800 homes & businesses in the villages around Persh ore, Evesham, Broadway, Tewkesbury & Upton upon Severn. To find out more contact Lisa on:

Call Lisa 01684 773135 lisa@lifeinthevillage.co.uk www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk

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Community Base A team of caring St Richard's Hospice Community Nurses are celebrating after moving into a new base above the charity's shop in Evesham High Street explains Communications Manager Helen Griffee.

team of six of St Richard's Clinical Nurse Specialists: Phyllis Coates, Karen Palmer, Pam Clark and Sue Thurston alongside Senior Staff Nurses Catherine Wheeler and Charlotte Jordan now have a new base right at the heart of Evesham. The team offers free specialist care and support to patients and their loved ones affected by a life -limiting illness who live in Evesham, Pershore and the Bredon and Broadway areas. Working from the High Street base allows the nurses to spend as much time as possible caring 36

for local patients and saves on driving time to the hospice headquarters in Worcester between visits to write up notes and make telephone calls. Hospice at Home The Nurse Specialists each support up to 35 patients at any one time, offering expert advice on managing symptoms and working closely with the patient's GP and other healthcare teams to ensure they receive high quality, co-ordinated care. They see patients in their own homes, care homes or at GP surgeries or can offer advice by telephone.

An invaluable difference In the last year the full St Richard's Community Nursing Team supported more than 1,200 patients in Worcestershire, making an invaluable difference to a patient's quality of life. Of these, 146 patients and 171 family members from Evesham were cared for and supported by the dedicated team with another 79 referrals for patients living in Pershore and 47 individuals in the Broadway and Bredon areas. Patients are living with a range of life-limiting conditions including motor neurone disease (MND), heart failure, renal and

2018 Events & Challenges

respiratory conditions as well as Parkinson's and cancer. Time to talk Nurse Specialist Sue Thurston explained, "as well as having extensive knowledge on managing symptoms we also can offer advice and guidance to a patient's loved ones. Patients often see us as offering continuity and being the central co-ordinator for their care. " "We have the time to talk and explain as some patients can become confused by the different health care professionals and amount of information they need to understand." 24 hour helpline Catherine Wheeler added, "Families also find it very comforting that the hospice offers a 24-hour telephone advice service so they can call at any time - even in the middle of the night - if they have concerns or anxieties about their symptoms."

Improving quality of life Currently the team is caring for patients who range in age from early 30s to their 90s. They will also refer patients and their loved ones to other hospice services where appropriate such as family support, financial advice, day services, the In-patient Unit, spiritual care or patient groups. Charlotte Jordan said, "Sometimes patients are very hesitant when we arrive and you can see they are thinking, 'I'm not so ill that I need a hospice nurse'. But after we have talked and explained how we can help that feeling changes. Modern hospice care is very much about improving a patient's quality of life and helping them live as fully as they can." Independently funded She added, "Some patients initially think we are Macmillan nurses but although we do a similar job we are all nurses with St Richard's which is an independent Worcestershire

PHOTOS: Phyllis Coates, Karen Palmer, Sue Thurston, Catherine Wheeler and Charlotte Jordan, St Richard’s Hospice Community Nurses, outside the Evesham shop

“

As well as having extensive knowledge on managing symptoms we also can offer advice and guidance to a patient's loved ones. Patients often see us as offering continuity and being the central co -ordinator for their care… We have the time to talk "

“

Visit our website and be inspired by a range of challenges for all ages & fitness levels

PHOTO: Patient Carole Major enjoying a Living Well session at St Richard’s

PHOTO: Volunteer xyx

Photo: The In-Patient Unit at St Richard’s Hospice with its view of the duck pond

charity and doesn't receive any funding from Macmillan." How you can get help Patients who would like support from St Richard's hospice can be referred by their GP, consultant, district nurse or other healthcare professional. Patients, or a person close to them can also speak to our Gateway referral team themselves for information or advice. To find out more please call the St Richard's Gateway Team on 01905 763963. The role of St Richard’s St Richard's Hospice provides free specialist palliative and end of life care for patients living with life-limiting illnesses and supports their loved ones. Each year the hospice team supports more than 3,000 patients, family members and bereaved people in Worcestershire. The hospice strives to provide the best medical, practical, emotional and social support they can to help people live life 38

to the fullest, as independently as they can, for as long as they can. They care for people with a range of illnesses including heart failure, Parkinson's, and motor neurone disease as well as cancer. All care is free of charge All-encompassing care and support to patients and their loved ones is provided free of charge. This is made possible by the generosity of our donors and supporters who fund three quarters of our income. The remainder comes from the NHS. How to support the hospice St Richard's is an independent charity and is grateful for all donations to help it continue its work. There are many ways you can support St Richard’s, including donating and purchasing goods in local hospice shops, taking part in fundraising events, making a gift in your Will or a one off donation.

Could you be a volunteer? You could be part of our team of almost 1,000 volunteers. St Richard’s depends on volunteers in almost all of its work to fulfil its goal of providing free care to patients and support to their families. We are looking for volunteers to join us wherever they are able to. We are flexible and happy for people to volunteer on a regular or occasional basis. We have many different volunteer roles reflecting volunteers’ individual skills, interests and availability. Find out more at www.strichards.org.uk

The HR Solution Guiding businesses through the challenges of employment and helping them to grow through their people

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Providing HR expertise and all the tools you need to manage and support your employees whilst ensuring compliance

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Enabling you to develop strategies and procedures that will help you get the best from your team via a combination of planned reviews and day to day support

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Please call to book your no obligation consultation about our professional, pragmatic but also very human approach

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Are Your Electrics Safe? Book a Test and Inspection of your home or business premises for complete peace of mind

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Policing South Worcestershire

Be smart and be Safe online with Policing Commander for South Worcestershire, Supt. Kevin Purcell.

he internet and social networking is something in everyday use for many of us. Its value is significant in terms of creating friendships and improving lives. It’s a fun and practical way of keeping in touch with family and friends through posting, chatting, instant messaging, email, playing games and so on. However, as with all platforms of communication that create opportunities, it’s approached by some as a means to take advantage of and exploit others, commit crime, engage in scams or abuse children. So how do you begin to keep any children in your home safe online? The best place to start when thinking about this is to ask yourself a quick question: ‘Would you let a stranger into your child’s bedroom at night?’ The answer, obviously, is ‘Of course not’… Yet many parents and carers unwittingly do just this by allowing children and teenagers unlimited access to the internet without supervising them or knowing what sites they are visiting. Rest assured there will be strangers in their bedroom if this is the case. There are some excellent online resources that can help you understand the basics of online protection and it’s well worth spending some time doing

Finalist for the International ConnectedCOPS Awards for work on social media #TopCop

your own research. Reliable guidance can be found on the following websites: www.thinkuknow.co.uk www.childline.org.uk www.getsafeonline.org www.kidsmart.org.uk www.cyberstreetwise.com Essential tips which children need to know and should be reminded of regularly are:  never give out any personal information  use a nickname  never send a picture to a person you have haven’t met  never arrange to meet up with someone you’ve met online. If you do decide to always tell your parent/carer where you’re going  never open an email from an unknown sender  don’t click on unknown links  always treat people how you would like to be treated.  if you come across something that upsets or worries you online, always tell an appropriate adult  If you feel you can’t talk to anyone, Childline’s website is available for children to chat privately to a counsellor 1:1. All these tips help but nothing can replace everyday interactions and conversations. By installing family filters on your broadband and ensuring laptops and computers are used in social family areas, such as the kitchen

table or lounge, you are more likely to see what is occurring so introduce a higher level of safety. Parents of children and young teenagers should consider preventing all mobile phone and computer use in bedrooms and private spaces. Please chat to the children in your life about their online safety, get up to date with the internet yourself and remember good communication means that you are best able to protect them.

Get In Touch... Contact your local Safer Neighbourhood Team on 101 or dial 999 in an emergency. Call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 to report information anonymously. Visit our website and use our postcode finder for local news www.westmercia.police.uk Follow us on twitter @SuptKevPurcell @SWorcs Cops @PershoreCops @EveshamCops @MalvernCops

Crème Caramel & Poached Fruit Combining smooth caramel custard and citrus fruit with a hint of vanilla, this make ahead dessert is ideal for a winter dinner party. INGREDIENTS CRÈME CARAMEL 1 ¼ pint of milk ¼ pint of cream 3 oz sugar 6 eggs 1 vanilla pod 350g caster sugar for caramel

INGREDIENTS POACHED FRUIT 4 oranges 4 limes 4 grapefruits 150g vanilla sugar

Makes 14 ramekins 42

METHOD CREME CARAMEL  Place 350g sugar into a pan and heat gently, stirring occasionally until sugar is auburn in colour and turned to a caramel. Add a dash of water and stir, but be careful as it may spit.  Pour the caramel into the ramekins, just covering the bottom, leave to set at room temperature.  Boil milk, cream and vanilla pod and pour over whisked eggs and sugar.  Strain this and blend using a whisk then pour over cooled caramel in ramekins.  Put ramekins into a bain marie and cover with foil. Cook in the oven at 150°C for 30-40 minutes until cooked. It should wobble slightly when you touch the surface but should not be liquid in the middle. Set aside to cool. METHOD POACHED FRUIT  Peel the fruit with a knife, strip the bitter pith and carefully cut into segments, keeping any imperfect ones to one side.  Squeeze out the juice from the discarded pieces of fruit and boil with the vanilla sugar until tiny bubbles appear on the surface. Add the segmented fruit.  Leave for 30 seconds then take out.  Pour the fruit into a container and cover with the liquid.  Cool and refrigerate.

Recipe courtesy of Steve Waites, proprietor of Belle House Restaurant Deli-Traiteur, Bridge Street, Pershore, WR10 1AJ. www.belle-house.co.uk

Life in the Village ...in print, online, on twitter

Stay in touch with regular twitter updates offering you a slice of country life, locally. Beautiful Homes...

ith over 5,000 of us now interacting, joining us on twitter is a great way to keep up with country living, locally. Our daily updates will help you stay up to speed with events, competitions and offers, homes and gardens, nature and wildlife, rural issues, recipes and more. If you’re new to twitter you could start by following some of our favourite #interiordesign accounts:  @HouzzUK Simply offering the world’s largest platform for home renovation and design.  @homesandgardens Design ideas from the world’s most beautiful interiors magazine.  ELLEDecoUK Your essential guide to home style from this renowned interior design magazine.  @GrandDesigns The official account of the Channel 4 TV series about families who risk all to build inspirational new homes.  @kellyhoppen Elegant style and

design tips from Kelly Hoppen MBE.  @FarrowandBall Craftsman in unmatched paint and papersharing their passion for colour.  @Valeest1969 Design ideas for kitchens, fitted bedrooms, home offices, beds and appliances from this independent Evesham based company.  @HollowaysHome Help to create your own individual home, one room at a time from the Worcestershire based company specialising in contemporary country home and garden style.  @AntonandK Decorative antiques and interior ideas from the Cotswolds.

Visit www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk for daily updates via twitter on    

Local events Country living Rural issues Local producers

   

Local business Nature & Wildlife Photography & much more...

Photos we share including top; Early morning on Eckington Bridge; right; recipes for Blackberry Jam & below; Luxury Fish Pie from Belle House

Visit us online for… Daily updates on local events, products and services, country living, rural issues, nature and wildlife, travel, competitions, recipes, photography and more. www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk

Join us on twitter. It’s easy:  Go to www.twitter.com/signup  Enter your name, email and a password  Select a username  Click Create my account  Then, to follow, search for @lisalambon  Click Follow… all done!

Please Follow Us

www.

@LisaLambon

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Would you like to get paid to keep fit?

We are looking for distributors to join our growing team. We enjoy working with people who are:  Reliable, honest and polite  Fit and healthy with a practical disposition  Like walking and being in the countryside

 Have a few hours spare, five times a year  Want flexible, part time hours to suit  Able to drive and have their own car*

Rounds are currently available in various villages across Bredon Hill, Bretforton, Badsey & Hanley Swan

Please contact Lisa on

01684 773135

e-mail: lisa@lifeinthevillage.co.uk

@LisaLambon

www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk *If driving, you may need business insurance which is free from many insurers 46

WIN ONE OF FIVE SETS OF ‘CHEEKY MONKEYS’ GAME FROM AWARD-WINNING ORCHARD TOYS Will you be a lucky winner? Just visit www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk by Friday 15th December 2017 and enter your details. FAMILY FUN

Christmas is the ideal time to get the whole family together and what better way to do this than with a fun game or puzzle? Orchard Toys’ award‐ winning games, jigsaws and activities have been loved by generations of parents and children for their winning combination of learning and fun.

Terms & Conditions: One entry per household. Competition closes Friday 15th December 2017. The winners will be informed by Monday 18th December and prizes will be posted out. Prize are not redeemable for cash. Judges’ decision is final. No correspondence will be entered into. By entering this competition you agree to be contacted in future by Life in the Village and Orchard Toys. Your information will not be shared with any third party. You can unsubscribe at any time by emailing unsubscribe@lifeinthevillage.co.uk

Cheeky Monkeys is a fastpaced strategy game which guarantees no hanging around. Be the first to collect the most bananas on your tree…but watch out for the other cheeky monkeys trying to steal them! As well as teaching basic counting skills, this game encourages children to think strategically, interact with others and make decisions.

www.orchardtoys.com

*Ends 28/2/18. Offers cannot be combined. T’s & C’s apply.

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Lif iin the Life

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ONE FREE 1:1 PERSONAL TRAINING SESSION*

*Designed and installed by Vale when ordered by 31/12/17. Call 01386 765959 info@thevalegroup.com 54 Cheltenham Road, Evesham WR11 2JZ www.thevalegroup.com

THE VALE GROUP

FREE STOVE STARTER PACK WITH EVERY NEW STOVE*

10% OFF SHED, GATE & FENCING INSTALLATIONS*

*Free Stove Starter Pack (RRP £99) with every new stove installation ordered by 28/2/18. Terms & Conditions apply.

Lif ini the Life

TONIC PERSONAL TRAINING

The Old Sawmill, Evesham Rd, Toddington Glos GL54 5DF 01242 620 000 www.cotswoldvalesupplies.co.uk

BEN BOWERS HEATING SOLUTIONS LTD

COTSWOLD & VALE SUPPLIES

WINTER PAVING OFFERS FROM £14.00m2 + VAT*

FREE SCOTCHGARD WITH EVERY CARPET CLEAN

Autumn, Light Grey & Raj Sandstone from £14.00m2+VAT. *Full packs only, collected. Ends 28/2/18 or whilst stocks last.

Bredon based mobile service 01684 773900 or 07530 090 898 imperialcarpetcareuk@yahoo.co.uk

IMPERIAL CARPET CARE

CLARINS TRE ACTIVE FACIAL £40 (usually £65)*

£10 OFF ANY BEAUTY OR HOLISTIC TREATMENT

*Valid during January and February 2018. Please present voucher at reception. Offers cannot be combined. T’s & C’s apply.

Lif ini the Life

COTSWOLD & VALE SUPPLIES

For new customers of Beauty Beyond until 28/02/18. Please present voucher at reception. Offers cannot be combined. T’s & C’s apply.

The Coach House, 2a Bull Lane, Winchcombe Glos GL54 5HY 01242 604 017 www.beautybeyondwinchcombe.co.uk

BEAUTY BEYOND

UP TO 20% OFF SELECTED WOODEN, ROLLER & VERTICAL BLINDS

THREE MONTHS WWT MEMBERSHIP FREE*

Measured and fitted free. Ends 28/2/18. Call 01386 725361 or 07749 795085 homechoiceblinds@outlook.com www.homechoiceblinds.org.uk

HOMECHOICE BLINDS

Lif ini the Life th

Ends 28/2/18.

The Old Sawmill, Evesham Rd, Toddington Glos GL54 5DF 01242 620 000 www.cotswoldvalesupplies.co.uk

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*Also summerhouses. By our in-house landscape team. Ends 28/2/18 or whilst stocks last.

01684 210614 or 07930 639488 bbheatingsolutions@gmail.com www.bbheatingsolutions.co.uk

Lif ini th Life the

Lif ini the Life

Call on 07796 957402 tonicpersonaltrainingstudio@gmail.com www.tonicpersonaltraining.co.uk

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20% OFF HEPPLEWHITE FITTED BEDROOM FURNITURE

*15 months’ membership when you join for 12 months (3 months free). Ends 28/2/18. Please call and quote ‘Life in the Village.’ Call 01905 754919 Lower Smite Farm, Smite Hill, Hindlip Worcestershire WR3 8SZ www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk

WORCESTERSHIRE WILDLIFE TRUST

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