Life in the Village - Cotswold Edge - Autumn 2016

COTSWOLD EDGE Autumn 2 0 16 FREE lifeinthevillage.co.uk

Life in the Win!

Cookery

Blackberry Jam with Steve Waites

One of 20 Pairs of Tickets to The Festive Gift Fair at the NEC

Local Arts

The Peculiar History of Pantomime

And

A Family Ticket to Robin Hood at The Roses And

One of Ten Pairs of Tickets to Stratford upon Avon Christmas Fayre

Go Owl

SPOTTING HO MES

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G ARDENS

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FO O D

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DRI NK

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WEL LBEI NG

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L EI SURE

Village Green K

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S

Competitive Quotes Skilled, Reliable Craftsmen Expert Carpentry Fully Guaranteed Assured Start Date Also Bathrooms

Keith, Andy & Garry provided a friendly & professional service that was outstanding …we have no hesitation in recommending Village Green.

NICK & BECCI

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

© Images copyright to Magnet Retail

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I

www.vgkc.co.uk

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Please contact Lisa on

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e-mail: lisa@lifeinthevillage.co.uk

@LisaLambon

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lifeinthevillage.co.uk

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@LisaLambon

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01684 773135

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Autumn

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Contents Competitions & Vouchers 11 Competition with The Festive Gift Fair 41 Competition with Stratford Christmas Fayre 61 Competition with The Roses 62 Your money saving vouchers

Local Life 8 Welcome 25 Stove Stories with Ben Bowers 27 Engaging HR with Kirsten Cluer 33 Pension Clarity with Spencer Holliday

Enter our three new competitions online

39 Raw Energy with Chris Brierley 45 Caring For You with Lucy Sherry 48 Bredon Hill Bikeaway with Henry Prudden 51 Limit Your Risk with Steve Owens 52 Living Well with Helen Griffee 65 Index

Regulars 12 Owl Spotting with Wendy Carter 19 Customer Care with Graham West 21 Coughton Winter Festival with Abi Coles 22 Policing with Supt. Kevin Purcell 31 Pet Talk with Folly Gardens Vets 36 Light + Longevity with John Lannen 43 Behind The Scenes with Caroline Lawrence 56 Life in the Village on Twitter 58 Blackberry Jam with Steve Waites

Front cover image: Š www.Shutterstock.com/Vladlena Azima This page, clockwise from top Tawny Owl by Elliot Neep via WWT, Spencer Holliday, Financial Advisor with Irongate, Bredon Hill Bikeaway

by Stuart Purfield, Kirsten Cluer of Cluer HR

7

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. As many of you will know, October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. The messages may feel familiar but please take note of them. The scale of this illness is such that it affects us all; 600 people are diagnosed with Breast Cancer every year in Worcestershire alone.

We’re fortunate locally to have the freshly opened Worcester Breast Unit, including the Worcester Haven, Maggie’s Cheltenham, and now, a new specialist service for women living with Secondary Breast Cancer provided by St. Richard’s Hospice in partnership with Worcestershire Royal Hospital. Find out about this innovative programme on page 52.

This edition, we also bring you expert advice from a range of local professionals, news, views, events and a selection of money saving offers. We’ve got three great new competitions - twenty pairs of tickets to the Festive Gift Fair at the NEC, ten pairs of tickets to the Stratford Festive Fayre and two family tickets for the first night of Robin Hood and Babes in the Wood at The Roses, Tewkesbury.

Entering is easy - just visit us online and provide your details.

Your next printed magazine will be with you from late November but remember you can access daily updates by visiting our website or joining us on twitter. Follow us @LisaLambon or simply visit www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk where you’ll find our twitter feed displayed on every page.

Until next time, enjoy the season,

Life in the COTSWOLD EDGE 8

Follow Us on Twitter

Publishing Editor Lisa Lambon

@LisaLambon

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WIN 1 OF 20 PAIRS OF TICKETS FOR THE FESTIVE GIFT FAIR AT THE NEC 10-13 NOVEMBER It’s easy! Just visit www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk by Friday 21st October 2016 and enter your details as requested.

ENJOY FESTIVE SHOPPING AND A FUN DAY OUT!

Join in the fun and get your Christmas shopping done in one day as the Festive Gift Fair returns to the NEC for four days, 10-13 November, 9-5pm daily.

Winners will receive a pair of tickets valid for any day of the show.

For our 21st year we have a whole NEW line-up of fantastic LIVE music to entertain you throughout the day. With 350 stalls overflowing with decorations and present ideas for all, it’s your chance to choose from hundreds of unique, affordable Christmas gifts, home accessories, delicious food and trendy tipples that you won't find on the High Street. So easy to visit, all in one hall, all on one level and there’s even a courtesy shuttle service to and from Birmingham International station.

For full show information visit www.festivegiftfair.co.uk Advance adult tickets are priced from just £8.50. Book now by calling The Ticket Factory on 0844 581 0808/0809. Or online at www.theticketfactory.com (£2.50 fulfilment fee for postal bookings. £1.50 for E-tickets).

HOW TO ENTER

Visit www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk and enter your details as requested by Friday 21st October 2016.

Terms & Conditions: One entry per household. Competition closes on Friday 21st October 2016. A pair of tickets, valid for any day of the Fair, will be posted first class to the 20 winners by Friday 28th 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.

11

Hootingly

BEAUTIFUL

Wendy Carter of Worcestershire Wildlife Trust invites you to go owl-spotting this autumn with a beginner’s guide to Tawny and Little owls, both of which can be found locally.

Y

ou’re in a

woodland and it’s going dark. You have a feeling that you’re being watched. Your imagination is going into overdrive when you look up and see a pair of eyes looking right back at you...

Okay, so an encounter with an owl doesn’t quite happen in that way but it’s likely to be just as memorable. Autumn is a great time of year to go owl spotting; not only are there fewer leaves on the trees, making it easier to see the birds, but Tawny Owls in particular start to get noisy at this time of year.

Take a stroll in your local woodland and you may be able to unearth a Tawny or Little

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Owl. As you walk, keep looking upwards into the canopies, especially those of hollow trees, because owls nest in old holes. You may also see them sat along the lengths of old branches or high up on rocks from which they will quietly scan the ground for prey.

Tawny Owls Tawny Owls are our largest common owl; the familiar 'Brown Owl' of Britain's woodlands. They are unmistakable for their mottled grey or reddish-brown colouring, big, round head, large, dark eyes and rounded wings. They feed on small animals like voles and mice, looking out for them from a favourite perch.

If you’re fortunate enough to spot a Tawny Owl, you’ll think it

looks pretty solid. But it’s just an illusion. Beneath their thick covering of feathers, owls have a relatively small body, a narrow skull and a rather scrawny neck.

Their wide heads accommodate large ear structures; big ears are essential for living in the dark.

Although a Tawny Owl’s eyes are better in night-time woodland than ours, it’s their ability to locate sounds that really helps them out. Their ears, hidden under a mass of feathers, dominate the head, resulting in forward-facing eyes and a rather ‘flat’ face. When hunting at night, their ears are able to accurately pinpoint the noise of a mouse beneath fallen leaves.

It’s not enough to see a little and hear a little. Tawny Owls also have subtle behavioural adaptations that enable them to

PHOTO: Tawny Owl Elliot Neep

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PHOTO: Tawny Owl Jason Curtis

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if you hear both a too-wit and a too-woo you can rest safely in the knowledge that your Mr Owl has found a Mrs Owl to settle down with. Listen out for them calling from November onwards because they settle down to breed as early as January.

Although the Tawny Owl is not declining, their woodland habitats are disappearing and the intensification of agriculture has reduced the availability of their small mammal prey.

The Wildlife Trusts across Worcestershire and the UK are working closely with farmers and landowners to promote wildlife-friendly practices. We are working towards a 'Living Landscape': a network of habitats and wildlife corridors across town and country which are good for both wildlife and people.

“

For the best chance of success when owl spotting look upwards into the canopies of trees, along the lengths of old branches, and high up on rocks from which they will quietly scan the ground for prey...

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live in dark woods. They are rather sedentary; once one has established its territory, it never leaves!

They’re also quite long-lived so it’s possible that the Tawny you hear in the woodland down the road is the same one you heard ten or even 20 years ago.

This means that they know their woodland very well indeed, giving them intimate knowledge of distances from the ground to their various perches, an awareness of obstacles in their flight paths and an understanding of how to negotiate their way between nest sites and perches in the dark.

So what about all that hooting?

I hear owls regularly from my garden but it wasn’t until I was right underneath one when it hooted that I realised what a beautifully pure sound it is. And

PHOTO: Tawny Owl John Lucas

PHOTO: Tawny Owlet Jim Preston

PHOTO: Tawny Owl Pete Walkden

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PHOTO: Little Owl young Pete Walkden

Little Owls These grumpy-looking birds were actually introduced into Britain in the 19th century to help protect fruit crops from hungry bullfinches. They’re our smallest, and perhaps our most comical owl, swooping onto small mammals, reptiles, birds and insects from their perch and catching their victims in either its claws or beak. They often feed on earthworms and have even been observed falling backwards when tugging a particularly long earthworm from the ground!

These little chaps are not strictly nocturnal and are often seen in daylight and dusk – sometimes hopping over the ground to reach their next meal.

There’s one that lives in a tree not far from me and, although I don’t see it regularly, I’ve 16

spotted it during daylight hours sitting in the tree, on the road below and even perching precariously on top of a nearby telegraph pole.

Little Owls look like little bundles of fluff, with yellow eyes and a distinctive silhouette it’s this thick feathering that keeps them warm on the coldest of nights. The body feathers are also specially adapted with soft edges. This allows the air to pass over the feathers without turbulence so there is very little noise as they fly, glide or drop onto their alert and evasive prey.

Little Owls breed between March and August, forming monogamous pairs. In some parts of Europe, the species is undergoing decline due to changing farming practices, road deaths and persecution.

Therefore, the population of

Little Owls in Britain could be important in the future.

Worcestershire Wildlife Trust manages nature reserves locally to benefit all kinds of wildlife.

You can help us to help wildlife by joining, volunteering or getting involved in a campaign.

A Little Owl features on the front cover of our 2017 calendar, available now from our website along with Christmas cards and virtual gifts. Please visit www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk / shop Find out more...

To discover more about local owls, please use our Species Explorer at www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/ species-a-z

PHOTO: Little Owl Greg Coyne

PHOTO: Little Owl Carl Day

Get Three Months’ Membership Free!

Join Worcestershire Wildlife Trust before 29/02/17 & get 15 months’ membership for the price of 12! Please call and quote ‘Life in the Village’.

Great gift idea!

WWT Autumn Events include:  Join the Log Lobbers 16th October 10am –1pm Join our enthusiastic volunteer team and help us run our log sales at Tiddesley Wood. There’s a great atmosphere, the opportunity to get some exercise and raise funds for local conservation work.  Tiddesley Wood Log & Wood Chip Sales, Saturday 29th & Sunday 30th October then Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th December, 10am - 1pm. Buy your logs and woodchips, sold in

aid of wildlife conservation. All proceeds help our conservation work across the county.

Logs £4.80 a bag or save money - £95 per cu metre (250300 logs) loaded loose into trailers, car boots etc, any amount big or small! Chips £3 a bag if available - quantity discount. You don't need to reserve quantities - just turn up and buy.

Find Tiddesley Wood - the Harry Green Reserve just outside Pershore, satnav WR10 2AD.

Species’ Fact File Common name Tawny Owl Latin name Strix aluco Length 37-39cm Wingspan 99cm Weight 420-520g Common name Little Owl Latin name Athene noctua Length 21-23cm Wingspan 56cm Weight 180g

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

worcestershirewildlifetrust

WorcsWildlifeTrustUK1 17

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hat is

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Interior Design

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 Offi cer Abi Cole.

C

ome and explore Christmas at Coughton as we open our doors for nine days of festive merriment this winter.Weekdays are the best time to see this beautiful Tudor house festooned with handmade decorations and foliage plus a floor to ceiling Christmas tree, all set for a traditional family celebration.

During the week, local schools and choirs will be singing carols in front of a roaring fire. Out in the stableyard the Coach House Shop will be selling seasonal gifts and treats whilst Christmas lunches, mulled wine and mince pies will be available from the Coughton Kitchen Café.

Our popular Christmas Market takes place on the weekends of 26th and 27th November and 3rd and 4th December. Festive stalls set up in the stableyard

Dates for Your Diary will be offering food, drink and interesting gifts, ideal for stocking up your cupboards and buying presents for loved ones.

Father Christmas, dressed in traditional green robes, will be ready to receive little visitors over both weekends.

New for 2016, Coughton will be open after hours for a unique chance to explore the house in the evening. Please join the team for a Silent Night Tour; wander around the rooms in peace, hear the clock ticking, listen out for the carol singers, enjoy some mulled wine by the fire, then head off to the café for a festive buffet.

With so much on offer for all the family Coughton is a great place to start your festivities.

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

Follow us on Twitter @NTCoughton

Family Fun Days – Hallowe’en Sat 22 – Sun 30 Oct, 11am – 3.30pm Spooky outdoor trail, £2.50 per trail Fawkes Feast, Sat 5 Nov, 6-11 pm Exclusive black tie event with a champagne reception, private tour of the house, seven course meal & an after dinner speaker. £150p er person, to book call 01789 400777 option 2 Christmas at Coughton Sat 26 Nov – Sun 4 Dec. Festive shopping, the house decorated and at weekends, a Christmas Market.

Please note that the property gets very busy at the weekends and 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 times and admission prices, and to advance book timed tickets for the house at weekends, please see website.

Silent Night Tours,Tue 6 and Wed 7 Dec, 6.30pm – 9.30pm Adult £20, child £5 & family £45 Booking is essential on 01789 400777 option 2 Wassail, Sat 10 & Sun 11 Dec, 4.30pm & 7.30pm. Adults £27, Child £11. Booking essential on 0844 249 1895

POLICING

South Worcestershire

I

dentity theft is the UK’s fastest-growing method of carrying out criminal activity and the internet provides numerous opportunities for fraudsters to harvest the personal data of unsuspecting members of the public.

Once a criminal has your details they can use them to commit identity fraud. They may be able to take over existing bank accounts, open new ones, obtain credit cards, loans and state benefits, take out mobile phone contracts, order goods and get genuine documents such as passports, in your name.

According to the Annual Fraud Indicator 2013, identity theft costs the UK more than £3.3 billion a year. However, there are some simple but effective steps that you can take to protect yourself from falling victim.  Phishing This is a scam where fraudsters send an email, instant message or text message, purporting to be from a legitimate company, prompting you to provide your personal details, such as passwords and user names. Sometimes they direct you to a website which looks valid but is actually bogus. The message can also contain links or attachments which will infect your computer, or other device, with a virus.

22

How to protect yourself against identity crime with Policing Commander for South Worcestershire, Supt. Kevin Purcell.

If you receive an email from an unknown source asking for personal details do not give them out. If the email looks like it’s from a legitimate company don’t disclose anything without checking the request is genuine.

For example, phone the company with a number you have sourced yourself and know is correct.

Mark suspicious emails as spam and delete them. Think before clicking on links. Take particular care on public wi-fi as fraudsters hack them or mimic them. When using it, avoid accessing sensitive apps such as mobile banking or use a Virtual Private Network (VPN).  Malware Malicious software, known as malware, disrupts the performance of your computer or other devices. It can be used in various ways to commit crime so always use legitimate antivirus software plus a firewall and make sure you keep it up to date.  Passwords Strong passwords are vital in protecting your personal details and identity. Use lengthy passwords that are not easy to crack. Write them down and keep them in a safe place.

Make sure they contain symbols and numbers, not just letters and use both upper and lower case.

Avoid obvious passwords, such as the name or your child or pet.

Your social media profiles can be

rich with information so reconsider your privacy settings and don’t rely on defaults.  Read it? Shred it. Before throwing something away, think about the personal details it contains and how they could be used. Shred receipts containing card details and post showing your name and address.

There's only one you - let’s try to keep it that way. #BeCyberSmart.

Find Out More...

Get information about scams and fraud in your area by signing up to Action Fraud alerts at: www.actionfraud.police.uk/ support-and-prevention/sign-upto-action-fraud-alert Visit Action Fraud, Get Safe Online and Cyber Streetwise for further information and advice.

Follow us on twitter @SuptKevPurcell @PershoreCops @EveshamCops @MalvernCops

We Need You!

Do You Remember American GIs in Tewkesbury & Pershore during WW2?

My name is Linda Pike and I am a student at the University of Worcester. For my final dissertation I am researching the impact of the North American military in WW2. This specifically involves the presence of American GIs at Ashchurch Camp in Tewkesbury and the Royal Canadian Air Force at RAF Pershore.

I am interested to talk to anyone (confidentially if you wish) who has memories, either as a child or young adult, of this period and these troops. My project is due to finish in Spring 2017.

Please call 01684 772028 or 07971 623767 Email Linda.pike54@hotmail.com

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you.!

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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:

Call 01684 773135 lisa@lifeinthevillage.co.uk

www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk

*

24

FREE!

Stove Starter Pack RRP £99 with every stove installation Ends 30/11/16*

STOVE Stories

measure up and offer advice on the most suitable stove, hearth, chimney and flue installation.

I live in a new house without a chimney. Can I have a stove?

Many people mistakenly think they can’t have a stove but with a suitable chimney system it’s possible to install one anywhere.

Ben Bowers Heating Solutions has recently opened a new stove showroom in Twyning, near Tewkesbury. Ben Bowers offers advice on how to achieve a successful installation.

What kind of stove will be most suitable for my home? From cast iron to steel stoves, HETAS to Defra approved, boiler stoves or heat only, wood burning, multi fuel, gas, oil and electric… there's a stove to suit every property. As a local family business, with over ten years’ experience, we offer a free site survey during which we will *

How do I know what size of stove to install? Many people fit a stove that is too big for their room. Modern stoves are easy to light, highly efficient and controllable so don't overdo it.

By assessing the size of your room, your heating requirements and manufacturer’s guidelines, we can advise which size will give the ideal balance.

01684 210614

I have a stove which gives out hardly any heat. Do I need a new one? Not necessarily. The most likely issue is fuel. Test the moisture level of your logs with a moisture meter as dry wood is vital for the efficient operation of any wood burner. Other issues could include flue blockages, inadequate air supply or the height of your chimney along with other common problems.

If you’d like advice on a stove please visit our showroom open Monday to Friday 9am to 4pm and Saturday 9am to 12noon or call us on 01684 210614.

To celebrate its launch we’re offering a free Stove Starter Pack (RRP £99) with every installation ordered by 30th November 2016.

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FREE Stove Starter Park incl. 1 x bag of kindling wood, 1 x tube of 100 fire lighters, 1 x stove thermometer, 1 x moisture meter & 1 x bottle glass cleaner

NEIGHBOURS ONLINE Rooftop Housing Group invite all residents to join us at various venues in the Wychavon area.

We are holding weekly workshops to learn basic computer skills in a relaxed and friendly environment.

Courses typically last five weeks.

No charge (donations welcome) Appointments only due to limited spaces.

Whether you are just starting out or want to learn more about using a computer this is for you.

Small group sessions with one to one support available.

For more information and to book your place please contact Andrew Gibbins on 01386 420800 ext. 263 26

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SIGN UP ONLINE FOR FREE HR UPDATES Visit our website to see what our clients say about us

Engaging HR

Kirsten Cluer on how to make work more fulfilling .

A

utumn in the workplace can be a bit of a struggle. Most of us want to be part of a happy, vibrant team in which everyone has clearly defined goals towards which they can strive. It sounds easy enough, but the daily pressures of business and the challenges of our personal lives mean that most people will, at times, experience work as a grind.

If you’d like to make your work more fulfilling for all, consider suggesting a few simple changes:  Ensure everyone has a voice. All staff, whatever their level, live in a business every day, know it well and are likely to have good ideas to move it forward. Giving everyone a sense of responsibility will hugely improve motivation.

 Set up initiatives that bring staff together. Shared activities help colleagues discover new things about each other’s skills and lift team spirit. A good start is a charity challenge.  Make health and wellness integral to your team culture.

Think what’s local to you and try to negotiate a discounted rate at the local gym or health club. Try team ‘stop smoking’ initiatives and annual health checks. Take part in fitness classes at lunchtime; half an hour of yoga or even a brisk walk can perk everyone up and avoid the afternoon slump!

If you’d like any advice in this area or to discuss any HR needs, 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...

Liz

Dawn

Clare

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Call on 01386 751 740 www.cluerhrsolutions.co.uk

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Margins Standard Page Top 8mm Right 8mm Left 8mm Makeovers  Garden Clearance  Ground Maintenance Hard Landscaping  Garden 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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Six ways to be

ENERGY WISE Pete Toth at PBT Installations offers advice on improving your home efficiency.

T

here are a variety of renewable energy systems which can be installed in your home to bring significant long term savings. With interest rates currently so low, investing in your property may feel preferable to leaving money in the bank.

Options to consider include:  Replacing your heating system controls with a remote control, programmable thermostat linked to your mobile phone via an app.  Replacing your old boiler and radiators with newer models which will be far more efficient.  Changing to LED light bulbs which use less electricity, are less likely to break, burn out or blow and produce less excess heat.  Installing a ground or air source heat pump will provide hot water and heating every day and save you money.  Installing solar hot water panels to your roof to capture heat from the sun and generate hot water for use in your shower, bath, sinks and appliances.  Installing a tank in your garden and connecting it to your household plumbing to harvest

Like to know more?

Please call to book a free home visit

rainwater to flush toilets, wash clothes and cars, and water your garden.

If you’d like to find out more about renewable solutions for your property please call to book a free home visit.

As well as offering traditional plumbing, heating and electrical

Call 01242 323923 or 07912 662516 info@pbtinstallations.co.uk www.pbtinstallations.co.uk

services, PBT Installations are specialists in renewable technologies, accredited under the Microgeneration Certification Scheme and a member of the Renewable Energy Consumer code www.recc.org.uk Plumbing

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29

30

FOLLY GARDENS

Pet Talk

Introducing Cataract Surgery for dogs

Dr. Jeremy Wills

A

s we all saw in the Olympics this summer, great teams can bring outstanding results. At Folly Gardens, we believe excellent pet care starts with a team approach. In-house, our vets, nurses and administrative staff all work closely together to deliver processes which result in best practice. We also have several long standing relationships with animal professionals across the region, enabling us to offer a wide range of services on site including diagnostic sonography, physiotherapy and help with animal behaviour. Referral Ophthalmologist, Dr. Jeremy Wills, pictured above (inset), is a valued member of our team who helps us deliver the highest quality medical and surgical eye care.

One of the common conditions that Dr. Wills treats is cataracts in dogs. As in humans, cataracts cloud the lens leading to a loss of Company Promotion

Folly Gardens is one of only a few veterinary clinics locally to offer cataract surgery for dogs explains vet Brad Cooper of Folly Gardens, Tewkesbury NEW! and Bishop’s Cleeve.

Cataract surgery now offered in–house vision, whitening of the eye, pain and blindness. The cause of them is not certain, but most cases occur in older dogs and we know that they can be hereditary and linked to other diseases like diabetes.

Fortunately, advances in All Consultations By Appointment surgery mean that most cases of cataracts can now be Walton Cardiff & Bishop’s Cleeve Monday - Friday 8.00 - 6.30 managed successfully. In the Saturday 8.30 - 12.30 past, it was thought best to let Free Nurse Clinics & Pet Advice them ‘ripen’ but science has now shown us that early intervention is the best way to 12 Columbine Rd, Walton Cardiff 01684 292244 prevent the inflammation of Tewkesbury, GL20 7SP the eye that is often linked to mature cataracts. Surgery No.1 Folly Gardens, As Above remains a delicate procedure Barton Road Tewkesbury, GL20 5QP with significant aftercare but in the vast majority of cases, 2 Church Road Bishop’s Cleeve vision is fully restored once 01242 679880 GL52 8LR the diseased opaque lens is replaced with a fresh artificial one. If you have any concerns about your dog’s vision or have noticed a whitening of the eye please call on 01684 292244 or 01242 679880.

Folly Gardens Vets Wishing you and your pet info@follygardens.com well this autumn.

Brad

www.follygardens.com 31

Plan a Memorable Group Visit Visit our beautiful historic Gardens as a group of 25+ people and enjoy discounted admission, a free meal for the coach driver or group leader up to £8, complimentary coach parking, Tea Rooms, plant sales and gift shop. Guided tours are available by prior appointment.

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PENSION Clarity A study reveals that half of UK adults misunderstand new pension rules.

H

WORDS: Spencer Holliday

ow clear are you about your pension provision? Research

by The Wisdom Council* reveals that a high percentage of UK adults misunderstand their options at retirement. The study’s aim was to understand how attitudes have changed a year after reforms to the UK pension system were introduced – and how these are influencing retirement planning and behaviour.

The chancellor’s decision to trust over-55s to use their pension how they like was welcomed by champions of freedom and choice; while critics argued that the move would only serve to increase the risk of people making poor decisions.

Worryingly, despite widespread media coverage and government

initiatives to raise awareness, only 49% of those questioned said they understood the pension changes and the impact on their choices. Moreover, over 40% of respondents remain confused about the way pension cash withdrawals are taxed.

The paradox of choice Participants in the study were often confused about what their options were, the age at which they could access benefits, and even how much their pension was worth. For example, fewer than half of those identified as having lower financial sophistication were aware of how much was in their pot and what funds they held, or could correctly identify what proportion of a pension was accessible at retirement.

Almost all of those surveyed said they wanted more information and guidance on pensions; but the study also showed that, for some, retirement is an event predicated by fear – and that this fear might be driven, in part, by a lack of financial advice. Perhaps unsurprisingly, individuals exhibiting a high level of financial sophistication are more than twice as likely to be

interested in their pension, have a greater propensity to seek financial advice, and also expect to retire earlier with a higher annual income. Just 3% of those who said they were afraid of what the future holds have sought help from a financial adviser. In contrast, 45% of those who said that they were looking forward to retirement have had financial advice.

Those approaching retirement often talked about the ‘fear’ of stopping work and the importance of having ‘something to do’ to keep them mentally and physically active. Many want to continue working and volunteering in their later years, but will spend less time doing those things. Almost half of respondents (47%) plan to reduce their hours and take a glide path into retirement rather than begin their retirement on a specific date.

For those looking for help and information, the government’s free Pension Wise service is arguably a good starting point.

However, general guidance provided by government should not be seen as a replacement for face-to-face financial advice.

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 01242 898400 or 07896 020803 or by email spencer.holliday@sjpp.co.uk The level and bases of taxation and reliefs from taxation can change at any time. The value of any tax relief depends on the individual circumstances.

*‘The Impact of Pension Freedoms on Pre-retired Holders’, The Wisdom Council, January 2016. A total of 380 people completed the survey.

33

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Light +

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Installing new windows and doors represents a significant investment in your home so do your research, suggests John Lannen.

36

C

ost will always be a primary consideration of any project. Yet when it comes to windows and doors three issues are the key to a successful installation; appearance, energy efficiency and durability.  Appearance The size and shape of openings is one of the main defining features of your house.

Whether you live in a modern home on a housing estate or a historic cottage in a conservation

area, the windows should be sympathetic to the style of the property in terms of design, colour and materials used. You may want to replicate the original windows or deliberately give your house a fresh new look. Anthracite grey windows, bi-fold doors and roof lanterns can be used, for example, to restyle 1950s or 1970s homes.

Windows vary hugely in their detail and are now manufactured in a wide range of colours,

Company Promotion

including heritage shades. The best way to understand the differences is to examine them thoroughly and feel how they function in a showroom setting before you choose. It’s also a good idea to ask for sample casements to be brought out to your home so that you can assess the proposed style and colour against your brickwork, in situ.  Energy Efficiency Fitting the right windows could effect a significant reduction in your heating bills, improve your comfort and cut your carbon footprint by reducing the Co2

We’re very pleased… wonderful service from start to finish.

Mr & Mrs B, Kemerton

emissions from your home. Both the technical design of a window and the way in which it’s installed will make a difference to draught proofing, sound proofing and glare. The standards of manufacture adhered to, the quality of the initial survey made and the method of installation are all important factors in achieving

the best possible seal between wall and window. At L&L, we draw on 35 years’ experience across all three disciplines to create products we are proud of.  Durability Consider not only the initial cost but the overall value of the installation you will live with. Look at the length of guarantee being offered, membership of relevant trade bodies such as FENSA and Which? Trusted Trader, and testimonials. You can be assured that all L&L products include the same quality glass, a ten year guarantee and a free annual inspection for peace of mind.

For 35 years, L&L Installations have developed an unrivalled reputation as one of Gloucestershire’s leading manufacturers and suppliers of glazed upvc, aluminium and timber. As a family company, the L&L team firmly believe in delivering incredibly high quality products and impeccable service, at an affordable price.

Why not visit our impressive showroom in Tewkesbury, including an outdoor display of glass buildings and plenty of customer parking; you can talk to us about the options for your home and experience our extensive range of products. Call us today on 01684 295038 to discover our latest offers and arrange your appointment.

View displays at our showroom + at Tewkesbury Garden Centre

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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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RAW ENERGY Cotswold RAW complete diet for healthy dogs is a simple and convenient way to feed your pet a fresh and varied raw diet suggests Chris Brierley.

Why switch to a RAW diet?

Cotswold RAW complete meals contain all the building blocks for a natural and biologically appropriate raw diet. Raw feeding has been linked to an improvement in general health, with the visible signs of healthy teeth, gums and skin, better digestion, balanced temperament

and firmer, less odorous stools.

How do I feed RAW? Our meals consist of easy to handle sausage and mince made in the Cotswolds using fresh, seasonal ingredients.

They will come to you direct, frozen in quality packaging, so the only thing you need to think about is defrosting. The meals will then keep in the refrigerator for 48-72 hours.

How do I get started? Most dogs will wolf down our tasty raw food immediately. For the more cautious, you can gradually transition to Cotswold RAW over seven days, feeding raw and a good quality, grain free kibble in alternating, separate meals.

Can I feed Cotswold RAW food and kibble at the same time, longer term? A raw diet is better for your dog so we recommend not feeding kibble at all.

However, we all lead busy lives

Join the Cotswold RAW Feeding Club for discounts & local offers. Full details online and kibble has the benefit of a long shelf life. If you must use it, find a top quality, grain-free product and use it as a back-up.

How much should I feed and how often? All dogs are different and the amount they need varies but broadly, raw feeding guidelines suggest a daily ration of 2-3% of your dog’s bodyweight, which for a small dog means about two 100g sausages.

Research* has shown that dogs fed a restricted diet live longer so we recommend starting at the lower end of the range and increasing the amount as needed in order to achieve an ideal body condition. For full details consult the feeding chart under, ‘How To Feed,’ at www.cotswoldraw.com How can I try a raw diet? Call 01386 426 335 or shop online and we’ll deliver to your door.

Plus join the Cotswold RAW Feeding Club for offers and more.

A Cotswold RAW diet guarantees:  Quality ingredients  No filler, no grain

 No artificial additives or preservatives  No high temperature processing

Find out more at www.cotswoldraw.com or call us on 01386 426 335 Cotswold RAW Ltd, Malvern House, Badsey, WR11 7EJ *Richard D. Kealey et al, JAVMA, Vol 220, 2002

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39

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

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40

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WIN ONE OF TEN PAIRS OF TICKETS FOR THE STRATFORD-UPON-AVON CHRISTMAS FAYRE 4-6 NOVEMBER It’s easy; just visit www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk and enter your details by Wednesday 19th October 2016. Tickets will be valid on any day.

HANDPICKED & UNIQUE

Christmas is definitely coming early this year with the premier gift, craft, homeware & food-buying event in Warwickshire! The Stratford-upon-Avon Christmas Fayre will showcase over 100 handpicked and unique exhibitors, bringing an eclectic mix of artisan designs, gifts & crafts, creative & unusual homewares and fabulous foods. This year the Show supports Bliss – the charity that provides care and support for babies born premature or sick.

Tickets from £5 (online) with under 16s free and free parking.

SHOW ATTRACTIONS

 Gifts, Crafts, Homewares & Foods: 100 quality stands in a carpeted, heated marquee with wide aisles for easy browsing  Christmas Cookery Theatre: award-winning chefs giving inspirational cooking demonstrations throughout the day  The Festive Vintage Tearoom offering quintessential English afternoon teas  Delicious Food & Drink: quality food and drink concessions – some with a festive twist!  Acoustic Kilt – the show’s resident wandering musical trio  Santa’s Winter Wonderland Grotto – Father Christmas will be visiting each day and there will be festive, crafting activities for the kids! For details visit www.stratfordchristmasfayre.co.uk Terms & Conditions: One entry per household. Prize not redeemable for cash. Tickets valid for any date will be emailed &/or posted by Friday 21st October. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon Christmas Fayre in the future. Your information will not be shared with any third party. You can unsubscribe at any time by emailing unsubscribe@lifeinthevillage.co.uk

www.stratfordchristmasfayre.co.uk

41

CRAFTED IN HOLLAND, 1920 FOUND IN A FLEA MARKET, 1981 INSURED WITH NFU MUTUAL, 2016

To appreciate what it’s truly worth talk to our home insurance experts.

We can come to your home to ensure you’re properly covered.

NFU Mutual Bespoke home insurance, for clients with contents worth £100,000 or more.

To arrange an NFU Mutual Bespoke home insurance consultation, call your local NFU Mutual Evesham branch on 01386 832 541.

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.

Cotswolds Based Experts in Plumbing, Heating, Electrics & Renewable Technologies We are an independent company, established in 2011, offering a professional, efficient and practical service to all our customers. We combine traditional services with a specialism in modern technologies to help reduce your energy usage, your impact on the planet and your bills.

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Anne, Cheltenham

Plumbing

Electrics

Heating

Renewables

Harlequin

Grimaldi as the clown, early 1800s

Afternoon Delight: Hot

Behind The Scenes...

With Caroline Lawrence from The Roses in Tewkesbury Most people think of panto as a peculiarly British institution – indeed I take great delight in introducing foreign friends to it, and watching the bafflement on their faces as men play women, women play men, and the audience gleefully plays along.

In fact, the art form that we now know as pantomime originated in Italy several hundred years ago and began life as a type of comedy play known as Commedia dell’arte, in which most of the script was improvised. When the Italians came to Britain and performed their plays, they caused quite a stir - nobody had seen anything like it before, and they loved it.

British actors saw how popular the Italians were with audiences and began to copy them by

performing short sketches called Harlequinades (named because they featured the character of Harlequin) either before or after the main play of the evening.

This tradition continued for some time, until the actor Joseph Grimaldi started performing in the early 19th century. He was famous for his physical comedy and was responsible for developing the pantomime tradition of audience singing - indeed, we still bring down the songsheet at the end of every pantomime for a singalong.

Grimaldi was also responsible for introducing well known catch phrases such as the teasing audience taunt “Shall I???” (to which the answer is always “Yes!!!”).

After Grimaldi’s retirement in 1823, pantomime slowly evolved to resemble the art form we know today. Writers reworked old fairy tales and stories (such as Cinderella or Aladdin) to create new

Drink & Slice of Cake for £3 Between 2pm - 5pm every day. Offer ends 30/11

pantomimes. They specialised in puns and word plays, which is still very much a part of panto today.

By the middle of the 19th century, pantomime had become so popular that it extended over the whole evening’s entertainment and became more and more elaborate, with spectacular scene changes, beautiful costumes and huge casts.

For The Roses, pantomime is much more than just a Christmas tradition. It is the lifeblood of the organisation; the most popular event in the calendar, and by far the biggest show we produce ourselves.

This year’s pantomime is Robin Hood & The Babes in The Wood.

See it at The Roses in Tewkesbury from Saturday 3 December.

Contact The Roses’ Box Office on 01684 295074 or visit www.rosestheatre.org 43

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Caring for you

Introducing the new Head of Medical Negligence at Thomson & Bancks Solicitors, Lucy Sherry.

I

am very pleased to have joined the T&B team this summer as Head of Medical Negligence, working largely between the Cheltenham & Tewkesbury offices, although also in Pershore by appointment.

By way of introduction, I started my training in 1999, the year in which civil litigation practice changed beyond all recognition, after having stayed much the same over hundreds of years. From a system bedded in unwritten common law, the ‘Civil Procedure Rules’ were introduced, effectively codifying the manner in which all aspects of civil litigation were conducted. American-style ‘no win, no fee’ agreements to fund claims were also introduced in order to place the financial risks of pursuing litigation onto solicitors’ firms themselves, so as to unburden the legal aid fund (which sadly, has since been wound down to almost nonexistent in the personal injury field). In order to redress the balance for the legal industry in not getting paid for their work until the end of a case and in

unsuccessful cases, not to be paid at all, advertising was allowed for the first time.

Since 2013, further changes have been introduced, including fixed fees for lower value claims, and a hike in the value of claims eligible to be heard without legal representation in the small claims court. Court fees have increased disproportionately, leaving many claimants unrepresented or unable to afford access to justice and therefore, ultimately, uncompensated.

These changes have seen many smaller High Street firms close and larger firms turn into less personal ‘claims production’ machines.

At Thomson & Bancks, I am confident that the robust and dynamic manner in which the partners have met these extraordinary challenges will continue long into the future and that their loyal clients have probably not even be aware of the challenges which have been witnessed to-date, as they have experienced a seamless service. I

aim to build upon their existing expertise and look forward to representing those affected locally with the same compassion and diligence that the rest of the firm demonstrate on a daily basis.

45

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Words: Henry Prudden Pictures: Stuart Purfield

Bredon Hill Bikeaway Sunday 16th October 2016

Discover more of the countryside around Bredon Hill on a family friendly bike ride in aid of the Pershore Division of St. John Ambulance and The Vale of Evesham Community First Responders.

I

48

t’s that time of year again; grab your bike, dust off your helmet, pump up your tyres and get ready for the Bredon Hill Bikeaway. On Sunday 16th October, the Bikeaway is running for the ninth consecutive year, raising money for the Pershore Division of St John Ambulance and the Vale of Evesham Community First Responders.

A CHOICE OF THREE ROUTES From Pershore College, cyclists have a choice of cycling one of three routes created to accommodate all ages and capabilities. Whether you choose the Bronze (8 mile), Silver (19 mile) or Gold (49 mile) course you are guaranteed to experience the Worcestershire countryside and the spectacular view points it has to offer.

ENJOY PERSHORE COLLEGE The Bikeaway starts off from Pershore College, the regional centre for the Royal Horticultural Society. This venue provides guests the chance to explore the college grounds, visit the plant centre and enjoy the local produce in the cafeteria.

Registration will begin at 9am.

BEAUTIFUL BREDON HILL The routes are designed to provide delightful autumnal views and cyclists are sure to witness breathtaking sights of Bredon Hill and the local countryside while raising money for such a fantastic cause.

Cyclists will be provided with refreshments along their travels

of the open countryside and a support vehicle will be on hand if required. The event is suitable for all and accompanied children are most welcome.

RAISING FUNDS FOR SUPERB LOCAL CAUSES The Bikeaway is one of the major annual fundraising events for the Pershore Division of St John Ambulance and The Vale of Evesham Community First Responders. All money raised contributes towards administering first aid and the provision of training programmes. Both organisations are funded only by duty fees and fundraising and 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 “We are looking forward to another successful Bikeaway and greatly appreciate 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 (two adults + two children) for just £20. If you are interested in attending this year’s event please register today. Each cyclist will be sent a sponsorship form upon registration which is a fantastic way to raise extra money for our worthwhile causes.

For an application form please contact Angela Tidmarsh on 01386 565373 or email angela.tidmarsh@wychavon.gov.uk

The Bredon Hill Bikeaway @VisitWychavon

49

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RISK How will you know if your property needs rewiring? Steve Owens, M.D. of Buzz Electrical, advises.

A

t worst, faulty electrics can be a serious fire hazard, leading to short circuiting, electrocution, and a potentially fatal accident. Indeed, faulty electrics are the cause of 20,000 house fires and around 70 deaths a year.

In addition to safety concerns, there is the issue of financial liability to consider. If you have an electrical fire in your property and are found to have faulty wiring, or have engaged in DIY repairs, you run the risk of your insurance company refusing to settle your claim.

Electrical wiring is something most people take for granted, but as professionals who regularly see the consequences of outdated and faulty work, we at Buzz can’t stress highly enough the importance of getting your system checked regularly by a qualified electrician.

An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) will indicate if there are any electrical circuits or devices that are overloaded, expose any possible

electrical shock threats or fire hazards, unearth any faulty electrical work previously carried out, and much more.

Once the test has been completed, a report will be issued. If the report shows your electrics to be unsatisfactory, a quotation will be provided for any works required to achieve satisfactory status.

So when should testing be carried out? Anyone buying a property over 25 years old should ensure that the wiring is up to date before purchase as it may need to be upgraded.

Similarly, if you plan to renovate or extend your home it is important to know early on if any electrical work will be necessary as it’s best completed early on, before redecorating.

All homeowners are advised to have an EICR carried out at least once every ten years and business premises should be tested every three to five years.

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PHOTO: Bridget Gough and her hennaed head (far right)

LIVING WELL

with Secondary Breast Cancer Women in Worcestershire with secondary breast cancer are benefiting from a new specialist nurse who helps them through the complex journey of treatments and emotions, explains Helen Griffee.

I

n the first eight months since she started her new role, Lynne Colbourne, has supported 98 women from Worcester, Droitwich, Evesham, Malvern, Pershore and surrounding areas. The experienced chemotherapy, oncology and cancer nurse specialist is employed in this innovative role by St Richard's Hospice to work in partnership with Worcestershire Royal 52

Hospital.

Lynne can often be involved from the first meeting when a woman is given the diagnosis of secondary breast cancer and says people react very differently.

"Patients are told very honestly that the cancer will never go away totally but there are treatments that can help. Some treat it as a sword of Damocles, and others say ‘Right, give me the treatment I'm going to go out

and live.’" "Some people go on to live for many years. For example, if someone has breast cancer which has spread to the bones and they have treatment that contains it, improves the symptoms and they are not getting pain, then they can go to work, look after the children and go on holiday if that's what they want. At some point the cancer may get worse again and treatment offered."

PHOTO: St Richard's offers support for patients through a range of services

"Often a first major worry for someone is how they will pay the bills and mortgage or concerns that their employer will make them redundant. I can help them through that maze by connecting them to the Citizen's Advice Bureau worker at St Richard's. I also link them with the hospice occupational therapists and physiotherapists, our family support team for counselling and social work and any other services which I think will benefit them."

Lynne meets patients on wards in the Worcestershire Royal and also as outpatients there. "I introduce myself and talk about my role and start getting to know them and their needs so I can be a key link. I think that's the main difference for patients.

Previously, at diagnosis appointments, they wouldn't have had a nurse specialist with

them when they hear results.

Now they can phone me and say, 'I can't remember a word of what I was told' and I can talk them through it. They now have one person they can contact rather than not knowing where to start."

Lynne will sometimes share a patient's care with the community nurse specialists at St Richard's Hospice who visit people in their own homes or elsewhere, making best use of areas of expertise. She describes her service as giving patients the chance to dip in and out. "When they have been newly diagnosed patients often need a lot of input but then, as symptoms and emotions get back on an even keel, we can pull back. It's very much up to the patient how much input they want."

"Although their illness is lifelimiting the timescales over which we will see patients can be

very wide. We might see a patient treated for primary breast cancer, return with secondary cancer six months later, and others fifteen or 20 years down the line. Treatments have advanced so much there is often something to offer."

Lynne says lots of women want advice on issues such as weight gain, exercise, menopausal symptoms and nutrition, all of which she, or other hospice team members, are able to help with. She says that for some people, hearing the very word hospice makes them go white with fear. "It can be a big issue to get across. I will say ‘Look, I know that people think hospice means death or hospice means end of life but I'm a chemo nurse and oncology nurse, it doesn't mean anything has changed from ten minutes ago to now. It's now very much 53

PHOTO: Specialist secondary breast cancer nurse Lynne Colbourne

about wellness, survivorship and rehabilitation.’" "There are, of course, some times when we have discussions about stopping treatments when they are no longer effective.

Hopefully by then we have built up a trusting and caring relationship with the patient and the family and we can support them to enjoy life to their maximum ability, encompass them with care and ensure all those who die do so with dignity in a place chosen by them, surrounded by people important to them."

Dr Chris Price, Consultant Medical Oncologist with Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust explained, "Treatments for breast cancer have improved dramatically over the past ten years or so, so that for some women, even with extensive spread of their disease which can't be eliminated, life can be lived and enjoyed for several years while their cancer is contained. However this will often involve changes to goals and expectations. There are 54

likely to be frequent hospital visits, highs and low points and times of anxiety or crisis."

"In Worcestershire we are extremely fortunate to have Lynne Colbourne working with us; she is a very experienced cancer nurse who has adapted to her new role brilliantly, providing a bridge between the hospital and the well-established support services provided by St Richard's Hospice. As well as giving information and advice, Lynne is a very real practical support and helps patients who attend my clinic in innumerable ways. She is a genuine friend and ally and a victim of her own success; we wonder how we managed before she joined our team and already we need two of her."

No problem is too small One patient who has benefited from Lynne's support is Bridget Gough, 66, a retired primary school teacher from Upton upon Severn. Lynne was at the meeting when Bridget was told by her consultant that her

PHOTO : Hospice patients can benefit from Complementary Therapies

previous breast cancer had returned. She heard that her illness was life-limiting but could be treated, although it may come back at some point in the future. "Having Lynne is brilliant. She's the best thing," said Bridget, "I can contact her anytime when I'm worried. One time I felt really poorly and she arranged for me to have an xray and see the consultant within 24 hours. I wouldn't have been able to do that. No problem is too small. She treats me as if I'm the only one with cancer."

Bridget has recently been told that following six chemotherapy sessions she has no cancer cells left in her body. "I know this is on-going. But I don't panic about anything. It could come back next year or in twelve years or more. I'm 66 and it doesn't frighten me. I'm lucky I don't have any other underlying health conditions which might make the treatments more complicated.

But the children find it hard to think of me not being here."

Bridget is full of praise for the support Lynne has given her

PHOTO: The In-Patient Unit at St Richard’s Hospice

three adult children. "They can contact her whenever they want and they've also been offered counselling. St Richard's even arranged for one of the children to see someone at her local hospice elsewhere in the country.

We are so lucky to have St. Richard's here on our doorstep."

Lynne was a great support when Bridget decided to have her head hennaed after she had lost her hair after chemotherapy.

After talking to local henna artist Yvette Jones, Bridget chose to 'celebrate her baldness' by having an intricate design temporarily tattooed on her head.

She had her head hennaed three times but her hair is now growing back since the chemotherapy has finished. "I'm very pleased I did it and had lots of great compliments from

people. It was much nicer for me than wearing a headscarf and I'd much rather lose my hair than my life."

In Brief: Facts About Secondary Breast Cancer Of patients with early stage breast cancer up to one third will develop secondary breast cancer.

Advances in management continue to extend survival.

Median survival time for secondary breast cancer is now three years but it’s not unusual for patients to live for over ten years. Secondary breast cancer is like a chronic disease. It is the second most frequent cause of cancer death. The average age of Lynne's patients who have previously been treated for breast cancer and developed secondary cancer is 63 years old. The

average age of her patients diagnosed at first diagnosis with metastatic breast cancer is 59 years. The St Richard’s team have estimated that there are 1,000 women living with secondary breast cancer in Worcestershire.

For more information please call 01905 763963 or visit www.strichards.org.uk

REG. CHARITY NO 515668

55

Life in the Village

...in print, online, on twitter Our four magazines, website and twitter updates offer you a slice of country life, locally.

Accounts for Foodies

W

ith a community of over 4,400, joining us on twitter is a great way to keep connected with country living, locally. Our daily updates will help keep you up to speed with events, special offers, recipes, photography, wildlife, nature and more. Start by following a few of our favourite foodie accounts:  @NigelSlater Recipes, observations and stunning food photography from the cook who also writes. Check out his website for a vast archive of ideas from his food columns in the national press.  @jamieoliver Recipes, ideas, tips and nutrition advice to help you feed your friends and family well.  @bbcgoodfood Delicious recipes and inspiration from Britain’s no1 media food brand.  @rivercottage Foraging, fishing, farming and fumbling their way towards self sufficiency.

56

 @ottolenghi Simple yet perfect recipes and photos from the author of Plenty.  @BegumNadiya Updates and recipes from the 2015 winner of Great British Bake Off.  @BBCFood Delicious recipes and inspiration from your favourite BBC programmes and chefs.  @TelegraphFood The latest food and drink news, recipes, blogs, reviews and more from The Telegraph. @olivemagazine Recipes, restaurant recommendations and ideas for foodinspired travel.

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 And much more...

Photos we share: Below ‘Hunting Barn Owl’ by Adam Tatlow. View more at www.cotswoldkeeperphotography.com

Visit us online for…

Daily updates on local events, products and services, country living, rural issues, nature and wildlife, travel, competitions, recipes, photography & 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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chelten 57

Belle House Blackberry Jam If you’ve never made jam before, you’ll be surprised at how simple it is. The secret to achieving delicious results is to make it in small quantities from fresh fruit in season as chef Steve Waites and the team do at Belle House, Pershore.

JAM MAKING TIPS Fresh or Frozen? Frozen blackberries can be used but they must be frozen fresh. After picking, wash then, let them dry on kitchen paper then put them into sealed boxes in the freezer or open freeze on trays and bag up. Pick enough fruit and you can make jam at any time of the year and never have to buy jam again.

Hygiene: The most important thing to remember is that the pan, spoon and jars used must be scrupulously clean to prevent bacteria from getting into the jam and spoiling it.

Sterilising: Heat the oven to its lowest setting. Wash and dry the jars and lids, then place jars upside down with the lids off on a baking sheet. Put in the oven for 15 minutes.

Quantities: Making jam with 1 - 2kg of fruit at a time is ideal - more than that and it is difficult to get the jam to set because it can’t be boiled fast enough. 2kg of fruit is enough to fill 6 standard sized 450g jam jars.

Storage: Jam should be stored in a cool, dry, dark place. If it is steamy or damp - for example, in a kitchen - the moist atmosphere can cause mould to form on the surface. Eat within one year so you’ll be ready to make a new batch next summer!

58

INGREDIENTS 2kg blackberries, rinsed 1kg preserving or jam sugar You will also need a sugar thermometer METHOD

 Put the preserving sugar into a heavy-based saucepan or preserving pan with a cup of water.

Cook over a medium heat, stirring every so often until the sugar has melted, then continue cooking for another 5 minutes.

 Add half of the blackberries and cook on a medium heat for 30 minutes, stirring every so often. The mixture should be a fairly thick, saucelike consistency by now and the blackberries will have disintegrated.

 Add the rest of the blackberries and continue cooking on a medium heat for 15 minutes until setting point has been reached 105°C.

 Remove from the heat and spoon a thin layer of the jam on to a plate and place in the fridge. If the mixture sets (after about half an hour), the jam is ready to ladle into sterilised jars, then immediately cover with waxed discs and lids. If not continue boiling for another 5-10 minutes with the juice of a small lemon.

 Label, then store in a cool, dark place.

Recipe courtesy of Steve Waites, Michelen trained chef and proprietor of Belle House, Restaurant & Bar, Bridge Street, Pershore, WR10 1AJ. www.belle-house.co.uk

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A family ticket to opening night of

The Roses in Tewkesbury is offering two lucky readers the chance to be the first to see its latest spectacular pantomime by giving away two family tickets (2 adults + 2 children) for opening night on Saturday 3 December at 7pm.

The Roses’ annual panto has a solid reputation for being one of the best around, and this year’s tale of gallant heroism and good over evil will be no different. A brand new title for The Roses, Robin Hood & The Babes In The Wood is produced by the same team as in previous years, and will once again transport you to a magical world of music and mayhem!

Robin Hood & The Babes In The Wood runs at The Roses from Saturday 3 December to Saturday 7 January. Call 01684 295074 or visit rosestheatre.org for full details.

How To Enter To enter, visit www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk and complete the details on the entry form. Closing date Friday 11 November.

Winners will be contacted by Tuesday 15 November.

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.

Life in the

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

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THREE MONTHS WWT MEMBERSHIP FREE*

Not valid with other offers.

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

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

BEN BOWERS HEATING SOLUTIONS LTD

LIFE IN THE VILLAGE

Offers are one way to grow your business but we have lots of others ways to help...

01684 773135 lisa@lifeinthevillage.co.uk www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk 63

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lifeinthevillage.co.uk Our new website enables you to access all the content you enjoy in print from your pc, tablet or smartphone. You can now: • Get daily updates via twitter • Enter competitions online • Print money saving vouchers • Explore useful local links • Bookmark your favourites • Share on Facebook or twitter

Find out more:

01684 773135 @LisaLambon

lisa@lifeinthevillage.co.uk

www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk

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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

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

www.valebathroomandfires.co.uk