Life in the Village - Cotswold Edge - Early Spring 2018 by Lisa Lambon

COTSWOLD EDGE Early Spring 2018 FREE lifeinthevillage.co.uk

Life in the Win!

Seasonal Supper

Belle House Fish en Papillote & Hollandaise Sauce

One of ten pairs of tickets to RHS Malvern Spring Festival And

A style makeover at Graham West Hair Design Plus

One of five pairs to tickets to Prescott Bike Fest 2018

Simple Borders

How to use form, colour & texture in your garden

And

One of ten pairs of tickets to the Specialist Plant Fair at Spetchley

Spring Bird

Watching HO MES

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A single daffodil is the perfect tool for learning how to free your mind, so a gentle woman who carried an air of calm once taught me. All you have to do is pick a stem, sit somewhere quietly for a few minutes (you can be alone or with a friend) and take time to study it. Your task then is to describe what you see, starting from the base and slowly working your way up towards the flower, without using any of the usual labels like petal, leaf or stem. It seems impossible at first but gradually you find ways to talk about the ragged point at which it was plucked from the ground, the ribbed length of green and the fanfare of yellow frills in all their intricate detail. As the year progresses you can try the same exercise with a stick of cherry blossom, a tulip or a rose - it’s a simple way to connect with nature and escape your worries. In early spring, it’s hard to find an activity more inspiring than gardening so this issue, we’re delighted to have teamed up RHS Malvern Spring Festival and Spetchley Park Gardens to offer twenty lucky winners a pair of tickets for a fabulous day out. We’re also giving away five pairs of tickets to Prescott Bike Fest and a style makeover from Graham West Hair Design. To have a chance of winning just visit www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk and enter your details. Remember you can access Life in the Village wherever you are by following us on twitter @lisalambon or visiting our website where you’ll find our four magazines and much more in digital format. Until next time, enjoy the season.

Editor Lisa Lambon

01684 773135 07776 340736 lisa@lifeinthevillage.co.uk @lisalambon 6

Contents Early Spring 2018

Enter our four new competitions online Local Life 6 Welcome 10 A Hole for a Home with wildlife expert Wendy Carter 18 Working Beautifully with kitchen designer Anthea Garley 21 New Season at Coughton Court with Abi Cole 22 The Art of Composition with Jonathan Siarl

Competitions & Offers 9 Win one of ten pairs of tickets to RHS Malvern Spring Festival 29 Win a style makeover at Graham West Hair Design 51 Win one of five pairs of tickets for Prescott Bike Fest 63 Win one of ten pairs of tickets to the Specialist Plant Fair at Spetchley Gardens 64 Money Saving Vouchers

25 Spring Pastels with Aveda Colour Specialist Graham West 26 Cottage Style with John Lannen of L+L 31 Caring for your Pets with vet Hannah Fry of Folly Gardens 33 Make Gains with Spencer Holliday of Irongate 34 Using Water in your Garden with Richard Mercer 37 Local Property with Jon James of Gusterson, Palmer & James

39 Steaming Asparagus with Angela Taylor 41 Personal Space with HR advisor Kirsten Cluer 43 Period Solution with Rob Shaughnessy of Buzz Electrical 44 On Values with Dr. Evans 47 Space and Style with John Lannen of L+L 48 On the Blossom Trail with Angela Taylor of Wychavon 52 Hand of Hope with Rosemary Vaux of Papyrus 55 Policing South Worcestershire with Supt. Kevin Purcell 56 Fish en Papillote with Belle House chef Steve Waites 65 Index Front cover image: ÂŠ www.Shutterstock.com/BlueberryJam This page, L to R, Anthea Garley, designer at Vale Kitchens, visitors to RHS Malvern Spring Festival, & Kirsten Cluer of Cluer HR

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“We recently had the pleasure of working with Lisa at Life in the Village and are delighted with the results! It's a great local publication with a reach of over 12,800 households, so we gained some great coverage for our Club. We thoroughly recommend it! Thanks Lisa!" PERSHORE TENNIS CENTRE

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WIN ONE OF TEN PAIRS OF TICKETS TO RHS MALVERN SPRING FESTIVAL Thursday 10 to Sunday 13 May 2018 It’s easy! Just visit www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk by Friday 6 April 2018 and enter your details as requested. CELEBRATING WHAT MAKES BRITAIN GREAT

RHS Malvern Spring Festival is set to take visitors on a journey of discovery, this year taking inspiration from The Great Exhibition of 1851. Hosted at the Three Counties Showground in Malvern, from May 10-13, and set against the backdrop of the picturesque Malvern Hills, the event showcases the best in gardening, food and lifestyle, from inspiring show gardens and award-winning nurseries to fabulous food from inspirational chefs and lots of family fun.

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Advance standard adult tickets for Fri/Sat/Sun booked by 31/3/18* Quote code LITV18

Fresh for 2018 the Show features new exhibits including; The Great Pavilion of Art & Flowers; a space bursting with 2,600sqm of exquisite flowers and beautiful works of art. Giant Terrarium; three exotic six-metre terrariums, created by internationally acclaimed designer Paul Hervey-Brookes. Grow & Know; an Eco Marquee focused on growing food. Grow to Show; a pavilion enabling gardeners to show-off their best flowers, plants, produce and photography. Making a return are Show Gardens, the enormously popular Floral Marquee, the Live Well Zone, the Schools’ Garden Challenge and the huge plant village hosting over 35 specialist nurseries. With the Festival Theatre, indoor shopping arcades, the Food Pavilion, cookery demo’s and more, the Show offers a memorable day out for gardeners, foodies and kids alike. Tickets are now on sale. Entry is FREE for children under the age of 16. For more information on ticket prices, please call 0844 811 0050 (calls cost 7p per minute plus network extras) or visit www.rhsmalvern.co.uk Terms & Conditions: One entry per household. Competition closes Friday 6 April 2018. Winners will be notified by Friday 13 April 2018 and will receive their tickets by post. Judges’ decision is final and not redeemable for cash. No correspondence will be entered into. By entering this competition you agree to be contacted in future by RHS Malvern Spring Festival and 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.

*Offer cannot be applied retrospectively

www.rhsmalvern.co.uk 0844 811 0050

PHOTO: Great spotted woodpecker male Brian Eacock

PHOTO: Great spotted woodpecker male with juvenile Bas Yates

A Hole for a Home Discover three species of hole nesting birds locally this spring with expert guidance from Wendy Carter, Communications Manager at Worcestershire Wildlife Trust. Did you know that in the UK, 46 species of birds nest in holes? From familiar blue and great tits to owls and woodpeckers; even a couple of species of duck are included. The bird boxes we put up in our gardens don’t just provide shade and shelter, they replicate the kind of natural hole that many of our native birds would usually call ‘home’. ‘Home’ for almost all of our birds is only ever temporary – nests are for raising young and not for all-year-round residence. 10

At the start of the breeding season one or both parents-to-be will construct a nest but, unless they try for a second or third brood, they will leave it behind as soon as their youngsters have fledged. From then on, both adults and juveniles alike will find a variety of sheltered spots in which to spend their nights. As winter turns to spring across Worcestershire, it’s possible to spot lots of examples of hole-nesters; just wander into any woodland or find a stand of mature trees that is well connected with others in the area and take a closer look. If there are a lot of trees in your neighbourhood, you might even

be lucky enough to find them visiting your garden. Perhaps the most obvious hole nesters (away from nest boxes in gardens) are woodpeckers, nuthatches and treecreepers. All three species feed on the trunks or branches of trees; both woodpeckers and treecreepers have relatively short, stiff tails which act to support them as they move along the bark. All three species tend to settle in one nesting area for life with nuthatches and treecreepers being particularly faithful to their favoured territory. Discover a nesting pair this year and you may have the pleasure of their company for years to come.

PHOTO: Great spotted woodpecker feeding young Pete Walkden

barred pattern which runs across the wings (compare the photos on this page and overleaf). Female and male ‘great spots’ can be distinguished by the colouring on their heads – males have red feathers at the nape of their neck whereas females have pure black caps. Look out for youngsters as the year moves on – they’re the ones with a red mark at the front of their heads. Great spotted woodpeckers start pairing early in the year; I heard one drumming in Birlingham on New Year’s Day, though this was unusually early. The unique sound of ten to twenty strikes of beak on wood once, twice, then again and again. Drumming is how both males and females advertise their existence and it’s the most important contact signal during pair-formation in late winter and early spring. An unpaired male may drum up to ten times a minute, 600 times a day, in order to attract a female. It’s a good job they have a shock-absorber at the base of their skull!

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An unpaired male woodpecker may drum up to ten times a minute, 600 times a day, in order to attract a female. It’s a good job that they have a shock-absorber at the base of their skull!

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Great spotted woodpeckers Britain’s three woodpecker species (great spotted, lesser and green) physically excavate their own holes, although green woodpeckers will sometimes adopt a pre-existing hole. To help them, they have evolved two toes facing forwards and two toes facing backwards, with strongly curved claws that enable them to grip the tree. Great spotted woodpeckers are the most commonly seen of the three species and are the type most likely to be found visiting gardens, often coming to nuts or fat balls. They are about starling size, much bigger than the sparrow-sized lesser spotted woodpeckers, which are now quite rare across the UK and difficult to find in this area. Both species are predominantly black and white but great spotted woodpeckers have thick black markings running vertically down their backs and vivid red at their tail. By contrast, lesser spotted woodpeckers have a distinct

PHOTO: Lesser spotted woodpecker Stefan Johansson

Once mated, woodpecker pairs are usually monogamous and their relationship will last for up to three years or so. Both parents take it in turns to excavate their nest-hole (which takes them 1415 days) as well as incubating and feeding their young. The sharp chisel blows made during hole excavation are a quieter and slower affair than drumming; look out for chips on the ground under a tree which give their game away. But woodpeckers are not only fast drummers. Great spotted woodpeckers also have long tongues with a sticky, harpoonlike tip to impale their prey. Think about it and it makes sense – perfect for poking and probing into crevices for insects and seeds. Long muscles running behind the skull enable their tongue to extend 4cm beyond the bill tip. And if you think this is impressive, you should look out for the ant-loving green woodpecker whose tongue can extend by an incredible 10cm! You’re more likely to spot a 12

PHOTO: Nuthatch Jason Curtis

green woodpecker (immortalised as Professor Yaffle in Bagpuss) pausing on the lawn in its hunt for ants rather than on appearing on a birdfeeder. Discover a field with anthills whilst you’re out walking, such as the one on Bredon Hill, and you’ll have a better chance of spotting one. Identify the sex of a green woodpecker by studying the detail of the ‘moustache’ which sits beneath its eyes; the male has a red centre to his whilst that of the female is solid black. Nuthatches These small birds are striking in appearance; blue-grey from above with a rusty orange undercarriage, a black eye-stripe and short tail. It’s a bird that’s usually faithful to the area in which it’s born - most travel no more than 15km in their entire lives - but some have been pushing the boundaries so their numbers and range have been rising steadily and they’re now found well into Scotland.

Although nuthatches are usually associated with mature trees in woodlands, gardens and parks, they can sometimes be spotted on solitary but wellconnected trees when they’re visiting winter feeding stations. Thanks to their strong claws, nuthatches are the only birds that you’ll spot walking down a tree as well as up one, a skill which helps them explore cracks and crevices with their daggershaped beaks as they search for insects. Nuthatches often re-use old woodpecker holes as their nests, blocking up the oversized entrances with mud to make a smaller and safer ‘front door’ of about 3cm in diameter. They have been known to use artificial nest boxes set up to attract them in woodlands. Worcestershire Wildlife Trust runs a rent-a-nest scheme and in 2016 supporters who had subscribed to a nest box in Tiddesley Wood, near Pershore, discovered a beautiful nuthatch home lined with dried leaves in one of their boxes.

PHOTO: Green woodpecker male Brian Eacock

PHOTO: Green woodpecker female Pete Walkden

PHOTO: Nuthatch John Caswell

Nuthatches are loud birds and their piercing whistles will carry through the treetops as the males spend several hours each day defending their territories against other birds. However, at this time of year, as nest-building begins, the female will become the dominant bird in a pair. Listen out for the nuthatch’s long, rich ‘tweep’ call as well as the sound of one of the pair hammering on a nut they’ll have wedged into the bark of a tree. Treecreepers The high-pitched ‘tseeeep tseeeep’ of a treecreeper is often the first sign that there’s one nearby. These well-camouflaged, brown-speckled birds are extremely active and almost mouse-like in appearance. They have clear white bellies which comb the bark as they busy themselves looking for insects and spiders to eat, or small caterpillars to feed their young. Pairs remain together throughout the winter months but come spring they’ll look for a 14

flap of loose tree bark or similar crevice behind which to create and build their nest; anywhere from ground level to five metres up a tree. Once established, they will aggressively defend their territories which can be as small as one hectare in quality habitats but up to fifteen hectares in poorer environments. Like nuthatches they don’t travel far, rarely beyond a kilometre from where they were born. Treecreepers have interesting anatomy including a long, thin down curved bill which enables them to search under loose bits of bark for food and suitable nesting spaces. They also have incredibly stiff tails which often become quite ragged from repeatedly brushing against bark. If you’re fortunate enough to spot one, take time to watch it spiralling its way up a tree and note its habit of moving under and over branches and limbs, probing almost every available crevice. Treecreepers prefer to nest in sites with mature trees and lots

PHOTO: Nuthatch eggs in a nestbox Stephanie Franklin

of foliage cover as these provide the best opportunities for food and shelter. Unlike nuthatches, they are birds that rarely visit garden feeders, only doing so in extremely cold and icy weather, but we can always hope... How to encourage birds Find ways to encourage birds to your garden by browsing our website and downloading our free factsheets including Feeding Garden Birds and Bird Boxes at www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/ gardening-factsheets. Good bird foods include suet, sunflower seeds, unsalted peanuts, mealworms and coconut halves, baked potato, oats, sultanas, currants and raisins, pieces of apple, uncooked pastry and mild grated cheese. Find out more www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/ spotting-sheets www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/ wildlife/species-a-z www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/ bird-food

PHOTO: Nuthatch Graham Wilkes

WWT spring events include:  Thur 1st March, 7.30pm – Farming with Nature by Caroline Corsie. Lyttelton Rooms, Malvern, £2.50 Sat 3rd & Sun 4th March, 10am-1pm – Log & Wood Chip Sales at Harry Green nature Reserve, Tiddesley Wood, near Pershore. Thur 22nd March, 7.30pm – Hollybed Farm Meadows Nature Reserve by Andrew Forecast. Wulstans Hall, Pershore, £2.50 Thur 3rd May, 7.30pm – Wildlife of British Woodlands by Paul Hobson. Lyttelton Rooms, Malvern, £2.50 Sun 6th May, 10am-5pm – Tiddesley Wood Open Day, Pershore. £3 adults, £1 children.

PHOTO: Treecreeper Pete Walkden

For full details of events visit www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/ whats-on Helping wildlife this spring Visit the FAQ pages on our website for answers to our most popular queries - from what to do with a baby bird to where to see bluebells to how to book an expert speaker for your group. Did you know? We can recycle mobile phones, ink cartridges, stamps, cameras, laptops, video cameras, electronic gaming devices, mp3 players, iPods etc. Simply drop them off at Lower Smite Farm, Smite Hill, Hindlip, near Droitwich, Worcestershire,

How Recycling Can Help Local Wildlife WWT can recycle mobile phones, ink cartridges, stamps, cameras, laptops, video cameras, electronic gaming devices, mp3 players, iPods etc. See below for full details.

WR3 8SZ during office hours or contact Becky on 01905 754919 or by emailing becky@worcestershirewildlife trust.org For daily updates about wildlife around the county please follow us on twitter @WorcsWT

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

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ne of the most important decisions you’ll make when installing a new kitchen is which type of work surface to choose. Worktops are a natural focal point in your kitchen, complementing the units and flooring, so become a key part of the design process. Since they are also one of the most costly and frequently used elements, it’s important to get it right. You’ll want to choose a style that you like the look of, and is practical for your lifestyle. As with sinks and taps, worktop technology and design is constantly evolving so I start by asking three questions; What have you seen that you like? How hard wearing do you need 18

it to be? What’s your budget? Options fall into these camps; Granite Stylish, beautiful and luxurious, it’s one of the most popular choices but it’s extremely heavy and comes with a significant price tag. Quartz A man-made alternative to traditional stone worktops like granite, it’s also heavy and expensive, but can be created in any colour. Employing industrial techniques, natural quartz is fortified with resin creating a durable, customisable surface. Silestone or Corian A blend of natural minerals and clear acrylic, this stunning material can be shaped into any design, and any colour including multiple-edge profiles and integrated sinks, but is also

heavy and costly. Laminate The most economical option, laminate has progressed in terms of design and durability. Comprising a plastic overlay and design layer bonded to manmade board, it mimics hundreds of finishes, from weathered wood to veined marble, at a fraction of the price, whilst being water resistant. It’s ideal for those on a budget, but not as hard-wearing as other surfaces and rarely offers the wow factor. Quality varies widely so be sure to choose a brand that will last. Solid wood Good for country kitchens but needs regular aftercare in terms of oiling and protection. Although it ages well, it can stain and scratch. Stainless Steel/Zinc Great for

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COUGHTON COURT OPENS ITS DOORS FOR A NEW SEASON… Coughton Court is the ideal place to celebrate Mother’s Day and Easter suggests Abi Cole.

he National Trust’s Coughton Court opens its doors for a fresh new season on Thursday 8 March. 2018 sees us exploring women’s work, duty and political agency during World War One. Throughout the war years the Coughton community was busy with activity, as women led the effort to support soldiers on the Western Front whilst raising their families and taking on work traditionally carried out by men. A hundred years on from the end of the war, and since partial women’s suffrage was granted, we will be sharing stories of local women from different social classes, asking questions about what women did, the relationship between women’s war work and suffrage, and to what extent the 1918 Act affected women’s power. The new theme will be in

place from the Easter weekend. This year we’ve teamed up with Cadbury’s again for a series of fun events with chocolate treats, take home activities and a trail around the grounds suitable for all. Our Cadbury Easter Hunts will take place from Saturday 31 March to Monday 2 April, 11am4pm, and it’s a great opportunity to get all the family together. Our popular Jigsaw Festival returns from Wednesday 25 to Sunday 29 April, 11am-5pm when hundreds of jigsaws, of all themes and sizes, will be available in a constantly changing display. If you have any puzzles taking up precious space, we’d love to take them oﬀ your hands! For full details of opening days and times of the house, shop and restaurant please call 01789 400777 or visit our website.

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

Diary Dates Mothering Sunday Sun 11 Mar, 11am-5pm. Treat Mum to a delicious afternoon tea this Mother’s Day. Enjoy the gardens or house afterwards, or take a stroll into the wider countryside with one of our walks cards, available from the Welcome Centre. Cadbury Easter Egg Hunts Sat 31 Mar – Mon 2 Apr, 11am-4pm Outdoor trail, traditional games in the Activity Shed and take-home crafts £3 per trail. Daffodil Society National Show Sat 21 Apr & Sun 22 Apr, 12noon-4pm Hundreds of exhibits, new varieties, and experts on hand to answer questions. See the rare Throckmorton daffodils in the award-winning family gardens. Jigsaw Festival 2018 Wed 25 Apr – Sun 29 Apr, 11am-5pm Hundreds of donated jigsaws on sale in aid of vital conservation work. For donations please call on 01789 400777. May Half-Term Sat 26 May – Mon 28 May,Wed 30 May – Sun 3 Jun, 11am-4pm. Join us for family fun and see how many of our ‘50 Things To Do Before You’re 11 ¾’ you can tick off.

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The Art of

Composition Applying the artistic principles of composition to your planting will transform your borders suggests garden designer, Jonathan Siarl. The most successful gardens - ones that you long to spend time in combine a strong design with the use of suitable materials and the pleasing composition of plants. Composition is simply the arrangement of form, colour and texture for visual effect. Follow a few simple rules and your borders will always work. Use form to define space Consider the overall shape of plants and the form that flowers take then combine specimens to complement or contrast with each other. Plants can be round, oval, conical, columnar, arching, fan-like and spiky, irregular or trained whilst there are six distinct flower forms: Spheres and spikes are best used in drifts, at the back of borders or as a punctuation to a border. Buttons and spheres which often grow in concentrated clusters with heads that stand out against a soft background are ideal for placing in the middle of a border. Upturned bowls Gently rounded saucer-like forms often resemble wild flowers and work well to 22

ground spheres and spikes. Plumes are visually soft and can be used to create a cloud-like effect, useful for softening and balancing stronger forms. Screens are light and airy, allowing for the creation of a net curtain effect which draws the eye to stronger forms beyond. Daisy-like have tightly packed foliage and simple flowers, useful in all areas of the border. Create mood with colour Colour is subjective so choose the colours you prefer but also consider the effect they will have. Green is undemanding, a pure and tranquil backdrop for other colours, yet foliage comes in many shades of greens, greys, silvers, purples and blues for variation. Red is a hot colour that demands attention and appears to

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It’s ideal for long, smooth styles, Book your particularly for Complimentary hair that is Hair Consultation shoulder length for Aveda samples, or longer, and a skin test and also for grey advice locks. The look can be as bold or subtle as you choose and as the colour is semi-permanent it’s a great way to experiment with a new look. Being 99% naturally derived* Aveda full spectrumTM colour creates amazing results yet is essentially damage free. Lots of our clients visit the salon and ‘interview’ us before we touch their hair. To book your complimentary consultation with Aveda samples please call us on 01386 860 361.

Hair Colour Specialists  Luxury salon & free parking  Tues to Sat; three late nights  Aveda skincare & products

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Graham West on Aveda’s new colour palette for spring, inspired by gentle ice-cream tones. Inspired by the catwalks, hair colour for spring/ summer 2018 is all about pastel shades, especially apricot and lavender. Moving on from Balayage, where the roots are natural and the ends coloured, we’re now using a technique called ecliptingTM, weaving multiple shades through a base colour and *

From plants, non-petroleum minerals or water.

using light and shade to give fullness and movement. Placing panels of colour underneath the top layer of hair, which become visible when the hair moves, creates a fresh new look. It’s all about depth, tone and sophistication of colour - first we apply a base shade, then we carefully place blocks of icecream tones which are designed to flatter your haircut, face shape, eye colour and skin tone.

@westhairdesign Craycombe Farm Evesham Rd, Fladbury Pershore WR10 2QS

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Classic Cottage Style

Classic Georgian bar windows are often the most appropriate style of glazing for cottages or traditional homes suggests John Lannen. The limitations of glass technology and the rate of window tax meant small pane windows were the norm in cottages and period houses. Until the arrival of plate glass in the nineteenth century most 26

windows were, by necessity, constructed from a timber frame divided by glazing bars into multiple panes of glass. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking to replicate this style of window in your home you now have several options. Purists will always argue that timber is the most suitable material but even some

traditional architects now recognise how convincing some upvc products are in replicating the appearance of wood. If you want to maximise the thermal efficiency of your home, and minimise maintenance, the Evolution range offers a superb solution in terms of balancing comfort and aesthetics.

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BOOK A FREE SURVEY Call today for advice on upgrading your home

Known as the original timber alternative, this range offers the slimmest window on the market with the greatest glazed area. With its unrivalled wood grain finish it resembles timber in shape, colour and traditional handmade craftsmanship. Meticulously designed with painstaking profiling to the casement, a wide choice of colours (including a heritage range) and optional features such as leaded glass and working monkey tail handles, the range faithfully replicates historic joinery skills. Solid looking sill proportions are similar to historic timber products; a putty finish bar details the exterior of the window; unique weather bars provide for discreet trickle ventilation and you can choose from a high quality range of

handles and working peg stays for an authentic look. The range is manufactured in Great Britain, not welded or mass produced, but put together with time and care, by one or two people working around a bench. With an A+ energy rating, Evolution windows also offer exceptional performance. Taking the best from the past, this innovative range can help enhance and protect your home now, and for years to come, whilst being virtually maintenance free. Whether you decide that timber or upvc is right for you, all our products come with the promise of top quality installation, a standard ten year guarantee and a free annual inspection for peace of mind.

A family company established for over 35 years, the L&L team believes in delivering high quality products and impeccable service at an affordable price. Why not visit our Tewkesbury showroom with functioning displays and free parking; you can talk to us about the options for your home and experience our extensive range of products. Alternatively, please call us on 01684 295038 to arrange a free home survey.

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

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

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NEW! Dog Grooming now available at Bishop’s Cleeve clinic

Donna, Sue & Lynsey Sue provide a top quality grooming, clipping & shampoo service

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Cheltenham & District Orchid Society Annual Show

Saturday 3rd March 10.30am to 4pm Society & Trade displays Re-potting & Advice Orchids & Garden Plants for sale

Get £1 off Visit our website & follow the link to ‘2018 Orchid Show’ to download a voucher

Bring your Orchid and have it re-potted for £1 Resident Artist & Refreshments Entry £2.50 Free Parking

www.cheltenhamorchids.org 28

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

info@follygardens.com

www.follygardens.com

Churchdown Community Centre Parton Road, Churchdown Gloucester GL3 2JH

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

WIN A STYLE MAKEOVER AT GRAHAM WEST HAIR DESIGN Treatment, Cut & Colour worth £120* & Invati AdvancedTM Discovery Pack RRP £33

+ One Runner Up Prize of Invati AdvancedTM Products RRP £99 GET STYLISH WITH AVEDA

Introducing an experienced new stylist to the growing team at luxury Aveda salon, Graham West Hair Design. We offer innovative technical expertise and top notch service delivered with warmth, authenticity and energy from our freshly extended and refurbished premises in Fladbury, Worcestershire. The winner will be invited to the salon on a week day for a complimentary treatment, hair cut and colour with a designated Level 1 stylist worth up to £120 *. Discover more online at westhairdesign.co.uk or call us on 01386 860361

THICKER, FULLER LOOKING HAIR

Try the new invati advancedTM three step system for thicker, fuller looking hair. The nourishing shampoo cleanses and renews the scalp, the conditioner instantly thickens hair and the scalp revitaliser helps you keep the hair you have for longer**. The salon stocks the complete Aveda range including hair, body and skin care products, candles, fragrances and make-up. Visit aveda.co.uk/invati

Terms & Conditions One entry per household. UK residents only. Competition closes on 6/4/18 & winners will be notified by 13/4/18. The winner will be invited to attend the salon to see our designated Level 1 stylist on a week day. The runner-up will be sent their prize by post. Judges’ decision is final. Prizes not redeemable for cash. By entering this competition you agree to be contacted in future by Life in the Village and Graham West Hair Design. Your information will not be shared with any third party. To unsubscribe at any time please send an email headed ‘unsubscribe’ to unsubscribe@lifeinthevillage.co.uk

HOW TO ENTER

It’s easy! Just visit lifeinthevillage.co.uk by Friday 6 April 2018 and enter your details as requested.

*with our designated Level 1 stylist **80% of 105 women reported they experienced less breakage after 8 weeks of using the complete invati advanced™ system

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Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the ideal way to raise your business profile locally. With three sister magazines, Life in the Village - Bredon, Avon & Severn and Folly View - you could reach up to 12,800 homes & businesses in the villages around Persh ore, E vesh am, B roadway, Tewkesbury & Upton upon Severn. To find out more contact Lisa on:

Lisa 01684 773135

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Caring for your pets

Vet Hannah Fry of Folly Gardens, who has a keen interest in dental health, on the benefits of preventative care. As with humans, dental care for cats and dogs, has progressed rapidly in the last ten years. Scientific research has given us a new understanding of the significant benefits of preventative care and the importance of offering treatment in the early stages of dental disease. It’s a good news/ bad news situation for owners; we no longer have to put up with bad breath and tooth loss as being inevitable as our pets age, but unfortunately, preventative care means actively brushing their teeth using pet toothpaste. The best approach is to get your cat or dog used to having a brush and paste in their mouth from an early age. Meat flavoured veterinary toothpaste will help with this and our consulting nurses are on hand to advise on brushing techniques if required. Ideally, teeth should be brushed twice a day for two minutes, morning and night, and as with any chore, it’s simply a case of getting into the habit. In the past, clients only

brought their pets to clinic when advanced disease made their breath unbearable and extraction was often the only solution. Now, with regular brushing, modern surgical techniques and dedicated nurse dental clinics as part of our standard care, we can prevent many oral health issues. To help us further, we’ve recently invested in a portable dental x-ray machine which has a tiny plate, twice the size of a postage stamp, that goes into the animal’s mouth. With cats and dogs, two thirds of the tooth lies beneath the gum line so it’s not possible to assess root and bone health during conscious examination. With this equipment, we can fully assess the oral health of all cats and dogs undergoing a standard dental clean during one swift procedure. Members of our Folly Care Club get a discount on dentals as part of their package. With a combination of diligent preventative care, both at home and in the clinic, we’ll help you keep your pet happy and healthy for years to come, complete with a shiny Hollywood smile.

Our RCVS accredited and cat friendly team of vets and nurses voluntarily undergo rigorous inspection and adhere to recognised clinical standards. For advice on any pet issue please call us on Tewkesbury 01684 292244 or Bishop’s Cleeve 01242 679880.

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Make Gains

Could the ‘residence nil rate band’ result in an Inheritance Tax saving for you?

amilies are paying more in Inheritance Tax (IHT) than ever before. Official figures show that the amount collected last year exceeded £5 billion for the first time 1 and the Office for Budget Responsibility predicts that this will climb to £6.2 billion by 2020/21. The IHT nil rate band has remained at £325k per person since 2009 and will be fixed at this level until at least 2021. IHT payments are expected to keep rising despite the new ‘residence nil rate band’ (RNRB) introduced last year, initially at £100,000 per person, increasing over the next two years to £175,000. This RNRB works on top of the £325,000 nil rate band and is an allowance for people who pass on a property to their children, grandchildren or other lineal descendants. However, it’s cut back by £1 for every £2 by which an individual’s overall estate exceeds £2 million so currently there is no RNRB at all if an estate is worth more than £2.2 million. Business and agricultural assets count for this purpose even if they qualify for 100% relief. 1

HMRC Tax & Receipts, 21 June 2017

Spencer Holliday of Irongate Wealth Management

First things first? Many couples choose not to make use of the standard nil rate band on first death, on the basis that, if unused, it can transfer to their spouse or registered civil partner and be claimed on second death. However, leaving assets worth £325,000 to someone other than the surviving spouse can be useful if it keeps the survivor’s estate below the £2 million threshold. Many couples don’t realise that even if their estates are individually below £2 million, if the estate on second death is above that figure, all of the RNRB – including any transferable element – could potentially be lost. When calculating the value of an estate for RNRB, you don’t need to add back gifts made within seven years of death, as you do when calculating IHT liability. This means that making a gift over the £3k annual exemption could lead to savings. Where IHT liability can’t be eliminated, one option is to provide for it with life assurance held in trust. Wills should also be reviewed regularly to ensure that they meet the desired outcome.* The plan you end up

with should be one that meets your objectives regarding who should benefit on your death and when and for it all to be done as tax efficiently as possible. In seeking the best possible result for you and your family, it's vital to obtain professional advice. The levels and bases of taxation, and reliefs from taxation, can change at any time. The value of any tax relief depends on individual circumstances. *Will writing involves the referral to a service that is separate and distinct to those offered by St. James's Place. Wills and trusts are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. To receive a complimentary guide covering Wealth Management, Retirement Planning or Inheritance Tax planning, contact Spencer Holliday, Chartered Financial Planner at Irongate Wealth Management on 01386 291020 or 07896 020803 or by email spencer.holliday@sjpp.co.uk Visit www.irongatewm.co.uk www.linkedin.com/in/spencerholliday-1726761 33

Using water in your

GARDEN

With RHS Chelsea Gold medal winning designer, Richard Mercer.

ater can provide the backdrop or focal point of any garden. From the stillness of a lake or pond to the splash and sparkle of a fountain, it has a unique ability to enhance our mood. Whether you want to create a tranquil place in which to relax, feel inspired or be invigorated, water will stimulate your senses, reflect the seasons and attract wildlife to your garden. It’s an essential aspect of any garden design. For optimum results consider the following factors:  Water can be used to create a sense of place or take us on a journey, perhaps from a calm seating area via a stream to an energising focal point. A feature that is not at first seen could be heard, drawing you in to explore.

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 Be sure to contrast the fluidity of water with a solid backdrop of rock, metal or timber, softened with plants. Rock must be hard enough to withstand heavy frosts and immersion; a few large pieces, well submerged, will be more convincing than several smaller ones. Rocks should be positioned so that the layers within them link naturally.  Ensure any form of open water is brimming. Bringing the level up as high as possible will create maximum impact and reflect light around the garden.  Never scrimp on filtration; instead oversize the unit for the volume of water intended.  Regulate the flow of water to create the desired sound effects. While still water is tranquil, a babbling brook can be soothing and the splash of a fountain or

waterfall will create vibrancy. With technical knowledge, it’s possible to improve the character of the sound with surprising results. A sheet of water flowing from a metal spout (above) can be virtually silent while a cascade (opposite) can be engineered to create a fine, mellow splash. 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 your free initial consultation please call on 07860 603598.

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Creating a tranquil place in a busy world...

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Call Richard Mercer

07860 603598

rm@water-stone.co.uk 35

Spring into Spetchley from 28 March Visit 30 acres of beautiful gardens & enjoy all that spring has to offer Enchanted Fairy Door Trail  Guided Tours  Events & Workshops Golden Egg Trail - Wednesday 28 March to Easter Monday 2 April

Join us for Spetchley Specialist Plant Fair 2018 - Sunday 22 April

www.spetchleygardens.co.uk Call 01905 345106 Find us at Spetchley, Worcs WR5 1RS

@SpetchleyPark

/SpetchleyParkGardens

Full Service and MOT for £195 incl. parts NEW! Eddie’s Courtesy Cars Available  Engine Service from £99 incl.VAT  Full Service £159 incl.VAT, MOT only £45  Free tyre pressure & under bonnet levels check

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Local Property With Jon James, Director of independent Evesham estate agent Gusterson Palmer & James.

ome owners looking to sell their property this spring could increase their chances of achieving maximum sale value in a timely and efficient fashion by following three principles: 1 Price Realistically Take advice from an experienced local estate agent who has in depth knowledge of your location and will who will be aware of buyerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s expectations. Potential purchasers can easily access information about past and similar property prices to compare to yours. If market values havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t risen any increase will need to be justified by evidence of improvements made. Address any issues that could make prospective buyers worried about hidden costs; ensure all appliances are serviced and offer sight of receipts and guarantees.

2 Present your home well First impressions count so take time to prepare your property for marketing before photographs are taken and prior to every viewing. Pay particular attention to the entrance, declutter, clean and ventilate your house, tidy the garden and carry out all those annoying maintenance jobs. 3 Make your agent work hard Erect a For Sale board and ensure your agent uses the major online marketing portals, the local press and their own database of contacts for maximum exposure. Get feedback after each viewing and trust them to negotiate on your behalf. Prepare for your next purchase by assessing the full costs of moving including agent and legal fees, removals, onward purchase costs, and availability of any mortgage funds needed.

01386 761241 7 Merstow Green, Evesham, WR11 4BD www.gustersonpalmerandjames.com

As independent and experienced Vale of Evesham property experts with a strong focus on customer service, our team offers free advice and a realistic property appraisal. If you are thinking of selling your home please call us on 01386 761241 option 1 or email office@gpandjames.co.uk

Jon James

MEET OUR EXPERT TEAM...

Andrew Leggett

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Like to be Included?

Book today for the Late Spring issue

Call Today 01684 773135

07776 340736

www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk 38

PHOTOS: Stuart Purfield WORDS: Angela Taylor

Steaming asparagus

he Vale of Evesham continues to celebrate its horticultural culture and delight in showing off its famous asparagus. In 2017 the majestic gras received PGI European protected food name status giving it a level of culinary prestige and superiority. The Vale’s asparagus is now part of the elite group of food and drinks including champagne, cognac and roquefort. Every year, St George’s Day sees the launch of the British Asparagus Festival – from then until Midsummer’s day, 21st June, the Vale will be going asparamad! With a profusion of events the whole area will turn “Green for the Gras” offering you the opportunity to taste, buy, cook and learn about this most sought after delicacy. The Asparagus Festival is proud to announce that this year’s Great English Asparagus Run will take place on the Asparagus Express – a steam train that will journey from

the newly opened railway station at Broadway to Cheltenham. The run will feature all things asparagus and you may even spot a celebrity or two!!! To buy your once in a lifetime tickets for this auspicious asparagus occasion please visit our website. The Fleece Inn at Bretforton will be hosting the famous asparagus auction, a popular ritual with hundreds gathering in the courtyard to bid for the season’s largest, freshest local asparagus. The asparagus Family Colour Fun Run will be taking place at The Valley on the 20th May. Asparagus green paint bombs will rain down on you as you manoeuvre the family friendly multi-terrain route. For further information please call 01386 565373 or visit www.britishasparagusfestival.org

Asparadates Monday 23 April The Great English Asparagus Run - Official launch of the 2018 British Asparagus Festival Thursday 10 & 17 May Asparabus Coach Tours Sunday 20 May Asparagus Family Colour Fun Run Sunday 27 May & Sunday 3 June The Famous Fleece Asparagus Auctions Friday 22 – Sunday 24 June National Morris Weekend

The British Asparagus Festival @AsparagusFest

Bredon’s Norton Lambing Day See new-born lambs pigs, cows & chickens Refreshments Tombola Free Parking Adults £4 Children £2 Family Ticket £10 Home Farm Bredon’s Norton Tewkesbury GL20 7HA

All proceeds raised in aid of Bredon’s Norton Church

Sunday 8th April 2018 12noon to 4.30pm Pregnant women are advised not to attend

Insured, NVQ/NPTC Qualified & CHAS Accredited Tree Surgery / Care Hedge Cutting Groundworks Patios & Paving Fencing Site Clearance Hard & Soft Landscaping Equestrian & Agricultural Projects  Domestic & Commercial  References on request

Contact Tim Coppin

07557 536 391 01386 882 436 timtcppn@aol.com

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Personal space

With Kirsten Cluer

esearch shows that a typical employee spends around ten percent of their paid time on non -work related online activities, and in some cases this rises to 40 percent. Whether it’s via a pc or mobile phone, surfing the net on company time is nothing new. There’s much to do; shopping, news, checking the bank balance, paying bills, answering emails... before we even begin to think about social media. Six out of ten people admit to going online to conduct personal activities during the working day; even the most diligent among us will spend a few minutes checking on the kids, cancelling the dentist or having a quick glance at the football results. Most of us would not take undue advantage but excessive usage can have a real impact on productivity and performance, as well as being irritating to colleagues and customers alike. So what does this mean for your organisation? Banning or blocking such activities outright would be counterproductive, as it

Read our blog and see what our clients say about us

penalises the many for the abuses of the few and is likely to fuel resentment. Instead of restricting use outright, consider creating a clear usage policy. Draw up a code of ‘do's and don'ts’ (these may differ widely between organisations) and attach them to a consent form, which everyone is invited to sign. For mobiles, this might include where they are kept, the sounds they make, when and where they can be used and expectations during meetings. Ensure the policy is fair and balanced, emphasising trust and personal responsibility. However, any such policy is worthless if it isn’t enforced. One option for pc’s is to install time tracking software to monitor employee internet use. There are various options available which can be tailored to the needs of your workplace and it need not be expensive or overly intrusive but must respect

an individual’s right to privacy. If you’d like a free initial consultation on personal internet/ mobile usage or need HR advice and ongoing support we’d love to hear from you. Please call on 01386 751740 or email info@cluerhrsolutions.co.uk

Guiding businesses through the challenges of employment and helping them to grow through their people. Meet the team...

Dawn

Suzanne

Emma

Clare

Call on 01386 751 740 www.cluerhrsolutions.co.uk Stockton’s Courtyard, Overbury, Tewkesbury GL20 7NT

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Period

SOLUTION Installing modern lighting and smart home control systems into a period property can create a fresh new ambiance suggests Rob Shaughnessy, Contracts Director at Buzz Electrical.

Period or listed properties can present a significant challenge when it comes to making modern electrical upgrades such as recessed lighting. The constraints created by solid walls and minimal voids will often impact upon options for routing cables and our aim is to always minimise the number of electrical routes. Great care must be taken to protect original features like quarry tiles, ornate floorboards or dado rails and thought must be given to the positioning of any new sockets, controls and switches. The most successful installations, completed with the least possible disruption, rely on an experienced contractor with sensitivity to the complex issues

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involved. Projects work best when there is a combination of thorough planning and close liaison between client or project manager and electrical foreman. Collaboration with specialist tradesman such as decorative plasterers may also be necessary to temporarily remove features like cornices and coving to allow electrical work to take place. The Buzz team has extensive experience of renovating historic homes and heritage commercial properties including the nine Cotswold Inns & Hotels, plus grade listed churches. For advice on any electrical project please call us on 01386 423600. Buzz Electricalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team of sixteen fully qualified electricians, approved by the NICEIC, offers exceptional personal service locally; look out for our bright red vans. For inspiration, hints and tips please visit buzzelectrical.co.uk or follow us on facebook and twitter.

Excellent NICEIC approved electricians offering personal service at a competitive rate. Est. 1999

Call 01386 423600 www.buzzelectrical.co.uk 43

of Prince Henry’s ethos. Students learn that their behaviours have an effect on their own rights and those of others. All members of the school community treat each other with respect and this is embraced throughout the curriculum by providing the opportunity for students to express their views in a safe environment.

On Values With Dr Tony Evans, Head teacher at Prince Henry’s High School, Evesham.

he Government emphasises that schools are required to ensure that five key ‘British Values’ are taught in all UK schools. These are: democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect and tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs. Democracy This principle is consistently reinforced in schools, with democratic processes being used for important decisions within the school community. For instance, in many schools, elections are held by the pupils. The principle of democracy is also explored in subjects such as History, RE and Citizenship, and in form time and assemblies. 44

The Rule of Law Students are taught the rules and behaviour expectations of their school, as well as the values and the reasons behind laws that govern and protect us. They also understand the responsibilities involved and the consequences when laws are broken. In many schools, this is reinforced by visits from authorities such as the police, fire service and armed services. Individual Liberty Students are actively encouraged to make independent choices, with the knowledge that they are in a safe, secure and supportive environment. They are encouraged and advised how to know, understand and exercise their rights and personal freedoms safely, for example through e-safety and form time work. Mutual Respect Respect is a strong part of the

Tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs This has been demonstrated through our International Schools Award. Students benefit from a number of international visitors, including exchange programmes. The PSHCE curriculum enables students to have a broad and balanced education on a range of faiths and cultures, whilst in a wider context we support Remembrance, educate our students about the Holocaust, participate in Duke of Edinburgh Award, and promote the Olympic and Paralympic values through our assemblies.

FIND OUT MORE Dr. Evans is Head teacher at Prince Henry's High School Victoria Avenue Evesham WR11 4QH Call 01386 765588 For more information about school life please visit princehenrys.worcs.sch.uk

Registered Charity No: 1051708

Entertainment In Tewkesbury

The Roses offers a huge selection of live shows, films and activities to enjoy and take part in virtually every day of the year.

Live Event Highlights

Film Highlights

Macbeth • Wed 7 Mar

Phantom Thread • Loveless • I, Tonya The Shape Of Water • Lady Bird Peter Rabbit • Mary Magdalene Ready Player One • Wonder Wheel Dark River • Finding Your Feet A Wrinkle In Time • Red Sparrow

The Westenders • Fri 9 Mar Vienna Festival Ballet: The Sleeping Beauty • Tue 13 Mar Someone Like You: The Adele Songbook • Sat 17 Mar Crimes Under The Sun • Wed 21 Mar David Baddiel • Sat 24 Mar G4’s Jonathan Ansell • Fri 6 Apr Tubular Brass • Sat 7 Apr Alice In Wonderland • Mon 9 Apr The Carpenters Songbook • Fri 13 Apr Jess Robinson: Here Come The Girls • Wed 18 Apr Big Girls Don’t Cry • Sat 21 Apr Dublin Legends • Mon 23 Apr

See www.rosestheatre.org for full programme of events and films Image: Jess Robinson

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Boiler Breakdowns Boiler Services from £50 Boiler Installations Radiators & Controls Underfloor Heating Oil & Gas Systems Renewable Energy Bathrooms Over 10 years’ experience

All aspects of plumbing and heating undertaken

Graphic Designer?

We are looking for freelancers to help with our workload Please call us for an informal discussion

01684 210614 07930 639488

Call Lisa on

bbheatingsolutions@gmail.com Wimber Hill, Dingle Lane, Hill End Twyning, Tewkesbury Glos GL20 6DW

www.bbheatingsolutions.co.uk

01684 773135

lisa@lifeinthevillage.co.uk

www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk

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Margins Standard Page Top 8mm Right 8mm Left Garden 8mm Makeovers  Garden Clearance  Ground Maintenance Hard Landscaping Bottom 10mm 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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On the Blossom Trail Whatever your mode of transport this spring, be part of the blossoming fun in the Vale of Evesham.

Blossoming Fun in the Vale Discover the Vale of Evesham afresh this season as it bursts into life and witness the subtle pink tones of cherry and apple blossom mixed with white blooms of plums and pears. After almost 35 years, this enchanting blossom trail that criss-crosses the river Avon and meanders through idyllic villages still attracts 1000’s of visitors. The trail is one of the worlds’ leading blossom events and the only one of its kind in the UK. You can appreciate this beautiful trail by car, coach, bike or on foot. Blossom Bikeaway Explore the Vale’s blossom by bike on the Blossom Bikeaway on Sunday 15 April. Organised by Bikeaway Ventures the event starts at Hampton Ferry, Evesham and provides the option of three routes that vary in 48

intensity and distance; 11, 27 or 59 miles. Enjoy the ride with friends and family whilst marvelling at the beautiful scenery. For more details please visit bikeawayventures.co.uk or email bikeaway40@yahoo.co.uk Blossom Trail Walks Get lost in the delightful blossom and celebrate the illustrious trail by foot with our pack of three local walks, all between three and six miles long. These walks have been created with blossom in mind, but can be appreciated at any time of the year. To purchase a walks pack please call Angela Taylor on 01386 565373 or visit local Tourist Information Centres where they are on sale at £2.95. Blossom Coach Tours Dudley’s Coaches and Evesham

Vale Tour Guides are offering their popular tours on Thursday 12 and Thursday 19 April, with a blossom tour guide who will highlight the best viewpoints and provide historical and entertaining insights, this is a great value day trip not to be missed. Pick up points from various locations throughout the County. For more information and to book your seat call 01386 792206 or visit eveshamvaletourguides.co.uk Monitoring the Blossom Blossom doesn’t last long so it is important to plan your trip. We have carefully crafted a blossom trail guide that will provide you with the best locations to witness the stunning blooms; to obtain your free copy please call Andrew Christopher on 01386 5655564. A virtual guide can be found at valeandspa.co.uk

PHOTOS: Stuart Purfield WORDS: Angela Taylor

Your Spring Highlights at a Glance… Spring Time in the Vale Coach Tours Thursday 12 & 19 April Organised by Dudley’s Coaches and Evesham Vale Tour Guides. To make a booking please contact Dudley’s Coaches on 01386 792206 or visit eveshamvaletourguides.co.uk Blossom Bikeaway Sunday 15 April Choose from an 11, 27 or 59 mile cycle route and discover the Blossom Trail while raising funds for local charities. For more information please visit bikeawayventures.co.uk Blossom Trail Walks A pack of 3 walks is available to purchase from Wychavon District Council and local Tourist Information Centres at £2.95 or please call Angela Taylor on 01386 565373. For further information please contact Angela Taylor on 01386 565373 or visit valeandspa.co.uk 49

Would you like to get paid to keep fit?

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

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

Rounds are currently available in Wadborough, Earl’s Croome, Longdon, Badsey & Bretforton & various villages across Bredon Hill

Please contact Lisa on

01684 773135

e-mail: lisa@lifeinthevillage.co.uk

@LisaLambon

www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk *If driving, you may need business insurance which is free from many insurers 50

WIN ONE OF FIVE PAIRS OF TICKETS FOR PRESCOTT BIKE FEST 2018 14-15 APRIL IN AID OF BLOOD BIKES Entering is easy! Just visit www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk by Friday 31 March 2018 and enter your details as requested. TWO AMAZING DAYS – ONE WINNING WEEKEND

PHOTO: Allan Rhodes

Prescott Bike Fest 2018 is set to be the biggest and best yet and has been extended to two days. The popular, family-friendly event is your opportunity to enjoy an incredibly diverse range of extreme machinery and then watch them take to the hill on the Sunday. Love it or hate it, Electric is here and BikeFest will be among the first to showcase it. Throughout the weekend there’s also non -stop live music, large displays of historic, modern and race bikes, special guest appearances, stunt show, large kids’ zone, over 100 quality trade stands, motorcycle clubs, beer tent and great food. Not for the faint-hearted, you can even take part in a thrilling passenger ride experience. All proceeds go to a great cause; the Nationwide Association of Blood Bikes and regional Blood Bike group Severn Freewheelers.

A fab day out for all the family Over £200k raised for Blood Bikes so far!

Terms & Conditions: One entry per household. Competition closes Friday 31 March 2018 and the winners will be informed by Friday 6 April 2018. Tickets, valid for either day, will be posted. Prize not redeemable for cash. Judges’ decision is final. No correspondence will be entered into. By entering this competition you agree to be contacted in future by Life in the Village. Your information will not be shared with any third party. Unsubscribe at any time by emailing unsubscribe@lifeinthevillage.co.uk

For further details or to purchase advance tickets please visit www.prescottbikefestival.co.uk Prescott Bike Festival, Gotherington, Nr Cheltenham, GL52 9RD 51

Hand of Hope As the leading cause of death in young people under 35, suicide is everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s business, suggests Rosemary Vaux of Papyrus.

n the UK suicide is the main cause of death in young people under 35. 200 school children take their own lives every year. Huge numbers of young people consider suicide and many thousands of those actually make a suicide attempt. Children and young people today can be under a lot of pressure. Depression, anxiety and other mental health problems can manifest themselves from early childhood. Talking about fears and feelings is difficult, even to those we know love and care about us. This can prevent others from recognising the distress and being able to help. It is easy to understand that someone is hurting if they have been badly injured or are

physically ill. Emotional pain cannot be seen, but it can be just as unbearable. National charity PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide believes that we can all help, that suicide a concern for the whole community. Not only parents, brothers and sisters, but grandparents, family friends, teachers, neighbours, sports and community workers, the school bus driver, all are in a position to spot that something is not quite right. There are many common reasons why children and young people can become anxious or depressed: struggling at school; peer pressure to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;fit inâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;; to be popular; bullying, cyber bullying and social media; finding a job. A significant change in family

circumstances or relationships, ill health or death of a close friend or family can also make a young person feel suicidal. You are not alone Attempted suicide is far more common than most of us realise. In the UK, thousands of young people are admitted to accident and emergency departments each year because they have tried to kill themselves. Although most people who attempt suicide survive, many remain at high risk of taking their own life afterwards so any suicide attempt, however minor it seems, should be taken seriously. Spot the signs How do we know if someone is having thoughts of suicide? We cannot be certain without asking

directly but there are often signs we can look out for. People at risk may be giving away possessions, withdrawn socially, acting impulsively or self-harming. You may notice they are feeling hopeless, sad, lonely, angry or worthless. Other signs include selfneglect, loss of appetite, disrupted sleep patterns and changes in behaviour. Often there are verbal clues; “everyone will be better off without me”; “I can’t take it any more”, “I want to die”. If something doesn’t feel right don’t hesitate to explore further. If you are worried about someone ask directly: “Have you had thoughts of suicide?” It sounds scary and many people resist, worried that it might put the idea into the person’s head. However, research and life experience confirms that this cannot happen and by asking, you communicate that you are a safe person who they can talk to and support them to seek help … you could save a life!

For more information and guidance please visit www.papyrus-uk.org If you are a young person or worried about a young person you can contact PAPYRUS HOPELineUK on 0800 068 4141 text 07786 209 697 or email pat@papyrus-uk.org for confidential help and advice. Bredon Hill resident Mike Scott is cycling the London to Paris bike ride, 295 miles, from 16-20 May in support of Papyrus to raise awareness of our high rate of suicide; increase awareness of this national charity which draws experience from many who have been touched by young suicide and believe that many cases can be prevented; and raise £1 for each of the 6000+ deaths that occur each year. To support Mike please visit www.justgiving.com/MikeScott300, call 01684 773970 or email mikeandjanescott@gmail.com

How can you help? Do Ask If worried ask how they are feeling. Try to be patient if they are angry or refuse to talk. Listen This is the most important thing you can do. Treat them with respect; try not to be judgemental or critical. Empathise by showing you really care, no matter what, and are trying to understand things from their point of view. Reassure them that desperate feelings are very common and can be overcome. Try to give practical support and help them to cope with any extra pressures. It may not be possible to deal with all the things that are troubling them, but you’ll help them to seek further help. Don’t Put them down. Feeling suicidal means that self-esteem is already very low. Nag Although well meant, nobody wants to be pestered all the time. Intrude Try to balance being watchful with respect for privacy Criticise their actions However you may be feeling try to remember the pain and turmoil that they were, and may still be, going through.

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Compare Our Prices Sensational Sandstone Autumn, Light Grey & Raj Blend Collected £14.00 m 2+vat Delivered £16.50 m 2 + VAT Camel Collected £14.95 m 2 + VAT Delivered £17.00 m 2 + VAT Fossil Mint Collected £16.50 m 2 + VAT Delivered £17.50 m 2 + VAT Sawn 6 Sides Honed Grey & Raj Delivered £29.50m 2 + VAT mixed size patio packs

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Policing South Worcestershire

With Policing Commander for South Worcestershire, Supt. Kevin Purcell.

outh Worcestershire is a largely rural area, where people living in isolated areas can sometimes feel vulnerable, which makes it extremely important that we tackle rural crime and the fear of crime, effectively. As such, it is one of my key priorities. The term “rural crime “ is defined as any crime or antisocial behaviour that takes place in a rural location or is identified as such by the victim. Certain offences are specific to rural areas, such as:  crimes involving farm equipment and livestock  crimes against small rural businesses  wildlife crime, such as the taking or illegal trapping of animals or birds  theft or damage to heritage sites and buildings  tourism crime, including offences committed on holiday sites and damage to beauty spots  serious and organised crime: remote locations can be attractive for organised crime groups  road safety offences, which affect the quality of life for rural residents Recognising the valuable contribution of rural communities, I am determined to work in partnership with them to

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

reduce the harm caused by crime. According to research commissioned by the National Rural Crime Network, the number of crimes in rural areas may well be under-reported. In South Worcestershire we want to encourage people to report crimes – but also to report unusual and suspicious behaviour that might need to be investigated. If you’ve seen something that gives you cause for concern, phone West Mercia Police on 101 so that we can further investigate. Led by our Safer Neighbourhood Teams, and supported by a dedicated Rural & Business Crime Officer plus specially trained Wildlife Officers, we’ve been working closely with communities and the National Farmers Union (NFU) to identify and solve local issues of concern. Through increased reporting we’ve been able to gather intelligence about those who target or commit offences in rural areas, take part in proactive operations to disrupt offenders, and provide a visible presence in rural villages and towns. Recent successes have been the reporting of offenders for poaching offences and my team are currently engaged in cross border targeted patrols, focusing

on the rural areas. My team also includes a specially trained Design Out Crime Officer (DOCO), who provides bespoke advice on how to protect yourself, your farm or household, and your property and livestock. You can help the police tackle rural crime by taking an active approach towards crime prevention, and signing up for Community Messaging or one of our rural watch schemes at worcestershireruralwatch.co.uk

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 the postcode finder for local news www.westmercia.police.uk Follow us on twitter @SuptKevPurcell @SWorcs Cops @PershoreCops @EveshamCops @MalvernCops

Fish En Papillote & Hollandaise Sauce Parcel fish with seasonal vegetables such as asparagus or tomato then simply serve or dress with hollandaise sauce. FISH EN PAPILOTTE 4 x 110g (4oz) fillets of fish such as sea bass, sole or hake selection of seasonal vegetables such as 2 carrots, shredded 2 shallots, shredded 2 courgettes, shredded 12 new potatoes, boiled ¼ pint of white wine 4 knobs of butter salt and pepper 1 lemon 4 x 50cm squares of kitchen foil 4 x 50cm squares of silicone paper

 Pre-heat the oven to 180/160 degrees fan  Place the foil squares onto a tray on the work surface with the silicone paper squares on top.  In a bowl, mix the shredded seasonal vegetables with a pinch of salt and pepper.  Slice the boiled new potatoes into 2cm thick rounds. Scatter the potatoes and vegetables on the paper and sit a fillet of fish on top.  Season from a height, add a knob of butter, a splash of wine and a squeeze of lemon.  Crimp the silicone paper and foil tightly into crescent shaped parcels leaving no gaps for the steam to escape.  Cook for 18 minutes then transfer to plates.

HOLLANDAISE SAUCE 3 tbsp white wine vinegar 6 black peppercorns 1 bay leaf 2 egg yolks small knob of butter 110g (4oz) melted unsalted butter lemon juice salt & freshly ground white pepper

 Place the vinegar, peppercorns and bay leaf in a small heavy saucepan. Bring to a simmer then reduce the liquid to 3/4 the original amount. Strain and set the liquid aside.  Whisk the yolks with a pinch of salt and a knob of butter in a small heatproof bowl. Place the bowl over a small saucepan of simmering (not boiling) water and beat until slightly thicker.  Add a little of the liquid reduction and continue to stir over the heat until slightly thickened.  Remove from heat and gradually beat in the melted butter, teaspoon by teaspoon.  Taste then add salt and pepper, lemon juice and the rest of the liquid reduction as necessary.  Keep warm and serve; hollandaise sauce will set firm if allowed to go cold and curdle if overheated.

Did You Know? ‘En papillote’ from the French ‘in parchment’ is a simple way to cook fish, although using foil is more practical. Allow your guests to open their parcel at the table so they can enjoy the aroma.

Recipe courtesy of Steve Waites proprietor of Belle House Restaurant & Deli-Traiteur, Bridge Street, Pershore, WR10 1AJ. www.belle-house.co.uk 57

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

Stay in touch with daily twitter updates offering you a slice of country life, locally. Beautiful Local Gardens...

ith over 5,000 of us now interacting, joining us on twitter is a great way to keep up with country living, locally. Our daily updates will help you stay up to speed with events, competitions and offers, homes and gardens, nature and wildlife, rural issues, recipes and more. If you’re new to twitter you could start by following some of our favourite #gardening accounts:  @HighgroveGarden 37 years in the making by HRH The Prince of Wales, the Royal gardens demonstrate his belief in organic and sustainable methods.  @SudeleyCastle Award winning gardens, exhibitions, play area and pheasantry in the home and resting place of Queen Katherine Parr.  @SpetchleyPark Beautiful historic house, gardens and deer park with plenty of open spaces for families to play.  @StanwayHouse Jacobean Manor House and the world’s tallest gravity fed fountain.

 @NTCoughton Family home of the Throckmortons: beautiful gardens, thrilling stories and a great cuppa. Gunpowder plot safe house full of Catholic treasures and a Priest Hide.  @NTCroome 18th century ‘Capability Brown’ park and mansion house, WW1 visitor centre and RAF museum. A great place for dog walking.  @NGSOpenGardens, @Glosngs and @WorcsNGS The National Garden Scheme is opening 3,700 gardens this year, locally and nationally, to raise funds for nursing charities. Search their website and fill your calendar with some great days out. Visit www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk for daily updates via twitter on    

Local events Country living Rural issues Local producers

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

Some of the photos of local gardens & wildlife we share

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

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

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Offer a Local Service? â&#x20AC;Ś join us & be seen

Free ad design for new clients booking an annual package before 31/3/17

Call Lisa:

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WIN ONE OF TEN PAIRS OF TICKETS TO THE SPECIALIST PLANT FAIR AT SPETCHLEY PARK GARDENS 22 APRIL 2018 Entering is easy; just visit www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk by Saturday 31 March 2018 and enter your details as requested. A GREAT DAY OUT FOR GARDENERS & FAMILIES

The Spetchley Specialist Plant Fair is one of the Midlands’ recognised gardening events and this year it’s set to be the best yet. With over 30 stall holders offering 1000s of rare and interesting plants, including new varieties seldom seen, there will be something for every garden. Plus staff from Pershore College will be on hand to answer any gardening dilemmas. Admission includes entry to the 30 acres of historic gardens with plenty of space to play, offering families a fabulous day out and a last chance to see the glorious display of daffodils. Refreshments will be available on the lawn. The Gardens at Spetchley Park are going through one of the biggest revivals in their 400 year history. The Heritage Learning and Interpretation centre is now open in the newly converted cart sheds enabling visitors to learn more about the gardens and the Berkeley family using audio visual and touch technology. The family’s beloved sovereign coach is also on display after over 100 years following a period of restoration; built c1875 the coach is thought to be one of only twenty remaining. Admission to the Plant Fair is £6 for adults and under 16s go free. For details please visit www.spetchleygardens.co.uk

Terms & Conditions: One entry per household. Competition closes Saturday 31 March 2018 and the winners will be informed by Friday 6 April 2018. Tickets will be held for collection on the gate. Prizes not redeemable for cash. Judges’ decision is final. No correspondence will be entered into. By entering this competition you agree to be contacted in future by Life in the Village and Spetchley Park Gardens. Your information will not be shared with any third party. You can unsubscribe at any time by emailing unsubscribe@lifeinthevillage.co.uk

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Compare our prices: Softwood 8'x8"x4" £14.00+VAT. New Oak 8'x8"x4"£26.00 +VAT. Ends 30/4/18 or whilst stocks last.

Lif ini the Life

Lif iin the Life

GARDEN SLEEPERS FROM £14.00+VAT

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10% OFF ADVANCE STANDARD ADULT TICKETS FOR RHS MALVERN*

SPRING PAVING OFFERS FROM £14.00m2 + VAT*

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COTSWOLD & VALE SUPPLIES

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

RHS MALVERN SPRING FESTIVAL

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ARTIFICIAL GRASS FROM £8.25m2 +VAT (33mm)*

FREE SCOTCHGARD WITH EVERY CARPET CLEAN

*Artificial grass supply and fit also available from our in-house landscape team. Ends 30/4/18 or whilst stocks last.

Ends 30/4/18. Bredon based mobile service 01684 773900 or 07530 090 898 imperialcarpetcareuk@yahoo.co.uk

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

COTSWOLD & VALE SUPPLIES

IMPERIAL CARPET CARE

BUY ONE & GET ONE HALF PRICE ON MILKSHAKES*

FREE ADVERT DESIGN FOR BOOKINGS BY 31/3/18

*Choose from Sensational Strawberry, Crazy about Chocolate or Bonkers Banoffee. Ends 30/4/18. One per person.

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Autumn, Light Grey & Raj Sandstone from £14.00m2+VAT. *Full packs only, collected. Ends 30/4/18 or whilst stocks last.

Call 0844 811 0050 (calls cost 7p per minute plus network extras) or visit rhsmalvern.co.uk

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*For Fri/Sat/Sun when booked by 31/3/2018. Offer cannot be applied retrospectively. Quote code LITV18.

New Customers only when you book an annual package. Not valid with other offers. 01684 773135 / 07776 340736 lisa@lifeinthevillage.co.uk www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk

Worcester Rd, Mythe, Tewkesbury GL20 6EB 01684 299996 www.tewkesburygardencentre.com

BROWN’S RESTAURANT

LIFE IN THE VILLAGE

£1 OFF CHELTENHAM & DISTRICT ORCHID SOCIETY ANNUAL SHOW

£10 OFF ANY BEAUTY OR HOLISTIC TREATMENT

Sunday 3rd March 10:30am - 4:00pm Visit our website & follow the link to ‘2018 Orchid Show’ to download a voucher

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*when ordered by 30/6/18. Call 01386 765959 info@thevalegroup.com 54 Cheltenham Road, Evesham WR11 2JZ www.thevalegroup.com

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

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UP TO 15% OFF SILESTONE KITCHEN WORKTOPS*

For new customers of Beauty Beyond until 30/4/18. Please present voucher at reception. Offers cannot be combined. T’s & C’s apply.

www.cheltenhamorchids.org

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

CHELTENHAM & DISTRICT ORCHID SOCIETY

BEAUTY BEYOND

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The home of reliable workmanship

Planning an Extension? Call today for free initial advice & references

Trust a local family builder combining up-to-date methods with traditional values; two generations with over 40 years of property building experience, locally. Offering attention to detail to personalise and add value to your home. Extensions - Renovations - Loft, Garage & Barn Conversions - New Builds Visit our website for inspiration and evidence of the care we take

Call 01242 621 190 Email info@alderwoodconstruction.co.uk www.alderwoodconstruction.co.uk lifeinthevillage.co.uk

Unit 4 Beta, Orchard Industrial Estate, Toddington, GL54 5EB

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