Life in the Village - Cotswold Edge - Autumn 2015 by Lisa Lambon

Life in the

lifeinthevillage.co.uk

Autumn 2015 FREE

COTSWOLD EDGE

Your Health

Win!

THE PRECIOUS GIFT OF LIFE

A Champagne Package or One of Two Pairs of Tickets To ‘The Mousetrap’ in the West End

Bredon Hill

BIKEAWAY

And

Home Decorating

One of Ten Pairs of Tickets for The Festive Gift Fair at the NEC

TRANSFORM YOUR LIVING SPACE

And

Two Family Tickets to Cinderella at The Roses

Helping

HEDGEHOGS HO MES



G AR DE NS



FOOD  D R INK



T R AVEL



LE IS URE

£30 Gift Card to The Regal Cinema, Evesham for the first 20 new instructions ‘For sale’ or ‘To Let’ from 1st Oct to 30th Nov 2015

THE TORS, GREENHILL, EVESHAM A detached family home set in a sought after area of Evesham offering extensive accommodation, this house provides an array of character features sympathetically combined with modern refurbishment. There are five bedrooms with the master offering a dressing area and en suite bathroom with walk in shower, two further en suite bedrooms and a bathroom. There is a living room, sitting room, study and family room. A stunning open plan kitchen/ dining room with a utility/cloakroom. Delightful gardens, a brick paved parking area, detached office and a detached double garage with a one bedroom annexe apartment above.

£795,000 HONEYBOURNE COTTAGE, NORTON Set in a pleasant rural location ‘Honeybourne Cottage’ is a stunning example of a modern home with character features. The well appointed accommodation is presented in excellent order and enjoys under floor heating to the ground floor, Oak panel internal doors and a stylish polished Marble tiled floor in several rooms. The accommodation offers a spacious reception hall, study, cloakroom, kitchen breakfast room, utility, living room, separate dining room, four bedrooms with an en suite to the master and a stunning modern bathroom. Outside provides off road parking, a detached double garage and pleasant gardens.

£495,000 CEDRY, LENCHWICK Enjoying a pleasant position with rural views from the rear, this substantial ‘timber framed’ bungalow has much to offer. There are three double bedrooms, with an open plan living/ dining room, a kitchen, cloakroom, utility room, garden room and a bathroom with a separate WC. Outside there are pleasing established gardens found to the front and rear along with off road parking for a number of vehicles and a garage. The property is available with no onward chain and viewing is advised by the agent to appreciate the position and potential.

£295,000

Call us on 01386 761241 7 Merstow Green, Evesham, WR11 4BD enquiries@gpandjames.co.uk www.gpandjames.co.uk

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lifeinthevillage.co.uk

ď Ź

@LisaLambon

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01684 773135

lifeinthevillage.co.uk

ď Ź

@LisaLambon

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End of Season

CLEARANCE

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Stunning Sandstone & so much more... end 30/11/15 or Compare Our Prices Offers while stocks last Sensational Sandstone Autumn Paving Offers Raj blend, Autumn & Light Grey from £13.25 m2 + VAT Price is on full packs only collected from our yard. Camel Collected £14.95 m2 + VAT Delivered £17.00 m2 + VAT Fossil Mint Collected £16.50 m2 + VAT Delivered £17.50 m2 + VAT

Sawn 6 Sides Honed Mint Delivered £30.00m2 + VAT mixed size patio packs Yellow Limestone Collected £19.00 m2 + VAT Delivered £21.00 m2 + VAT Tumbled Yellow Limestone Collected £24.00 m2 + VAT Delivered £26.50 m2 + VAT Garden Sleepers Softwood 8'x8"x4"£14 +vat New Oak 8'x8"x4"£20 +vat Prices apply to full packs only

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Winners 2014 Veterinary Practice Front-Of-House Awards for our new Bishop’s Cleeve Clinic!

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Contents Competitions & Vouchers 13 Competition with The Mousetrap 29 Competition with The Roses 33 Competition with The Festive Gift Fair 63 Your Money Saving Vouchers

Local Life 11 Welcome 21 Treasure Trove with Lottie & Friends 23 Love Your Home with Tracy Harper

WIN!

Enter our three competitions online

43 Trusted By Generation: TB Solicitors 45 Your Travel Solution: MG Executive Travel 46 The Precious Gift of Life 49 Expansion at Carsmetix 49 Focus on CCTV with Buzz Electrical 54 Healing Reading 57 Transform Your Bathroom with Bps 58 Bredon Hill Bikeaway with Wychavon 62 Kemerton Lake Nature Reserve 65 Index

Regulars 14 Wildlife: Helping Hedgehogs with WWT 25 Behind The Scenes at The Roses 27 Festive Season at Coughton Court 30 Policing South Worcestershire 34 Quality with Attitude with L&L 37 Pet Talk with Folly Gardens Vets 39 Expansion at Beauty Beyond 41 Property Talk with Gusterson Palmer James 50 Artsmark with Dr. Tony Evans 60 Butternut Squash Risotto with Belle House Front cover image: ÂŠ www.Shutterstock.com/stockcreations This page, clockwise from the top; Hedgehog courtesy of Tom Marshall via WWT, Sublime Spirit Collection courtesy of Aveda, Bredon Hill Bikeaway courtesy of Angela Tidmarsh, Vet Nurse Ali Avery from Folly Gardens.

Would you like to get paid to keep fit?

We are looking for mature adult distributors to join our growing team on a self-employed basis. 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  Can drive and have their own car*

Areas currently available: Throckmorton near Pershore Beckford, Little Beckford, Alderton, Dumbleton, Wormington, Laverton, Buckland & Little Buckland, Stanton and Snowshill between Tewkesbury and Broadway We also hold a waiting list for other villages *If driving, you will need business insurance which is free from many insurers Please contact Lisa on

01684 773135

e-mail: lisa@lifeinthevillage.co.uk

@LisaLambon

www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk

Editor Lisa Lambon

01684 773135

lisa@lifeinthevillage.co.uk lifeinthevillage.co.uk Jasmine House Bredon’s Norton Glos GL20 7EZ

Published five times a year, Life in the Village - Cotswold Edge has a print run of 3,500 copies which are delivered free to homes in the following villages: Dumbleton, Sedgeberrow, Ashton under Hill, Hinton on The Green, Badsey, Wickhamford, Aldington, Bretforton, Stanton, Wormington, Buckland, Little Buckland, Laverton, Snowshill and relevant retail outlets around Evesham and Broadway. It is one of a group of four publications including Life in the Village - Bredon, Avon & Severn, and Folly View. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this magazine is accurate, neither the publisher nor its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. Opinions expressed by contributors or advertisers are not necessarily those of the publisher. Whilst reasonable care is taken to ensure the veracity of information published, Life in the Village does not officially endorse any advertising material within this magazine. The content of each advert is the sole responsibility of each advertiser. Artwork is accepted on the strict understanding that there are no copyright issues. No part of this publication may be produced, stored in any retrieval system, or transmitted in any form electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without our prior written publisher. We reserve the right to refuse advertising.

Hello... …and welcome to our autumn issue. Have you ever noticed how a new season arrives with a symbol from Nature? Never mind what the calendar or the Met. Office says, it’s the curling of a leaf, a freshness in the air or some changed quality to the light which signals that the world has moved on. I like to shape each new season by setting aside blocks of time with people I love, then booking events that will make it memorable. If you need inspiration, check out our three competitions. In each instance, our generous sponsors are giving away fantastic prizes; tickets to The Mousetrap in London, The 20th Festive Gift Fair at the NEC and Cinderella at The Roses. It only takes a minute to enter online so why not test your luck? As always, we also share useful contacts, expert advice and local stories. There is a new set of money saving offers and if you visit us online at www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk you can download a Voucher Pack with offers from our four magazines. Enjoy the season. Until next time...

Lisa

Life in the

Editor Lisa Lambon

@LisaLambon

COTSWOLD EDGE 11

CAST IN GLOUCESTER, 1935 USED AS A DOORSTOP, 1970 INSURED WITH NFU MUTUAL, 2015 T oappre c iat ew h atit ’s t rul yw o rt ht al kt oo ur h o meinsuranc ee xpe rt s. Wec an c o met oyo ur h o met oe nsureyo u’repro pe rl yc o v e re d. NF UM ut ualBe spo k eh o meinsuranc e , f o rc l ie nt sw it hc o nt e nt sw o rt h£1 0 0 , 0 0 0o r mo re . T oarrangean NF UM ut ualBe spo k eh o meinsuranc ec o nsul t at io n, c al lyo ur l o c alNF UM ut ualE v e sh am branc ho n0 1 386 832 5 4 1 Our agents are appointed representatives for general insurance products and introducer appointed representatives for life, pensions and investments of NFU Mutual. Our staff introduce to NFU Mutual for life, pensions and investments. NFU Mutual is The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited (No. 111982). Registered in England. Registered Office: Tiddington Road, Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire CV37 7BJ. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and by the Prudential Regulation Authority. A member of the Association of British Insurers. For security and training purposes, telephone calls may be recorded and monitored.

Stunning Wedding Venue with Spectacular Gardens

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WIN A CHAMPAGNE PACKAGE TO AGATHA CHRISTIE’S ‘THE MOUSETRAP’ IN LONDON’S WEST END Plus Two Runner Up Prizes of a Pair of Tickets worth £90 It’s simple; just visit www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk and enter your details as requested by Friday 30th October. THE WORLD’S LONGEST RUNNING STAGE SHOW

St. Martin’s Theatre, London is offering three fantastic prizes to see the world’s longest running stage production. Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap has kept audiences guessing for six decades. Now in its 63rd incredible year, this record-breaking production continues to attract audiences from every corner of the globe. In her own inimitable style, Dame Agatha Christie has created an atmosphere of shuddering suspense and a brilliantly intricate plot where murder lurks around every corner……… Be part of history and see this truly entertaining classic. Tickets for shows until 19th December 2015 are priced from £17.50 £45.00. For full details please visit www.the-mousetrap.co.uk or call the Box Office on 08444 991515. First Prize: A champagne package to the value of £151.00 comprising a pair of tickets (£90), a bottle of Champagne (£47), a programme (£4) and a souvenir brochure (£10). Two Runner Up Prizes: A pair of tickets worth £90. Please note: St. Martin’s Theatre is in West Street, London WC2. The prize does not include travel nor a hotel. The prize is only applicable Monday-Thursday evenings, and for the matinee on Tuesdays, but NOT on a Bank Holiday. It can be taken on any applicable date to be agreed via letter with the promoter of St. Martin’s Theatre but must be used within three months.

HOW TO ENTER

Visit www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk and enter your details as requested by Friday 30th October. The winners will be notified by Friday 6th November and a letter of confirmation posted out. Terms & Conditions: One entry per household. Prize not redeemable for cash. Prizes, as described above, are valid for three months. Judges decision is final. No correspondence will be entered into. By entering this competition you agree to be contacted by Life in the Village and the Promoter. Your information will not be shared with any third party. You can unsubscribe at any time by emailing unsubscribe@lifeinthevillage.co.uk.

How to Help

Hedgehogs The once common hedgehog is now under threat from development and habitat loss. Wendy Carter of Worcestershire Wildlife Trust suggests what you can do to help.

ne of the first words I learnt not to say was hedgehog. The strange spiky creatures that would curl into a ball once they heard my (rather loud) footsteps were hodgehegs, heghodges and everything in between. I can’t remember a time when they haven’t been around in good number – until recently.

hedgehogs being persecuted in Worcestershire and elsewhere because they were – falsely – accused of sucking milk from cows. In Beckford, for example, John Dodge (reporting in a 2005 issue of Worcestershire Record) discovered that 4d per head was paid for a total of 168 hedgehogs between 1695 and 1711. Today’s decline, however, is more of unwitting neglect than knowing slaughter. In days gone by, hedgehogs relied on wide, mature hedgerows A Species in Decline but as agricultural practices I miss seeing squished hedgehogs changed and hedges were ripped on our roads. Of course, that’s not out, hedgehogs began to forage in what I mean - I just want to know our gardens. As we’ve made our that healthy hedgehogs are running lives tidier, developed more land, riot. But the fact that we don’t see and got used to zipping around the as many in our lanes is a stark countryside in our faster cars, indication of their decline. In the hedgehogs have suffered. But it’s 1950s, estimates suggested there not too late - we can all help. were more than 35 million hedgehogs in the UK; today, fewer The Gardener’s Friend than 1 million. In just the last 10 Combined, our gardens provide a years, hedgehog numbers have space for wildlife larger than all fallen by 30%; they are our National Nature Reserves, so disappearing from our countryside by gardening in a wildlife-friendly as fast as tigers are worldwide. way, we can help our spiny There are historic records of companions to find a home and

move safely between habitats, find mates and food. Bushes and hedges provide the perfect daytime getaway, and insect-rich lawns and flowerbeds make excellent feeding grounds at dusk. Keeping your garden diverse with a wide variety of habitats means your patch will naturally produce plenty of hedgehog food. Hedgehogs hoover up over 100 invertebrates, such as snails, slugs and worms every night, so attract them to your garden and there will be no need to use poisonous slug pellets ever again. Hedgehogs have poor eyesight but are quite curious, meaning they fall into holes and get stuck, so it’s a good idea to cover up any open drains and gullies. If you have a pond, make sure you provide an access point so that hedgehogs can climb back out - this can be achieved by using a ramp or placing some stones at one end. Nature’s Dinner Plate Mulching beds with garden compost will encourage earthworms, woodlice and beetles as it begins to rot down whilst

Photo: Hedgehog courtesy of Tom Marshall

wood piles will encourage a rich feast of earwigs, centipedes and woodlice. Allow areas of your grass to grow a little wild and leave some leaf litter lying on the ground as both are important homes for hoggie’s prey including ground beetles and leatherjackets. Set up a Feeding Station If you have a hedgehog in the garden, you can help it out by putting down a little cat food and fresh water. To attract hedgehogs, set up a simple feeding station by cutting a clear hole in a plastic storage box and weighing down the lid with bricks: this will stop cats and foxes taking the food. If you are worried about also attracting rats, don't put out grain-based foods on the floor and take in any excess food when your hedgehog has been for a visit, sometimes as early as dusk.

Photo courtesy of Tom Marshall

Encourage Hibernation Log and leaf piles and wilderness areas make great places for hedgehogs to nest and hibernate. Fallen leaves are perfect nesting material, so instead of clearing them all away, try to pile these in quiet, undisturbed corners of your garden to provide a safe area for snoozing and breeding. I’ve put a purpose built hedgehog-house (pictured right) under a conifer in my garden to provide shelter from the rain and a safe place for a hedgehog to retreat to. But that’s just part of the story; my garden has access to a field so I know that ‘my’ hedgehog can forage in the wider landscape to its heart’s content. Make a Hedgehog Highway Hedgehogs can travel one to two miles each night, over home ranges between 10-20 hectares, in search for food. This means

FAST FACTS Common name Hedgehog Latin name Erinaceus europaeus Category Mammals Statistics. Length: 25cm Weight: up to 2kg Average lifespan: 2-3 years Diet All kinds of invertebrates, amphibians, birds eggs and anything else they can catch; they particularly like big, crunchy beetles, earthworms and slugs, making them a gardener's best friend. Conservation status Classified as a Priority Species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

they can cross entire housing estates or villages but they need a connected landscape â&#x20AC;&#x201C; urban or rural - in which to survive. With no connectivity, hedgehogs struggle so have a chat to your neighbours and cut a 13cm2 (5in2) hole in your fence or dig a channel beneath garden boundaries to link your gardens and enable them to access the dinner-plate that is waiting there. You can download advice about how to do this and record your hedgehog hole at hedgehogstreet.org. Keep an eye out for neighbours doing work on their gardens, or using fencing contractors - this is the perfect opportunity to get a hedgehog hole put in and influence connectivity.

Photos; Above: Hedgehog at night courtesy of Richard Bowler. Top Right: Hedgehog eating cat food & Middle Right: Underweight hedgehog being looked after both courtesy of Gillian Day. Bottom: Hedgehog home courtesy of Wendy Carter.

Take Care With Bonfires Every year numbers of hedgehogs die or suffer injuries due to bonfire piles not being not checked before being lit. To help prevent hedgehogs and other wildlife from suffering, the British Hedgehog Preservation Society advise ideally not building your bonfire until the day it is going to be lit - this will reduce the chances of hedgehogs taking up 17

Photo here and opposite courtesy of Tom Marshall

Hedgehogs out in daylight hours are invariably unwell but may be foraging so please seek advice if you find one.

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Sick and Injured Hedgehogs If you’re concerned about underweight hedgehogs or hedgehogs active in winter, please contact an expert for advice before intervening. Hedgehogs can and do wake up in winter to forage for food (just provide cat/dog food and water if you want to help) but if you see them out in the day or

they don’t look well, call one of the several hedgehog rescue centres in Worcestershire (Vale Wildlife Rescue at Beckford is our closest www.valewildlife.org.uk). Find Out More Please visit our website www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/ hedgehogs for more hints and tips on helping hedgehogs; we’d love it if you could use the form on there to let us know about hedgehogs that you’ve seen. You can also find further information on the British Hedgehog Society website at www.britishhedgehogs.org.uk

“

Hedgehogs like big, crunchy beetles, earthworms and slugs, making them a gardener's best friend.

“

residence for hibernation. Even if this is unrealistic for communal bonfires, always make sure your bonfire is built on clear ground (not on top of leaf litter) and please check it very carefully before igniting!

including booklet & local factsheet if you join by 30/11/15. £32 per year for two adults at the same address. Quote ‘Life in the Village’

For hints & tips on how to help hedgehogs visit www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/hedgehogs To find out more about local wildlife, becoming a member, volunteering or our programme of events call 01905 754919 or visit www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk @WorcsWT

worcestershirewildlifetrust 19

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by designers such as Ian Sanderson, Ian Mankin and James Hare, as well as locally crafted poles and accessories in our lovely Fladbury studio. You are welcome to come and browse or we offer a free one hour consultation in your home. If you are decorating your home but Working with you, we will get to are unsure where to start, browsing know your style, assess your websites and magazines is a good windows, and help you create a way to find a style that you are room that you will love. consistently drawn to. Collect a We can also offer advice on the dozen pages you like and soon, you details which help achieve your will begin to understand whether desired look. For example, headings you prefer patterns, stripes, checks (and fittings such as tracks or poles) or a plainer, more neutral look. affect how curtains hang. A tailored, Decorating a room from scratch is pinch pleat heading will create a easy because you can find a scheme formal look in a period dining room you love and replicate it. However, whereas a softer, fuller, gathered most people want to work with item tape would suit a more relaxed they already own such as a sofa, country style kitchen. Every home is painting or rug. Finding a fabric that individual and our personal will complement that piece means approach reflects this - we want taking careful account of colour, every customer to be thrilled. style, pattern and texture. If you To find out more please pop into need help or inspiration we have an our studio or call on 01386 861774 extensive library of beautiful fabrics to book your free consultation.

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Rehearsals...

Costumes...

Opening night!

Behind The Scenes...

With Caroline Lawrence from The Roses in Tewkesbury It’s that time of year when, like it or not, Christmas begins to seep into our consciousness. The leaves start to change colour, festive displays begin appearing in shops, and businesses of all shapes and sizes begin the tough task of vying for our custom. For theatres, Christmas is the busiest time of year, with thousands upon thousands of seats to fill at our respective pantomimes and Christmas shows. I’m often met with surprise when I tell people in March that I’m working on pantomime, but in truth it is a year round undertaking. The life cycle of a pantomime is continuous from one to the next. We begin work on the following year’s show before the current one is even closed. Once the title is decided on, comes the task of beginning to assemble the

production team. This involves appointing a scriptwriter and director, and planning the schedule and pricing structure. This is all in place by the end of January. Next comes the task of putting the panto on sale, and marketing to the very early bookers such as schools and groups who like to secure their places early so they don’t miss out. In order to do this effectively, artwork must be created and marketing materials produced. Over the summer months, we cast our pantomime. This involves rounds of auditions in London with actors coming from far and wide to try to win a part. At the same time, other roles such as the technical team (usually around 10 people, from sound engineers to stage hands), the wardrobe team and the deputy stage manager are recruited. Despite this early planning, it isn’t until the middle of November that everybody meets each other, when the whole company – including the

Reopening 24th September! Celebrate with 3 shows for £33. See website for details.

year round staff of the theatre all come together for the first read through of the script. Then follows an intense rehearsal process lasting 16 days before opening night what’s achieved in that time is incredible. Pantomime is a rollercoaster of excitement; an exhilarating whirlwind of colour, music, friendship and laughter. And that’s just behind the scenes... All the hard work is worth it to see family after family leave with huge smiles on their faces, eager to return next year. As I approach my ninth pantomime at The Roses, I can no longer imagine Christmas without it – and I wouldn’t want to! Cinderella runs at The Roses from 28 November to 2 January. See www.rosestheatre.org or our season brochure for full details.

Contact The Roses’ Box Office on 01684 295074 or visit www.rosestheatre.org 25

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Enjoy a winter day out at one of Warwickshire’s most beautiful family homes

Get intO the festive spirit at COuGhtOn COurt! There’s traditional fun for all the family at Coughton Court this winter. With Marketing and Events Officer Abi Cole.

et your Christmas off to a fantastic start by exploring Coughton Court this winter when we open for nine days of merry making. Weekdays are the best time to visit as timings are more relaxed. The house will be decorated for a traditional family Christmas complete with foliage, handmade decorations, a magnificent Christmas tree plus local school children and choirs singing carols by the fire. Out in the stableyard the Coach House shop will stock a good range of seasonal goods. Locally sourced Christmas lunches, mulled wine and homemade mince pies will be available in the cafe. New for this Christmas is Woolly Woods - a very special children’s woodland trail through our lovely Bluebell Wood. The team here has been busy crafting

Dates for your Diary a variety of woodland friends, like the mouse above, who will be placed in trees and hiding holes, to accompany you on your walk. It’s a big job, however, and we need lots more lifelike woolly animals from foxes and badgers to rabbits to birds. If you knit or crochet, could you help us by making a donation please? Our Christmas Market will take place on the weekends of 28/29 November and 5/6 December when festive stalls will be selling seasonal food, drink and gifts; a relaxing way to do your shopping. Bring the little ones to meet Father Christmas who will be receiving visitors in his winter sitting room on both weekends, dressed in traditional green robes.

For opening hours please call 01789 400777 or visit: www.nationaltr ust.org.uk/coughtoncour t www.facebook.com/CoughtonCourt

Family Fun Days - Hallowe’en Sat 24 Oct - Sun 1 Nov 11am –3.30pm. Spooky outdoor trail with take-home activities. £2.50 per trail. Fawkes Feast Sat 7 Nov 6pm–11pm Exclusive black tie event with a champagne reception & private tour of the house. A seven course evening meal served in the Throckmorton family dining room with an after dinner speaker. £145pp. Booking essential; call 01789 400777 option 2 Winter Festival Sat 28 Nov– Sun 6 Dec Festive shopping, traditional decorations, Christmas lunch & treats, plus at weekends a Christmas Market in the stableyard. NB The property gets very busy at the weekends so we run a first come first served timed ticket system for the house; during busy periods tickets may run out. To enjoy the house at its best we recommend you visit on a weekday. For full details, & to advance book timed tickets for the house at weekends, please visit our website. Wassail Sat 12 & Sun 13 Dec, 4.30pm & 7.30pm. Stories & carols from Birmingham’s Crescent Theatre, mulled wine, log fire & and mince pies . Adult £27, Child £11 Booking is essential; call 0844 249 1895.

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Tewkesbury

Win!

A Family Ticket To

Sat 28 Nov - Sat 2 Jan

Written & directed by Ben Crocker, Director of Beauty And The Beast 2014

At The Roses

Written & directed by Ben Crocker, Director of Beauty And The Beast 2014 Sponsored by Peter Ball & Co

The Roses in Tewkesbury is offering two lucky readers the chance to have a ball this Christmas, by giving away a family ticket (2 adults + 2 children) to each winner. The Roses’ annual pantomime has a solid reputation for being one of the best around, and this year’s tale of the down-on-herluck Cinderella promises to reach even more dizzying heights of success. Produced by the same team that brought Beauty And The Beast (2014) and Jack And The Beanstalk (2013), this year’s enchanting panto will transport you to a magical world of music, mayhem and unadulterated fun.

How To Enter To enter, visit www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk and complete the details on the entry form. Alternatively, send a postcard to Cinderella Competition, The Roses, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, Glos, GL20 5NX. You must include your name, address and telephone number. Closing date Fri 20 Nov. Winners will be notified by Tues 24 Nov and offered a choice of performances. Terms and Conditions Subject to availability. One entry per household. By entering this competition you agree to be contacted by Life in the Village and The Roses in the future. You can unsubscribe at any time by sending an email to unsubscribe@lifeinthevillage.co.uk and stating the competition you entered.

POLICING

South Worcestershire

With Policing Commander for South Worcestershire, Superintendent Kevin Purcell.

e move from summer (yes, we did really have one!) into autumn. The plum season changes into the apple season, with the days getting shorter and the nights getting longer. In policing terms we see that some burglars will take advantage of this. We advise people who will be arriving home after dark to think about how they could protect their property. Lights on timers are a good idea. And do you have neighbours who you can trust to look after your home and keep an eye out for suspicious people or vehicles? Are you involved with Neighbourhood Watch, a body of local volunteers who work closely with our Safer Neighbourhood Teams? They have a wealth of crime prevention experience and if they don’t know the answer to an issue, they will find out. With the colder weather approaching, you may be about to stock up on fuel and diesel oil for heating. The theft of oil continues to be a problem and can increase at this time of the year so be proactive in taking precautions to protect your fuel tanks. If you have a control switch – switch it off when not 30

in use, invest in a good quality lock (a close shackle padlock is the best) and think about security lights around the tank. CCTV and clever planting can make a difference too - it all makes it that little bit harder to steal. The Rugby World Cup starts in October. I am sure a lot of people, including us, will be celebrating (or drowning our sorrows). The majority of people drink sensibly. However it’s a time to put away the car keys, nominate a driver (and treat them to non alcoholic drinks!) then enjoy yourselves. In the lead up to winter, it’s time to check that our vehicles are roadworthy and ready for the bad weather. Are the tyre depths legal and appropriate for the conditions, do the brakes need looking at? The theme for National Road Safety week (coordinated by Brake) in November is ‘drive less, live more,’ a reminder that the roads are for everyone, not just drivers. Those of us who walk, run and cycle share the roads and we want everyone, to coin a phrase, to ‘be seen and be safe.’ Fireworks can be great fun for some people, but not for all. Parents, please be aware of what your children are doing and

ensure they are not causing any issues for people. There will be many fireworks events attended by many people, which brings me back to home security…. Look after yourselves and look after your property.

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 easy postcode finder to keep up with news relevant to you www.westmercia.police.uk

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monarchhomeimprovements-evesham.co.uk 31

LET A VALE BATHROOM WELCOME YOU HOME  Large display of traditional and contemporary bathroom suites  Long term relationships with reliable suppliers including Lakes, Claygate, Ideal Standard, Heritage and Novellini  Expert design and installation service including building and electrical services  Styles to suit all tastes and budgets  Designer radiators & towel rails  Great range of accessories from Miller, Samuel Heath and Roper Rhodes

Visit our showroom at the rear of Pershore High Street or call us on 01386 556585 and discover our fabulous range of traditional and contemporary bathrooms. Trading for over 20 years, we have acquired significant expertise in design & installation. Our team is fully qualified for an expert fitting, guaranteed. Vale Heating & Plumbing

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WIN 1 OF 10 PAIRS OF TICKETS FOR THE FESTIVE GIFT FAIR AT THE NEC It’s easy! Just visit www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk by Friday 23rd October and enter the details requested. ENJOY FESTIVE SHOPPING AND A FUN DAY OUT!

Visit 300 exhibitors, including Gloucestershire based British Cow Artist Sam Morris, at the 20th Festive Gift Fair which runs from Thursday 12th to Sunday 15th November, 9.30am-5pm daily. Each pair of tickets is valid on any day of the show. With 325 stalls from all over the country overflowing with cracking gift ideas, it’s your chance to buy hundreds of unique, affordable Christmas gifts, home decorations, delicious food and trendy tipples that you won't find on the High Street. This year there is more to see, try, touch, taste, buy and enjoy than ever before and the Fair is celebrating its 20th anniversary with a daily programme of FREE live musical entertainment. For full details please visit www.festivegiftfair.co.uk. Advance Adult tickets, priced from £8.50, are available from The Ticket Factory on 0844 581 0808/0809 or online at www.theticketfactory.com (+£2.50 fee).

HOW TO ENTER

Visit www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk and enter your details as requested by Friday 23rd October 2015. Terms & Conditions: One entry per household. Competition closes on 23rd October 2015. A pair of tickets, valid for any day of the Fair, will be posted first class to the ten winners by 30th October. 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.

FESTIVE GIFTS : CARDS : HOME DECORATIONS & MUCH MORE

For more details please visit

www.festivegiftfair.co.uk 33

Quality with Attitude Expert local advice on all aspects of double glazing

L&L’s record of customer satisfaction is the result of careful, long term growth and a team effort explains Director, John Lannen. 34

ver three decades ago, L & L Installations began as a shared commitment, by myself and my brother David, to provide the best quality double glazing products and services locally at excellent value. Our business model was founded on three ideas; respect for every customer, the importance of doing each job properly, and the desire to provide a long term guarantee on

every product. In those early days, when our ‘showroom’ was a converted van in Tewkesbury market, we did everything ourselves; surveying homes, selling windows, making and fitting them, servicing and performing repairs. Over time, we developed our own ways of working, with goals, methods and standards which were unique, and introduced our ten year guarantee.

Company Promotion

As demand for our services grew, we were extremely cautious about employing anyone because we felt that if we made a promise to a customer we had to be able to fulfil it. It was our name at stake. Today, L & L consists of a team of 30 and we have accrued hundreds of letters, some of which are displayed in our showroom and online, which tell us how much our customers appreciate the care with which we approach their home. The comment that is most often made is how polite, efficient, clean and tidy our people are. We are also a Which? Trusted Trader. Our team has been put together with enormous care; each member has been hand picked for their ability, but most of all their attitude. Roughly a third of us are family members and those that aren’t are treated as if they belong. We’re proud that some of the people we employed at the beginning remain with us; our Surveyor has been here 30 years and our Installation Manager was taken on over 25 years ago.

We have hundreds of thank you letters from customers showroom, surveys, installation, servicing and repairs. Our strength now is that we have specialists playing in every position, many skilled across several departments. We have paid careful attention to training. All our installation team are trained craftsmen with multiple skills in joinery, bricklaying and plastering, qualified to at least NVQ Level 2. Any new employees go out under supervision to learn the ropes before being given sole responsibility for complying with our standards. We’re all human so we don’t pretend to be perfect all the time but our ten year guarantee and robust after sales service means that we can quickly resolve any issues that do arise. Finally, we consider our happy customers to be part of our team. So many repeat buy or recommend us that they too have become central to our success. If you like the sound of our ethos please visit our Tewkesbury showroom at Red Lane, alongside the river. Our friendly team are available Monday to Friday 8.30am-5pm, late night Thursday until 7pm, and Saturday 9am-1pm. We offer complimentary parking and refreshments, and promise no high pressure sales.

Our installation team are all trained craftsmen with multiple skills As our business grew, we set up a department for every function; manufacturing, reception,

Created for You! Wide range of colours, materials and styles available across our entire range

The Natural Choice For:       

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Like to be Included?

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20% off

Royal Canin Dental Diet Dog & Cat Food Ends 30/11/15

Folly Gardens

Pet Talk

Introducing new Nurse Dental Clinics

Clinical Nurse Lead Ali Avery, based at Walton Cardiff clinic & Inset: Nurse Kelly Smart, based at Bishop’s Cleeve

raditional wisdom, accepted by generations of pet owners, holds that bad teeth and fetid breath is an unavoidable side effect of the ageing process in cats and dogs. Thankfully, advances in animal dentistry have now proved that, with proper preventative care, this is no longer true. As part of our commitment to pro-active medicine, Folly Gardens now offers free Dental Health Nurse Clinics to any owner who would appreciate up to date advice. Until recently, most pet dentistry consisted of little more than the occasional ‘dental.’ This means surgery, conducted under a general anaesthetic, during which a vet assesses the teeth then performs a scale and polish to remove the build up of calculus that is linked to gum disease. Under close scrutiny, other issues will sometimes become apparent so extractions may also be required. Although surgery will remain appropriate in some cases, we now know that a pro-active package of care is less risky, less costly and highly Company Promotion

Expert advice from Clinical Nurse Lead, Registered Veterinary Nurse Ali Avery. effective. The team here regularly conducts reviews of best practice to ensure that the advice and treatments we offer are the most appropriate for your pet, based on clinical data. Doggie dentures are now an option, but not one most owners will want to face, so we aim to put together simple, practical and affordable care packages that give the best chance of health, long term. Gum disease can arise from genetic tendencies, habits like chewing stones and dietary issues; a kibble based diet will limit the development of tartar so fights bad breath and gum disease. Certain toothpastes and chews, plus routine check ups, are also clinically proven to be effective. To mark the launch of new dental health clinics where we give free advice and demonstrate the correct brushing technique, we are offering 20% off Royal Canin Dental Diet food until 30th November 2015. To find out more, please call to book an appointment on 01684 292244 or 01242 679880.

Ali

All Consultations By Appointment Walton Cardiff & Bishop’s Cleeve Monday - Friday 8.00 - 6.30 Saturday 8.30 - 12.30 FREE Nurse Clinics & Pet Advice

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01684 292244

Folly Gardens House 2 Church Road Bishop’s Cleeve GL52 8LR

01242 679880

Folly Gardens Vets info@follygardens.com

www.follygardens.com 37

YOUR LOCAL RURAL INDEPENDENT RETAILER Tel: 01386 831000

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Company Promotion

WINCHCOMBE AWARD WINNING LUXURY SALON

Demand for the luxury beauty therapies provided by Beauty Beyond means a continuing programme of expansion explains Kirsti Attwood. TWO NEW THERAPISTS

Thanks to fantastic local support Beauty Beyond is thrilled to introduce two new therapists, Zuzanna and Ellie. Both come highly recommended and are superbly qualified across the board. Zuzanna has a particular interest in massage (especially hot stone) and facials whilst Ellie loves facials and nail care. Please

Why Choose Us?     

NEW Open 7 days a week NEW! 4 nights until 9pm 6 beauty therapists 8 beauty therapy rooms Wide range of beauty and holistic therapies  Monthly special offers  Customer loyalty scheme

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25% off*

come and meet them both and enjoy 25% off any treatment with them until the end of November.

Any treatment with new therapists Zuzanna or Ellie

£10 off*

Any beauty therapy for new customers Present vouchers on offer pages or online by 30/11/15 *T’c & C’s apply

MORE LUXURY FOR YOU With 24 years’ experience in the industry, a decade as a salon owner and nine years in beauty education, my aim is to provide the best independent beauty care locally. Always striving to excel in pricing, convenience and client care, we now offer a fourth late night until 9pm as well as Sunday opening. With a large, experienced team, eight therapy rooms and the full range of beauty and holistic

treatments available, we promise first class care every time you visit, plus a loyalty scheme. As well as facials, massage, hair removal and nail care we can help with make up, hen/teenage parties, wedding preparations, reflexology and hopi ear candles. We are also proud to be a Decleor Gold Salon.

THE GIFT OF BEAUTY Try us for the first time and get £10 off any therapy, valid also for Beauty Vouchers - a lovely gift.

The Coach House 2a Bull Lane Winchcombe Cheltenham GL54 5HY

01242 604 017 Beauty Beyond BeautyBeyondWin

e: kirsti@beautybeyondwinchcombe.co.uk

www.beautybeyondwinchcombe.co.uk

Village Green B A T H R O O M S

“

Competitive Quotes Skilled, Reliable Craftsmen Expert Carpentry Fully Guaranteed Assured Start Date Also Kitchens © Image supplied by Victoria Plumb - www.victoriaplumb.com

     

Just to say thank you so much for doing a great job on our bathroom. It looks fantastic. LK

”

For a FREE quote please call: Andy 07776 280997 Keith 07977 923991 Office: 01386 852152 vgkc@btconnect.com

www.vgkc.co.uk 40

Refresh Your Bathroom...

Property Talk

With Denise James, Director of Evesham based, independent estate agents Gusterson Palmer & James.

esearch* suggests that the average person moves house eight times in their lifetime, twice before they are 18, another three times in their twenties but less often thereafter. Typically, we remain faithful to our birthplace, travelling 32 miles between each move and eventually ending up in a home only 63 miles away. Moving is not something we do frequently and many people consider it to be one the most stressful events we can experience. It’s inevitable that it will be challenging when you consider the many stages involved in the process, many of which have practical, financial and emotional implications. Yet it’s exciting too and for most people the end result represents a real achievement leading to an improved lifestyle. Selling means arriving at the decision to move (often a wrench, especially if you are downsizing); taking advice on the true market value of your current property,

preparing it for sale; choosing the right estate agent; dealing with viewings and negotiating a sale. Buying will involve researching new areas and properties, assessing what is available, making an offer, dealing with the finances and legalities, sorting surveys and insurance then arranging removals. An exhausting list, I’m sure you will agree. At Gusterson Palmer & James we pride ourselves on being able to offer help and advice throughout every one of these stages. Our aim is to relieve as much of the burden of stress as we possibly can, and to make your experience of moving simple and successful. We start with a free, no obligation market appraisal of your current home and offer advice on how best to prepare your property for market. Your individualised

OFFER! £30 Gift Card to The Regal Cinema, Evesham for the first 20 new instructions ‘For sale’ or ‘To Let’ from 1st October to 30th Nov 2015

‘no sale no fee’ marketing package includes accompanied viewings and constructive feedback, always delivered quickly. Our experienced negotiators will deal with the offers we receive for your property and help you with the one you wish to buy. We can also provide guidance on getting mortgage advice, securing ‘no move no fee’ conveyancing, progressing your sale smoothly and achieving competitive quotes for packing, removals and/or storage. To discuss your requirements in confidence pop into our office or call our friendly team today on 01386 761241 and let us help you make your move a rewarding one.

Call us on 01386 761241 7 Merstow Green, Evesham, WR11 4BD enquiries@gpandjames.co.uk www.gpandjames.co.uk *Study of 2000 householders carried out by Bosch in 2012

/gustersonpalmerjames

@gpandjames Company Promotion

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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Logs by the Trailer Load, Half Load, Bags & Kindling 42

Hard Landscaping  Garden Makeovers  Garden Clearance  Ground Maintenance

Company Promotion

TRUSTED locally by

generations Local solicitors Thomson & Bancks, have reinforced their client focused values by adopting one simple philosophy; “You matter to us.” We talked to partner Paul Johnson. TB Solicitors can trace it’s roots as far back as 1830. How has the firm evolved up until today? With our history and dedication to clients, Thomson & Bancks is for many clients the first choice for legal services in Worcestershire, Gloucestershire and the surrounding areas. To stay at the forefront of our profession we have invested in a new brand identity that captures our ethos perfectly. We are local experts providing a trusted and dedicated service to our clients, as we continue to uphold the ‘you matter to us’ ethos.

what matters to us. We have refreshed the way we share those values with our clients to be sure that our new branding truly communicates this philosophy. We are grateful for the trust placed in us and our predecessors over the last two centuries and the present generation of lawyers will continue to act for existing and future clients with the independence and professional integrity for which we are well known.

What’s next for TB Solicitors? We have generations of experience in rural areas and a fresh, new brand that reflects our philosophy and the trust we have built over 185 years. With a concerted effort to build on this, the firm will continue the work of the past and ensure a bright and prosperous future for itself and its clients.

What range of services does the team offer? Setting ourselves apart with clear differentiators, Thomson & Bancks have built a large team of experienced professionals offering both business and individual services. Support for businesses may involve handling agreements or disputes, commercial property or employment issues. Support for individuals can range from the What sets you apart from other buying and selling of a home, to law firms? We are a team of experienced, forward thinking, injury claims, employment approachable lawyers. Our problems or the writing of wills differentiator has always been how and administering estates after we treat our clients, and nothing death. Help with family law and has changed there; they are simply disputes is also available. 43

Company Promotion

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Your first journey for new clients when booked by 30/11/15

Your travel SOLUTION It began with a love of meeting people. Was refined through 25 years’ experience in the travel industry. And came to fruition three years ago when Mike Gibson was made redundant. Here, he explains, why MG Executive Travel is thriving.

“

The perfect airport transfer! On time every time, immaculate Mercedes, excellent driver.

the knowledge that you are in a private car with someone who appreciates your need for discretion. We take care of the stress of driving allowing you to be productive during the journey. You will arrive relaxed and fully prepared for your appointment. Complimentary wifi Travelling in a chauffeur driven vehicle has so many benefits. It’s a means you can respond to emails, luxury door to door service with even in the absence of a signal. none of the constraints of public Weddings Enjoy riding in a luxury transport and all of the hassle of a Mercedes decorated with ribbon and long drive relieved. Our Mercedes floral decorations. We have three Benz E Class vehicles, with leather packages to suit all requirements. seats, are immaculate enabling you Functions & Special Events No to arrive in comfort and style, need to worry about leaving the relaxed and ready for your next event before you are ready or challenge. Our services include: turning down the champagne. From awards ceremonies to birthdays to Airport Transfers Enjoy arriving at any UK airport in luxury. For sporting events, make your special businesses, overseas VIPs will be occasion that bit more memorable. met inside the Arrivals terminal at a For assurance of our reliability designated meeting point, helped please check our testimonials online with their luggage, then driven and follow us on twitter. Weigh up onward with the minimum of fuss. the airport transfer rates against long term parking charges and you Business Travel Be chauffeured alone or with up to three colleagues might even be surprised at our fees. or clients. You can talk business, For more details please call Mike rest, or make telephone calls safe in Gibson on 01684 770448. Call Mike on 01684 770448 @MGExecutiveTrav

mike@mgexecutivetravel.co.uk

www.mgexecutivetravel.co.uk 45

“

The Precious GIFT OF LIFE Michael Amies, chair of the Worcestershire Acute Hospital Trust Organ Donation Committee, asks local families to discuss organ donation as figures reveal deaths due to a shortage of donors.

Catherine Amies courtesy of Michael Amies

igures published in July of this year reveal 35 Worcestershire residents have died waiting for a transplant in the past five years and 94 people in the county are currently waiting for a transplant.*/** The latest figures show that last year in Worcestershire, 29 peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lives 46

were saved or improved thanks to deceased donation. In Worcestershire, 16 people also benefitted from a living donor transplant, where donors gave a kidney or part of their liver. Across the UK in 2014/15, the number of people donating organs fell for the first time in 11 years.

On average, three people in the UK die each day in need of an organ transplant. Currently, four out of ten families donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t give permission to donate when approached. More lives would be saved if more families agreed to donate their loved oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s organs after

death. NHS Blood and Transplant is therefore asking local people to join the Organ Donor Register and then tell their family and friends about their decision. Families are much more likely to agree to donation if they know it is what their loved one wanted. Every donation is a precious gift which can save and improve lives. Death is a subject many of us prefer to avoid but we will not be able to save more lives unless there is a revolution in attitudes. We need everyone to talk about the issue with their families and agree to donate if ever they are asked. Our beautiful daughter, Catherine, died in 2010 aged 38 whilst waiting for a transplant. She had suffered from diabetes since she was just 10 but three years before she died she suffered complete renal failure and was put on dialysis three times a week before being added to the waiting list for a transplant. But after suffering a massive stroke she was admitted to Worcester Royal

We need everyone to talk about organ donation within their families Hospital in a coma and never woke up again. At that point she also became a donor. We had not

that the subject had already been discussed. Knowing the risks of his sport, Simon had made provision in case something tragic happened and had carried a card for many years. 21.1 million people in the UK have already signed onto the NHS anticipated that but she had Organ Donor Register. Anyone can registered her wishes some years register for organ or tissue previously, so we knew that this donation. Age isn’t a barrier and was what she wanted. neither are most health conditions. Catherine was a sparkling People in their 70s and 80s have personality, and full of joy, so it become donors and saved many was a painful event to confront, but lives. One donor can save or it also gave us reassurance and transform up to nine lives and helped us greatly. Her death has many more can be helped through given life and hope to five other the donation of tissues. Even if you individuals who received her heart already carry a card please join the valve, corneas, some of her soft NHS Donor Register. Visit tissues and her liver. We are so www.organdonation.nhs.uk, call proud that she was given a 0300 123 2323 or text DONATE posthumous award, created by the to 62323. Order of St John and the NHS * Active and Suspended waiting list figure as of Blood and Transplant Service, 25 June 2015. People can be temporarily which we received on her behalf. suspended from the active list for reasons such as ill health or travel. ** Deaths include those What more of a generous legacy on the waiting list and those removed from the could she have left us with? waiting list due to deterioration in their Evesham based Dee Andrews, condition. Deaths cover the five year period 1 April 2010 - 31 March 2015. mum of British Superbike Rider, Simon Andrews, lost her son aged Simon Andrews with 31 on 19th May 2014 as a result of mum Dee Andrews injuries he sustained whilst competing in the North West 200 motorcycle races in Belfast. She has also found some comfort in knowing that her son’s donation of organs has transformed the lives of five individuals. Dee’s family was asked to consider donation in their bleakest hour and was helped by the fact

One organ donor can transform up to nine lives

 Please discuss organ donation with your family.  Tell your loved ones you want to be an organ donor so they know you have made a decision to donate if and when you can.

 Anyone can register. There are no medical barriers to joining.

To join the NHS Organ Donor Register visit www.organdonation.nhs.uk or call 0300 123 2323 47

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CTV was once reserved for pubs, shopping malls and public spaces but as the cost of systems fall, it’s possible for us all to benefit from the security they offer. A system should be considered as a part of a security package including lights, a burglar alarm, door and window locks and gravel around your property. Wired versus wireless There are two types of CCTV, wired and wireless, and suitability will depend on the nature of your premises and what you want to achieve. Wired systems, where a wire plugs directly from the camera to the monitor, tend to be more economical, more reliable and of the highest quality but the wires, including extension cables, have to be laid. If access proves difficult, perhaps in older or period properties, we will consider installing a wireless system which transmits images using analogue or digital technology. Factors to consider Cameras must be weatherproof (an IP rating of 65 is best), tamperproof and accessible for cleaning and maintenance. You must ensure

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What is Artsmark? Dr Tony Evans, Headteacher at Prince Henry’s High School, Evesham, addresses the role of arts in schools.

n my article last Spring I focused upon “the role of sport” in schools. Another equally important area is the Arts, which encompasses the disciplines of Dance, Drama, Music and Art. Developing creative talent is just as important as academia or sport and the Arts allow for the development of this aptitude. Making things - drawing, painting, film making or playing a musical instrument - all involve a form of thinking and feeling that require different skills to literacy and numeracy. Many young

Gold award in recognition of our work in the four areas of Dance, Drama, Music and Art for all students. Our students regularly have the opportunity to showcase their talents through concerts, musicals, trips to foreign countries and art exhibitions. The award reflects the hard work that goes on collaboratively with local arts organisations to prepare students for careers in the arts. Whilst some students go on to develop their talents at University and other Higher Educational settings, many others have received the benefit of enjoying their arts subjects whether they people are hugely talented in this have participated in a concert, area and it is important that their showcased their artwork, successes in these subject areas are performed in a production or have recognised appropriately. just been involved in one of the The vision of Arts Council many countless arts activities on England is to try to ensure that offer. Please see our website every young person has the www.princehenrys.worcs.sch.uk opportunity to experience the for further details and information. richness of the arts and culture. Artsmark is Arts Council England’s flagship programme, LIKE TO FIND OUT MORE? which identifies schools or other settings offering a well-planned, Dr. Evans is Headteacher at: quality arts education that support Prince Henry's High School the cultural development of all Victoria Avenue, pupils. Evesham, Worcs Any school, college or youth WR11 4QH justice organisation in England can Call on 01386 765588 apply for accreditation and the award is nationally recognised as For more information about demonstrating excellence in the school life please visit our Arts and Cultural provision. website below. Working towards the Artsmark award also contributes to the cultural aspect of Ofsted’s requirement to promote students’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development. Last autumn Prince Henry’s was awarded the prestigious Artsmark

www.princehenrys.worcs.sch.uk 50

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Transform Your Kitchen... 51

‘Cuddles’ Adam Tatlow’s work as a Gamekeeper enables him to observe Cotswolds wildlife first hand. He keeps a photographic diary of his year and sells some of his images as limited edition prints and greeting cards. You can see Adam’s work locally this autumn. He will be at the Star Centre, National Star, Ullenwood, Cheltenham,GL53 9QU for the Cotswold Hunt Christmas Fair on November 8th. He will also be at Stow Plus Exhibition, Stow Town Hall, November 21st.

www.cotswoldkeeperphotography.com 53

Healing

READING

Jacqueline Bunn, founder of the new Love Reading Club in Cropthorne, considers books as therapy and invites you to share your experience of stories that have made a difference to you.

magine going to see your GP to explain your symptoms and leaving with, not one, but two prescriptions. The second for a novel which you can borrow from the library at the medical centre. Books that heal is an idea we could revisit. In the First World War traumatised soldiers were given Jane Austen to read. She was prescribed for men in the trenches and in hospitals at home because her novels helped restore goodness and predictability at a time when there wasn't any. Benefits such as relaxation, losing yourself in someone elseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s story, and learning to think differently about life's challenges are all part of the reading experience. Many of us have been put off reading by bad experiences

at school or poor choices we've made in the past but today, with more fiction being published than ever before, it should be easy to find something worth reading. The right book can open up an entirely new world; a single story can be life changing. Still, finding the right book can be tricky. You can browse online, read newspaper reviews or scan the bestsellers lists. As a teenager I simply used to go by the artwork on the cover. Maybe that's why I gave up reading for a while; I didn't know myself well enough. Today, I'm a huge fan of personal recommendation and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve discovered that a great way to find something that will stay with you is to join a book club. Reading a recommended book is a big plus because you can be sure that a lot

of thought will have been given to the title - no one wants to hear their book slated by the rest of the group. Read, think, talk it over and then the magic happens: you learn something that runs deep about the chooser, about yourself, and you find yourself talking about your reading with family and friends. My choice for our new book club which meets in Cropthorne, near Pershore, was Longbourn by Jo Baker. I suggested it partly because it references Pride and Prejudice which everyone loves, partly because of its portrayal of Georgian country life, but mostly because of its optimism about disadvantaged women making a difference and creating a better life for future generations. It was well received (although one

Do you love reading? Would you like to read more widely? Are you interested in sharing stories that you treasure? Love Reading Club meets on the last Wednesday of each month at 8pm at Holland House, Main Street ,Cropthorne, Pershore WR10 3NB. Anyone can join and there is no membership fee. If you are interested please call Jacqueline Bunn on 01386 861404 or 07805 826427. You can also follow the club on twitter @lovereadingclub

member didn't like ‘all that drudgery’ as she put it!). Thinking of other books as therapy, there are various ways that we might match novels to a reader's needs. A list of novels like this with signposts would be a starting point perhaps?  Shantaram by Gregory David Williams - a saga style novel for lovers of India with a touch of better to have loved and lost, about it.  The Bronze Horseman by Paullina Simon - a romantic novel a bit like Gone With The Wind but set in Russia.

 The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd - a coming of age novel set in the US in the 60's, strong on mother/daughter relationships.  Tracks by Robyn Davidson - an inspiring read for a young person thinking about going travelling. Love Reading Club began in April and there are now eight members meeting each month. For now, we are taking turns to propose a book but once everyone has made a recommendation we plan to focus on genre so that each member will suggest a book from a category we have previously

discussed such as a comfort read, an inspiring character, conservation and more. We are also planning a visit to the Cheltenham Literature Festival in October. July’s book was The Red Tent by Anita Diamant, and August’s choice was The Orchard On Fire by Shena Mackay. Recommendations from club members have given me a lot to ponder and Mackay’s novel was like a journey into myself. If you’d like to join us we’d love to hear from you. Please call me on 01386 861404 and follow us on Twitter @lovereadingclub. 55

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Company Promotion

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With a history of trading dating back to 1934, bps has long term relationships with a huge number of suppliers. Having assessed the market, we have chosen a selection of baths, shower enclosures, wc’s, vanity units and accessories which look great and offer excellent value. There are traditional and contemporary ranges and something for all budgets. We have also linked with specialist suppliers such as HIB for mirrors, Vogue for towel rails and Capital Tiles. and well informed. You can take home a selection of brochures to guide your choice Can you help me plan my and our website includes links to bathroom? Yes, with a settled staff of ten and three more suppliers’ sites for detailed branches in the region we hold a information on products. Once huge amount of building and you’ve chosen, we will deliver plumbing expertise in-house. It your goods direct to you. We serve means we can help you design the entire local area with regular your space for maximum deliveries and also have smaller efficiency and provide a list of vehicles for sites with difficult potential local contractors. We access. To find out more please know it can be daunting to plan a pop in to our showroom at Sigma project but you’ll find us friendly Close or call us on 01684 275545.

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Bredon Hill Bikeaway Sunday 18th October 2015

Discover more of your local countryside on this family friendly Bikeaway in support of the Pershore Division of St. John Ambulance and The Vale of Evesham Community First Responders.

tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s that time of year again, so grab your bike, dust off your helmet, pump up your tyres and get ready for the Bredon Hill Bikeaway on Sunday 18th October. The Bikeaway is running for the 8th consecutive year, raising money for the Pershore Division of St John Ambulance and The Vale of Evesham Community First Responders. ENJOY PERSHORE COLLEGE The Bikeaway kicks off from Pershore College, the regional centre for the Royal Horticultural Society. This venue gives visitors the opportunity to explore the College grounds, visit the plant centre and also experience local produce in the cafeteria. A CHOICE OF THREE ROUTES Registration will start at 9a.m. 58

and cyclists have a choice of one of three routes designed to accommodate all ages and capabilities. Whether you choose the Bronze (8 mile), Silver (19 mile) or Gold (49 mile) route you are guaranteed to look upon the Worcestershire countryside from spectacular view points. BEAUTIFUL BREDON HILL All three routes are designed to provide delightful autumnal views and cyclists will be sure to experience breathtaking sights of Bredon Hill and the local countryside while raising money for fantastic causes. SUITABLE FOR ALL Accompanied children are most welcome. Cyclists will be provided with refreshments along

their travels of the open countryside and a support vehicle will be on hand if required. RAISING FUNDS FOR SUPERB LOCAL CAUSES The Bikeaway is one of the major annual fundraising events for the Pershore Division of St John Ambulance & The Vale of Evesham Community First Responders. All monies raised goes towards administering first aid and the provision of training programmes. Both organisations are funded by duty fees and fundraising alone - each member is a volunteer taking time out of their own life in order to help save the lives of others. Angela Tidmarsh, Secretary of St John Ambulance said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are looking forward to another

successful Bikeaway and greatly appreciate all the efforts and donations put into this event. We hope everyone joins in and has a fantastic day!” HOW TO ENTER The cost to enter the Bikeaway is £8 for Adults, £5 for Children, or you can buy a Family ticket (2 Adults+2 Children) for just £20. If you are interested in attending this year’s event please register today. Each cyclist will be provided with a sponsor form, a great way to raise extra money through family and friends. For an application form please contact Henry Prudden on 01386 565564 or email henry.prudden@wychavon.gov.uk

The Bredon Hill Bikeaway @VisitWychavon 59

Autumn in a Dish Butternut squash is one of the most nutritious vegetables you can eat, with a rich selection of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Roasting it brings out maximum flavour. This easy risotto is a delicious, filling dish that often features on the menus at Belle House Restaurant in Pershore.

Butternut Squash Risotto INGREDIENTS RISOTTO BASE 2 litres of stock (chicken or vegetable) 500g carnaroli rice 2 finely diced shallots knob of butter INGREDIENTS BUTTERNUT SQUASH 1 butternut squash 4 – 6 tbsp olive oil handful of pumpkin seeds, toasted 2 tbsp crème fraiche parmesan cheese, grated seasoning Belle House Seed dressing or 25ml extra virgin olive oil to garnish Serves 4-6 60

METHOD - RISOTTO BASE  Heat the stock in a pan and keep it simmering.  In a separate pan heat up the butter and then add the shallots and cook until soft with no colour, then add the rice and stir for 1 minute.  Add 3 - 4 ladles of warm stock to the rice and constantly stir until stock as absorbed into the rice. Continue this technique until the rice becomes al dente (cooked until firm to the bite), this will probably take 15 - 20 minutes. METHOD - BUTTERNUT SQUASH  Heat oven to 200°C/180°C fan/Gas 6.  Peel the squash and slice to separate the bulbous seed-bearing section from the slender end. Chop the slender end into 2cm cubes, toss in half the oil, season lightly and roast in the oven, stirring occasionally, until golden brown on the outside and soft in the centre, about 30 mins.  Cut the bulb in half and scrape out the seeds with a spoon – you can keep these to toast in the oven and sprinkle over salads. Peel and cover the flesh with foil and bake in the oven until soft (45 - 60 minutes for a whole squash) then puree.  To finish the risotto and serve; add the butternut puree to the risotto base over a low heat, combining with crème fraiche, seasoning and parmesan cheese, put the dice of roasted butternut squash on top and garnish with a sprinkling of the toasted pumpkin seeds and extra virgin olive oil.

Recipe courtesy of Steve Waites, Michelin trained Chef and Proprietor of Belle House, Restaurant & Bar, Bridge Street, Pershore, WR10 1AJ. Visit www.belle-house.co.uk 61

KEMERTON

Photos: Left: Bredon Hill, Top: Kemerton Lake Nature Reserve & Bottom: Marbled White courtesy of Kate Aubury.

Lake Nature Reserve

Kate Aubury, Support Co-ordinator for Kemerton Conservation Trust (KCT) introduces the work of the charity.

winter. The reserve has a diverse range of habitats including a 16 acre lake, pools, seasonal wet scrapes, reed beds, grassland, and land specially cultivated for arable plants. It’s home to a rich variety of wildlife, including over 170 emerton Lake Nature species of birds, 23 species of Reserve is the flagship dragonflies and damselflies, and at nature reserve of least nine species of bat and Kemerton Conservation Trust, the orchids. It’s the top site in largest of seven wildlife sites Worcestershire for wintering jack cared for by the charity. The Trust snipe and has large roosts of was founded in 1980 by Adrian starling and reed bunting in the Darby in response to the reed beds. The lake plays host to catastrophic national decline in large flocks of wintering wildfowl farmland biodiversity. Its aim is to including widgeon, teal and conserve wildlife and places of pochard and is a great place to see beauty regionally but much of its dragonflies in the summer. activity is focused around land Visitors are welcome to gain south of Bredon Hill. access via the numerous footpaths, Kemerton Lake is a beautiful although to protect wildlife, some place to visit all year round. A 46 paths are closed during the bird acre wetland with two bird hides, nesting season, and some are it lies between Bredon, restricted to members. There are Westmancote, Kemerton and two ways to become a member; by Kinsham. Highlights include the donating or volunteering. If you extraordinary mating displays of would like to find out more about great crested grebes in March; our work please come to our Open cuckoos calling in May; and the Day on October 11th, visit our spectacular starling roosts in early website or call on 07765 334 776.

KCT ANNUAL OPEN DAY SUNDAY 11TH OCTOBER 11am Gates Open 11.30am Introduction to the Reserve A walk led by Chairman Adrian Darby. 2pm Fungi Foray A walk led by Governor Peter Marren, the author of ‘Mushrooms’ (The British Wildlife Collection). Entry is free for Friends of KCT and £2 for non-members. Under-5’s go free. Kemerton Lake Nature Reserve, Nr Kinsham, Tewkesbury, GL20 8HP OS grid reference: SO 9380 3620. Kemerton Lake Nature Reserve is accessible via a public footpath (BX527), which can be reached on foot from all of the surrounding villages. Visitors from further afield are advised to park in Kinsham and join the footpath where it meets B4079 Cheltenham Road at the northern edge of the hamlet. A 350 metre walk brings you to woodland bordering the reserve, and from here a network of paths provides further access. Sorry, no dogs. For more details about the day, please visit the News & Events pages of our website www.kemerton.org or contact Kate Aubury on 07765 334 776 or by email at kate@aubury.co.uk.

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Contact Julie Allen on 01905 754919 or email julie@worcestershirewildlifetrust.org www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk

Ends 30/11/15. 58 Bridge Street, Evesham WR11 4RY 07967 790357 or 01386 443049 www.yourewonderfulbeauty.com

The Coach House, 2a Bull Lane, Winchcombe Glos GL54 5HY 01242 604017 www.beautybeyondwinchcombe.co.uk

BEAUTY BEYOND

YOU’RE WONDERFUL BEAUTY

£10 OFF ANY BEAUTY OR HOLISTIC TREATMENT

£30 GIFT CARD FOR THE REGAL CINEMA, EVESHAM

For new customers of Beauty Beyond. Ends 30/11/15. Please present voucher at Reception. Offers cannot be combined.

Life in the

*including booklet & local factsheet if you join by 30/11/15. £32 per year for two adults at the same address. Quote ‘Life in the Village.’

Birmingham Rd, Badsey Evesham WR11 7TW 01386 831000 www.valegardens.co.uk

Ends 30/11/15 last. Please present voucher at Reception. Offers cannot be combined.

The Coach House, 2a Bull Ln, Winchcombe,Glos GL54 5HY 01242 604017 www.beautybeyondwinchcombe.co.uk

The first 20 new instructions 1st Oct - 30th Nov ‘For Sale’ or ‘To Let’ will receive a gift card valued at £30 for The Regal Cinema, Evesham on presentation of this voucher. 7 Merstow Green, Evesham WR11 4BD 01386 761241 www.gpandjames.co.uk

BEAUTY BEYOND

GUSTERSON PALMER & JAMES

FREE ADVERT DESIGN FOR BOOKINGS BY 30/11/15

A FULL PAGE ADVERT FREE WHEN YOU BOOK A FULL PAGE ANNUAL PACKAGE*

*New Customers only - ends 30/11/15. Not valid with other offers.

Life in the

*In your own home within a 15 mile radius of our Fladbury base. Ends 30/11/15. Old Farmhouse, Craycombe Farm Evesham Rd, Fladbury, Pershore WR10 2QS 01386 861774 tracyharper8@icloud.com

*During October, November and December. Call today to arrange collection.



FREE ONE HOUR CURTAIN CONSULTATION*

Call Mike 01684 770448 Email mike@mgexecutivetravel.co.uk www.mgexecutivetravel.co.uk

Life in the

Life in the Life in the



10% OFF YOUR FIRST LUXURY JOURNEY*

01684 773135 /07776 340736 lisa@lifeinthevillage.co.uk www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk

*New Customers only - ends 30/11/15. Not valid with other offers. 01684 773135 /07776 340736 lisa@lifeinthevillage.co.uk www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk

LIFE IN THE VILLAGE

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01684 773135 @LisaLambon

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www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk

L E T A V A LE F I R E W E LC O M E Y O U H O M E  Large display of traditional and contemporary fires to suit all styles of home and budget  Long term relationships with reliable suppliers including Gazco, Stovax & Burley  Expert design and installation service including building and electrical services  Supply and installation of full heating systems including Gas and Oil Boilers from Worcester Bosch & Vaillant.  Boiler Servicing and Maintenance Contracts available

Visit our showroom at the rear of Pershore High Street or call us on 01386 556585 and discover a superb range of fires including wood burning stoves, gas and electric models, surrounds, accessories & more. Trading for over 20 years, our fully qualified inhouse team will ensure an expert fitting, guaranteed. Vale Heating & Plumbing

Unit 5A, Rear of 79 High Street, Pershore, Worcs, WR10 1EU