HOMES
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GARDENS
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FOOD
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WILDLIFE
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LEISURE
SUMMER 2019 FREE
AVON & SEVERN
Swooping
soaring DISCOVER MAGNIFICENT BIRDS OF PREY
PETAL POWER
PERSHORE PLUM FESTIVAL Celebrating heritage produce
NATURAL HAIRCARE
Blonde at every age
How to wear florals
ESCAPE TO THE GARDEN
Beautiful private spaces to explore
Win one of ten pairs of tickets to Malvern Autumn Show
What really matters to you?
Your Money, Your Future. Our Expertise. Retirement planning | Wealth management | Financial protection Long term care planning | Mortgages
Paul Urmston
DipFA CertLTCP CeMAP CeRER MLIBF Independent Financial Adviser
Book your free initial meeting 07738 121 636 | 01905 421 196 paul@freshapproach-fp.co.uk | www.freshapproach-fp.co.uk Open Space, Chequers Close, Enigma Park, Malvern WR14 1GP Fresh Approach Financial Planning Limited is an appointed representative of 2plan wealth management Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered address: 51 Broadway Grove, St. Johns, Worcester WR2 5EY. Registered in England under number 07993776.
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Three Counties registered charity no. 511868
Harvesting the Best of Autumn A Festival of Gardening, Food & Drink, Artisan Produce & Nostalgia
SUMMER 2019
Contents Enter our three new competitions online COMPETITIONS & OFFERS
LOCAL LIFE
LOCAL LIFE
9 Win one of 40 day passes to the spa at Richmond Wood Norton
10 Swooping and soaring Expert guidance from WWT
39 Broadway Food Festival Find a feast of local producers
21 Win one of ten pairs of tickets to Malvern Autumn Show
19 A countryside celebration Malvern Autumn Show
40 St Mary’s Summer Festival Enjoy a visit to Elmley Castle
63 Win one of five family tickets to the Living History Show
23 Colour me blonde Natural Aveda hair solutions
64 Money saving vouchers
24 Petal power Personal style advice
HOMES
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DRINK
WILDLIF
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PERSHORE PLUM FESTIVAL
Swooping
46 Your perfect garden awaits Local spaces to explore
30 Pershore Plum Festival Enjoy a family day out
Celebrating heritage produce
soaring
44 Pershore war horse memorial Sponsor a lucky horseshoe
27 Staying safe Caring for your dog
FREE SUMMER 2019
BREDON
42 Saddle up this summer The Plum Bikeaway
ICENT DISCOVER MAGNIF BIRDS OF PREY
50 Baking with Meg Rivers Lemon Polenta cake
34 Shaping water The unique qualities of water
NATURAL HAIRCARE Blonde at every age
PETAL POWER
52 Floristry; a beginner’s guide How to display cut flowers
36 Overbury Street Market Enjoy a summer day out
How to wear florals
ESCAPE TOEN THE GARD
56 Summer cocktails New recipes from Brockmans Gin
Beautiful private e spaces to explor
t ppairs of tickets to o ten on of Winn one Wi w Malvern Autumn Sho HOMES
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GARDEN
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WILDLIF
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LEISURE
HOMES
FREE SUMMER 2019
EDGE COTSWOLD
Swooping
soaring
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GARDEN
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FOOD
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DRINK
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LEISURE
HOMES
RE PERSHOR AL PLUM FESTIVA
ng Celebratin uce heritage produ
ICENT DISCOVER MAGNIF BIRDS OF PREY
PETAL POWER
How to wear florals
Beautiful private e spaces to explor
of ticketss to Win one of ten pairs Show Malvern Autumn
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FOOD
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DRINK
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WILDLIF
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LEISURE
FREE SUMMER 2019
Swooping
soaring
RE PERSHOR AL PLUM FESTIVA
ng Celebratin uce heritage produ
N AVON & SEVER
Swooping
soaring
ICENT DISCOVER MAGNIF BIRDS OF PREY
NATURAL HAIRCARE Blonde at every age
PETAL POWER
How to wear florals
ESCAPE TOEN THE GARD
GARDEN
FREE SUMMER 2019
FOLLY VIEW
NATURAL HAIRCARE Blonde at every age
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ICENT DISCOVER MAGNIF BIRDS OF PREY
PERSHORE PLUM FESTIVAL
Celebrating heritage produce
58 Moules marinière Two new recipes from Belle House
NATURAL HAIRCARE
Blonde at every age
PETAL POWER
How to wear florals
ESCAPE TOEN THE GARD
Beautiful private e spaces to explor
ESCAPE TOEN THE GARD
Beautiful private e spaces to explor
of ticketss to Win one of ten pairs Show Malvern Autumn
of tickets to Win one of ten pairs Show Malvern Autumn
Su Summer 20019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk
Tewkesbury’s Theatre & Cinema
Explore the full fantastic line-up at www.rosestheatre.org
Fri 2 Aug 7.30pm
Wed 7 Aug 1pm & 3.30pm
Thu 8 & Fri 9 Aug 7.30pm
Thu 15 - Sat 17 Aug
Thu 12 & Fri 13 Sep 7.30pm
Fri 20 Sep 7.30pm
The Roses also offers a packed film programme, including The Lion King from its UK release date of 19th July
EDITOR’S LETTER What makes you feel free? With my husband completing a professional diploma, my daughter studying for her Finals and my son sitting his A’ levels, it’s a subject that has come up a lot in our house lately. For us, it means balancing body and mind on a daily basis whether by clocking up miles on the cross trainer, lifting weights, or stretching out on a yoga mat. Nothing beats fresh air and exercise for rebooting the brain. Freedom means different things to us all and the desire to find it can be life changing. For many years, the need to feel free has been a driving force in my life; it gave me the nudge I needed to become self-employed and helps me shape how I run my business every day. Yet the smallest, most mundane activities can also make us feel free. Lying in bed listening to the birds, running on Bredon Hill and stockpiling paperbacks are simple ‘freedoms from’ and ‘freedoms for’ that are important to me. For many of us, summer is the season when we feel most free so this issue we bring you lots of fresh options. With breathtaking gardens to explore, rural events to try and personal style advice to experiment with, there’s loads to help you lead an unfettered life. Be sure to check out our new giveaways and money saving offers. For daily updates please visit ww www ww.lifeinthevillage.co.uk w or connect with us on Twitter @lisalambon. Until the autumn,
Lisa Lambon Publishing Editor
01684 773 135 07776 340 736 lisa@lifeinthevillage.co.uk www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk @lisalambon
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Summer 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk
Live your best life at Richmond Wood Norton Retirement Village N O W O P E N | A PA R T M E N T S | S U I T E S | CA R E H O M E
Licensed Restaurant & Bar • Wellness Spa & Beauty Salon Cinema Room • Activities & Events Team • Local Transport Service Team on Site 24/7 • Care and Lifestyle Packages Available FREE tea, coffee and refreshments with every Village tour To book a tour please call the Village Advisers on the number below
Call the team: 01386 896292
www.richmond-villages.com/woodnorton Email: woodnorton@richmond-villages.com Evesham Road, Wood Norton, Evesham WR11 4TY
Find us on
PRIZE DRAW
Win one of 40 full day passes to the new Wellness Spa at Richmond Wood Norton Exclusively for over 50s Our state-of-the-art spa focuses on health and happiness. Wood Norton has a heated pool, Jacuzzi and steam room, fitness studio with classes, gym, hair salon, nail bar and beauty lounge offering a range of indulgent add-on therapies and treatments. Enjoy a day with robes, towels and access to all the facilities included in this holistic environment for mind, body and soul. Limited resident and monthly community memberships for over 50’s are on offer now. www.richmond-villages.com/ wood-norton
20% off spa treatments booked by 30/9/19
HOW TO ENTER It’s easy! Just visit lifeinthevillage.co.uk by Sunday 28th July 2019 and enter your details as requested.
*Terms & Conditions: Entrants must be over 50. One entry per household. UK residents only. Prize draw closes on 28/7/19 and the winner/s will be notified by email by 31/7/19. Judges’ decision is final. Prize not redeemable for cash. No correspondence will be entered into.
lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Summer 2019
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WILDLIFE
Swooping oping
soaring
Sp t magnificent Spot ifi t birds bi d off prey p locally with expert guidance from Wendy Carter of Worcestershire Wildlife Trust
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Summer 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk
WILDLIFE
lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Summer 2019
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WILDLIFE This summer make the most of the weather and head out into our beautiful countryside in search of birds of prey. Take a walk along the river Avon, anywhere where it meanders from Pershore to Evesham, on Bredon Hill or the Malverns and you might spot buzzards, hobbies, kestrels, sparrowhawks and even red kites in all their magnificence. Download routes from the Vale and Spa website; it’s a great resource for local walks. Just visit www.valeandspa.co.uk/ explore/walking/ Buzzard When I was a child buzzards were rare. So rare, that on long car
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journeys I filled time by playing a game with my dad where if I spotted one, I’d shriek ‘buzzard!’ and feel proud to have done so. Today, buzzards are our most ubiquitous bird of prey. This is the bird, above any other, that you’ll see gliding high above the Worcestershire landscape. Look for a bird that holds its wings in a shallow ‘v’ and sports a broad, fanned tail. At this time of year, listen out too for the high-pitched ‘mewling’ sound of the youngsters asking their parents for food. All buzzards are brown yet their individual colour varies from pale through to dark. They have squat necks and broad, fingered, wing-tips. Whilst they’re often spotted sitting on top of a telegraph pole, it’s not uncommon to see them apparently loafing around in fields. Look closely, though, and you’ll notice that they’re
doing anything but being idle. They’re looking. Waiting. Watching for the tell-tale movement of soil that indicates the presence of the worms to which they are so partial, despite their large size. As well as worm-hunting, buzzards can often be seen ripping apart roadkill. I used to think they were lazy but what I didn’t appreciate back then was that these birds, like many of us, will take easy pickings over hard work if they can get them! Their main prey is rabbit and it was the loss of Britain’s rabbits to Myxomatosis in the 1950s and 1960s, added to their persecution by farmers and gamekeepers, that was one of the main reasons for their decline during those years. Next spring, visit Bredon Hill or Broadway Hill and keep your eyes to the sky and you may be able to spot a pair of buzzards displaying
Summer 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk
WILDLIFE
to each other. Watching them soar high on a thermal, rocket down to earth with wings held tight in to their body, then suddenly stretching out again to slow down their descent, is a spectacle you will never tire of. Hobby When spring brings the swallows and house martins back home from a winter spent in Africa, hobbies are never far behind. These elegant summer visitors have been gracing our skies in south Worcestershire for the last couple of months, hunting for food for themselves
lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Summer 2019
and their young. The name ‘hobby’ derives from the French hober, ‘to jump around’, and this perfectly describes the acrobatic abilities of these impeccably-designed raptors. Slate-grey above and pale below, with black streaks on the belly and brick-red ‘trousers’, they have a white throat and cheeks, dark moustache and mask. With long, slender tail and pointed scimitarshaped wings, this bird can turn rapidly to catch prey mid-flight. Some hobbies specialise in catching dragonflies, eating them on the wing, whilst others are adept at taking
swallows and even swifts. Although hobbies can be found over land, they are mostly seen hunting over wetlands or rivers. I spotted my first hobby at Croome near Pershore. It was a couple of hours before sunset and I was taking in the view across the historic estate from the Park Seat to the Malverns. Over the river below me a bird was swooping backwards and forwards. Through binoculars I saw it suddenly change direction and, with talons out in a seemingly impossible manoeuvre, catch a dragonfly; it was a spectacular sight.
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WILDLIFE
Kestrel A few minutes spent watching a kestrel hovering at eye-level with its pointed wings held out can be awe-inspiring. Christened ‘The Windhover’ by Gerald Manley Hopkins in his poem of the same name, this widespread bird has the astonishing ability to keep its head perfectly still during flight whilst the wind hammers and batters its body.
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If viewed on a slowed-down video, its head, whilst appearing rigid, does actually move a millimetre or two as it locates its prey – usually a field vole or mouse - triangulating and locking down its position with pinpoint accuracy. A kestrel will hover at up to 20 metres above ground before gently dropping its height, constantly scanning the ground, and eventually
plummeting to earth to catch its prey. As well as eating lizards and even large insects, kestrels also make great pirates; there are numerous tales of them chasing barn owls and stealing their prey! Both male and females are a beautiful chestnut colour. Adult females have a brown head and dark crossbars on their wings whereas males have contrasting slate grey
Summer 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk
WILDLIFE
heads and a creamy underside which is speckled with black. As with almost all birds of prey, the females are bigger than males, in this case just smaller than a feral pigeon. We’re not sure why but perhaps the most convincing reason given is that since the female spends more time on the nest she needs greater energy, mass and strength to defend her young. The male, being
lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Summer 2019
smaller, hunts smaller items of prey, but is often more prolific in doing so. Sparrowhawk The sparrowhawk is the bird of prey that most of us are likely to encounter at close quarters, as they hunt in the garden or flash by the car on a country lane. Like many people who nurture ‘their’ garden birds, I confess to a love-hate relationship with this
species. One of our smaller birds of prey, about the size of a kestrel it will often visit gardens looking for food. The logical part of me understands the workings of the food chain and that a sparrowhawk is a sign that the natural world is thriving. The emotional side of me, however, is rooting for the underdog, willing ‘my’ birds to fly away. It’s unfair of me as the sparrowhawk needs birds to feed its
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WILDLIFE
young just as much as the robin needs worms and caterpillars. Sparrowhawks are excellent hunters, sometimes ambushing their prey from a perch, other times flying low and suddenly changing direction to fool it. Adult females and males can be distinguished by size and by colour. Females are much bigger, with browner plumage, and will tackle anything from finches, tits and sparrows to larger birds such as collared doves and wood pigeons. Older males have chests of deep rust, a white belly and wings of slate blue/grey. As with buzzards, sparrowhawk numbers plummeted with the use of pesticides half a century ago. Highly
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toxic agrochemicals both poisoned them directly and caused them to lay eggs with shells that were far too thin to survive. In the 1960s Midlands, they were only found in northern Staffordshire. Thankfully, following the banning of organochlorides and increased legal protection, sparrowhawks, like otters and other wildlife, have begun to bounce back. Today, whether we live in a town or a village of south Worcestershire, many of us will have the mixed blessing of seeing one hunt in our garden. Red kite Increasing numbers of red kites are now being seen locally. These large birds are more graceful than
buzzards, as though they are utterly in their element floating in the sky. Distinguished by angled red wings with flashes of white feathers midway along, it has a distinct fork-tail with black wingtips that looks as if it has been dipped in black ink. Their beautiful red-orange chest and underbelly contrasts with their greywhite head. Look closely and you may see them hang in the air, only using that forked tail to maintain their position. Widespread in the early nineteenth century, red kites were once considered common scavengers in the city of London. Back then, they were seen as both priceless devourers of human rubbish and annoying thieves of valuable supplies (there are even stories of them taking food out of hands). Being relatively inured to humans, they suffered terribly from deliberate persecution and fell foul of Victorian efforts to clean up our cities. However, after more than 100 years of concerted conservation work, including several reintroduction programmes, this beautiful bird has been brought back from the edge of extinction for us all to wonder at once more. Summer 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk
WILDLIFE
What’s On n
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Wed 3rd July - Butterfly Walk, Old Hills. 10.30am, £5, booking essential
Photo credits
Sat 13th July – Butterflies Wildlife Discovery Course, Old Hills. 10am, £30, booking essential
Page 10,11,12: Jon Hawkins SurreyHillsPhotography Page 13 clockwise from top left: Andy Morffew, Pete Walkden, Jon Hawkins SurreyHillsPhotography
Wed 17th July – Wildflowers, Bees and Trees, Lower Smite Farm. 6pm, £2 per child
Page 14 clockwise from top left: Greg Coyne, Jon Hawkins SurreyHillsPhotography, Greg Coyne, Greg Coyne
Sat 17th August – Getting to Grips with Dragonflies Wildlife Discovery Course, Lower Smite Farm. 10am, £30, booking essential
Page 15 clockwise from top left: Mark Hamblin 2020VISION, Mark Hamblin 2020VISION, Mark Hamblin 2020VISION, Jonathan Cartwright
Wild on Wednesdays – family fun every Wednesday throughout the summer holidays. Times and locations vary, visit our website for more information.
Page 16 top: Andy Rouse 2020VISION Page 16 bottttom: t Amy Lewis
More info www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/ k//whats-on
Get involved n Pledge a Patch for wildlife www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/pledgeapatch
lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Summer 2019
Page 17: Jon Hawkins SurreyHillsPhotography
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Nominate your Worcestershire Wildlife Hero www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/wildlife-heroes
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Elegant bathrooms designed for you Traditional and modern suites Wide range of reliable suppliers Designer radiators & accessories Expert fitting guaranteed Gas Safe & OFTEC reg’d, NICEIC approved
Vale Heating & Plumbing
Call 01386 556585 Unit 5A, Rear of 79 High Street, Pershore WR10 1EU
© Lakes Showering Spaces
Bacon baps to go!
Home cooked treats freshly made for you • Sunday roasts – booking essential • Healthier, veggie & gluten free options • • Seasonal daily specials • Licensed • Child friendly • Ample free parking • Open daily including Bank Holidays, Mon-Sat 9-5.30, Sun 10-4
Call us on 01684 299996 | Visit www.tewkesburygardencentre.com Tewkesbury Garden Centre, Worcester Rd, Mythe, Tewkesbury GL20 6EB 18
EVENTS
LITV PROMOTION
Malvern Autumn Show, in association with Westons Cider Mill, is back on September 28-29th and Head of Shows, Diana Walton, invites you to take part Malvern Autumn Show champions the highlights of the season, from growing and harvesting, to cooking and spending time with family. We want to celebrate all of the wonders and quirks that our great British countryside offers. There is something for all ages to enjoy, from cookery demonstrations and gardening tips from the stars of the food and horticultural worlds, to a vintage festival and fairground, craft activities and the UK’s largest vegetables. This truly is a family affair and we can’t wait to welcome visitors into our showground to relax ax, x eat, and enjoy the best of the season. Take in the wealth of talent, experience and expertise with talks from celebrity guests in the Autumn Potager Theatre. Watch expert gardeners battle it out to see who can grow the heaviest or longest veg and be crowned the ultimate veg growing champion at the CANNA UK National Giant Vegetables Championship. Last year saw four world records beaten!
lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Summer 2019
10% off advance tickets until 30/8/19 with code village
Visit the nurseries and bulb fair, relive the good old days, see furred and feathered friends in the World of Animals and start ticking off your Christmas list at hundreds of stands. With dog agility, floral displays and familiar faces, from Carol Klein to Joe Swift, there is something for everyone.
Advance tickets are now on sale, from £18 and new for this year, under 16s go free (see website for T&Cs). Enjoy 10% discount until 30/8/19 with code village. For full details please visit ww www ww.malvernautumn.co.uk w or call 0844 811 0050. Calls cost 7ppm plus network extras.
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Chiropractic Can Help Back Pain Neck Issues Pain, Discomfort, Stiffness in Joints Migraine Headaches Arthritic Pain Minor Sports Injuries
10% off Your Initial Consultation
for new patients of Hannah Cork
The gentle nature of the McTimoney method makes it especially suitable for people of all ages including children, pregnant women and the elderly. Registered with most major insurers.
Ends 30/9/19
The Acupuncture Clinic Park Farm Cottage Kemerton Tewkesbury GL20 7HZ 01386 725461 07900 184131
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Sarah-Jane Smith
BSc. (Chiro.) BSc. (Hons) MMCA GCC LRCC 15 years’ experience
Hannah Cork
M.Chiro. GCC MMCA
PRIZE DRAW
Win one of 10 pairs of tickets to Malvern Autumn Show 28th -29th September A bountiful family day out Join with friends to celebrate the great British countryside with home-grown harvest fun, horticultural know-how and unique entertainment. Highlights include the Autumn Potager Theatre with demo’s and talks from talented celebrity guests; the hugely popular CANNA UK National Giant Vegetables Championship; world class nurseries competing in the RHS Flower Show; the Vintage Village; the World of Animals; craft workshops on the Family Green and hundreds of stalls for the discerning shopper. For full details please visit www.malvernautumn.co.uk
HOW TO ENTER It’s easy! Just visit www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk by Saturday 31st August 2019 and enter your details as requested.
New U16s go free!
Terms & Conditions One entry per household. UK residents only. Competition closes on 31/8/19. Winners will be notified by email by 3/9/19 and tickets valid for Saturday 28th September 2019 will be posted out. Judges’ decision is final. Not redeemable for cash. No correspondence will be entered into.
lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Summer 2019
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Tree surgery & hedge cutting
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Felling & stump removal
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Site clearance
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Groundworks & landscaping
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Patios, paving & fencing
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Equestrian & agricultural projects
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Qualified, insured & CHAS accredited
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Domestic & commercial
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References on request
Call Tim Coppin 07557 536 391 | 01386 423 518 info@parkandlandscapes.co.uk www.parkandlandscapes.co.uk 22
A team of highly skilled tree surgeons and landscapers equipped to tackle any project
HAIR & BEAUTY
LITV PROMOTION
Colour me blonde Making blonde work as you age with Aveda colour specialist Graham West Blonde is the kindest colour for every complexion and best complements most skin tones, as lighter shades help to lift and brighten the appearance of skin. As a colour it holds potential for everyone because when it comes to lighter hair, it’s definitely not a case of one size fits all. If you are going grey, blonde can be a flattering choice whether you are naturally fair, red or brunette. Blonde spans a huge spectrum, taking in literally hundreds of shades from warm strawberry through golden caramel and honey tones to cool platinum and silver. The key is to get the colour right for you, taking into account your face shape, skin tone and eye colour. The ideal shade will lift your complexion, making you look healthy and your eyes stand out. There are many ways to tackle greying hair depending on the amount of coverage you want, the stage of the process you are at and your budget. We have many colouring techniques at our fingertips, including ecliptingTM or balayage. All use products that have certified organic plant oils to help condition for luminous colour, allowing us to create blonde hair that is shiny, healthy and looks sophisticated. The process can be subtle and happen over time. Going from brunette with a few grey hairs to lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Summer 2019
Book your Complimentary Hair Consultation for Aveda samples, a skin test & advice
a solid blonde might be too stark. However, by doing it gradually, such as introducing highlights that are lighter and warmer than your base, we can move your colour towards blonde in a way that will soften your look. A great haircut and colour can
change how you look and feel about yourself as you get older. We invite you to visit the salon to meet us and ensure you feel comfortable before we touch your hair. Call today on 01386 860361 to book your complimentary hair care consultation with skin test and Aveda samples.
Aveda Hair Colour Specialists Aveda exclusive salon | 3 late nights | free parking
Call 01386 860 361 or book online weareyourtribesalon Craycombe Farm, Evesham Rd, Fladbury, Pershore WR10 2QS
www.weareyourtribe.co.uk | www.aveda.co.uk
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STYLE
Petal power Personal style advice from Kate Evans, Image Consultant and Coach With the recent glorious (and not so glorious!) weather floral prints have been out in force. Personally, I don’t wear flowers often but I can be persuaded once in a while; I’m certainly partial to the odd floral shoe or pretty dress. How keen you are on florals is linked to your Style Personality. If you tend to lean towards the romantic/ frilly / lacy / girly side of style then you will be all over them. For those of you who can’t get enough of anything with a flower here is my guide on how to wear them best.
Make sure the principal colour in your floral is a good one for you Size matters Consider the size of the print. If you’re petite, smaller and more delicate prints are great. If you’re of average height then a medium size pattern will work well and if you’re grande (5’7” and taller) then go for something a little bigger and bolder.
with your colouring and the outfit is shown off to its best, pick out one colour from within the pattern and use it for your accessories.
a floral print embossed on them. It’s a great way of enjoying ‘just a touch’ if you don’t want to make too much of a statement.
Shape up Wear florals on your bottom half if you are top-heavy and on your top half if you are bottom-heavy. Remember; whenever you wear your print is where the eye will be drawn so use flowers to show off your best bits.
Love colour Make sure the principal colour in your floral is a good one for you. To ensure everything harmonises
Funky feet Embellished footwear is everywhere this season, so you may want to consider trainers with
Subtle statements If you want to do florals in a low key way then consider customising your look by adding a brooch or scarf with a floral design to your outfit. Scarves also look great tied around your handbag if it’s too warm to wear one around your neck. I hope that helps. To receive more advice and tips subscribe to the blogs on my website: www.kate-evans.co.uk
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Summer 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk
Penny Sinclair pet portraits
Animal Portraits from life or photos Acrylics, charcoal & more | 20 years’ experience
Call Penny Sinclair 01386 832733 www.pennysinclair.co.uk
YOUR COMMUNITY NEEDS YOU, GET INVOLVED NOW.
LET VALE TAKE CARE OF YOUR
ELECTRICS Trusted local service from our NICEIC approved team
fund draising football match pershore football club
defford old boys vs. new inn pershore f.c. sat 27th h ju uly
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Sockets & switches Upgrades & rewires Gates, alarms & CCTV
Indoor & outdoor lights Inspections & certification Residential & commercial
Call today to book a free survey
01386 556585
entry fee: £5 adults OR
£3 concession/o.a.p plus raffle
Find us at Unit 5A, Rear of 79 High St, Pershore WR10 1EU
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WILL
It’s never too late to leave a gift in your Will and support the future of hospice care in Worcestershire. To find out more, call 01905 763963 or visit www.strichards.org.uk/gifts-in-wills Reg. Charity No. 515668 | Reg. Company No. 01850502
LIFESTYLE
LITV PROMOTION
Staying safe Vet Brad Cooper on issues that often affect pets during the summer One of the best things about summer is getting out and about in the sunshine. Like us, most dogs love exploring but adventures can bring hazards, the results of which we often see in clinic. It’s worth planning for the season ahead to give your pet the best chance of staying safe and healthy. Heatstroke Folly Gardens recommends that you never leave your dog in a car unattended. Dogs die in hot cars every year, often causing devastation to owners who thought it was safe if the window was open or it was only for a few minutes. Dogs can’t regulate their bodies like we can and a car left in the sunshine, even in cold weather, can rapidly heat to a life threatening temperature. For the same reason, pets should not be locked in a conservatory or sunny room. Always ensure they have access to cold water as panting reduces fluids which must be replenished. Hot weather can make exercise a problem. All dogs need a walk, even on the hottest days, but try taking them out early in the morning or
Never leave your pet trapped in a hot, sunny room lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Summer 2019
late at night to avoid the risk of overheating or scalding paws on pavements. It’s also a good idea to get long or dense coats clipped. Stings Insects that move, fly and buzz are intriguing to pets who may spend hours trying to catch them. It’s amusing but can also be dangerous if they are stung on the eyes, nose or lips. Stings can cause pain, swelling of the airways and occasionally, an allergic reaction. If you hear your pet yelp or whimper, or spot any facial swelling, always get them checked by a vet. Fleas and ticks Year round prevention is better than cure and we can prescribe various parasite controls including tablets, injections, collars and spot-on treatments, with discounts via our Folly Care Club. To find one that will suit your lifestyle, or for any other pet advice, please call our friendly team on 01684 292244.
Tewkesbury 01684 292244 Bishop’s Cleeve, Cheltenham 01242 679880 Leckhampton, Cheltenham NEW! 01242 234392 Home Visits 01684 292244
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Wellness Weekend 13 & 14 JULY
NEW! Dog Grooming now available at i
o leeve clinic
Our experienced team provide a top quality grooming, clipping & shampoo service The Full Monty Wash & Go
A fun family weekend celebrating the positive impact of gardens and wellbeing.
Maintenance Hand Stripping
• Herb, Garden and Mindfulness Walks • Yoga, Tai Chi & Guided Meditation • Climbing Wall and Children’s Activities All • Aromatherapy • Homeopathic First Aid, Bowen include d Technique, Nutrition and Therapeutic Horticultural Talks. with admissio
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Call 01684 536840 info@follygardens.com
Spetchley Park Gardens, Spetchley, Worcester WR5 1RS enquiries@spetchleygardens.co.uk • spetchleygardens.co.uk • Find us on
www.follygardens.com
EARLY DAWN LANDSCAPES Wo ld yo like a new ocal point or yo r garden or a new garden layo t?
All Types of Garden Construction Old Patios & Walls Re-laid Gates & Fencing Erected Gazebos & Pergolas 25 years’ Experience Personal Service Assured Upton on Severn Based Fully Insured
“Mr Williams always takes a pride in his work and is a cons mmate hard worker. wo ld ha e no hesitation in recommending him to others.” MR & MRS S, WELLAND
Please contact David Williams on
01684 560057 07585 042307
www.earlydawnlandscapes.co.uk 28
Flowers and presents delivered for you • Beautiful hand-tied bouquets • Roses, orchiids & potted plants • • Champ pagne & Chase Distillery • Chocolates, ca andless & balloons • Order in store, online or by phone Same day delivery on orders placed by 2pm Wholesale flowers to order
Free delivery within a 4 mile radius Open Mon to Satt 9-5.30 Call uss on 01684 290288 | Visitt ww ww.flowershedtewkesbury.co.uk Tewkesbury Garden Centre, Worce ester Rd, Myth he, Tewkesbury GL20 6EB. ng. Open n Bank k Holidays Ample free parkin
EVENTS
Enjoy Pershore Plum Festival, a unique event that runs throughout August Every summer since medieval times, the orchards of Pershore have produced tonnes of glorious plums, including highly sought after heritage varieties such as Pershore Purple, Pershore Yellow Egg Plum and Pershore Emblem. The 2019 Plum Festival offers a range of events, suitable for everyone in passionate celebration of this humble fruit which has made the town famous. Sunday 7th July - Plum Blossom Sunday at The Angel Hotel A delightful afternoon of celebration, live music, children’s entertainment including ‘Inflatable Land’, plum food and drink and of course the pinnacle event of the day, the crowning of this year’s Plum Princess and her attendants. 30
Friday 26th July – The BIG Plum Fun Quiz at Pershore Town Football Club NEW for this year! Test out your general knowledge in true plum style. Tuesday 30th July – The Pershore Plum Festival evening races at Worcester Racecourse The Festival resurrects prestigious local racing history courtesy of
Worcester Racecourse. A purple themed evening packed with Victorian and Edwardian antiquities and the revival of many horse races which celebrate the famous Pershore plums. Please visit: ww www ww.worcester-racecourse.co.uk w for further details. Saturday 3rd, 10th, 17th August – Plum Alley Superb musical entertainment from local artists raising funds for their favourite charities. Buy a memento of your visit from the Festival merchandise stand and savour plum food and drink at its best. Wednesday 7th and 14th August – Plum Coach Tours Enjoy a unique and entertaining day Summer 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk
EVENTS out complete with a plum tour guide. Pick your own plums from the Vale Heritage Landscape Trust orchards located on the Blossom Trail To book your seat call Dudleys Coaches on 01386 792206 Wednesday 13th August Pershore Past and Present at Pershore Baptist Church An opportunity to enjoy this much loved slide show depicting the history of Pershore and its surrounding area. Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th August - Plum Weekend at Walsgrove Farm, WR7 4QL Up to 20 varieties of pick your own plums and guided walks around the orchards. Thursday 22nd August – Pershore Plum Festival BikeNite All bikes, mopeds, motorbikes,
scooters, choppers and trikes are welcome for a night of live music, fun, excitement and plenty of plum food and drink.
FOR ONE YEAR ONLY – we are delighted to welcome the Ariel Owners Club, who are holding their Annual Rally in Pershore at this time. Words by Angela Taylor Images by Stuart Purfield and Mark Everett
lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Summer 2019
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EVENTS Saturday 24th – Monday 26th August - The BIG Plum Festival at The Angel Hotel Live music, food, garden bar and spectacular fireworks. Saturday 24th – Monday 26th August Bank Holiday Weekend Enjoy a three day extravaganza of purple plum fun starting on National Plum Day. Beer, Food and Music Festival; Plum Alley with plum products, tastings and entertainment; the outstanding yellow and purple shop windows throughout the town; Plum Plodders 10K race; the Plum Pooches in the Park dog show; Plum Fun Zone; Plum Praise open air service; classic and vintage cars; award winning Farmers Market; arts and crafts; a Plum Food Village and much much more... Park and ride services available on Bank Holiday Monday only PLUS a shuttle bus from Pershore Railway station meeting all trains. For more details contact Angela Taylor 01386 565373 Email: info@pershoreplumfestival.org.uk Visit: ww www ww.pershoreplumfestival.org.uk w
Pershore Plum Festival @PlumFestival pershoreplumfestival
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Summer 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk
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GARDENS
Shaping water RHS Chelsea Gold medal winning designer, Richard Mercer, on the unique qualities of water in the garden
Of all the elements we use in garden design, water has the greatest potential to transform a space. The essence of life, it offers us endless possibilities; it can be still as a lake or pond, run gently in a rill or stream, or cascade as a waterfall or fountain. Whatever its form, water has an almost mystical ability to affect our mood, by quietening or stimulating our senses. Since water is integral to any natural landscape, a garden without it will often make us feel unsettled, as if something is missing. In our latest project, a large plot spanning two acres, water combined with stone has acted as both a backdrop and focal point
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in different areas. Our brief was to enhance an existing woodland garden featuring mature trees and shrubs to complement a newly built home. After surveying the space and getting to know our clients’ likes and dislikes, we drew up a wishlist and developed several options on paper. As always, we took care to maximise the existing mature planting. The approved design was inspired by curves and had a Japanese influence to include box hedging, a gravel garden, flowering shrubs such as azaleas and rhododendrons and a cobbled path leading to a circular patio, summerhouse and outdoor bar. The focal point is a magnificent
split level rock garden set against a vast weeping willow with a zigzag oak bridge and a cascade, created from 30 tonnes of water washed limestone. After meandering over rocks and pebbles, the stream flows around an island planted with a beautiful Japanese maple, Acer palmatum ‘Inaba-shidare’. The cascade is supplied by two pumps. Water emerges at multiple points creating a diverse flow pattern and eventually disappears into a concealed underground tank, making it shallow and relatively safe for children. We regulated the flow precisely to produce a pleasing pitch which creates a soundtrack for the entire garden. The couple are both
Summer 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk
GARDENS
LITV PROMOTION
RHS Chelsea Gold Medal winner
thrilled with the results. Having trained at Pershore College over 25 years ago and been awarded an RHS Chelsea Gold Medal, our team has completed projects of all sizes, both domestic
and commercial, across the Cotswolds and beyond. We focus on one project at a time and I am always on site to personally oversee the process. To book a free initial consultation about your project
please call Richard on 07860 603598 or email rm@water-stone.co.uk
We regulated the ow precisely to produce a pleasing pitch which creates a soundtrack for the entire garden
lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Summer 2019
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EVENTS
LITV PROMOTION
41st Overbury Street Market Andrew John invites you to enjoy the 41st annual village fundraiser from 10am-12noon on Saturday 13th July Set in our picture postcard Cotswolds village, Overbury Street Market is a unique event that has taken place on the second Saturday of July for 40 years. By starting promptly at 10am and running for just two hours we guarantee that trading is always lively. This year is our 41st anniversary event and we’ll be sticking to the traditional format. Our popular bacon butties are one of the highlights so be sure to arrive hungry and savour the wonderful aroma; there can be few greater pleasures than enjoying a delicious breakfast outdoors. Over the rest of the morning you can enjoy the quintessentially English setting and browse our many stalls with produce from local crafters and growers. One of the most popular is ‘Going for a song’, which provides something for everyone at affordable prices. There will be a selection of quality plants, a book stall, a toy stall, a bottle raffle and a prize raffle as well as locally
New local stallholders welcome by arrangement
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Credit: Sarah Farnsworth
produced lamb and honey. Anne’s Pantry supplies delicious homemade cakes and pastries. Afterwards, relax in a beautiful Cotswolds garden with refreshments and ice cream and listen to live music and song. There will also be demonstrations of local crafts such as corn dolly making and a play area for children in another lovely garden. Admission is free as is car parking, situated within a few yards of the market making access easy for all. In the event of bad weather the event is relocated to the village hall. A visit to Overbury Street Market gets the weekend off to a great start for all the family. New stall holders and offers of help are always welcome so if you are interested please ring Andrew John on 01386 725229 or email aj@apsjohn.net Find us at Church Row, Overbury, Glos GL20 7NR. Sorry, no dogs allowed. www.overburyestate.co.uk Summer 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk
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Where Tranquillity Begins... The Spa at Hatherley Manor is inspired by our Cotswold heritage and is dedicated to natural wellbeing and creating a sense of peace and tranquillity. The Spa is the perfect place to relax and unwind, whether that’s in the swimming pool, vitality pool, state of the art gymnasium, thermal suite, relaxation and treatment rooms or in the lounge and cafÊ area with champagne bar. 01452 733299 spa@hatherleymanor.com www.hatherleymanor.com/the-spa Hatherley Down Lane, Gloucester, GL2 9QA 37
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Bredon Village Hall, Main Road, GL20 7QN Run by local churches for more info call 01684 772818
EVENTS
Broadway Food Festival Enjoy a day pottering around a pretty Cotswold village with a host of foodie treats on Sunday 15th September, 10am to 4pm Discover the best of local food and drink, watch cooking demonstrations and enjoy delicious food on the go at the sixth annual Broadway Food Festival. The event attracts local residents and visitors from further afield more than 5,000 in 2018. It’s an opportunity to meet local artisan producers who will be offering around 35 stalls in a marquee on the village green plus a dozen or so food to go stands situated outside. Originally set up to showcase the wealth of local food and drink supplies on offer in Broadway’s shops and eateries, the event limits stallholders and stands to a select group who have been carefully screened for their quality, variety and innovation. Priority is given to those businesses who are truly local, both
Broadway Food Festival is run by a small team of volunteers who are members of Broadway Business Association. It is sponsored by The Lygon Arms, Cotswold Life, R & L Holt, Knight Frank, Warner’s Budgens and Wychavon District Council. www.broadway-cotswolds.co.uk/ food-festival
Free entry! Images: Crack The Lens Photography
lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Summer 2019
based and growing or producing their goods within 30 miles of Broadway. All the products on offer are available all year round in Broadway shops, cafes, pubs or restaurants. This year’s stallholders include bakers, bee keepers, brewers, cheese makers, confectioners, curers, distillers, farmers, food oil producers, fruit and vegetable growers, pie makers, vintners, and many more. The outside stands include ice cream, salt beef bagels, Indian street food, pig roast, coffee, crepes, pan Asian veg street food, Longhorn burgers, Caribbean curry, mini Dutch pancakes, cocktails, real ale and more! Broadway Food Festival also includes a programme of popular cooking demonstrations given by chefs from our excellent hotels and restaurants, as well as tasting sessions pairing local food and drink products. With free entry, it’s a great day out for all the family.
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EVENTS
LITV PROMOTION
St Mary’s Summer Festival Gill Tallis and Peter Hayes invite you to enjoy a weekend of ‘Simple Pleasures’ from 5th – 7th July Enjoy a visit to our historic church this July to see floral displays and an exhibition by local artists and photographers featuring traditional, abstract and modern art using a variety of media. The theme for our festival is ‘Simple Pleasures’ so prepare for a cavalcade of summer scents and sights. Our painters, graphic designers and photographers will provide you with landscapes, flowers, abstracts and graphic images. Their work may evoke a trip to the coast or a holiday abroad, scenes of the countryside or rural pursuits such as maypole dancing, the fete and strawberry cream teas. Visit from 3pm on Friday 5th July and you can meet some of the artists who will have been setting up
‘Medusa’ by John Seely 40
‘Expressions of the Natural World’ by mixed media artist Rita Thorn
all day and will be delighted to talk to you about their work. Arrive from 10am over the following two days and there will be plenty of time to enjoy the beautiful architecture of the Norman church, study the art and photographs and perhaps buy one or two exhibits to take away with you. A programme
with a catalogue will be available to purchase for 50p. After viewing the exhibition, treat yourself to a cup of tea and cake, all handmade by our local team of caterers. If the weather is kind you could sit for a while in the ancient churchyard and take in the tranquillity of this special place. To close the festival there will be a ‘Songs of Praise’ service at 7pm on Sunday 7th, a service led by the congregation in thanks for the beauty of the church, the festival and the village. The exhibition has been sponsored by local businesses. Admission is free, but all donations received will go towards the upkeep of the church. Find St Mary’s with satnav using WR10 3HS. Elmley Castle is a beautiful Bredon Hill village with black and white thatched cottages, delightful gardens, a wide main street and a Tudor Inn. The church lies beyond gates at the end of the village, almost hidden beyond huge trees. Find out more about the church and village at www.elmleycastle.org.uk Summer 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk
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EVENTS
Saddle up this summer
Sign up for a charity-friendly cycling event around Bredon Hill and the Vale of Evesham Get yourself back in the saddle, enjoy a family cycling adventure or challenge your fitness whilst exploring the best of rural Worcestershire this summer. The picture perfect villages of Bredon Hill and the Vale of Evesham provide the ideal setting so make it a plan to get outdoors, fill your lungs with fresh air and leave your cares in the countryside. You could even make new friends and get fitter along the way. From keen cyclists to rusty novices or parents who want to coach their children, Bikeaway Ventures can help. An established family-friendly organisation, it has been hosting cycling events for over 20 years. One of the group’s main aims is to raise funds for local charities but it also seeks to promote a healthy lifestyle through cycling 42
and to improve opportunities for the Vales’ cycling community. Bikeaway Ventures has two established annual events; the Blossom Bikeaway which took place in the spring and the Plum Bikeaway which forms part of Pershore’s Plum Festival. The Plum Bikeaway Sunday 15th September Offering cyclists the option of three spectacular routes; an eight mile leisurely tour of the Worcestershire countryside, a 23 mile trip that is perfect for the whole family or a more challenging and exciting 52 mile route. The ride starts from Pershore College – a national centre for horticulture - and travels around Bredon Hill, offering stunning views and spectacular viewpoints. Summer 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk
EVENTS
Registration is essential and application forms can be found on the Bikeaway Ventures website along with route maps and further details. Registration on the day will only be accepted between 9:00am and 11:00am with the event starting at 9:45am. Pre-registration is cheaper, so why not save money and register today? Bikeaway Ventures are heavily associated with the Pershore Unit of St John Ambulance and the Vale of Evesham Community First Responders. For more information about these organisations please call Tony Haines on 07968 073634. For further details on any of our events please call 01386 565564, email bikeaway40@yahoo.com, join us on social media or visit www.bikeawayventures.co.uk
Images by Stuart PurďŹ eld Words by Amy Miles
Bikeaway Ventures @BBikeaway
lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Summer 2019
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HEALTH
Sponsor a lucky horseshoe Pershore resident Sue Cosnett is inviting businesses and individuals to sponsor a lucky horseshoe to raise funds for the Pershore war horse memorial project
Pershore war horse memorial project was formed to create a sculpture to be displayed in the grounds of Pershore Abbey that depicts our heroes and animals lost during the war. Sue Cosnett came up with the idea for this poignant memorial last year, as the country celebrated the centenary of the First World War. The project’s logo shows a purple poppy which depicts the loss of thousands of animals during the war and will be incorporated into the design. Later this year, thanks to the craftsmanship of local blacksmith Steven Ellis Cooper, Wychavon Council and the generosity of people living in and around Pershore, Sue will be unveiling a life size war horse sculpture constructed of horseshoes. Now is your chance to be a part of this legacy by sponsoring one of the horseshoes that will be used in the construction of the horse – it’s just £5 for a business or an adult and £2.50 for a child. The name of each sponsor will be written on a plaque positioned by the sculpture so that their part played in this project will always be remembered. Sue hopes to gain as much local support as possible. 44
The group’s target is to raise £12,000 by the end of October to cover the cost of the build, with the surplus funds being donated to Combat Stress, a charity that provides specialist help to veterans struggling with trauma. The deadline for making donations is 1st August. To make a direct bank transfer, please use the following details: Reference: Horseshoe Bank details: Lloyds Sort code: 39-96-26 Account: 50370860 The Pershore War Horse Memorial Project Various fundraising events are taking place to support the project this summer including a dance at Bar 57 on Saturday 6th July and a football match – Defford Old Boys vs New Inn, Pershore - on Saturday 27th July at Pershore Town Football Club. Follow the story and get involved via the project’s Facebook page: www.facebook.com/pershorewarhorse donate to the cause: www.justgiving.com/ crowdfunding/susan-cosnett-3 or contact Sue Cosnett direct by emailing sue.cosnett@btinternet.com Summer 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk
GARDENS
The National Garden Scheme opens around 3,500 breathtaking private gardens for charity. Explore their website with its handy local garden finder and find yourself a fantastic day out Spetchley Park Gardens Spetchley, WR5 1RS Spetchley was one of the first gardens to open for the NGS in 1927 and, apart from during the war, has opened every year since. Featured on BBC Gardeners’ World, it’s a place for all tastes and ages. Holding one of
the biggest private collections of plants outside the major botanical gardens, it has many rooms and vistas and a magical trail for children. Open: July 5th 10:30am-6pm. For regular opening times visit www.spetchleygardens.co.uk Admission: adult £8, child £2.50
New! Natural play area 46
Summer 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk
GARDENS Bridges Stone Mill Alfrick Pound, WR6 5HR Open: August 11th, 2019 2-5:30pm Admission: adult £6 child free.
The Picton Garden Colwall, Malvern WR13 6QE Open: July 14th, Aug 7th, 18th, 26th 11am-5pm Admission: adult £3.50, child free.
Each year the NGS donates about £3 million to nursing and health charities. Find more fantastic gardens to visit at www.ngs.org.uk lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Summer 2019
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GARDENS Marlbrook Gardens Bromsgrove B60 1DY Open: July 21st 1.30-5.30pm Admission: adult ÂŁ5 child free.
Shuttifield Cottage Storridge WR13 5HA Open: July 20th & Aug 17th 1:30- 5pm Admission: adult ÂŁ5, child free.
Visiting gardens can be relaxing and there is often great cake on offer. Find more fantastic gardens to visit at www.ngs.org.uk 48
Summer 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk
GARDENS
Did you know? Some owners will arrange a personalised visit for your club or group on a date to suit you. See individual garden entries online for details. Moreton Hall Gardens Redditch B96 6SJ Featured in Garden’s Illustrated magazine in March 2018. Perched atop an escarpment with breath taking views, hidden behind a tall hedge, lies a unique garden of outstanding beauty. A garden for all seasons, it features
lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Summer 2019
sumptuous herbaceous summer borders, a striking potager, a majestic woodland rockery and an elegant Japanese Stroll Garden with tea house. For regular opening times visit www.moretonhallgardens.co.uk. Open: August 31st 10am-4pm Admission: adult ÂŁ9, child free
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RECIPES
Perfect for summer gatherings, enjoy this simple recipe from Cotswolds based Meg Rivers Artisan Bakery. Polenta flour gives cakes a wonderful yellow colour with a pleasing grainy texture and has the added bonus of being suitable for those with an intolerance to wheat. Fresh lemon juice and zest act as a counterpoint to the dense, buttery flavour. Serves 8 INGREDIENTS
2 large lemons 220g/15 tablespoons salted butter, soft 220g/1 cup plus 2 tablespoons (caster) sugar 4 eggs, lightly beaten 190g/1 1/3 cups ground almonds
125g/1 cup polenta/ cornmeal 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 18cm/7inch round cake pan, base lined with baking parchment
METHOD
• Preheat the oven to 170C (325F) gas 3 • Grate the zest from both lemons, and squeeze the juice from just one. • In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until pale and fluffy ffy. y Add the eggs one at a time, beating between each addition, then stir in the lemon juice and zest, followed by the ground almonds, polenta/cornmeal and baking powder. • Spoon the mixture into the prepared cake pan, smooth level with a palette knife and bake in the preheated oven for 80-90 minutes. A skewer inserted in the middle should come out clean. Remove from the oven and allow to stand for a while. When cool enough to handle, run a knife around the inside of the pan and turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely. • The cake will keep for 4-5 days in an airtight container. ww www ww.megrivers.co.uk w
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Summer 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk
LET THE VALE TEAM DO THE
GROUNDWORK Expert service from our NPORS accredited team
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Clearing & levelling Ditching & drainage Pipe & cable laying
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Building & Maintenance Services Painting & Decorating Kitchen & Bathroom Installation Carpentry
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HOMES
Floristry Flowers make a house a home so create some simple displays this summer There’s an old saying: ‘flowers love people’ but actually, it’s the other way round. Perhaps without even realising it, many of us have a deep seated affection for flowers, equating them with beauty. But flowers have a lot more to offer than this; with such variety of colour, form and fragrance, and the ability to enhance our mood, there is much for us to appreciate. Flowers provide the finishing touch to any room, making us feel safe, settled and at home. They also have the power to impact our wellbeing. The vivid freshness of a summer bouquet can lift our spirits, bringing energy and
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feelings of happiness, whilst a quiet arrangement of simple white blooms will encourage a sense of tranquillity. When you cut flowers from the garden and put them in a vase, they continue to develop and bloom as if they were still growing outdoors. This can put us in relationship with the natural world, reflecting familiar processes which can instil a sense of wonder. Flowers are also a natural air freshener, offering a wide choice of scents. Whilst some, like lilies or roses, sing out as soon as you step into a room, others carry a more subtle scent that will quietly
fragrance your home. Arranging flowers does not have to be complicated. An individual bloom, coupled with a carefully chosen container that either complements or contrasts with it, can create a stunning still life, bringing colour and seasonal interest to a room with minimal effort and expense. In the right setting, a single pink lily, cut short and placed in a squat vase, or a papery astrantia inserted in a coloured glass bottle, can have as much impact as a huge bouquet. This summer add an extra bit of love to your home by bringing the outdoors in.
Summer 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk
HOMES
lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Summer 2019
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HOMES
Select your flowers Flowers don’t have to be expensive. If you don’t have suitable plants from which to cut them in your garden, visit a good florist who will allow you to buy individual stems. Stick to one type of bloom, or choose a limited range of flowers that look pleasing your eye. It often works well to use a single colour theme but don’t be afraid to experiment either; bright colours and unusual combinations can sometimes be the prettiest. Different species will give different styles of bouquet. Choose looser, informal blooms such as dahlias, lilies, gladioli and calla lilies to create a country style effect. Prepare your stems Once you’ve chosen your flowers, lay each stem out individually on newspaper. Using a clean knife, trim each one at an angle. This maximises the surface area so your flower can absorb as much water as possible. Consider the vase you are 54
going to use, then take each stem and remove any leaves that might sit below the surface of the water. Your flowers are now ready to bind into a bouquet or place individually in a vase. Binding together One simple way of arranging flowers yourself is known as the overlapping method. 1. Lay the flowers out in front of you. 2. Cut a piece of string ready or find a rubber band for binding. 3. Pick up a stem in one hand and then transfer it to your other hand. Do this with three flowers. Make sure that each flower stem is arranged at an angle over the flower stem beneath it. 4. Turn the three flowers in your hand a quarter turn. 5. Now, add another three flowers, one by one, over the first three. 6. Repeat until you have used all your flowers. 7. Bind the bouquet with a piece of twine or a rubber band.
As you will see, this method produces a beautiful round bouquet. Inserting into a vase If you prefer a bouquet with a more casual look, use the insertion method. This gives the impression of having just picked some wild flowers, and is so easy to do. 1. Sort the flowers according to size. 2. Insert the largest stem into a vase with water, a beautiful lily or dahlia would work well. 3. Pick up the next largest stem and insert it at an angle next to the first flower so that their stems create an ‘X’ in the base of the vase. 4. Repeat this process by crisscrossing the stems in the vase until you have used up all the flowers. To find out more about cutting flowers, especially those that can be grown from bulbs, visit www.ilsysays.com Summer 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk
HOMES
lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Summer 2019
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FOOD & DRINK
Summer cocktails Gin and Tonic is a staple for cocktail lovers. However, this season, find new ways of enjoying the spirit of summer by shaking up some deliciously different drinks inspired by a warm garden filled with sunshine and fresh fruits Brockmans Berry Tea 50ml Brockmans Gin
The Curious Blue 40ml Brockmans Gin
25ml Elderflower cordial
10ml Blueberry liqueur
35ml Red berry purée
10ml Lemon juice
20ml Lemon juice
60ml Blueberry purée (bought in a sachet or home-made using about 100g of fresh or frozen berries)
Chilled red berry tea Garnish: cucumber, blackberry and mint Shake all ingredients apart from the tea with ice. Strain into a Collins glass with fresh ice. Top with chilled tea and stir. Garnish with crushed ice, a long thin slice of cucumber, a blackberry and a small sprig of mint.
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50-70ml Ginger beer Shake the first four ingredients with ice. Strain into a tall Collins glass filled with a few dry ice pellets topped with ice cubes and then top with the ginger beer. Garnish with dry ice if you wish plus a mint sprig and a knotted bamboo skewer or a cocktail stick with 3 blueberries.
Summer 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk
FOOD & DRINK
Brockfast Martini One heaped bar-spoon of orange marmalade 40ml Brockmans 20ml Lemon juice 20ml Blackberry/blueberry syrup 20ml Triple Sec
Brockmans Summer Punch 50ml Brockmans Gin 4 Raspberries
Add the marmalade and Brockmans to a shaker. Crush together with a bar-spoon. Add the rest of ingredients and ice. Shake, double strain into chilled coupe/Martini glass. Garnish with an orange twist.
6 Blackberries 25ml Lemon juice 25ml Sugar syrup Add the raspberries, blackberries lemon juice and sugar syrup into the shaker glass, and then muddle all of the ingredients together. Add Brockmans Gin, fill the glass with ice and shake. To serve, single-strain the mixture into a tumbler. Top with more crushed ice. Garnish with a couple of blackberries and a raspberry, or skewer them for a garnish with a sprig of mint.
lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Summer 2019
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RECIPES
Belle House
Moules marinière Try this quick summer supper from Steve Waites of Belle House
serves 2 INGREDIENTS
1 kilo of mussels 2 diced shallots 1 clove of garlic 1 cup of white wine 2 cups of double cream Chopped parsley to finish
METHOD
• Wash the mussels under plenty of cold running water. Discard any open ones that won’t close when lightly squeezed. • Pull out the tough, fibrous beards protruding from between the tightly closed shells and then knock off any barnacles with a large knife. Give the mussels another quick rinse to remove any little pieces of shell. • Heat the pan until very hot. Once the pan is smoking add the mussels. • Add shallots, garlic and wine then cover the pan and shake to move the mussels around so they cook/steam evenly for 3-4 minutes. • Take off the lid and look at the mussels; if the shells are still closed, put the lid back on and carry on steaming, checking regularly. They are ready when the mussels are all open. • Add the cream until it boils, then take it off the heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley to serve.
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Summer 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk
RECIPES
Recipes courtesy of Steve Waites, proprietor of Belle House Restaurant & Deli-Traiteur, Bridge Street, Pershore, WR10 1AJ. www.belle-house.co.uk
lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Summer 2019
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RECIPES
Belle House Fennel jam
Try this summer relish for fish dishes, which can also be served as a starter with bread, from Steve Waites of Belle House
Serves 8 – 10 for a starter INGREDIENTS
6 Bulbs of Fennel 50g Butter 100g Sugar Lemon Zest 4 Star anise
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METHOD
• Shred the fennel finely. Pre-heat a suitable pan and once it is hot add the butter, lemon zest, star anise and the fennel. • Cook until soft then add sugar and cook until a jam like consistency is achieved. • Can be kept in the fridge for up to a month in an air tight container.
RECIPES Recipes courtesy of Steve Waites, proprietor of Belle House Restaurant & Deli-Traiteur, Bridge Street, Pershore, WR10 1AJ. www.belle-house.co.uk
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Hard andscaping z Garden Ma eo ers z Garden learance z Ground Maintenance Fencing Turfing ec ing atios loc a ing Ground or s inc. e elling & Terracing Tree Felling Ground Maintenance Soil & Hardcore emo al ogs & Top Soil For Sale sta lished
years. For further information or a free uotation Call imon ose
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PRIZE DRAW
Win one of five family tickets to the Living History Show at Spetchley Park Gardens 10th-11th August History comes to life A fascinating family day out with up to 1,000 re-enactors living in encampments spanning major periods from the Ancient Greeks through to Vikings, Medieval, English Civil War, Napoleonic Wars, American Civil War and the two World Wars. Enjoy battles and displays throughout the days, a large trader’s area, refreshments and even a pre-fab 1940’s pub. Adults £8, children (5-16 years) £3, under 5’s FREE, family (2A & 2C) £20. www.worcesterreenactors.uk/m5/
HOW TO ENTER It’s easy! Just visit lifeinthevillage.co.uk by Sunday 28th July 2019 and enter your details as requested.
*Terms & Conditions: One entry per household. UK residents only. Prize draw closes on 28/7/19 and the winner/s will be notified by email by 31/7/19. Judges’ decision is final. Prize not redeemable for cash. No correspondence will be entered into.
lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Summer 2019
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MONEY SAVING VOUCHERS 10% OFF YOUR INITIAL CONSULTATION WITH HANNAH CORK*
£10 OFF ANY BEAUTY OR HOLISTIC TREATMENT FOR NEW CLIENTS
*New patients only until 30/9/19. Please present voucher. T’s & C’s apply. 01386 725 461 The Acupuncture Clinic, Park Farm Cottage, Kemerton, Tewkesbury GL20 7HZ
For new customers of Beauty Beyond until 30/9/19. Please present voucher at reception. Offers cannot be combined. T’s & C’s apply. The Coach House, 2a Bull Lane, Winchcombe GL54 5HY. 01242 604 017 www.beautybeyondwinchcombe.co.uk
BACK ON TRACK CHIROPRACTIC
BEAUTY BEYOND
20% OFF YOUR BILL ON YOUR FIRST VISIT
SENSATIONAL SANDSTONE FROM £14.00m2 +VAT
20% off your bill on your first visit until 30/9/19. Call 07568 170794 www.beckfordsilk.co.uk Beckford Silk, Ashton Rd, Beckford GL20 7AU
Offer valid until 30/9/19. 01242 620 000 cotswoldvalesupplies@hotmail.co.uk www.cotswoldvalesupplies.co.uk
THE COURTYARD CAFÉ
COTSWOLD & VALE SUPPLIES
15% OFF SPA DAY PACKAGES AT HATHERLEY MANOR
20% OFF SPA TREATMENTS
WITH CODE LVSPA15 Excludes membership. Ends 30/9/19. Book on O1452 733 299 spa@hatherleymanor.com www.hatherley.manor.com
HATHERLEY MANOR HOTEL & SPA
RICHMOND WOOD NORTON
FREE TEA, COFFEE AND REFRESHMENTS*
FREE GARDEN DESIGN AND GIFT ON COMPLETION OF YOUR NEW GARDEN*
With every village tour. To book a tour please call our village advisors
*On completion of construction phase when design is booked by 30/9/19. T’s & C’s apply.
01386 896292 www.richmond-villages.com/woodnorton
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RUNE LANDSCAPE DESIGN
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With a few lessons you can learn the tunes you love. Offer ends 30/9/19. Call Simon Probert on 07720 400215 www.piano-lessons.net
SIMON PROBERT
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When you book before 30/9/19 at our new Wellness Spa exclusively for Over 50s Call 01386 896292 www.richmond-villages.com/woodnorton
www.runelandscapedesign.co.uk
*Booked by 30/8/19. Call 0844 811 0050, calls cost 7ppm plus network extras, or visit malvernautumn.co.uk and quote village.
MALVERN AUTUMN SHOW
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Summer 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk
Charcoal, Gas and Portable Weber BBQs • Alexander Rose garden furniture • • Superb annuals & perennials • • Fertilisers & weed control • • No-be end veg tru ugs • • Ho omewares •
4 for £10 on 1 litre perennials
Open Mon-Sat 9-5.30 & Sun 10-4. Open Bank Holidays. Call us on 01684 293103 | Visit www.tewkesburygardencentre.com Tewkesbury Garden Centre, Worcester Rd, Mythe, Tewkesbury GL20 6EB. Ample free parking