April 2014

The Local

Gloucester

ANSWER

40,000 DELIVERED

YOUR FAVOURITE, MOST USEFUL MAGAZINE

www.thelocalanswer.co.uk

APRIL 2014

EATING OUT EVENTS & ATTRACTIONS HEALTH & BEAUTY HOLIDAYS & TRAVEL PROPERTY HOMES & GARDENS SERVICES PETS SHORT WALKS RECIPES VOUCHERS COMPETITIONS WE WISH ALL READERS & ADVERTISERS A VERY HAPPY EASTER!

The Local

ANSWER

Meet the Team ...

Advertising Malcolm Cantwell malc@thelocalanswer.co.uk Advertising Melanie Hall mel@thelocalanswer.co.uk Editorial Helen Kingscott editorial@thelocalanswer.co.uk Administration Beverley Ellin admin@thelocalanswer.co.uk Leaflets & Distribution Cindy Duncan – 07720 098934 distribution@thelocalanswer.co.uk Production Alison Hambling alison@thelocalanswer.co.uk Accounts Robert Kingscott rob@thelocalanswer.co.uk Managing Director Dave Kingscott dave@thelocalanswer.co.uk

1 Ullenwood Court, Ullenwood, Gloucestershire GL53 9QS

01242 510500 thelocalanswer

@thelocalanswer

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

Welcome to April ...

We hope you enjoy the look and content of this, the second edition produced in our new style. The pretty flower on the front cover was not chosen simply for its aesthetic vibrancy – all is explained in our ‘Did You Know?’ column on page 7.

The whole county benefited from some great weather last month and a much-needed boost to revenue thanks to the Cheltenham Race Festival which attracted a record 220,000+ enthusiasts. Whether you soaked up the atmosphere or loathed the congestion it was a positive boost for many.

In his column on page 8, Paul James talks about how individuals and businesses can play their part in giving Gloucester and the county another opportunity for success when acting as a ‘host city’ for next year’s Rugby World Cup. There’s an awful lot to do if we are to maximise the benefit in terms of income and enjoyment, so if you’re able to help in any way – please put yourself forward.

Let’s hope Mother Nature is kind to us with the weather during April so everyone, not just the kids off school, can enjoy a fabulous Easter break!

Inside this month ...

Food & Entertainment 4 Delicious Dishes 5 Did You Know?

7 Leader’s Life 8 Health & Beauty 8 Short Walks 10 What’s On 14 Gloucester Rugby 15 Homes & Gardens 24 In the Garden 29 Quick Crossword 35 Sudoku Puzzles 37 Professional Services 38 Money Matters 39 Local Policing 41 Index of Advertisers 42 Competition Winners & Rules 42 Puzzle Solutions 42 Competitions 15, 16, 17 & 20 Page 3

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Roast Shoulder of Lamb

Delicious Dishes with Helen Kingscott

A TREAT FOR EASTER ~ Serves 6-8 Cooking the lamb until it’s deliciously tender means you can shred it straight off the bone, and using the vegetable trivet it’s cooked with to make your gravy gives a wonderful flavour.

Ingredients: 1 shoulder of lamb about 2kg, bone in; 2-3 sprigs of fresh rosemary; Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper; Olive oil; 2 carrots, roughly chopped; 3 celery sticks, roughly chopped; 2 red onions, roughly chopped; 4 garlic cloves; 1 tbsp plain flour; 2x500g tubs of chicken or vegetable stock, or use stock cubes/your own stock; fresh mint for gravy and garnish.

Method: 1 Preheat the oven to 220C, fan 200C, gas 7. Using a small, sharp knife, make small incisions over the top of the lamb. Snap little sprigs off the rosemary and poke into the incisions. Season the lamb with sea salt and pepper, drizzle well with olive oil, then rub the seasoning into the meat. Place the carrots, celery, red onions and garlic cloves into a large roasting tray, then pop the lamb on top. Roast in the hot oven for 15 minutes, then turn down to 180C, fan 160C, gas 4 and continue to roast for another 11⁄2 hours.

2 After this time, remove the lamb from the oven and transfer to another roasting tray and return to the oven to cook for a further 30 minutes or until tender and falling apart.

3 Meanwhile, spoon off most of the fat from the tray of vegetables, then put the tray on the hob over a medium heat. Sprinkle the flour into the tray and use

a wooden spoon to mix in and scrape up all the sticky goodness from the bottom of the tray.

Holding the tray steady, use a potato masher to roughly mash up the vegetables, then pour in the stock. Bring to the boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer and leave to thicken.

4 When the lamb is ready, remove from the oven, cover with kitchen foil and a clean tea towel and leave to rest until ready to serve. Once the gravy is of a good consistency, carefully pour the contents of the tray through a course sieve into a jug. Use a wooden spoon to push all the goodness of the vegetables through the sieve, discarding what’s left behind. Roughly chop the mint leaves and stir half through the gravy.

5 Shred your lamb using a couple of forks, then serve with crushed new potatoes and spring greens (or vegetables of your choice) and drizzle the gravy over the top. Scatter with a few remaining mint leaves.

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The Local Answer

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www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

(Above Costa Coffee)

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s se A’ er ea TL ff Pl te ‘ se o o e Qu t th ge to

Did You Know? with Alison Hambling

What does Easter mean to you?

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Is ‘modern day’ Easter all about fluffy bunnies and an overdose of chocolate, or is it a time for quiet reflection?

For Christians, Easter is a celebration of Jesus rising from the grave three days after his crucifixion on Good Friday. It is celebrated on the first Sunday following the first full moon after the spring equinox – typically coinciding with Jewish Passover. Easter Sunday is preceded by 40 days of Lent.

Hot cross buns are traditionally eaten during Lent until Good Friday marked with a cross. Forklore says sharing one will ensure friendship throughout the year and, if given to someone who is ill, will help them recover.

From a more secular view Easter is associated with fertility and rebirth. The Easter bunny most likely evolved from the German tradition of the “Oschter Haws” or “Easter Hare” which laid brightly coloured eggs for well-behaved children to find – much like our Easter-egg hunts today.

Thought to be a time of new beginnings, Easter was a time to wear new clothes – a bonnet was a popular culture where ladies would decorate their hats with brightly coloured ribbons and flowers as depicted in the 1948 musical ‘Easter Parade’.

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You may ask what is the significance of The Passiflora or ‘Passion flower’ image for our Easter cover. The flower was known by the Spanish as “La Flor de las cinco Llagas” or ‘the flower with the five wounds’ refering to the passion of Jesus in Christian theology.

Symbolism of The Passiflora

The Old Rectory Re staurant

Cole sbourne , Che lte nham 01242 870120 www.theoldrectoryrestaurant.co.uk

The Local Answer

The pointed tips of the leaves depict the Holy Lance, the tendrils represent the whips used in the flagellation of Christ. Five petals and five sepals are the ten faithful apostles excluding Judas Iscariot the betrayer and St. Peter the denier. The corona filaments which can number more than one hundred are the crown of thorns. The hammer or the holy grail are represented by the chalice-shaped ovary with its receptacle. The three stigma represent the three nails and the five anthers below them are the five wounds Christ suffered. Heaven and purity are symbolised by the blue and white colours of the flower.

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 7

Leader’s Life

with Councillor Paul James

Health & Beauty Professional Nail Care

Your hands are your personal business cards

Let’s make the most of our ‘Host City’ status It’s almost a year since the announcement was made confirming Gloucester’s successful bid for ‘Host City’ status for the Rugby World Cup 2015. And it’s around 18 months until the tournament starts.

We’ve come a long way since that announcement.

Former Gloucester Rugby captain Adam Balding has been appointed as our Rugby World Cup co-ordinator and he is working with City Council departments, Marketing Gloucester, the County Council, our friends at Kingsholm and many others to deliver a spectacular event for the city.

Our legal agreement with England Rugby 2015 places a number of obligations on us, including providing a “Fanzone” where supporters can watch the matches on a big screen and where there is other entertainment alongside. We also have to dress the city, with hundreds of banners, so visitors and residents alike will be in no doubt that something special is taking place.

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Sponsorship and voluntary help needed I’m keen that we maximise the benefit for Gloucester and involve as many people and businesses as possible.

The City Council has put aside £350,000 as its contribution and, although it’s a lot of money, it won’t cover everything we want to do as a city – so we need to supplement it with sponsorship and voluntary help. If you or your company are able to assist in any way, please get in touch – paul.james@gloucester.gov.uk.

We should also use the Rugby World Cup to push for improvements to the city. We’ve had some good news about a £2 million plan to improve the railway station and we’re pushing now for funding to replace our current embarrassment of a bus station. We’re hoping for a positive outcome very soon.

We are also keen to leave a legacy in the city, both in sporting terms and for the local economy. Adam has also floated the idea of a permanent physical reminder that the World Cup came here – perhaps this could be in the revamped Kings Square. We’ve no fixed ideas on what it should be, so please send me your ideas via email too.

There is huge enthusiasm in Gloucester for the Rugby World Cup. So let’s use the next 18 months to make the most of it for our city.

Page 8

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L oo ki n g fo r The Local a bea ut if u l ANSWER To advertise telephone: re s pon s e? 01242 510500

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The Local Answer

L et ’s Ta lk

What is ‘Let’s Talk?’

Let’s Talk is Gloucestershire’s Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) service – a free service from your local NHS. We offer Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for people with mild to moderate S RSE FORTHCOMING COU anxiety and depression as well as other common mental health difficulties.

CBT is a nationally recognised first choice treatment for depression and anxiety D = Daytime | E = Evening – it focuses on the ‘here and now’. It uses specific techniques to manage CHELTENHAM symptoms by modifying behaviours and thoughts that maintain depression and 22/4 E Mindfulness | 22/4 E Panic | 23/4 anxiety. CBT is solution focussed – we will work together to achieve specific E Low Mood | 24/4 D Sleep | 25/4 D D agreed goals. You will also have tasks to complete between sessions.

Stress and Anxiety Older Adults | 28/4 Stress and Anxiety | 30/4 E OCD | 1/5 E | IBS | 9/5 D Anger | 12/5 D Mindfulness 13/5 D Low Self Esteem | 3/6 D Low Mood | 4/6 D Emotional Wellbeing | 5/6 E Stress and Anxiety | 5/6 D EWB and | LSE for Eating Disorders | 6/6 D Panic 16/6 E Emotional Wellbeing | 23/6 D IBS

New Let’s Talk Courses

We are now offering more courses in locations right across our county, facilitated by trained therapists and practitioners. Our revised course schedule includes popular existing courses as well as new courses including: Let’s Talk Anger, IBS, Sleep and Panic.

Availability of Courses

GLOUCESTER

All courses are held in Cheltenham, Gloucester and Stroud, and some are also held in North Cotswolds, Tewkesbury, Cirencester and the Forest of Dean. They 22/4 D Emotional Wellbeing | 6/4 E Low D 12/5 | are mainly held in the evening, but a selection will also run during the daytime.

Mood | 8/4 E Stress and Anxiety E 4/6 | Sleep | 14/5 D Anger | 16/5 D IBS How to book your place on a course | ction Mindfulness Based Stress Redu If you would like more information about courses held near you, please visit 10/6 E Emotional Wellbeing | 16/6 E Panic | 25/6 D Stress and Anxiety | 26/6 https://courses.talk2gether.nhs.uk or call 0800 073 2200 between E Low Self Esteem | 27/6 D Low Mood 9am-5pm. You can also speak to your GP who can help you book on a course.

Descriptions – which courses would help you?

L et’ s Ta l k Emotional Wellbeing This introductory, low intensity course will provide you with useful and effective strategies and skills to help you look after your general wellbeing. It looks at: getting active, negative thinking, getting meaning back in your life, assertiveness, relationships.

By being aware of what you do and how you think, this course will provide you with skills and strategies to help you manage symptoms of low mood and depression.

L et’ s Ta l k Stress and Anxiety This course will help you to understand what stress and anxiety is and how your thinking and behaviours maintain it. We will help you learn skills and strategies to help you manage your stress and anxiety and break the negative vicious cycles.

L et’ s Ta l k Mindfulness Mindfulness courses are designed to help you observe negative moods, negative thinking, physical sensations and behaviours that have an impact on the quality of your life. It will teach you how to quieten your mind.

L et’ s Ta l k Anger This course will help you understand anger and the related physical and psychological symptoms. It will help you develop ways to deal with anger and respond better to anger provoking situations.

L et’ s Ta l k Sleep This course will help you understand the causes of poor sleep and it will also help you learn skills and strategies to help you manage your sleep. It is meant for people with insomnia rather than other sleep disorders.

L et’ s Ta l k Panic This course will help you understand panic and the negative vicious cycle this creates. It will look at the related physical and psychological symptoms and teach you strategies to enable you to face your fears.

L et’ s Ta l k Low Self-Esteem This course will help you understand what low self-esteem is and how it developed. It will help you learn skills and techniques to improve your self-esteem and challenge your negative beliefs about yourself.

L et’ s Ta l k Irritable Bowel Syndrome This course will raise your awareness of the psychological aspects of IBS. It will help you to develop coping strategies and ways to manage your symptoms.

L et’ s Ta l k Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) This course will help you to understand what are obsessions and compulsions are and how they link with anxiety. It will help you understand and develop ways to deal with your OCD. L et’ s Ta l k Negative Thinking This short course helps you to learn about the negative thinking styles you may be using.

It helps you to learn strategies to challenge negative thinking and adopt more balanced thoughts. It links to all other courses.

L et ’ s Ta lk Getting Active This short course will help you to get more of a balance of activities, hobbies and necessary tasks to help you enjoy your life more. It links to all other courses.

L et’ s Ta l k Low Mood

Foundation Trust For Gloucestershire

Short Walks in the Cotswolds The Leach Valley F

Hatherop Piece

4½ miles (7.25km) ~ 2¼ hours Easy

ROMA N ROAD

MA

O NR

AD

Quarry

Sheepbridge Copse

Hillbarn Cottage

RO

Quarry

G

RO

MA

D OA N R Smeril

Plantation

Sheep Bridge

Broughtondowns Plantation

E

Sheepridge Barn Edge Pits

D Orlinge Plantation

Sheephouse Farm

Quarry Stafford’s Bridge

H

Greenlane Plantations

Sheephouse Plantation

Beer Furlong Buildings Beer Furlong Clump River Leach

C

Quarry

Eastleach Plantation

Macaroni Farm Macaroni Cottages Rookery

Hall Manor Farm House

Eastleach Turville

Leach Valley

The River Leach is a tributary of the Thames but in the early part of its course it is seasonal, running above ground only when there is sufficient rainfall. This walk follows a winding valley where the elusive river disappears underground and emerges again beneath deep, weed-covered pools. The countryside here is quiet, offering a chance to escape the crowds and traffic.

A Park in Eastleach Turville and walk through the village past the church to the crossroads.

1 This simple stone clapper footbridge is the photographic focal point of the village. It is particularly attractive in spring amid banks of daffodils. It is called Keble's Bridge after the famous local rector, John Keble, who became leader of the Oxford Movement in the Church of England in the early 19th century.

The two villages: Eastleach Turville and Eastleach Martin sit either side of the pretty River Leach with the parish churches of each village only a couple of hundred yards apart linked by the clapper footbridge.

B Turn left along the road to Holwell and continue past the windpump to an iron bargate on the left.

C Pass through the gate and take the Page 10

1

PH

A

PW

B

Rectory School

PW Eastleach House

Eastleach Martin

Martin Cottage

Contains Ordnance Survey data © Crown copyright and database right 2010

Keble’s Bridge

path through the meadows close to the river. Go through another gate and follow the river bank to the edge of the woodland ahead, crossing a stile along the way.

D Pass through the smaller, lower gate into the wood and follow a path close to the wall and river on the left. Where the river bears sharp left, carry straight on along the waymarked path.

E With the field on your right continue ahead and through woodland until the path is crossed by a well-defined track. www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

F Turn left on to the track and continue along the left-hand edge of the fields to the road. Turn left and walk a short way almost to the road junction.

G Turn left into the bottom field and follow the valley bottom round to a gate. Pass through the gate and follow the track to another gate by a bridge.

H Pass though the gate and follow the right-hand field boundaries. At the last field before the houses, bear half-left across the field to a gate and follow the lane back into the village.

The Local Answer

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Page 11

The Deal Maker Nationwide Gloucestershire “GETTING THE RIGHT DEAL FOR YOU IS WHAT WE DO” Cars have been a passion for Paul Montagu of The Deal Maker Nationwide for many years. From a young age he has worked in the car sales sector for various franchises, progressing from sales to leadership level – and now he’s using all his knowledge of cars and negotiation skills to help the public.

The service Paul provides is, essentially, to give peace of mind to those of us – ladies and gents – who are not entirely comfortable when it comes to selecting the right vehicle or service. He also offers advice with negotiations to help ensure you don’t pay an excessive sum for goods and services. Paul said: “Both private and group dealerships have enjoyed an enormous amount of power when it comes to negotiating due to their knowledge of the inner workings of the environment. So I started to think! Wouldn’t it be great if I could apply my sales and industry knowledge to benefit the public – taking away the uncertainty and pressure.”

Everyone’s requirements are unique, so Paul will tailor his charges accordingly depending on the service you require. This can be an hourly rate, a ‘one off’ set fee or a percentage of the money you save. There are never any hidden extras!

For full details of the many associated services Paul can provide, why not give him a call or visit his website (see left).

Guaranteed savings on Mobile – or get ‘Double the Difference’

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Jason & Shelley Hyde 01242 575462 / 07812 996653 shelley@utilities4you.net www.telecomplus.org.uk/shelleyhyde Charges, terms and conditions apply. Prices shown are for SIM only and carry no minimum term contract. A large range of leading handsets is available for an additionally monthly charge, which depends on the handset chosen. For full details of the Utility Warehouse ‘Double the Difference’ Price Promise, or to see Mobile tariffs in full, see the Utility Warehouse website.

Page 12

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The Local Answer

COUNTDOWN TO OUR BIG MOVE

EXISTING SALE STOCK HAS TO BE CLEARED!

ALL GENUINE REDUCTIONS!

HALF PRICE

QUALITY MODERN UPHOLSTERY & CABINETS The Winnen Furnishing Company

• E S TA B L I S H E D 1 9 2 9 •

Selkirk Street • Cheltenham • GL52 2HL t (01242) 521661 e info@winnens.co.uk

www.winnens.co.uk

IL R P A h t 6 2 D N E T S U SALE M

What’s On The Local Answer Event Listings are compiled and presented in good faith with the kind support of many contributors. We recommend you use the contact details provided to check event information updates prior to planning your visit.

1-5 APRIL ENGLISH TOURING OPERA English Touring Opera returns to the Everyman with productions of Paul Bunyan (Britten/Auden), King Priam (Tippett) and The Magic Flute (Mozart). everymantheatre.org.uk. 01242 572573.

2 APRIL THOMAS FORD Born in a field 20-something years ago, Thomas Ford is a blues shouter, a guitar picker and a harmonica fire-breather. This one-man trio has been hailed as “The rising star of British blues”. 9pm. Free entry all night. caferene.co.uk.

4 APRIL ADVANCED BIRDER AT SLIMBRIDGE WWT Learn to assess fine details such as plumage, weather conditions and habitats to take your skills to a new level. 8am-12 noon. £27 includes tea/coffee and a bacon roll. wwt.org.uk/visit/slimbridge

A FEAST OF STORIES - HAPPY FAMILIES

with Richard Watson What goes on behind suburban blinds, revealed in sharp and witty song.

An informal evening of entertaining stories written and read aloud by local authors, interspersed with live music. This time the subject is families – the happy and not so happy. Suitable for aged 14 and over.

7.30pm. £10 to include a glass of wine or juice. Prince Michael Hall, Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. bacontheatre.co.uk. philipdouch.org.uk.

Suitable for ages 14+

FRIDAY 2ND MAY 7.45pm

Gloucester Guildhall, Eastgate St, Gloucester GL1 1NS

Tickets: £10/£8 01452 505030 www.gloucester.gov.uk/guildhall

Home of the annual Gloucester Arts and Crafts Summer School

Gloucester Arts & CraftS Group 21st-25th July 5 DAY COURSES 2014

Art Courses w Acrylics Book no a Adventures in Acrylics to secure one of Brilliant Batik lace on t value p a Discovering Watercolour our gre rses – the Basics and Beyond cou Drawing: Beginners, Intermediate & Advanced Oil Painting – a trouble-free approach Pastels – Portraiture – Silk Painting – Watercolour Painting nd Craft Courses Lunch a ernoon ft /a g in rn Country Chair Making mo ents refreshmded Creative Textiles inclu Letter Cutting in Stone Mosiac

1/2/3 DAY COURSES Beadwork Botanical Art Decoupage Encaustic Art Fashion Jewellery Figurative Sculpture Fused Glass Garden Crafts for beginners Garden Troughs Glass for your Garden Pointillism Silver Clay Jewellery

Choose a combination of courses

26 Classes available Call Mrs Anne Conoley 01452 700635 anne.conoley@btopenworld.com for a brochure

or visit www.spanglefish.com/gloucesterartsandcrafts Page 14

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The Local Answer

Great incentives for you to raise much-needed funds Last month Gloucester Rugby confirmed that – due to adverse weather – the ‘Road to 2015’ sponsored walk will now take place on Saturday 3rd May. While many have ‘signed up’ to raise money for Gloucester CIC and their own good causes, the club is encouraging more people to get involved with this wonderful community event.

Free ticket, flag and poster As well as an opportunity to increase funds for something close to your heart, through participating you’ll receive a free ticket to the Kingsholm clash between the Cherry & Whites and London Irish later in the day – plus a Gloucester Rugby flag and team poster.

The route is an easy 3 mile loop, starting and finishing at Kingsholm and taking in sights of Gloucester, including the Cathedral, Docks and the rugby posts in the park. All schools, 5 APRIL RUBY TURNER – LIFTING THE BLUES

For many years Ruby Turner has been regarded as having one of the greatest voices in the UK, touring regularly with Jools Holland. Ruby can breathe life and meaning into any song. Here is the chance to see her perform live with her own band. She comes to the Bacon Theatre once again with ‘Cotswold Dave’ Jones, in raising funds for Local Charities. This year the concert is in aid of Maggie’s, helping those with Cancer. 7.30pm. £22. Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. bacontheatre.co.uk.

The Local Answer

WIN TICKETS! Gloucester Rugby take on London Irish in the Aviva Premiership on Saturday 3 May kick off 3pm. For your chance to win 2 x silver tickets simply answer the following question:

Which Gloucester Rugby players were involved in the England team for the 2014 Six Nations competition?

Send your answer, name, email address and mobile phone number to competitions@gloucesterrugby.co.uk

rugby clubs, businesses and anyone from Gloucestershire, Wiltshire and Don’t forget to mention you’re Herefordshire are invited to join in the a reader of The Local Answer! fun. 60% of the money raised by each organisation will be used for their own needs, with the remaining 40% donated to the Gloucester Rugby CIC for the delivery of programmes to the community.

The walk will start at 10am with registration from 9.30am, and finish in time for you to savour – and add your GLOUCESTER RUGBY own loud support – to the match day Kingsholm Stadium, Kingsholm Road atmosphere at Kingsholm for the final Kingsholm, Gloucester GL1 3AX time this season. t 0871 871 87 81 For more information or to sign up e admin@gloucesterrugby.com w www.gloucesterrugby.co.uk email admin@gloucesterrugby.co.uk.

EASTER TRAIL Explore WWT Slimbridge’s beautiful grounds on a fun Easter trail, looking out for ducklings along the way. Once you have completed the trail head back to claim your chocolate reward. Craft activities will also be on offer.9.30am5.30pm. Included with admission, free to members. wwt.org.uk/visit/slimbridge OTIS MACK AND THE TUBBY TUBSTERS A 4-piece band specialising in high octane classic covers and original R&B, Rock'n'Roll, Soul numbers with a touch of Blues. They started out as the House Band opening up for the main artists at the famous Tubby Blues Club but have gone on to become one of the busiest and most popular bands on the Midlands circuit with their energetic brand of entertainment.

Free entry before 11pm £2 after. caferene.co.uk.

6 APRIL MAKING NEEDLE-FELT ANIMALS Learn how to make beautiful felt animals in this 4-hour needle-felting workshop. You can make any of the mammals seen at WWT Slimbridge such as an otter, badger or fox. Sophie Buckley an experienced craft teacher will be running the workshop.

All materials and equipment provided.

Must be booked in advance as there are limited places.10am-3.30pm. £36 includes refreshments. wwt.org.uk/visit/slimbridge.

To advertise call 01242 510500

THE GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA The Glenn Miller Orchestra is bringing the 40s back to Cheltenham! Featuring the Moonlight Serenaders with their fabulous harmonies; Jan Messeder and Colin Anthony on vocals and the swinging jazz band, The Uptown Hall gang, this promises to be an unforgettable concert. Ted Heath will also lead A Tribute to the Big Bands, featuring star musicians who have worked with the orchestras of Benny Goodman, Nelson Riddle, Billy May and Frank Sinatra everymantheatre.org.uk. 01242 572573.

9 APRIL HANNAH FAULKNER + WILL ROGERS Hannah Faulkner and Will Rogers are two highly respected and loved musicians who lighten up our Wednesdays every time they perform. Providing us with a soulful show of acoustic music – guaranteed to leave you asking when they will return!

9pm. Free entry. caferene.co.uk.

11 APRIL JOHNNY KOWALSKI & THE SEXY WEIRDOS One of the most fun bands we have had play here, Johnny Kowalski and his Sexy Weirdo’s are a Brass, Gypsy, Punk, Ska band blending Traditional Eastern/Western European folk melodies, with Reggae and Ska rhythms, and a bit of death defying scuzz Punk! Pure fun at it’s best, music to stomp too! Free entry before 11pm £2 after. caferene.co.uk.

Page 15

WIN TICKETS!

courtesy of the Everyman Theatre The Everyman Theatre plays host to ‘As You Like It’ – one of the most celebrated stage comedies – from 13th-17th May. Expelled from the city, Rosalind and Orlando – the one fleeing a tyrannous uncle, the other a murderous brother – rediscover each other in the Forest of Arden. But what awaits them in that Arcadian wilderness? Will they find true love, or just lose themselves? Do they have a real opportunity to explore the reality of their feelings, free from the constrictions of courtly convention and parental oversight?

Both funny and moving, and enjoying some of his finest lyrics and most flamboyant characters, this is Shakespeare’s greatest exploration of the meaning of love, its madness and transcendence.

To book your tickets visit everymantheatre.org.uk or call the box office on 01242 572573. Suitable for all ages.

To enter our draw for the chance to win a pair of tickets, just send your name, address and telephone number to ‘As You Like It’, The Local Answer, 1 Ullenwood Court, Cheltenham, GL53 9QS. Alternatively, you can enter via email – send your details, stating ‘As You Like It’ in the subject line, to competitions@ thelocalanswer.co.uk. Closing date for both postal and email entries: Thursday 10th April 2014.

12 APRIL LONGLEVENS PARISH CHURCH ANNUAL AUCTION Great bargains to be found on household and leisure items donated to us. Viewing from 10am, selling at 12 noon. To donate items prior to event please contact Eric Chitty on 01452 500229.

15 APRIL EASTER FAMILY FILM: THE CROODS [U]

Activities from 1pm, Film at 2pm A prehistoric comedy adventure following a caveman family’s trek through an unfamiliar fantastical world. Come along from 1pm in fancy dress for Easter activities and free face painting, then settle down to watch this hilarious DreamWorks animation at 2pm. £7 (to include an Easter treat). Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. bacontheatre.co.uk. thecroodsmovie.co.uk.

FILM: SONG FOR MARION [PG] Grumpy pensioner, Arthur (Terence Stamp), is reluctantly inspired by his beloved wife Marion (Vanessa Redgrave) to join a highly unconventional local choir. 7.45pm. £6.50

Page 16

(£5.50). Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. bacontheatre.co.uk.

15-19 APRIL THIS MAY HURT A BIT Stephanie Cole and Jane Wymark star in a new play exploring one family’s journey through the digestive system of the NHS. everymantheatre.org.uk. 01242 572573.

16 APRIL LIVE @ GLOS ACOUSTIC SHOWCASE For a couple of years now Joe Banyard has given us these monthly nights, where local, young talented musicians are given a chance to show case what they love to do most. This is the night if you want to see something fresh, new and upcoming! 9pm Free Entry. caferene.co.uk.

16 APRIL IN-STORE WINE TASTING

Two Laithwaite’s for the price of one! Tony and Tom will be presenting some of their favourites in a ‘Battle of the Laithwaites’ as customers get to vote for the winner.

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

7-9pm. Call to book 01452 651970. £25.

Gloucester Business Park, Glos GL3 4AQ. laithwaites.co.uk/events THE GOOD OLD DAYS OF MUSIC HALL & VARIETY A fabulous brand new show for all ages starring the legendary entertainer, singer, stage and film star, Anita Harris. Special guest star, comedian Johnnie Casson, backed by a full supporting company of singers , hilarious comedy, a chairman, live band, and lots of wonderful songs you will know to sing along with. everymantheatre.org.uk. 01242 572573.

18 APRIL THEE ONES Hard to pin down into a particular style Thee Ones are a collective of musicians who powerfully present their style on stage to any willing audience, a blend of Blues, 50’s & 60’s Grooves, Rock, R&B with some incredible Blues Harp! Free Entry Before 11pm £2 After. caferene.co.uk.

20 APRIL WOODCHESTER MANSION EASTER FAYRE Easter fun for all the family in this beautiful mansion and park. Children’s games, gifts, raffle, cake stalls, bric-a-brac, tombola, Morris Dancers. Guided tours of the Mansion available – a ‘must see’! Free parking and bus. 10am-4pm. Woodchester Mansion, Nympsfield GL10 3TS. 01453 861541. woodchestermansion.org.uk.

The Local Answer

Blofeld and Baxter – Memories of Test Match Special Emma Brunjes Productions are proud to present the UK tour of two of the titans of UK cricket with a side-splitting show full of memories from within the ‘Test Match Special’ commentary boxes all over the world. The show visits Cheltenham’s Everyman Theatre on Saturday 26th April (7.45pm).

The fun spills out from the globe’s most famous grounds to taxis, buses, beaches, deserts and hotels. Anecdotes never before heard of the most legendary players – in every sense of the word – from the last forty years are finally aired.

Henry Blofeld began to write about cricket for ‘The Times’ in 1962. Ten years later he joined the famous Test Match Special team for two one-day games against Australia, and he has been clogging up the airways on that programme ever since.

Everywhere he has gone, on countless cricket tours around the world, Blowers has lived life to the full – regarding each day as an orange and squeezing it dry of the last drop of juice – before moving onto the next day.

He has always been and continues to be outrageous and irresistible fun!

Peter Baxter was the producer of the great

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0800 056 3179 or 01934 744788 www.carolinecrowther.com

The Local Answer

Agnew, who continue to entertain, inform and charm listeners today.

He has spent a lifetime in radio broadcasting, retiring from the trade in June of 2007. He is also the author of ‘Cricket’s Greatest Battles’, ‘World Cup: Cricket’s Clash of the Titans‘, ‘Cricket’s Big Day Out’, ‘Out of the Rough: England v West Indies – Highlights Since 1948’ and ‘The Ashes: Highlights Since 1948’. He’s also edited many titles including ‘Test Match Special – 50 Not Out’.

To book tickets (£22.50 each) visit everymantheatre.org.uk or call the box office on 01242 572573.

WIN TICKETS!

cricket institution Test Match Special for BBC Radio for 34 years. During his tenure on the show Peter worked alongside the legendary John Arlott, the inimitable Brian Johnston and, of course, the unforgettable Henry Blofeld, and ushered in new faces, such as Jonathan

N e ed t o g et y ou r eve nt p ro m ot ed?

Courtesy of Emma Brunjes Productions, we’ve got a pair of tickets for one lucky reader to win! To enter our draw just send your name, address and telephone number to ‘Blofeld and Baxter’, The Local Answer, 1 Ullenwood Court, Cheltenham, GL53 9QS. Alternatively, you can enter via email – send your details, stating ‘Blofeld and Baxter’ in the subject line, to competitions@thelocalanswer.co.uk. The closing date for both postal and email entries is Thursday 10th April 2014.

The Local

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01242 510500

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Page 17

22-26 APRIL GLOUCESTER GANG SHOW 2014 Presented by Gloucester District Scouts and Guides. 7.15pm (Sat Mat 2.15pm). £8.50 (£6.50). Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. bacontheatre.co.uk. gbsgangshow.co.uk.

23 APRIL ST GEORGES DAY! This year we are going all out for St Georges Day! On the night from 7:30-9pm we wil have The Lassington Oak Morris Men & The Stroud Morris Men! At 9pm we will have a band with a special set from ‘The Two Anchors” in between the bands set. During the day we will be holding a special event (TBC) and on the night will be some fantastic events and food specials! 9pm Free entry. caferene.co.uk.

25 APRIL HOW TO PAINT BUTTERFLIES Cath Hodsman presents this water colour painting day in the McNeice Room overlooking the wetlands in the fantastic surroundings of WWT Slimbridge – a truly inspirational setting. 9.30am-4.30pm. £60 includes tea/coffee and pastries or biscuits. wwt.org.uk/visit/slimbridge.

CABSTARS Cabstars have a mission to create a new Ska & Reggae sound for the 21st century.

With a fun attitude, danceable rhythms and lyrics which reflect modern life, they are

heavily Influenced by traditional Ska, roots Reggae, rhythm and blues and 2-tone.

These influences combine to create the unique Cabstars sound. Free entry before 11pm £2 after. caferene.co.uk.

WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY FOR INTERMEDIATES WITH IAIN GREEN Want to fine-tune your photography of the natural world? This course is suitable for users of SLR cameras only. The content will be tailored to the needs of course attendees and with limited numbers will be plenty of time for 1-2-1 tuition. 10am4pm. £60 includes tea/coffee and biscuits wwt.org.uk/visit/slimbridge.

THE STARS OF STRICTLY COME DANCING

Katya Virshilas and Pasha Kovalev, from Strictly Come Dancing, will be joined by their spectacular dance troupe to bring their beautiful ballroom and sexy latin dances to the Everyman stage. everymantheatre.org.uk. 01242 572573.

Shipton Golf Course

26 APRIL BLOFELD & BAXTER

Henry Blofeld and Peter Baxter invite you to join them for a trip down memory lane to discover the untold stories of the Test Match Special commentary box and beyond. Tall tales from across the globe, with a few references to cricket. Hear the extraordinary escapades of players and commentators from the 1970s to present day – exclusive behind-the-scenes adventures from Brian Johnson to Tuffers.

7.45pm. £22.50. Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham. everymantheatre.org.uk.

01242 572573.

SPRING FAYRE/TABLE TOP SALE Over 40 stalls and activities for adults and children alike. Quedgeley Community Centre, top of School Lane. 2-5pm. Free entry. Charity fundraising for Parkinson’s UK. Come and support a great cause. Free raffle entry – great prizes.

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Page 18

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The Local Answer

WIN TICKETS! courtesy of the Bacon Theatre

Song for Marion [PG] – Tuesday 15 April at 7.45pm The film season is back at the Bacon Theatre and they kick off with this heart-warming comedy and we’ve got three pairs of tickets to be won.

Grumpy pensioner, Arthur (Terence Stamp), is reluctantly inspired by his beloved wife Marion (Vanessa Redgrave) to join a highly unconventional local choir. Arthur is persuaded to embrace life as he confronts the undercurrents of his own grumbling persona and embarks on a hilarious, life-affirming journey of musical self-discovery.

Also coming up at the Bacon are Rush [15], Blue Jasmine [12A], Saving Mr Banks [PG], Philomena [12A], 12 Years a Slave [15] plus two outdoor films – Sunshine on Leith [PG] and Cocktail [15] as part of their Open-air Theatre Festival.

Tickets cost just £6.50 (£5.50) or £36 for a seaon ticket, and may be booked online at www.bacontheatre.co.uk or by calling the box office on 01242 258002.

To enter our draw for the chance to win a pair of tickets, just send your name, address and telephone number to Song for Marion, The Local Answer, 1 Ullenwood Court, Cheltenham, GL53 9QS. Alternatively, you can enter via email – send your details, stating ‘Song for Marion’ in the subject line, to competitions@thelocalanswer.co.uk. Closing date for both postal and email entries: Wednesday 9th April 2014.

26-27 APRIL WARTIME IN THE COTSWOLDS

Travel back in time by steam train and recapture the wartime spirit. Period costumes, military and historic vehicle display. Steam train service from Toddington and Cheltenham Race Course stations. The Railway Station, Toddington GL54 5DT www.gwsr.com. 01242 621405 29 APRIL FILM: RUSH [15] Set against the sexy, glamorous golden age of Formula 1 racing in the 1970s, Rush is based on the true story of a great sporting rivalry between handsome English playboy James Hunt (Chris Hemsworth) and his methodical, brilliant opponent, Austrian driver Niki Lauda (Daniel Bruhl).

7.45pm. £6.50 (£5.50). Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. bacontheatre.co.uk

29 APRIL-4 MAY HETTY FEATHER Roll up and join Hetty on her escape from the Foundling Hospital. Tremble as she faces Matron Stinking Bottomly. Thrill as she discovers the squirrel house and Tanglefields Travelling Circus. Gasp as she endures a night locked in the attic. Quake as she braves the scary streets of Victorian London and cheer as she overcomes all in her search to find her real mother and a true family of her own. With live music, circus skills and a huge heart, Hetty Feather is a terrific adventure story for the whole family. (Guide Age 7+). everymantheatre.org.uk. 01242 572573.

30 APRIL GAZ BROOKFIELD The Bristolian ‘Journey Man’ Gaz Brookfield is an uber busy young musician who constantly tours the UK playing to packed out audiences in each town or city he graces. A singer song writer telling tales of the modern man, a show not to miss.9pm free entry. caferene.co.uk.

2 MAY BEHIND THE BLINDS Serrated Edge presents Behind the Blinds with Richard Watson. What goes on behind suburban blinds revealed in sharp and witty song. Suitable for ages 14+.

Gloucester Guildhall, Eastgate Street, Gloucester GL1 1NS. Tickets from £8.

01452 505030. gloucester.gov.uk/guildhall 5 MAY GREEN MAN DAY Go along to Woodchester Mansions Green Man Day and discover the history behind the famous Green Men. Have a go at the family treasure hunt and see if you can find the clues around the mansion to claim your prize, or make a Green Man Mask with the children's activities. Or just wander around the marvel that is Woodchester Mansion. Whatever you choose to do Woodchester Mansion has something to offer the whole family. So come along and join in for a day of family fun. 11am-5pm. Woodchester Mansion, Nympsfield GL10 3TS. 01453 861541. woodchestermansion.org.uk.

10 MAY MUSIC AT THE MANSION – OPERA SULIS Bring your own picnic to enjoy an evening of music and entertainment in the stunning drawing room, and be serenaded at your table. Price includes a drink on arrival and an opportunity to wander around the Mansion. Doors open 6pm.

Tables and chairs provided. £25 per person. To book call 01453 861 541 or lisa.jamieson@woodchestermansion.org.uk.

PROMOTE YOUR EVENT OR ATTRACTION TO 40,000 GLOUCESTER HOMES – CALL 01242 510500 Page 20

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The Local Answer

Prinknash Abbey

the mad hatters tea party

Nr Painswick, Glos. GL4 8EX Open seven days a week 10am-5pm

Saturday 12th, Sunday 13th & Wednesday 16th April from 11.30am

Invite your friends to enjoy the theatre sets and a wild children’s tea party, including Free Face Painting and entry to the park to enjoy the tame deer, miniature donkeys and our famous Wendy House and lots more.

Call 01452 812727 – book www.thebirdanddeerpark.com

Spring Wings and Easter Things

In addition to hosting its annual ‘Mad Hatters Tea Party’ (from 11.30am on 12th, 13th & 16th April), The Bird & Deer Park is also celebrating Easter this year with ‘Spring Wings and Easter Things’ which will be held every day – Monday to Friday – from 7th-11th April.

Running from 11.30am-3pm daily, ‘Spring Wings and Easter Things’ will include face painting, the Easter activity tent – where children can get crafty whilst adults can sit and chat enjoying a cup of tea or coffee – plus a token chocolate egg for youngsters to take home with them.

The Park’s well known ‘Mad Hatters Tea Party’ will

be held on Saturday 12th, Sunday 13th and Wednesday 16th April from 11.30am-2.30pm on each day. Also including face painting, the children’s tea party is situated in the beautiful themed marquee surrounded with waterfowl and animals – just perfect!

The Park encourages children to be children – so why not help yours get dressed up and enjoy everything Prinknash has to offer this Easter.

For more details on these and other forthcoming events, plus information about the Park’s new Visitor Centre which opens in August, call 01452 812727 or visit www.thebirdpark.com.

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In the Garden with Julia Smith

A wood full of the beautiful nodding heads and scent of bluebells is a quintessentially English experience and they will be coming out this month. Unfortunately they are under threat from the Spanish bluebell which is grown in gardens as it was considered more decorative than its English cousin. How to tell them apart?

Well the English bluebell (Hyacinthoides non-scripta) has scented flowers borne on one side of the stem, the anthers are creamcoloured and unequeal, and the flower spike is nodding. The Spanish bluebell (H.hispanica) has unscented flowers borne on all sides of the stem. It has blue equal anthers and an upright flower spike. So take care with what you plant (under no circumstances harvest any from the wild!), sourcing them from reputable retailers and you too could enjoy the fragrance of your own little bluebell patch.

Start feeding the soft fruit in the garden – strawberries and raspberries etc. can do with a balanced general fertilizer such as blood, fish and bone or Growmore applied at about 70g per square metre. This will supply potassium (k) for flower and fruit production, nitrogen (n) for foliage and phosphorus (p) for strong roots.

As daffodils finish flowering the faded flowerheads can be removed. The small daffodils which are being grown to naturalise can be left to form seedheads. Don’t cut off the foliage – it needs at least 6 weeks dying to replenish the bulb underneath so it can flower the following year. Don’t tie it up in strange bundles with elastic bands as this can damage the leaves as well as being very odd-looking.

Try sowing a sprinkling of hardy annual seeds like annual poppies or Love-in-a-Mist through the flower border in a sunny position. Night Scented Stocks can be sown as well to fragrance the garden in summer evenings. They are not much to look at but are delicious to smell – put them by windows or patios to enjoy.

This could be a good time to buy winter flowering trees and shrubs – prices may be reduced in garden centres – giving you a good show next winter. This is also a good time to plant evergreens into well prepared soil with a balanced fertilizer added. Make sure you keep them well watered during the summer if it is dry.

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To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 31

NEW ENERGY SAVING SCHEME

- APPLY NOW! – only 500 homes permitted see website or call office today ALL WORK COVERED BY A 10 YEAR INSURANCE BACKED GUARANTEE

SASH WINDOWS

COMPOSITE DOORS FRENCH & PATIO DOORS

*From a choice of over 20 designs

15 NEW COLOURS!

*From a choice of over 50 DOORS

FINE BESPOKE WINDOWS & DOORS

*All prices exclusive of VAT

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM AT

253 Gloucester Road, Cheltenham, Glos. GL51 8NW (Opposite Cheltenham Spa Train Station) OPEN Mon-Fri 10am-4.00pm & Sat 10am-2pm

info@emperor-windows.co.uk Tel : 01242 220 640 www.emperor-windows.co.uk

Local businessman Ian George (right) congratulating Emperor Windows’ Gareth Ansell on the launch of the new scheme.

New energy efficient scheme launched for Gloucestershire In keeping with the company’s overall objective to consistently improve its service, over the last few months Emperor Windows have been piloting a new scheme to the benefit of both customers and the environment.

With Emperor Windows manufacturing their own products, the trial period has been necessary to confirm they could manage the additional capacity required before launching their new ‘Energy Saving Scheme’ on a full scale.

Company representative Gareth Ansell is delighted with the results. He said: “The pilot has been an overwhelming success, and I’d like to thank all customers who have had recent installations. We’re only interested in delivering the very best products and services, so proving we could cope with the workload – both in the factory and through our team of ‘in house’ fitters – was extremely important to us. We can now proudly announce the official launch of our scheme.”

Still waiting for any announcement of a national Government-backed energy saving plan that may further reduce the ‘upgrade’ costs for homeowners, Emperor Windows are using the revenue they receive from recycling the replaced uPVC and glass to The Local Answer

discount new installations. Gareth said: “Customers benefit financially on two fronts – the reduced installation cost plus the ongoing savings on their fuel bills. Similarly, the environment benefits from the initial re-cycling of materials and the long-term reduction in carbon emissions.”

Emperor Windows are looking for 500 homeowners who have already made improvements to their property through other forms of insulation to benefit from their modern ‘A-rated’ energy efficient products. The cost of replacing older, ineffective products – whether they are rotten or just ‘old’ uPVC, aluminium or timber frames that are no longer thermally sound – with new external double glazing for windows and doors is usually the most expensive and last option taken. Gareth continued: “Keeping the cost of replacements as low as possible through our Energy Saving Scheme for qualifying homeowners is aimed at rewarding people who already share our concern for the environment – encouraging them to continue the good work!”

To see if you qualify for Emperor Windows’ Energy Saving Scheme simply give them a call on 01242 220640 or visit www.emperor-windows.co.uk and, if you can answer ‘yes’ to 3 of the 5 questions posed, you could save a considerable sum against their list prices.

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 33

Established for 25 years

Kitchens & Bathrooms â—?

Residential & Commercial Roofing

New Roofs â—? G.P.R.S. Fibreglass Flat Roofs â—? Roof Repairs â—? Metal Roofs â—? Fascias, Soffits & Gutters â—? Painting & Decorating â—? Repointing â—? Gutter Cleaning

â—?

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01452 899903 07503 858963

â—?

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Supply & fit all makes and models; we can even custom build to customer’s own specification and available space.

Our service also includes plumbing, electrical, decorating, plastering, tiling etc., if required.

No hassle for the customer - we arrange it all.

FROM THE SMALL: • LEAKS • SHOWERS • • TAP & TOILET REPAIRS • TO THE LARGE: • BATHROOM INSTALLATIONS • • SOLAR PANELS • AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN

General Building Works (Internal/External) â—? â—?

All types of works undertaken.

Custom built wardrobes, loft conversions, door hanging, decking, pergolas, patios.

Call Pete:

For a compe ve Quote please contact: Mobile: 07870 586701 or Email: lee@lrcarpentry.co

PLUMBING 1st

35 years experience ~ City & Guilds trained

SPECIAL RATES

for OAPs on all plumbing • Ball Valve Leaks • WC • Tap Reviver Kits • Showers • Cloakroom refits • Immersion Heaters • Hot Water Tanks

Please call Neal on

01452 618487 or 07798 782434

Contact Mark: 01452 526040/07972 777876

mark@eliteloftladders.co.uk www.eliteloftladders.co.uk

%OFF

10

PURCHASE

Saxony Sophistication ÂŁ16.99m2 ÂŁ14.99m2 Vinyl from ÂŁ7.99m2

excl Sale items

When you mention ‘TLA’ at point of order!

Where price and quality meets knowledge and service Based on Waterwells estate opposite.

Quedgeley Park & Ride.

Huge warehouse of carpet and vinyl in stock Everything to suit all tastes and budgets.

Amazing 100m2 showroom with vast range of samples to choose from.

Mon-Fri 9-5 Sat 10-4 Sun 11-3

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PROVIDING SAFE & EASY ACCESS TO YOUR LOFT • Loft Ladders Supplied & Fitted • Loft Hatches Enlarged • New Loft Openings – Any Size • Replacement PVC Hatches • Fully Insured • All Ladders & Work Guaranteed • Fitted by Qualified Tradesmen • Professional Reliable Service

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Our expert fitting team will move furniture, uplift old flooring and vacuum after installation.

Please pop in and see Wayne and Richard Unit 1, Stanley Court

01452 883113 e.info@quedgeleycarpets.co.uk www.quedgeleycarpets.co.uk

Page 34

PLUMBING & HEATING

Over 18 years carpentry experience

Park & Ride

WEATHERTECH

RHODES CARPENTRY LTD

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

A38

Your Local Roofing Experts

Telford Way, Quedgeley, Gloucester GL2 2AE

The Local Answer

Quick Crossword 1

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9

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ACROSS 1 Infuriate 5 Shed tears 7 Filter 8 Long story 9 Mosquito bite irritation 10 Fossil resin 11 Apple, ... Smith 13 Dull 14 Ferocious 18 Partition 21 Current units 22 Dog breed 24 Move on knees 25 Relinquish (territory) 26 Dress-up toy

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Puzzled where you’ll find your perfect new bathroom?

26

The answer:

27

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© Lovatts Puzzles

Don’t look until you’ve finished! Solutions on ‘Index of Advertisers’ page.

shutters store

Your local family business

Live in style...

For the widest range of shutters visit Gloucestershireʼs largest indoor showroom...

Unit K Churchill Industrial Estate, Churchill Road, Leckhampton, Cheltenham GL53 7EG

FREE EASY PARKING 01242 526 189

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The Local Answer

Store open: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Saturday 10am-4pm

New range, made in Britain, delivered within 3 weeks!! www.shutterscheltenham.co.uk

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 35

WORKTOPS by

HATHERLEY WORKTOPS Specialists in Worktop Upgrades since 1992 S U PP LY & IN S TA LL AT ION OF AL L W ORK S URFAC ES

Laminate•Granite•Wood•Composite Stone & Many More!

WORKTOP REFITS • DOOR REPLACEMENTS KITCHEN UPGRADES • FULL KITCHENS Plumbing ~ Gas ~ Electrical ~ Tiling NEW Top Quality Installations GRANITE Brochures, Samples & Swatches FACTORY Free Quotations NOW OPEN Photo Album ~ ‘Thank you’ Letters TRADE PRICES! References ~ Supply of all Materials

MOBILE 07970 190965 GLOUCESTER 01452 290458 CHELTENHAM 01242 680953

www.hatherleyworktops.co.uk Malvern View, Old Gloucester Rd, Cheltenham GL51 0TG

Page 36

DO YOU HATE OVEN l cal CLEANING? EST 2004 Tel: 01242 227 067 or 0800 8818 423 For more information please visit the website @

www.ovenbusters-cheltenham.co.uk

COOKER OR OVEN NOT WORKING? www.fix-my-oven.co.uk

BLINDS

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GREAT PRICES

Local friendly company - Quick delivery

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The Local Answer

MARSHALLS DRIVEWAYS Paving & Tarmac Specialists

BEFORE

BLOCK PAVING TARMAC LANDSCAPING FENCING PATIOS DRIVEWAYS GARDEN WALLS

AFTER

Sudoku Fill the grids so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 to 9.

All our work is Guaranteed for 5 years! We’ll beat any genuine quote.

Rectory Fields, Rudford, Gloucestershire GL2 8DT

01452 668005 / 01453 297010 / 01285 238089 www.marshallsdriveways.co.uk

Condensa on?

Mould?

Damp?

We give unbiased honest reports with the best way to solve the problems Call David to discuss your needs and receive a full quote

07986 246146

david@dampdetec ves.co.uk www.dampdetec ves.co.uk

Stoves & Fireplaces Cheltenham

Come and visit us for great ideas Gas & Electric Fires | Fireplaces, Hearths & Mantels Multi-fuel & Woodburning Stoves | Accessories | Installations Showroom at: 78-80 Winchcombe Street, Cheltenham GL52 2NW

01242 241164

www.cheltenhamstoves.com The Local Answer

Don’t look until you’ve finished!

Solutions on ‘Index of Advertisers’ page.

31 Southgate Street Gloucester GL1 1TP

To advertise call 01242 510500

The thinking person’s pub 01452 309340

www.caferene.co.uk

Page 37

Professional Services

GLOSBUILD

Professional & Reliable General Builders

Covering Gloucester, Cheltenham & Surrounding Areas

Driveways (Block Paved/Tarmac) SPRING SPECIAL OFFER Roofing ~ Guttering & Fascias for We’ll beat all ‘like like’ quotes by Walls & Fencing ~ Landscaping 20% Over 40 years’ experience ~ No Deposits Required

Please call 01452 223811 or 07792 676760 info@glosbuild.co.uk www.glosbuild.co.uk Court Farm, Tewkesbury Road, Twigworth, Gloucestershire GL2 9PX

HUCCLECOTE ACCOUNTING & TAXATION SERVICES Se lf Ass es s me n t ta x r e t u rn s So l et r ad er / pa r tn er s h ip ac c o u n t s Li m it ed Co m p an y ac c o u n t s an d ta x r e t u rn s Bo o k k eep i n g a n d v a t re tu r n s P a y r o ll a n d C IS a s si s ta n c e

ACCA

GENUINE! during April 2014

EXTRA 5% OFF for Over 60s!

HATS Gl o u ces t er L t d T h e W h i te H o u s e 1 62 Hu ccl ec ot e R o ad H uc cle co t e Gl ou c es te r GL3 3 SH Te l: 01452 61119 9

Hucclecote Accounting and Taxation Services (HATS for short) offers a wholly individual approach to accountancy and taxation services. Our staff are patient, professional and friendly and they offer a taxation service that’s tailored to your needs.

That means you get all the experience of the HATS team of Chartered and Chartered Certified Accountants; there’s always someone on hand to help. We offer a bespoke accounting service, based on your precise requirements; you can have as much or little help as you need.

Plain English Best of all, you get a ‘plain English’ approach to accountancy. No accountant’s shorthand; just plenty of common sense advice and assistance on all manner of accountancy services. Taxation really doesn’t have to be taxing!

Free initial consultation Even if you’re not sure what accountancy service you need, just contact us and take advantage of HATS’ free initial consultation. www.hatsgloucester.co.uk

Page 38

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

PLASTERING &RENOVATION

For plastering and rendering, dry lining, room alterations, replastering old walls and over plastering artex etc.

For all your building needs

1st Choice

Aerial & Satellites

Digital Aerial Installations Upgrades and Repairs

with Roger Downes of Andorran

10% off

Phone Andy on

with this advert

0781 605 2737 01452 548764

Tel: 01452 311511

Mark Hawkes

Computer Services

epairs puter R ➛ C om orking ➛ Netw es rt Phon ts/Sma Fixed labour repair fee £40 ➛ Table t r o when you deliver and collect s Supp s e in s your computer. ➛ Bu Fee Remote support for only £15 ix - No ➛ No F 25% discount on labour Design ➛ Web for anyone over 60

07961 818654 / 01452 550714

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LTD

GRP Electrical

Domestic, Commercial and Industrial Work undertaken

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Security lighting Kitchen lights Rewires EVERYTHING Showers for work booked and Fault finding carried out before Inspection & testing 30th April 2014 Landlord certificates Distribution board upgrades Free Estimates ~ No Call out Charge

144 Finlay Road Gloucester GL4 6TF Tel: (Gloucester) 01452 307413 Tel: (Cheltenham) 01242 649642 Mob: 07970 547277 Email: info@grpelectricalltd.co.uk www.grpelectricalltd.co.uk

The Local Answer

Money Matters

Backing a winner After months of appalling weather, the sun finally shone on Gloucestershire in March – in time for the National Hunt festival at Prestbury Park. Tens of thousands of people flocked to the county, not only to enjoy the Sport of Kings, but also to sample the delights that the local area has to offer.

There’s plenty to see and do in Gloucestershire from the history of our major towns to more idyllic rural settings in the Cotswolds and the Forest of Dean. But like any hungry child, the local economy needs feeding. And it’s occasions such as the National Hunt festival that provide our county with much needed sustinence.

Horse racing is not Gloucestershire’s only festival, of course, with music, arts, literature, tall ships and many more attractions playing their part in putting the county on the map and feeding our local economy. But it’s the activity at Prestbury Park every March that seems to provide a major impetus at just the right time – as Spring dawns and the sun begins to shine.

That was certainly the case this year, with pubs, restaurants, hotels etc. all happy to put behind them the months of flooding and poor weather generally in order to welcome hungry (and thirsty!) punters. Hopefully it will help them to recover some of the lost revenue that they will have experienced in that period.

There are two ways in which the local economy receives a financial boost. One is the influx of external money brought in by festivals such as the horse racing. The second is for businesses and people in the county to support their own economy by buying, shopping and employing locally. You would be amazed at the skill sets and facilities that are available without you having to go outside the county in search of them.

And if you are running a business locally, make the most of the opportunities that are presented to you. Don’t moan about the number of people attending these festivals, work out how they can benefit your business and capitalize on the chance.

The Rugby World Cup comes to the county in 2015 – there’s something else that you might be able to make work to your benefit. Embrace it all and back a winner!

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 39

It’s all about reputation Pure Plumbing & Heating provide expert solutions for all your plumbing and heating requirements and, based at brand new premises at Innsworth, are ideally located to undertake contracts for both domestic and commercial work right across Gloucestershire.

“Professional, helpful, considerate, very tidy, job was excellent and completed on time. Never used them before and would call on them anytime we needed help in the future. A very good job by Chris and his team. Well done guys.” Checkatrade Customer Collectively, owner Chris Mott and his team of fully trained engineers have a vast amount of experience.

They work extremely well together and pride themselves on delivering a personal, quality service – undertaking anything from a leaking tap to a new development contract. Pure Plumbing & Heating also provide a 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, maintenance service for your peace of mind.

checkatrade.com

Chris Mott and the Pure Plumbing & Heating team

Page 40

Chris personally deals with all quotations and offers his best impartial advice on the most suitable solution for you. He is particularly approachable and uses terms his customers understand. Combined with the great attitude Chris conveyed regarding customer care and after sales service, it comes as no surprise Pure Plumbing & Heating score an exemplary reputation rating on checkatrade.com.

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

Richard Price AC C O U N TA N CY

Support for your business • Personal Taxation • Corporate Taxation • Bookkeeping • Payroll • Financial Accounts • Management Accounts For more information or to discuss your requirements:

07775 864 487 enquiries@richardpriceaccountancy.co.uk

richardpriceaccountancy.co.uk

SELF ASSESSMENT TAX RETURN SERVICE PRICES FROM £85 • Bookkeeping • Payroll • VAT/CIS • Uniform & Small Tools Rebates for Employees Free Consultation and free paperwork collection/postal service

The BooksAngel

01452 768887/07845 540 500 sally@thebooksangel.com

Stanley Plumbing Services Worcester Bosch Boiler Installations with 7 year Warranty • Kitchens • Heating Systems Bathrooms • Showers Tiling • Solar Thermal Installations designed and fitted from start to finish We are a local family run business

NO CALL OUT CHARGE m 07787 162 474 t 01452 347929

e jgsplumbing@yahoo.co.uk w stanleyplumbingservices.co.uk Cotswold Court, Gloucester Road, Cheltenham GL51 0TF

STEVENS RECYCLING Domestic and Industrial Skips

ATTENTION! For a limited time only...

Let us lighten your load!

10% DISCOUNT ON ALL SKIP HIRE WHEN YOU QUOTE TLA 06/07/03 WHEN ORDERING* *DISCOUNT CANNOT BE APPLIED RETROSPECTIVELY. OFFER RUNS UNTIL 30/04/2014

Stevens Recycling

Ham Villa Road, Charlton Kings, Cheltenham GL52 6NB

NOW SUPPLYING

TOP SOIL AT GREAT

01242 522647/529397 PRICES stevensrecycling584@gmail.com The Local Answer

Local Policing with PS Nik Farmer

of the City Local Policing Team

Gloucester City Safe Gloucester business community is currently served by a Shopwatch group and Pubwatch. Both organisations have worked to support improving the visitor experience to Gloucester – making it a safe and confident place to visit.

The two groups are merging and evolving into Gloucester City Safe (GCS).

The Police and Crime Commissioner, Martin Surl has recognised the importance of a strong business crime reduction partnership and has allocated funds to employ a full time paid co-ordinator to run Gloucester City Safe for the next two years. Rich Burge has now been recruited and started work on 3rd March in preparation for the new scheme which will be starting in May. He is out and about visiting businesses in the city to promote Gloucester City Safe.

Rich will be running the Yellow Card scheme – the warning and banning scheme. Individuals displaying antisocial behaviour in, or near, a participating business will get a yellow card – just like football. Those repeating antisocial activity, or those who are violent in the first instance will receive a red card and be banned for 12 months.

I hope that every shop, pub, restaurant and club will join the scheme – it’s a great initiative to make Gloucester a more enjoyable place for everyone. Those who demonstrate a lack of respect and concern for the enjoyment of our city by other residents and visitors deserve to be banned. If this means they need to travel further afield for their shopping, dining and entertainment – they’ll hopefully have learned their lesson and, ultimately, be able to return to using the services of Gloucester’s wonderful and growing number of attractions in a more considerate fashion. ● Some of the benefits to being a member of Gloucester City Safe include: ● A brand new radio management system linked to the police, City CCTV and other members of the scheme. ● State of the art password protected website providing up to date and accurate intelligence, information and images of all offenders subject to exclusion. ● Weekly e-newsletter. ● Free training on crime and licensing matters. ● Membership of the Yellow Card exclusion scheme For more information please contact Rich Burge on 07531 211 439 or rich.burge@gloucestercitysafe.co.uk, or PS Nik Farmer on 01452 335 100.

Non-Emergency Number – 101 In an emergency always call 999 Email: Nicholas.Farmer@gloucestershire.pnn.police.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/Gloucester Constabulary Twitter: @Glos_Police

www.gloucestershire.police.uk

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 41

Index of Advertisers FOOD & DRINK Café René 6&37 One Eyed Jack’s 4 Over Farm 5&18 The Old Rectory 7 Tiger’s Eye 6 WHAT’S ON Clubs & Sports Bicko’s Bike Shack 8 Caroline Crowther Intros.

17 Gloucester Rugby 15 Glos Arts & Crafts Group 14 Shipton Golf Course 18 Events & Attractions Blofeld & Baxter 17 Bohemian Beads 17 GWR 17 Prinknash Bird & Deer Pk. 22-23 Slimbridge WWT 19 The Bacon Theatre 20 The Everyman Theatre 16 The Guildhall 14 RETAIL Cotswold Life 21 HEALTH & BEAUTY Ancilla’s Nails 8 Deano’s Mobile Barber 8 NHS Let’s Talk 9 HOLIDAYS & TRAVEL Back Badge Cars 7 PROPERTY Northwood 44 HOMES & GARDENS Bathrooms Severn Vale Bathrooms 25&35 Building Services BE Rudman 24 Damp Detectives 37 Elite Loft Ladders 34 FarrDenn Construction 26 GlosBuild 38 Marshalls Driveways 37 Plastering & Renovation 39

The Local

ANSWER

G re at e xpo s u re fo r yo u r bu si n e ss!

To advertise telephone:

01242 510500

Premiere Fascias Premiere Property Tiles R Russ Total Property Maintenance Weather Tech Carpentry Rhodes Carpentry Cleaning Services Oven Busters Electrical Services Cleevely Electrics GRP Electrical Furnishing & Appliances Dixons Carpets Just Fabrics Lindas Blinds New Blinds New Blinds – Shutters Privacy Blinds Quedgeley Carpets Sapphire Carpets Space Master The Winnen Furnishing Co. Garden Services Challenge Fencing

24 26 29 28 34 34 36 26 39 36 11 36 30 35 24 34 30 26 13 28

Chosen Lawnmowers 29 Joe & Jamie Landscapes 29 Mark Clifford Landscapes 29 Master Sheds 28 Twelve Oaks 29 Woodlands Tree & Garden 28 Heating & Plumbing AM Nelmes Heating 24 Pete T Plumbing 34 Plumbing 1st 34 Pure Plumbing 40 Stanley Plumbing 41 Stoves and Fireplaces 37 Kitchens Hatherley Worktops 36 TV & Aerial 1st Choice Aerials 39 Windows & Doors Albany Windows 28 AJ Windows 2 C&L Windows 27 Cloudy 2 Clear 31 Emperor Windows 32-33 Misty2Clear Windows 43

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Computers & Software Shiraz Badat 39 Legal & Finance Books Angel 41 HATS 38 Richard Price Accountancy 41 Motors The Deal Maker 12 Skip Hire & Recycling Grimebusters UK 12 Stevens Recycling 41 Utilities Utility Warehouse 12

If you don’t see the goods or services you provide listed here – take advantage and

BE THE FIRST! To advertise telephone:

01242 510500

PUZZLE SOLUTIONS E

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COMPETITION WINNERS Thanks to all who took part in our March competitions and congratulations to the winners: The Bacon Theatre – Pair of tickets to see ‘Cinderella’ – Claire Hatherall of Saul, Phil Cook of Estcourt Road and Christine Oakey of Sisson Road.

The Everyman Theatre – Pair of tickets to see ‘This May Hurt A Bit’ – Bob Tomlins of Gloucester, Josephine Callanan of Brockworth and Josie

Garwood of Denmark Road.

Bohemian Beads – A Child’s Party – Mrs R J Roser of Abbeydale.

TLA Covers, sponsored by Cafe Rene – 3 course meal for 2 and a bottle of house wine – Becky Cole of Baptist Close. For the correct answers, please check the competitions page of our website at: www.thelocalanswer.co.uk

COMPETITION RULES 1 Prizes are as stated and no cash or prize alternative will be offered.

2 Employees of The Local Answer and their families or households are not eligible to enter.

3 The first correct entry drawn at random after the closing date will win the prize as stated.

4 The winner will be notified by telephone after the closing date has passed.

5 The Editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.

6 Entrants must be over 18 years, unless stated.

7 Proof of posting is not regarded as proof of receipt of entry.

8 The Local Answer accepts no responsibility for the provision of the prize, which remains at all times the full responsibility of the prize donor(s).

9 By entering any competition you agree to have your name published in the next issue of The Local Answer should you be drawn as a winner of the prize.

BOOKING DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE – Tuesday 15th April 2014 Page 42

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

Make a Grand Entrance!

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For more info visit apeer.co.uk or call Misty 2 Clear on 01242 526189 Unit L, Churchill Industrial Estate, Leckhampton, Cheltenham GL53 7EG Opening hours: Monday-Friday 9–5pm, Saturday 10–4pm

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