Cotswolds

The Local

Cotswolds 28,000 DELIVERED

ANSWER

SEPTEMBER 2014

YOUR FAVOURITE, MOST USEFUL MAGAZINE

www.thelocalanswer.co.uk

EATING OUT EVENTS & ATTRACTIONS HEALTH & BEAUTY HOLIDAYS & TRAVEL PROPERTY HOMES & GARDENS SERVICES PETS SHORT WALKS RECIPES VOUCHERS COMPETITIONS WIN A LUXURY BED COURTESY OF FURNITURE FACTORY OUTLETS

The Local

ANSWER

Meet the Team ...

Advertising Leonie Euwin leonie@thelocalanswer.co.uk

Malcolm Cantwell malc@thelocalanswer.co.uk

Editorial Lois Kingscott editorial@thelocalanswer.co.uk

Helen Kingscott editorial@thelocalanswer.co.uk

Distribution Cindy Duncan – 07720 098934 distribution@thelocalanswer.co.uk

Administration Beverley Ellin admin@thelocalanswer.co.uk

Production Alison Hambling alison@thelocalanswer.co.uk

Accounts Robert Kingscott rob@thelocalanswer.co.uk

Carole Brown accounts@thelocalanswer.co.uk

Director Dave Kingscott dave@thelocalanswer.co.uk

1 Ullenwood Court, Ullenwood, Gloucestershire GL53 9QS

01242 510500 thelocalanswer

Welcome to September ... ... and welcome to the first ‘Cotswolds’ edition of The Local Answer.

Well, it was nice while it lasted – the sun has done a disappearing act and there’s a bit of a winter chill in the air. But fear not! There’s still plenty to do this month both inside and out.

Spend some time baking and try out September’s Delicious Dish – flavoursome flapjack. Alternatively head to The Edgemoor Inn and enjoy a wonderful lunchtime or evening meal – you could also win a 3-course meal for four plus a bottle of house wine in one of this month’s competitions.

Have a read of the ‘Did You Know?’ column – The history of Polo – and remember, it’s not just a mint with a hole!

Finally, you have the opportunity to win a fantastic pocket sprung luxury bed courtesy of Furniture Factory worth an incredible £1400!

Inside this month ...

Delicious Dishes Food & Entertainment Health & Beauty Did You Know What’s On How to...

Care Services Pet Care Cocktail Time Short Walks Homes & Gardens In the Garden Sudoku Quick Crossword Professional Services Money Matters Index, Competitions, Solutions Competitions: 9 & 27

5 9 11 11 15 25 28 30 31 32 33 39 40 44 47 49 50

@thelocalanswer

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

Page 3

www.thenineschools.co.uk

Hand-made Oriental furniture

Bring the beauty of the East to your home with traditionally designed Oriental furniture from The Nine Schools.

Producing hand-made pieces at affordable prices, the company have worked sustainably and ethically with skilled craftsmen since 1995.

The Nine Schools are offering a 10 per cent discount on the full range of cabinets, sideboards, trunks and console tables finished in black gloss with gold edges or oyster grey, blue, red, white and black butterfly patterns – with items starting from just £135.

To claim your discount visit www.thenineschools.co.uk or call 0117 332 3673 before 30th September 2014 and use code TLA10

Oriental Inspired Furniture Telephone 0117 3323673 or 07813085817

Spike Island | 133 Cumberland Road | Bristol | BS1 6UX sales@thenineschools.co.uk All our deliveries are free in the UK and it costs you nothing to return or exchange

Page 4

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The Local Answer

Flavoursome Flapjack

Delicious Dishes with Helen Kingscott

A delicious zesty twist on this classic treat Makes about 12 Ingredients: 85g margarine; 45g sugar; 170g porridge oats; 3 dessert spoons golden syrup; grated orange rind; grated lemon rind.

Method: 1 Put the margarine, sugar and syrup into a saucepan and melt over a low heat. Stir in the oats, orange rind and lemon rind.

2 Brush the tin with margarine and turn out the mixture

into a 7½ inch sandwich tin, making sure you spread it to the sides.

3 Bake in the centre of the oven at 180 degrees (Gas Mark 4) for 15-17 minutes.

4 Cut into slices and keep in an airtight tin.

Dean Close School

OPEN MORNING Saturday 12th October 2013 Saturday 11th October 2014

Co-educational Day and Boarding School Age 3-18

For further information telephone: 01242 258079 for Pre-Preparatory 01242 258001 for Preparatory 01242 258044 for Senior

The Local Answer

To advertise call 01242 510500

www.deanclose.org.uk Page 5

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Th e Loc al

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Ma r

SIX FANTASTIC COMPETITIONS INSIDE

FR ch 20 EE 09

GREAT FOOD, SERVICE & ENTERTAINMENT

The Local Answer’s office at Ullenwood Court

Welcome to The Local Answer The Local Answer has gone from strength to strength since the first issue (above) in March 2009.

Initially serving the ‘Charlton Kings & Leckhampton’ areas of Cheltenham – with 5,000 copies distributed – this new Cotswolds edition increases our circulation to 133,000 copies every month, delivering 125,000 of these direct to Gloucestershire homes.

The publication was launched to satisfy the requirements of advertisers needing to convey their messages to residents in the area, and readers searching for local services. Therefore, we focused on key aspects that we believed would make the publication work – the best distribution, the best quality of content and presentation for a magazine of its type and, of course, extremely competitive rates (see left).

Our loyal advertisers were only going to get a return on their investment if our non-paying clients – you the readers – ‘used’ the magazine.

Fortunately we seem to have got more things right than we’ve got wrong for both readers and advertisers alike. Growing to our

current situation – delivering to 25 times as many households as when we started – wouldn’t have been possible without people appreciating what the publication brings to them.

Behind this extreme level of success has been a fantastic team. As a ‘family-run’ business, the support from family members has been a key factor throughout – from helping to deliver the first issue, to being involved in all other aspects of the business as the company developed. With a committed and skilled office team, a growing army of loyal distributors, plus great print and facility suppliers, collectively we have delivered great success to so many of the county’s businesses and a wonderful ‘free’ monthly publication to residents.

But we’re not finished yet! We will continually strive to improve the publication and its reach. New team members are currently being recruited to help complete our coverage of the county with ‘Gloucestershire South’ and ‘Forest of Dean’ editions in the spring.

Dave Kingscott – Managing Director

Stunning views and fabulous food The Edgemoor Inn is a beautiful late 19th century premises overlooking the picturesque Painswick Valley. Having heard from so many people about the stunning views and fabulous food, I went to try it out with a friend.

To start, I opted for the Cajun Spiced Chicken which came with a mango, pineapple and blueberry salad and mango crème fraîche. The freshness of the fruit complemented the spicy chicken and sent my tongue tingling and left me wanting more. My friend chose the Prawn & Crayfish Salad with Marie Rose sauce and plum tomatoes – a tasty twist on a classic starter.

For the main course I enjoyed a juicy, flavoursome Peppered Sirloin Steak that was cooked to perfection and served with chips, peas, mushroom, onion rings and

grilled tomato. My friend had a generously filled, tender and tasty homemade Steak Pie accompanied by chips and peas. We both agreed the crunchy chips were exceptional.

The desserts triggered a “wow” from the pair of us too! I indulged in the fabulously rich Chocolate Brownie & Vanilla Ice Cream – it was divine. My friend tucked into Apple & Plum Crumble with Custard which, she said, was absolutely delicious and enhanced by the hint of cinnamon infused in the fruit.

We were both impressed by the generous portion sizes for each of the courses – you certainly won’t leave the restaurant feeling hungry.

With its fresh, modern interior and extremely friendly and helpful service, the restaurant delivers a genuine homely feel,

making you want to stay and relax long after you’ve dined. The extensive patio area is perfect for a lunchtime or evening meal, and I can only imagine the spectacular late-summer sunsets you’d witness with that view!

The Edgemoor Inn is a wonderful place to eat. I’d urge you to try it – if only for the Chocolate Brownie!

WIN A 3-COURSE MEAL Courtesy of owner Chris Bayes, you could win a 3-course meal for four plus house wine. To enter post your name, address and phone number to ‘The Edgemoor’, The Local Answer, 1 Ullenwood Court, Cheltenham GL53 9QS, or email details to competitions@thelocalanswer.co.uk with ‘The Edgemoor’ as the subject. Closing date: Thursday 11th September 2014.

The Edgemoor Inn Freehouse & Restaurant Late 19th century inn overlooking beau ful panoramic valley views

Tradi onal Cotswold pub offering locally sourced meat, fish and vegetables.

Extensive range of home cooked meals served daily – lunch me and evening.

Visit our website for full menu.

Finest selec on of local real ales.

Edge, Near Stroud, Gloucestershire GL6 6ND Tel: 01452 813576 www.edgemoor-inn.com The Local Answer

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 9

COTSWOLD RDA BARN APPEAL

Help us make a difference The Local Answer has expanded! In addition to magazines serving the Cheltenham, Gloucester and Gloucestershire North areas, we now have this new publication. The ‘Cotswolds’ edition covers the east of the county, including Cirencester, Tetbury, Stow-on-the-Wold and the surrounding areas – increasing our monthly distribution to over 130,000 copies delivered door-to-door, and extra available at 250+ outlets.

Due to our growing presence in the community, Cotswold Riding for the Disabled Association asked if we could help them with an urgent problem – to ensure local disabled people don’t miss out on the pleasure and therapeutic benefits they get from riding at the local charity’s school at Cheltenham Racecourse throughout the coming winter.

Consequently, we started running a fundraising appeal on their behalf in July of this year to help them with a special project to buy a barn and build pathways across their fields. They would be extremely grateful of any help you – our new readers – can give.

Benefiting disabled children and adults Cotswold RDA provides riding lessons for disabled children and adults all year round during term times, and riders from schools and individuals throughout the county currently benefit from the charity’s work. The lessons help improve each rider’s confidence, as well as developing and supporting therapy and achievement.

Most of you will remember the terrible weather that hit us at the end of 2013 – well that’s why this appeal is so important. The fields were extremely water-logged, making access to the riding school too difficult.

In addition, the lack of grass and shelter for the ponies created its own set of problems.

Thanks to the generosity of the Racecourse, a temporary solution to ‘homing’ the ponies was found while arrangements were made for most of them to be accommodated off site – dictating the closure of the school for six weeks and disappointment for all the riders, which can have a detrimental effect on their physical and mental health.

The charity is not funded by the government and, in Dave meets Dave: The Local Answer’s addition to donations from Dave Kingscott meets Dave the pony. the public, relies on revenue

BARN

Rider Joshua with ‘Sox’

generated through its classes – so finances were badly affected by their cancellation.

To avoid a repeat of the difficulties caused by last year’s weather, with the help of others, Cotswold RDA Pony Welfare Officer Debbie Powell has researched various preventative measures. They are now ready to implement plans for the purchase of a new barn capable of supporting all the ponies, and creation of a hard standing area surrounding the barn and a stone pathway connecting it to the fields and making access to the school possible.

Great deal of help needed Staff and volunteers have already started raising ‘barn’ money through car boot sales, tombolas and raffles. So far they’ve collected £7,400 of the £30,000 needed for the project, but it’s clear they’re going to need a great deal of help to raise funds quickly enough for the barn and path to be in place before winter.

Readers often tell us how much they appreciate receiving The Local Answer and particularly enjoy the local stories and information it contains. On behalf of Cotswold RDA, The Local Answer is asking those of you who are able to support their fund-raising appeal, to act as soon as possible.

You can donate in two ways – either online via our ‘Virgin Giving’ page or by sending a cheque to The Local Answer – details at the bottom of the page.

We look forward to updating you on the progress of the appeal and thank you in advance for any donations you may make.

£30k £25k

£20k £15k £10k £5k

T h a n k y ou !

EITHER make your donation online by visiting

http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/TheLocalAnswerBarnAppeal

APPEAL Page 10

OR Make cheques payable to “Cotswold RDA” and send to TLA Barn Appeal, The Local Answer, 1 Ullenwood Court, Ullenwood, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL53 9QS www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

Country Dining

Enjoy top quality local meats & poultry, fresh fish & seasonal vegetables Scrumptious home made desserts

Did You Know? with Lois Kingscott

Private Dining Room

Ideal venue for all special occasions and family/friend get together - no hire cost!

Three course Sunday Lunch with multi-choice menu £17.95

Booking now for Christmas Join us for the Christmas festivities in our beautifully themed-decorated restaurant throughout December

The history of Polo The Old Rectory Re staurant

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

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Cirencester Park Polo Club is playing host to the Cheltenham Cup Final on 7th September 2014. A charming and relaxing country polo club establiished in 1894, it offers an excitingly quintissential English polo experience for all to enjoy.

Did you know that polo has 2,000 years of recorded history, originating in Asia as a competition between nomadic warriors in order to train the horses and perfect their battle skills.

Polo is the oldest team sport in the world and is still growing in popularity today. In the US alone there are over 250 polo clubs registered with the United States Polo Association with over 4,500 playing members. The UK has over 70 clubs and the dramatic increase in young enthusiasts means that there are more than 1,500 players from schools and universities across the country.

It is said that Captain John Watson of the British Cavalry 13th Hussars created the first set of written rules for playing polo in the mid 19th century, and the first recorded game in England was played in 1869. When the Hurlingham Rules were created in 1874, a five-player limit was imposed, as well as the offisde rule.

More and more people are playing

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There are many stigmas surrounding the sport, with a lot of people believing it is only for posh people with lots of money. Of course, polo is not a cheap sport given the upkeep of the horses, but more and more people are playing at local clubs and hiring ponies for a bit of fun, rather than trying to get into ‘high-goal’ polo teams.

The handicap system, which was introduced in 1888, allowed teams to be more evenly matched in games – you don’t need to be an exceptional player to get onto a team, and often having a better horse can balance out a poorer ability from the player.

From 2007 to 2010, 56% of new players in the UK were women, as this is a sport in which men and women compete on equal terms.

Polo is very popular among the Royal family, with Princes William and Harry often taking part in charity matches, which are very entertaining for the spectators. Even if you’re a non-horsey person, the impressive display of speed and skill promises for an exciting day’s sport for everyone.

So if you’ve got a taste for the fast and furious – even if you’ve never sat on a horse before – why not saddle up, find a polo club near you and give it a go!

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 11

Swimming at Cheltenham College Sports Centre Swim a Song

Aimed at babies and children aged between 4 months to 36 months old.

Introducing young children to water.

Confidence and independence.

Developing movement and water skills.

Parent/guardian in the water learning together.

Teachers ‘rescue trained’.

Club Swimming Adult only lane swimming (over16s) Joint membership available. from £125 + admin fee.

Concessionary rates.

Early morning, evening and lunchtime slots available.

Adult Learn to Swim & Stroke Improvement available from September

Pool Parties Now offering Pool Parties on Sunday afternoons (£124.99/hr)

COLLEGE CHELTENHAM

Contact: Cheltenham College Swim School on 01242 705551 or swimming@cheltenhamcollege.org for more information

Let’s Talk Courses Low Mood

? ? ? ? ?

Emotional Wellbeing Sleep

?

Anger

Stress and Anxiety

Mindfulness

? ? ? L?Teta’slk ?

Panic

Getting Active

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Low Self-Esteem Negative Thinking

? ? ?

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Let’s Talk is Gloucestershire’s Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) service – free from your local NHS.

We offer free psychological / educational courses across the county. They are based on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and are intended for people with mild to moderate anxiety and depression as well as other common mental health difficulties.

They are not group therapy and you don’t have to say anything if you don’t want to. You will have tasks to complete between sessions to help you make changes.

Our NEW courses are: Using CBT to Help You Manage Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue

Find dates and book on a course near you by visiting our website

https://courses.talk2gether.nhs.uk or call 0800 073 220 We request you only book on one course at a time.

I have enjoyed this course, lots of information and discussions.

It’s good spending time with people with similar issues.

I feel I can now manage my illness by changing some things in my life.

Foundation Trust For Gloucestershire

Art Class Starts Soon ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS TO IMPROVERS WILL LOVE THIS COURSE! water colours and acrylics. Step by step tuition in the basic techniques and secrets needed to create beautiful pieces of art.

YOUNG AT HEART

GREAT NEWS for all our readers looking for something fun to do over the next few months! There is a 14 week part-time Art Class (3 hours a week, mornings or afternoons) starting soon.

ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS TO IMPROVERS - JUST LIKE YOU! The course is designed to be fun for Absolute Beginners who’ve never picked up a brush before through to Improvers.

By the end of the course, students have created a minimum of 8 pieces of original art they can enjoy forever, from Beautiful Countryside Landscape Scenes to Incredible Seaside Vistas

MEET NEW FRIENDS, LEARN NEW SKILLS This course is a brilliant way to learn new skills you will be able to enjoy forever. It is also a great way of meeting new friends and to have a fun experience you will always remember and cherish! It is open to adults of all ages.

LIMITED PLACES

To maintain a high standard to our classes and the tuition you will receive, classes are We adapt to each student’s needs to give kept to small numbers – so places available them all the guidance and help they need are limited! We recommend that if you are to develop their artistic skills. Over 14 weeks interested, you call now for a chat. we will explore 4 different media; pencil FOR INFORMATION AND BOOKINGS, drawing & sketching, oil pastel painting and techniques, painting and blending with CALL NOW ON 01242 374 074

STEP-BY-STEP GUIDANCE

LASS C NEW N M AUTU

"RING OUT YOUR INNER ARTIST s "EGINNERS TO )NTERMEDIATES

ARTCLASS

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Part-time 14 Week Course, 3Hr Classes Once a week

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STARTS SOON AT A COSY VENUE NEAR YOU LIMITED SPACES CALL NOW FOR DETAILS 01242 374 074 www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

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Shhh ... It’s a secret!

Fancy a unique tour around the Cotswolds followed by lunch at a stunning sixteenth century cottage? Then look no further.

Becky Simpson (pictured, below), who has lived in the North Cotswolds for over 20 years, is your guide for the new ‘Secret Cottage’ tours – taking visitors to see the many hidden villages and breathtaking scenery the Cotswolds have to offer.

The Cotswolds are one of the UK’s most beautiful destinations with rolling hills, meadows and unspoilt views combined with ‘chocolate box’ cottages, traditional English gardens and quaint villages.

Becky’s invaluable local knowledge promises for an interesting and very special experience where you can visit a selection of picturesque villages, drive through parkland and see some stunning ancient churches, along with many other sights.

Morning coffee and pastries, and a generous lunch ensure you won’t be hungry when exploring and, of course, a tour of the Cotswolds wouldn’t be complete without a traditional cream tea with home-made scones, jam and cream served on the finest Spode bone china.

The location of the cottage is a secret, but is near Moreton-in-Marsh and Stow-on-the-Wold. Guests will be picked up from Moreton-in-Marsh railway station at 10.15am and dropped back at 4.30pm, allowing six hours of exploration and adventure.

This is a tour with a difference that Becky hopes will show guests the hidden gems that they may not be able to find

The Local Answer

Excellent food throughout the day including a traditional cream tea

themselves when investigating the Cotswolds. The minibus that will transport you on the tour is air-conditioned, has fantastic all-round raised visibility so that you don’t miss anything, and is wonderfully comfortable to enhance your enjoyable experience.

The Secret Cottage Tour costs £85 per person, which includes the tour and all food and drink provided at the cottage. But, as one of our readers, you can save yourself £10 per person if you mention The Local Answer when booking – making this wonderful day of English indulgence even better value for money!

To book, visit secretcottage.co.uk, call Becky on 01608 674700 or email becky@secretcottage.co.uk. The tour is already fully booked on several dates so, to avoid disappointment and ensure your place on this unique experience, book now!

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 15

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.

4 SEPTEMBER MEDEA Helen McCrory returns to the National Theatre to take the title role in Euripides’ powerful tragedy, in a new version by Ben Power, directed by Carrie Cracknell. 7pm. £16 (£14). 01242 258002. The Bacon Theatre, Dean Close School, Shelburne Road, Cheltenham, GL51 6HE. bacontheatre.co.uk.

6 SEPTEMBER KIERAN POWELL

One of the country’s finest variety performers, as featured on ‘Britain’s Got Talent’. Comedy ventriloquist with his highly amusing, thoroughly entertaining show, “Look Who’s Talking”. 7.45pm. £10 (£8). Cheltenham Playhouse, Bath Road, GL53 7HG. Box Office 01242 522852. cheltplayhouse.org.uk.

7 SEPTEMBER GL4 TOGETHER COMMUNITY SHOW Fun and entertainment from 12.00. Fun Dog Show, Flower and Vegetable Show, The Gang Show, Dog Agility, Zumba, Birds of Prey, Roast Pig BBQ, Go-Karts, Games, Stalls. Glevum Way Park, Abbeydale, Gloucester. www.gl4together.co.uk.

8-13 SEPTEMBER NEW JERSEY NIGHTS A celebration of the music of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, including such hits as Sherry, Rag Doll, Big Girls Don’t Cry and Walk Like a Man. £15-£30. 7.45pm and 2pm matinees (Thursday 11th and Saturday 13th). Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ. 01242 572572. everymantheatre.co.uk.

10 SEPTEMBER BLESS ’EM ALL The producers of ‘We’ll Meet Again’ return with a brand new Wartime Cavalcade.

Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ. 01242 572572. everymantheatre.co.uk.

12 SEPTEMBER BECOME AN ADVANCED BIRDER Learn to assess fine details such as plumage, weather conditions and habitats to take your skills to a new level. 7.3011.30am. £27 with tea/coffee and a bacon roll. WWT Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT. 01453 891900.

13 SEPTEMBER WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY FOR BEGINNERS Starting with an illustrated introductory session looking at composition, technique and equipment, you will then head outside for a practical session of nature photography. 10am-4pm. £60 with tea/coffee and biscuits. WWT Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT. 01453 891900.

DIVAS TRIBUTE A lively full on duo with costume changes and great songs by all your favourite Divas – Cher, Madonna and Shakira to mention a few. £29. Includes a 2 course meal, live act and disco. The New County Hotel, 44 Southgate Street, Gloucester, Gloucestershire, GL1 2DR. 13-14 SEPTEMBER BIRDWATCH MORNING Join the warden as he walks out on to the Reserve to watch the high tide bring

hundreds of birds closer to the shore. Also look out for many of the waders who are in the process of making their migrational journey using Slimbridge as a resting place along the way. 9.30am (Sat) and 10am (Sun). £12. WWT Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT. 01453 891900.

HERITAGE OPEN DAYS As part of the National Heritage Open Days, The Playhouse is allowing you to see those parts of the theatre you don’t normally get to see and learn about the history of the fascinating building. Open from 12-4pm. No need to book – just turn up and be guided around the dressing rooms, the workshops where sets are built and the stage itself. 47-53 Bath Rd, Cheltenham GL53 7HG. 01242 522852. cheltplayhouse.org.uk.

14 SEPTEMBER POSH CAR BOOT SALE Raising funds for Brimpsfield Music Society, Brimpsfield Church and Birdlip Church. Car sites only £15. Adults £2, children free. 11am-4pm. Longdole Polo Club. 01452 864692. events@brimpsfieldmusicsociety.co.uk. brimpsfieldmusicsociety.co.uk.

14-15 SEPTEMBER PAM AYRES

Pam Ayres brings her latest show to the Everyman following the recent publication of her new book of poetry, ‘You Made Me Late Again’. £24.50-£29.50. 7.45pm.

Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ. 01242 572572. everymantheatre.co.uk.

Pro m ot e y ou r e ve nt t o 28,000 C ot s wo l d h o m e s

Page 16

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The Local

ANSWER

To advertise telephone:

01242 510500 The Local Answer

OUTSTANDING FOOD, SPECTACULAR ENTERTAINMENT AND A FANTASTIC DJ & DISCO – A MAGICAL NIGHT OUT!

CE PRI

AT ART S ST

AT +V

★ Extensively themed ‘Nutcracker Christmas’ ★ Licensed themed bar & chill out ★ Gingerbread Bar service, with themed cocktails and shots ★ Sparkling drinks reception ★ Served two/three course sit down dinner ★ Amazing themed photobooth ★ Sumptuous Sweet Cart*† ★ Professional Party DJ ★ A full night of themed ‘Nutcracker’ entertainment including Suger Plum fairies and toy soldiers

S EST SOFN 8 GU O PEIR R NG E K P BOO

M IMU MIN

*Dependent on package selected †Small charge applicable on the night

FRIDAY 12TH DECEMBER 2014 to FRIDAY 19TH DECEMBER 2014

CHELTENHAM TOWN HALL IMPERIAL SQUARE, CHELTENHAM GL50 1QA

Contact the Hype team now: info@hypeagency.co.uk

0117 971 0320 HypeAgencyUK

www.hypeagency.co.uk

16-17 SEPTEMBER THE GRUFFALO

The hit musical stage adaptation of Julia Donaldson’s beloved picture book. £12 (£10). Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ. 01242 572572. everymantheatre.co.uk.

20 SEPTEMBER GLOUCESTER: A CITY OF SECRETS Book signing by Christine Jordan of her debut historical novel, City of Secrets, set in Medieval Gloucester. 11am-1pm, St Michael’s Tower, Gloucester Civic Trust.

FREE. For more information: christinejordan.co.uk or @CJGloucester.

20 SEPTEMBER NEEDLE-FELTED BIRD WORKSHOP Learn how to make beautiful bird decorations in this four-hour needle-felting

workshop All materials and equipment will be provided. 10am-2.30pm. £30 with tea/coffee and biscuits. WWT Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT. 01453 891900.

STRICTLY STAR For one night only, 16 well-known local personalities will take to the stage, for the first time, to perform in a Strictly-style dance spectacular! 7.45pm. £18-£25.

Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ. 01242 572572. everymantheatre.co.uk.

21 SEPTEMBER THE CHELTENHAM WEDDING SHOW 12noon-4pm at the Mercure Queens Hotel, The Promenade, GL50 1NN. Free Entry.

Free Magazine. Free Drink on Arrival.

Come and meet some of the best local Wedding Suppliers in a stunning & relaxed environment.

TheCheltenhamWeddingShow.co.uk.

23-27 SEPTEMBER 1984 A radical new staging of George Orwell’s era defining novel. Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ. 01242 572572. everymantheatre.co.uk.

25 SEPTEMBER MINDFULNESS AND MODERN BUDDHISM Enjoy an insightful evening of clear and practical advice for inner peace in our

busy modern world. Suitable for everyone with a deep interest in Buddhism and meditation. For full details call 01242 269807 or visit www.meditationincheltenham.org.uk. £5 (£3 conc). Hosted by Akanishta Kadampa Buddhist Centre, Cheltenham.

26 SEPTEMBER A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE (12A)

The fastest-selling production in the Young Vic’s history, Tennessee Williams’ timeless masterpiece will be broadcast from their London home, by National Theatre Live, in a delayed live screening at the Bacon Theatre. With Gillian Anderson (The X-Files, The Fall), Ben Foster (Lone Survivor, Kill Your Darlings) and Vanessa Kirby (BBC’s Great Expectations, Three Sisters at the Young Vic). £16 (£14). 01242 258002. The Bacon Theatre, Dean Close School, Shelburne Road, Cheltenham, GL51 6HE. bacontheatre.co.uk.

26 SEPTEMBER NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY ON TOUR Our reserve warden and wildlife photographer James Lees will take groups of keen photographers out onto our 800 acres of wild nature reserve on a Land Rover. 7.30am-2pm. £60 with tea/coffee and lunch from the restaurant menu. WWT Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT. 01453 891900.

LADIES NIGHT AT BOWDEN HALL

Hilarious, handsome guys will entertain you all night, on and off stage, in and out of costumes. £35 per lady – includes a 3

course meal with coffee, the ladies night show and disco till 1am. 08448 159077.

27-28 SEPTEMBER COADYCREW: B2P 2014 Amateur production hosted by the Bacon Theatre. 7pm (Saturday) and 5pm (Sunday). £11. Please call the CoadyCrew's own box office for tickets and information: 01242 577706. mailto:coadydancestudios@hotmail.com.

The Bacon Theatre, Dean Close School, Shelburne Road, Cheltenham, GL51 6HE. 30 SEPTEMBER – 4 OCTOBER CALAMITY JANE Jodie Prenger stars in a new production of the classic musical. The Oscar nomnated score includes ‘The Black Hills of Dakota’, ‘The Deadwood Stage’, ‘Just Blew in from the Windy City’ and the award winning song ‘Secret Love’. £28-£38. 7.45pm and 2pm matinees (Wednesday 1st, Thursday 2nd and Saturday 4th). Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ. 01242 572572. everymantheatre.co.uk.

4 OCTOBER VINTAGE & CRAFT FAIR Over 30 quality traders selling all things vintage, handmade, antique and collectable. Live entertainment from a range of performers throughout the day in the Cloister Gardens, plus a BBQ, vintage tearoom, vintage beauty salon, classic cars

CHELTENHAM RACECOURSE

and lots more. 11am-5pm. Entry £1 adults, children free. Blackfriars Priory, Ladybellgate Street, Gloucester GL1 2HN. 5 OCTOBER THE GLOUCESTERSHIRE WEDDING SHOW 11am-3:30pm at the Cheltenham Chase Hotel, Shurdington Rd, Brockworth, Gloucestershire GL3 4PB. Free Entry. Free Magazine. Free Car Parking. Come along to meet a wide variety of fabulous local wedding suppliers in a relaxed environment.

TheGloucestershireWeddingShow.co.uk.

THE MAN JESUS Simon Callow performs this fresh and moving account of biblical stories including the rising of Lazarus, the wedding at Cana, and the journey of Jerusalem. £19.50 (£17.50). 7.30pm. Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ. 01242 572572. everymantheatre.co.uk.

7-11 OCTOBER SHE STOOPS TO CONQUER Northern Broadsides return to The Everyman with this delightful romantic romp filled with ludicrous misunderstanding, mischief and mayhem. £12-£28. 7.45pm and 2pm matinees (Thursday 9th and Saturday 11th).

Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ. 01242 572572. everymantheatre.co.uk.

Market moves on to its permanent new site including CRAFTS, PRODUCE,

ANTIQUE & COLLECTABLES

NOW OPEN EVERY SUNDAY ON OUR NEW SITE FROM 31 AUG GATES OPEN 6am until 1pm On the Racecourse car park with 10 acres of hard standing. Access via Southam Road.

Cheltenham Racecourse Southam Road, Prestbury GL52 3NQ

From Sunday 31st August, Cheltenham Market and Car Boot will be moving to its new home after nearly 40 years on its present site. Bill Kimberley took over the running of the site 10 years ago and has helped make it the bustling Sunday market that it is today.

Access to the new facilities will be from the Southam Lane entrance to the racecourse – buyers and sellers will not be able to gain access to the market by the racecourse front entrance.

There will be the usual vast array of stalls including antiques, collectables, crafts, produce, furniture, hobbies and car booters. So don’t miss out – grab a bargain today!

Enquiries: 07966 145286 or www.racecoursebootsale.com Page 20

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The Local Answer

The last party of summer!

Saturday 13 September from 10am

Gloucestershire’s largest FREE one day event held through the streets of Newent

The world famous onion eating competition!

Sponsored by

LIVE MUSIC – The Roving Crows, Swede Dreamz ABBA tribute, Sons of Navarone PLUS more!

Food festival Over 100 stalls Rides Street entertainment Dog show Cookery demonstrations Onion Show

www.newentonionfayre.net

follow us on @Newents_OnionEd

13-18 OCTOBER LOTTY’S WAR A mesmerising story of passion, courage and sacrifice, based on unpublished diaries found in Guernsey. Starring Olivia Hallinan (Larkrise To Candleford, Sugar Rush) and Adam Gillen (Benidorm, Fresh Meat). £13£28. 7.45pm and 2pm matinees (Thursday 16th and Saturday 18th). Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ. 01242 572572. everymantheatre.co.uk.

18 OCTOBER OPEN MORNING AT KING’S GLOUCESTER

For girls and boys, aged 3-11 years, the King’s Junior School offers a unique programme for identifying and developing individual talents. Come and see how we offer each child every opportunity to realise their full academic, sporting or artistic potential. 10am-12noon. The King’s School, Pitt Street, Gloucester GL1 2BG. 01452 337337. thekingsschool.co.uk.

LAUGHING WITH TOM: WHEN LIFE HANDS YOU LEMONS

Shelburne Road, Cheltenham, GL51 6HE. bacontheatre.co.uk.

DAME FELICITY LOTT International Soprano Gala Charity Concert with Choir of Christ Church Cheltenham.

Vivaldi Gloria, Schubert Mass in G, French & English Songs. 7.30pm. Christ Church, Malvern Road, Cheltenham. Tickets £20 or £15 from Showcase 01242 224144, Tourist Information 01242 237431.

18 OCTOBER TO 1 NOVEMBER FRIGHTMARE The legendary Haunted Hayride is back with an all new story, the award-winning PANIC returns for it’s final year as PANIC! Final CUT. Fright House makes a return after we uncovered more rooms in Fright House: Second Storey, and we have a brand new live horror experience called Séance that’s sure to set your spine tingling. For more information visit frightmare.co.uk. Over Farm Market, Over, Gloucester, GL2 8DB. 19 OCTOBER THE GLOUCESTERSHIRE WEDDING SHOW 11am-3:30pm at Stonehouse Court Hotel, Bristol Road, Stonehouse GL10 3RA. Free Entry. Free Magazine. Free Car Parking.

Come and meet some of the best local Wedding Suppliers in a relaxed environment & beautiful surroundings.

TheWestGloucestershireWeddingShow.co.uk.

Comedian, magician and christian communicator Tom Elliott brings an entertaining evening of laughter, tricks, silly props and plenty of audience participation. In this non-threatening and light hearted event, Tom passionately delivers a relevant and timely message that inspires people to live life to the full.

Suitable for ages 12+. £8. 01242 258002.

The Bacon Theatre, Dean Close School,

Shipton Golf Course

RIVER AVON BOAT TRIPS

Check out www.handsamboatcompany.co.uk

Handsam Too On our 55-seater passenger boat available 7 days a week from the end of March to mid-October, from 11am till 5pm (weather permitting).

PLEASE TELEPHONE FOR CRUISE TIMES Also available for PRIVATE EVENING HIRE!

Self Drive Motorboat Hire

Our motorboats are available to hire by the hour, half day and full day.

PLEASE TELEPHONE FOR BOOKINGS

THE HANDSAM BOAT COMPANY

07860 895416

Explore the River Avon from Abbey Park, Evesham Page 22

“A 9 hole pay & play course in the Heart of the Cotswolds” No need to book – Open every day from 7am until dusk

Family run course offering affordable golf for all Coffee shop and terrace ● Small stock of ‘everyday’ golfing equipment and clothing ● PGA Fellow Professional PGA Approved Establishment available for lessons and advice ● ●

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Available for corporate days, birthdays and special occasions

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Nr Frogmill, Shipton, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL54 4HT

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The Local Answer

Come and see, feed and stroke our beautiful fallow deer, our wonderful collections of peacocks, waterfowl, pheasants and the amusing pygmy goats ... all very tame and will feed from your hand!

Bat Night Special THURSDAY 30TH & FRIDAY 31ST OCTOBER DISCOUNT FOR EARLY BOOKINGS

Open 7 days a week 10am-5pm • 01452 812727 • www.thebirdpark.co.uk The Bird and Deer Park, Prinknash, Cranham, Gloucester GL4 8EX

NEW VISITOR CENTRE OPENS 6th OCTOBER!

The Local Answer

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 23

Asian, Oriental & Islamic Art Auction makes over £500,000 The most recent Asian, Oriental & Islamic Art auction, which took place at Mallams Auctioneers in Cheltenham in April 2014, made a collective sale total of over £500,000 (before commission). The auction saw a consistently high level of interest throughout the 600 lots and bidders from across the world competed for lots by phone, online bidding, commission bids and in the room.

Some interesting lots sold through this auction, including a painted scroll by Chen Shaomei (1909-1954) which made £23,000, a lot of four Celadon Jade pendants which made £14,000, and an unusual small carved bamboo Archers Ring which made £7,000.

Interest continues to grow Once again it was the lots of Chinese porcelain that seemed to create the most interest from bidders. A blue and white porcelain Rouleau vase (1667-1722) made £16,500 and a Chinese Famille Vert Rouleau vase made £14,000.

The past two auctions of this type held by Mallams

Page 24

Auctioneers (in October 2013 and April 2014) each made a collective total of over £500,000 – a sign that the interest in this market is continuing to grow. Entries are invited for the next Asian, Oriental & Islamic Art auction, which will take place on Wednesday 22nd October 2014.

To arrange a free verbal valuation please contact Robin Fisher on 01242 235712 or robin.fisher@mallams.co.uk.

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

Think you can act?

Well here’s your opportunity!

Frightmare Halloween Festival 2014 Over Farm, Gloucester ~ 18th October to 1st November Frightmare, the biggest Halloween Festival in the South West, is already a terrifying treat for fans of all things spooky, but this year it's set to become even bigger and better with new attractions and a brand new team involved!

Matt Keene, one of the brains behind the festival at Over Farm, said: “Frightmare has grown so much over the past few years it really has become a monster! We’ve always had dedicated actors who come and work with us, but this year we’ve enlisted the help of one of the best Scare Companies in the UK, Scream Park Entertainments. They’ve provided our training previously, but this year they’ll be auditioning, directing, working with and managing our acting teams. This is a huge opportunity for anyone who wants to get into acting and they’re recruiting right now.”

Scream Park Entertainments have a huge reputation in the Scare Industry and have worked on a number of award winning events. They are seeking actors in the Gloucestershire area to work at Frightmare this October and will offer professional acting contracts to successful applicants.

“It doesn’t matter if you’ve little or no experience, as we like to offer opportunities to all and will provide full training,” says Matt, “if you're over 16 and would like to audition then please apply to Scream Park Entertainments at www.screampark.co.uk/jobs before 15th September 2014. We promise it’ll be a scream!”

How To ... with Tom Orpin

... budget for your first year at university Clearing has closed, all allocated University spaces have been filled and for the lucky ones amongst you preparing to take a big leap into a different life, the time has come to start thinking about budgeting.

Now, that might sound incessantly dull but the simple truth is, running a succinct and maintained budget will improve every other aspect of your student life. Not only that, it could help to prepare you for the big bad world on the other side.

Managing a budget is crucial in all walks of life no matter your age, background or to what extent your budget stretches.

Therefore, starting off on the budget road in your first year of Uni is one of the most important things you can do – and setting one up is remarkably simple.

All you need to create a well-balanced and easily digestible money timetable is a spreadsheet on Microsoft Excel. Make a plan as to how much you would, ideally, like to spend within a week. Be sure to exclude things such as rent and bills, so you have a clear idea as to how much you’ve got to play with in the first place. Then, just designate certain amounts for certain things – have headings such as “food bills”, “phone contract” and “gym membership” and take it from there.

Try to keep receipts until you’ve tallied them onto your spreadsheet, so that you know exactly how much you’ve spent on a weekly basis. A couple of months into Uni, you can then look and if, for example, you’ve spent more than you originally estimated on food, you can cut your cloth accordingly by maybe shopping in the cheaper aisles of supermarkets for a few weeks.

Now, it’s no great secret that the first year of Uni can involve a large deal of alcoholic delight, so be sure to adapt your budget depending on your situation. Even if you’re not a big drinker, you’ll still want to enjoy yourself and take part in activities, which can become expensive.

Have an emergency fund In order to do this, make sure you have an emergency fund. For example, during Fresher’s week you might want to designate more money to spend on alcohol and socialising than you normally would, so use your emergency fund on that. Then, when it comes round to May and you’re inevitably locked in your room for hours on end staring at blank Word Documents, you could use the topped-up emergency fund on things like emergency takeaways – The Dominos Delivery Man tends to become a more regular sight around town when the exam heat is turned up.

An emergency fund will always protect you from those unexpected expenses, so keep it separate from the rest of your funds. But most importantly enjoy the marvellous riches of being a student, and remember – Microsoft Excel is your friend! twitter.com/tomorpin

The Local Answer

To advertise call 01242 510500

instagram.com/tomorpinballoon

Page 25

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Specialists in Supporting People with Dementia Queensbridge House provides high quality permanent residential dementia care. Respite and day care is also available through our fully qualified, experienced and professional care team.

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The Local Answer

Pet Care

DRAGON

with Oliver Wilkinson of Charlton Kings Vet Centre

5 common pet myths

1 You should let a dog have a season before you have it speyed/neutered.

You used to hear people recommending letting every dog have a litter before you contemplated neutering but, thankfully, that advice has largely disappeared. However, I still regularly hear people telling me they have been told to let their dog have its first season. The theory goes that it allows some sort of better physical development of the dog, yet studies have failed to show any such benefit.

There are, however, two significant advantages to speying at or around six months. Firstly, the operation is generally much more straight forward for the pet who is normally smaller and has less abdominal fat to negotiate. Secondly, and most importantly, we know statistically that neutering before the first season almost entirely eliminates any risk of breast cancer later in life. The more seasons a dog has, the greater the risk. Add in the benefits of also eliminating ovarian and uterine cancer, lower reproductive tract cancer, uterine infections and unwanted pregnancies and puppies – it’s a no-brainer to get your dog speyed.

2 Cats should enjoy a saucer of milk.

Most cats and dogs are actually lactose intolerant and a saucer of milk is a good way to give many of them diarrhoea!

Commercially available cat milk is lactose free, although if you are feeding them a good quality diet they don’t really need the extra milk.

3 A wet nose is a sign of good health.

The nose and paws are the only areas on a dog or cat’s body that have sweat glands, which is the main reason they pant to lose heat. However, plenty of unwell dogs have wet noses and plenty of very healthy dogs can have a very dry nose. It has a poor correlation to general health despite the theory.

4 A pet licking its wound is cleaning it and doing it some good.

A small amount of licking might superficially clean a minor wound but dogs’ and cats’ mouths are full of bacteria and cats’ tongues are incredibly rough (almost like sandpaper). If they excessively lick a wound or surgical site they will do it a lot more harm than good. They will chew out stitches quickly and spread bacteria to deeper layers of a wound. It is much better to clean a wound with disinfectant or saline than let a pet lick at an open wound. It’s also not true that a dog’s mouth is ‘cleaner’ than a human’s mouth, so don’t let them lick you! I’ve seen what my dog eats and licks – I wouldn’t want that smeared over my face!

5 It takes longer to train to be a vet than a doctor.

I always like hearing this one! Actually, most vet courses are five years compared to medicine, which is six. There are a few exceptions – Cambridge has a six-year vet degree and London now offers a post-graduate course, which is seven years – but for the most part it is quicker to train to be a vet. You also hear people saying how hard it must be to diagnose a pet illness, as they can’t tell you what is wrong with them – true, but they can‘t lie either!

Page 30

Established in 1904, Dragon Vet Centre in Cheltenham is a centre of excellence for pets – large and small – and offers a full range of services from routine vaccinations, worming and flea prevention to complex internal medicine investigations, orthopaedic and key hole surgery for dogs and cats. As one of the largest veterinary practices in Cheltenham, Dragon can draw on the expertise of a number of vets with a great deal of experience in all fields of veterinary medicine and surgery. Our Cheltenham Vet clinic is staffed 24/7 so in the event of an emergency, registered clients simply need to call and attend our surgery based at the Cheltenham racecourse where there is unlimited free parking.

THIS MONTH’S SPECIAL OFFER

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DRAGON VET CENTRE Prestbury Park, New Barn Lane, Cheltenham GL50 4SH

01242 580 324 ~ info@dragonvet.co.uk Opening hours: 8.15am-7pm Mon-Fri & 8.15am-1pm Sat 24 hour On Site Emergency Service ~ 01242 522 022

www.dragonvet.co.uk

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The Local Answer

CALLING ALL

Cocktail Time with Lois Kingscott

SALES EXECUTIVES Are you looking for a new challenge?

Due to our success and ongoing expansion, we have exciting opportunities for great people to join our friendly and growing sales team.

The Local Answer has gone from strength to strength in recent years and now delivers 100,000 magazines direct to homes every month. This latest expansion will increase the number of Gloucestershire residencies receiving the publication to 200,000.

Successful applicants will demonstrate: • excellent communication and interpersonal skills • self-motivation in a pressurised environment • an ability to work to deadlines and targets • the necessary qualities to initiate and develop long-term client relationships • a willingness to work with others to achieve collective goals • previous sales experience, but not necessarily with a publishing company We offer a basic salary plus an open-ended bonus and commission structure. Our office is situated in a rural location, so you will need to be able to drive and have your own vehicle.

If you are confident this job is for you, give me a call before Friday 12th September 2014 for an initial chat between 12 noon and 5pm (Monday to Friday).

Leonie Euwin – Sales Manager – 01242 541077

The Local

ANSWER

The Local Answer

Cosmopolitan The Cosmopolitan – or Cosmo – is said to have been created independently by many different bartenders since the 1970s.

The general concensus is that John Caine – owner of several bars in San Fransisco – brought the popular pink drink to the west from Ohio in around 1987.

Although the cocktail is widely perceived as a contemporary creation, there is a strikingly similar recipe for a Cosmo, which appears in the book ‘Pioneers of Mixing at Elite Bars 1903-1933’.

The ‘Cosmopolitan Daisy’ substitutes cranberry juice and vodka for raspberry syrup and gin, as these are the ingredients that would have been readily available at the time.

There are also many claims that the Cosmo was adapted from the Kamikaze cocktail, though is often presented very differently.

The Cosmopolitan was popularised significantly among young women in the 1990s because of its frequent appearances on the TV program ‘Sex and the City’, where Sarah Jessica Parker’s character, Carrie Bradshaw, often ordered the drink when out with her girlfriends.

Ingredients: 50ml vodka; 25ml triple sec; 50ml cranberry juice; 25ml fresh lime juice; orange peel and/or mint to serve; ice.

Method: 1 Add ice, vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice and lime juice to a cocktail shaker and shake for about 30 seconds.

2 Strain into a martini glass and garnish with a sprig of mint and/or a twist of orange peel.

PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY Why not have a Mocktail?

For a non–alcoholic alternative, use 50ml cranberry juice, 25ml lime juice, 25ml orange juice and 25ml simple syrup (sugar and water, boiled then cooled).

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 31

Short Walks in the Cotswolds Winchcombe & Sudeley Castle 5 miles (8km) ~ 21⁄2 hours Moderate terrain – two climbs, some mud possible

A From Back Lane Car Park walk back to the B4632. Turn left and walk 650yds (600m) to Rushley Lane on the right.

1 The town grew up around the Benedictine Abbey, which was founded in AD798 and became one of the largest landowners in the Cotswolds. The Abbey was dissolved in 1539 and there is now no trace of it above ground. St Peter’s Church has a splendid weathercock and an interesting collection of 40 gargoyles known as the ‘Winchcombe Worthies’.

B Turn right into Rushley Lane and, at the bend, continue ahead up Stancombe Lane to a waymarked gate on the left.

C Follow the waymarks uphill, passing through two more gates.

Continue ahead up a steep waymarked path through woodland.

Cross the open land at the top to a gate.

D Go through the gate and walk up the left side of the field. At an old wall bear slightly right, cross the stile and continue to the top. Bear left to reach a stone wall. Follow the wall to a stile. Cross the stile and continue down to the next stile.

E Cross the stile and continue down to a gate on the right. Go through and continue to the market post, then across the next field to the road.

F Turn right for a mile (400m), then turn right along a dirt track to the right of a stone wall. Continue by the wall to a stile in the corner of the field.

2 Salt Way is an ancient route which originated at Droitwich, where the salt was especially pure, and passed through the Cotswolds to London via Lechlade and the Thames.

G Cross the stile and continue to the five-bar gate at the bottom.

H Follow the track, passing St. Kenelm’s Well, to the buildings. Leave the track to bear slightly right across Page 32

Contains Ordnance Survey data © Crown copyright and database right 2010

the field to a stile. Head downhill towards the left-hand gate and on to the road.

3 The spring at St Kenelm’s Well is said to mark the final halt of the body of Kenelm before it reached Winchcombe. He became King of Mercia as a young boy in AD819 but is believed to have been murdered at the instigation of his jealous sister. The monks at Winchcombe recovered his body and the legend tells that springs gushed out wherever they laid him. The well became a shrine for pilgrims.

I Turn left uphill to a waymarked path on the right J Follow the path in front of the

Sudeley Castle

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wood. Cross the two stiles at the end and head half-left to the road.

K Turn right and follow the road through the farm. Turn left along a path opposite the next house down to a gate, then turn right. Turn left at the field boundary to the next gate.

L Go through the gate and then over the stile. Head diagonally across the field to the left corner of the castle buildings.

4 Sudeley Castle dates mainly from the 15th century, although it was deliberately ruined by Parliamentary forces after the Civil War and even became an inn before restoration between 1837 and 1936. The castle is famous for being home to Katherine Parr, the sixth wife of Henry VIII. She married Sudeley’s owner, Lord Admiral Seymour, after the death of the King in 1547 and lived at the castle until her death in 1548. Surrounding the castle are beautiful gardens, which were restored and redesigned by Emma Dent in the 19th century and Lady Ashcombe in the 20th century.

M Continue by the fence to a gate on the right. WIth the play area on the left, walk ahead to a gate by the road.

N Cross the road to the gate ahead.

Continue across the field to a gate at the far end and on to the road. Turn left into the town.

The Local Answer

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Page 33

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Worktop Refits ■ Door Replacements ■ Kitchen Upgrades ■ Full Kitchens ■ Electrical ■ Plumbing ■ Gas ■ Tiling ■ Stud Walls/Plastering

A professional and friendly service to complete your dream kitchen

Hatherley Worktops has been in the kitchen and work surface industry for 21 years and specialises in the supply, fabricaton and installation of laminate, wood, composite, quartz stone, granite and corian surfaces.

Having started as an apprentice at 17 years of age, proprietor Lee Willmore later specialised in worktop fabrication and installation, and is extremely proud of how the business has grown and developed to what it is today.

He says: “We have an excellent in-house team to ensure the smooth installation of your kitchen and worktops. We offer a complete service to the customer, taking care of kitchen design, gas works, electrical works, tiling, flooring, fabrication and installation.

“Having said that, we also have a dedicated team to concentrate on worktop replacements and kitchen upgrades to give your kitchen a new lease of life.”

The company has gradually expanded and is now pleased to offer its customers a ‘one stop shop’, taking care of your kitchen from start to finish.

All eight members of the team (pictured above) are passionate, friendly and very willing to help, offering suggestions and assistance to ensure that you get exactly what you want. They will help plan your kitchen, making sure everything is readily accessible and in the best possible location to serve your needs.

Lee continued: “We are a local, family-run business and we would like to take this opportunity to thank our customers for their continued support over the years.”

Better idea of how your kitchen will look All the granite and quartz is fabricated by the team at Hatherley Worktops, and they have a wide range of large slabs in stock so customers can better visualise how a large section of the stone would look in their home, as opposed to trying to imagine how their kitchen would appear from a small sample.

By fabricating their own surfaces, Hatherley Worktops significantly reduce the time taken from template to installation to around 7 days, improving the service for customers.

Already bought your kitchen?

Then why not get the surfaces from Hatherley Worktops? They have a wide range in many different styles and colours, so send them your kitchen plan and get a direct quote for worktops.

New kitchen showroom Hatherley Worktops are pleased to announce the opening of their new kitchen showroom where customers can view full kitchen ranges along with a wide selection of worktop surfaces, sinks and taps.

Trade accounts available The company also provides a ‘trade account’ service for builders, kitchen fitters, carpenters, architects, etc.

The Hatherley Worktops team are extremely professional and friendly – call Lee for a free, no obligation quote!

NEW

SHOWROOM NOW OPEN IN CHELTENHAM

andy@cotswold-kitchens.com

OPENING TIMES MON TO FRI 9.30-5 SAT 9.30-3 Bank Holidays

10-4

shaun@cotswold-bathrooms.com

Fabulous Kitchen and Bathroom Designs – Supplied and Fitted by us We offer a full design service including a 3D DESIGN of your kitchen/batrhoom.

www.cotswoldkitchensandbathrooms.com

Sunnybank Stables, London Road, Charlton Kings, Gloucestershire GL54 4HG

01242 210090

enquiries@cotswoldkitchensandbathrooms.co.uk

The way windows were meant to be...

The new R9 Luxury Window System Replicates 19th Century window designs with modern features and benefits.

Can be considered for use in conservation areas due to its authentic approach. period design, modern technology in authentic heritage colours.

Beautiful French & Residential doors also available.

Affordable top end luxury window system.

01452 526 028

www.candlwindows.co.uk 48 Stroud Road, Gloucester, GL1 5AJ

Page 38

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

In the Garden with Julia Smith

• Tree work • Garden Design • Garden Maintenance • Turfing • Lawn Cutting • Hedge Trimming • Pond Work • Patios • Decking • Pergolas • Fencing • Sheds • Driveways Diploma in Horticulture ~ Established 1993

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01242 713800 / 07778 340485

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

awnings store

Live in style – inside and out...

Marvellous meadows To start with, I’m sure lots of you have noticed areas of ‘Urban Meadows’ that Cheltenham Borough Council have been planting. I chatted with Janice Peacey, Community Ranger for CBC, who told me how popular these plantings have been – in excess of 80 emails and nearly 40 phone calls logged in favour of the meadows!

Some of the mixes used were the ‘Old Comrade Mix’ with poppies to commemorate the start of the Great War, and a more traditional cornfield mix used in Pitville Park, which is even now just coming into flower. Janice invited readers to visit the Cheltenham Parks’ facebook page and upload pictures of themselves or their pets enjoying the meadows.

Now, this is something we could all copy at home. Unlike wildflower meadows, which are quite difficult to establish as they need very poor soil, or the grasses take over, any sunny patch of earth could do. There are many different companies doing the seeds – for example, Pictorial Meadows do a nice annual seed mix, which is easy to sow.

Wait for the explosion of colour

Telephone 01242 526 189 Unit K Churchill Industrial Estate, Churchill Road, Leckhampton, Cheltenham GL53 7EG Store open: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm & Saturday 10am-4pm

FREE EASY PARKING

www.awningscheltenham.co.uk The Local Answer

Clear weeds off in the autumn or early spring and prepare soil to a depth of about 20cm, leaving a fine tilth on the surface.

Scatter your seeds at the rate suggested on the packet in spring, water in dry spells and wait for the explosion of colour.

Now the tips for September. If the weather allows, you can get on with lifting and dividing any perennials that have got too congested, and stopped flowering as well as they have been – this can be done in spring but by then things can get very busy so it is one less job to do.

Lift the large clumps and, with a pair of garden forks back to back, prise them apart into smaller pieces. Discard the woody, congested centre of clumps, replanting pieces which look healthy and have a good root system, as well as new shoots, into compost enriched soil with some bone meal added. These will give a good show the following summer. This can be done up till Christmas depending on the weather. Leave grasses, silvery foliage plants and late-flowering plants until spring to sort out.

Cut asparagus ferns to the ground and get rid of them, as they may be harbouring the eggs of the asparagus beetle, Crioceris asparagi. Apply a balanced feed such as blood, fish and bone meal over the soil surface to help ensure a good crop next year.

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 39

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

THREE PIECE JOINERY

Bespoke Joinery Staircases Windows Timber Mouldings Conservatories Doors & Gates Furniture Listed Buildings/Renovation

Joinery & Carpentry Solutions for Trade and Domestic Clients

Professional ● Attention to detail ● A courteous service

Call the office on 01242 821144 Chris England on 07771 803458 Simon Teague on 07787 102807 or email info@threepiecejoinery.com

See our photo gallery at www.threepiecejoinery.com

Stoves & Fireplaces Cheltenham

Come and visit us for great ideas

Don’t look until you’ve finished!

Solutions on ‘Index of Advertisers’ page.

a bout wh e re t o p ro m ot e y ou r bu si n e ss ?

Puzzled

The Local To advertise telephone:

ANSWER

Page 40

01242 510500

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

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

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Bella’s Interiors Blinds & Shutters Where quality and customer satisfaction count Family run business – over 30 years experience

CON S ERVATO RY BL IN D S PE CIAL IS TS Q u a l i ty B l i n d s & S h u t t e r s m e a s u r e d a n d f i t te d b y e x p e r t s .

R oll er, Ve rtical , P le ated , Ven etia n, Wo odsl at, P i n o l e u m, R o m a n , C u r t a i n s , C a n o p i e s , Aw n i n g s & Sh u t t e r s .

Unit 1, Lansdown Industrial Estate, Cheltenham, Glos GL51 8PL

For a free, no obligation quote please call

01242 238030 info@bellasinteriors.co.uk

www.bellasinteriors.co.uk

The Local Answer

Renewable Technologies – dispelling the myths Economic, energy efficient and environmentally friendly.

Renewable Technologies don’t have to be eyesores or excessively disruptive and can usually benefit any property, quickly saving the homeowner a great deal of money. This is the message that Pete Toth (pictured below) and his colleagues are working hard to convey, in and around the county.

Pete T Ltd are independent plumbers, heating and gas engineers based in Gloucestershire with a passionate belief in, and extensive knowledge of, Renewable Technologies.

Pete says, “in conversation with customers over the years, we have regularly come across the same myths, namely that Renewable Technologies are expensive and unsightly and require a huge amount of space or land.

“People also often think that they only benefit newbuilds, which is simply untrue as so many technologies can now be added to existing systems. In offering free advice and consultations, over the phone or at the property, we hope to dispel these misconceptions and gain the opportunity to make homes as energy efficient, comfortable and economical as possible, for less money than you might think.”

Some technologies recommended by Pete T Ltd are: ● Solar Panels harness energy from the sun to heat the hot water in your house. Government grants are currently available to pay much of the initial investment on some installations. ● Heat Pumps take warmth from the air or ground, regardless of outdoor temperature, and turn it into energy to heat your water and your house. ● Rainwater Harvesting simply requires a tank to be installed out of sight in your garden. It provides enough water to flush your toilets, wash clothes and cars and even water your garden – thereby saving a significant amount from your annual water bill.

If you are having building work done, thinking of changing your heating system or simply want to save money on utility bills, then maybe Pete and his team could open your eyes to valuable options that you hadn’t previously considered.

For more information, call Pete or Laura on 01242 323923, email info@petet.co.uk or visit www.petet.co.uk.

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 41

R R S

R Richards & Son Ltd FAMILY BUSINESS

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Page 42

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Cloudy2Clear Windows – Service With A Smile!

It’s been a crazy few months for Cloudy2Clear Windows. The company which specialises in repairing windows which are steamed up, broken or damaged by replacing the panes – not the frames – has grown rapidly as homeowners take advantage of their services.

Managing Director Paul Spiller feels that it’s all about service: “Our product is simple. If your double glazing is misted up we can replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window, in any type of frame, and with a new 5 year guarantee. But it’s not just

The Local Answer

about saving people money, although that obviously helps.

“Many tradespeople have struggled since last year and I honestly feel that during the good times a minority perhaps didn’t focus on customer care as much as they should have done. We make sure we turn up when we say we will, do the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle. I often get comments back from customers on how they really didn’t expect that sort of service which, in a way, is very sad for the service industry as a whole.”

Cloudy2Clear service Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds, and Paul is finding that his approach is a major factor in his success.

“The truth is that it’s not just the personal satisfaction that I get from doing a good job but also it makes good business sense. I get a huge amount

To advertise call 01242 510500

of business from friends and family of people I’ve done work for, which just goes to show how much a little bit of effort is appreciated.”

So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Paul a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be happy to help!

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1 Restricts movement (4,4) 2 Perches 3 Globule 4 Wise 5 Bomber attack (3,4) 6. Rim 10 Less moist 11 Short break 13 Plague 14 West Indies island 16 Menservants 18 Male heirs 19 Tripped over 20 Dusting powder

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ANSWER

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Page 44

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interior needs

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interior needs are your local shutter and conservatory shading experts

◆ Curtains & Fabrics ◆ Blinds/Perfect fit blinds ◆ Lighting

◆ Tracks & Poles ◆ Wallpaper ◆ Interior shutters

◆ Conservatory

roof blinds ◆ Old curtain refurbishment ◆ Bay window treatments

Monday-Saturday: 10am-5pm Sunday: CLOSED

or call us on the number above to book an appointment and we will visit you at home at a time to suit you.

www.interiorneeds.co.uk

Eastern Avenue, Gloucester GL4 3BU (Next to The Weavers Shop opposite PC World)

Albany Windows is a local family business.

First and foremost we are installers, which is important because installation is the difficult bit and we are small enough to maintain close control over every job.

But we are big enough to obtain supplies directly from large, high quality manufacturers of PVCu and aluminium windows, doors and conservatories.

WINDOW AND DOOR SYSTEMS

Whatever your requirements, we have glazing options for every need and budget, from a single window to a large conservatory.

We supply some of Gloucestershire’s leading builders of quality homes with their glazing, but we also carry out double glazing and conservatory repairs and replace misted sealed units.

Registration No: 12011

Registered through: FENSA

We have all the accreditations you could wish for and of course offer a ten year insurance backed guarantee. And, with no long sales pitch or pressure to buy, we make the entire process hassle free from start to finish.

You can’t buy better! So why pay more?

01242 511384

Unit 40, Space Business Centre, Tewkesbury Road, Cheltenham, GL51 9FL

Professional

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01242 898385/07845 540 500 sally@thebooksangel.com

HOME CARE PROPERTY MAINTENANCE A local family run business that just love the jobs you simply can’t manage

FOR ALL YOUR PROPERTY NEEDS Our services include: UPVC Fascias, Soffits, Guttering & Gutter Cleaning, Flat Rubber Roofing Felt & Battening, Tiles, Slate Repairs, Re-pointing, Chimney Repairs, Lead Work, Dry Verges and External Painting For a FREE QUOTATION please call:

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01242 522647/529397 PRICES stevensrecycling584@gmail.com

Office interiors, furniture & multifunction printers We offer a wide range of office furniture and equipment from the industry’s leading manufacturers to suit any business environment.

• office interiors & furniture • space planning and design • move management solutions • structured cabling • digital printers & photocopiers

Please call us on 01242 263 444 Abbey Group, Units 23/24, Neptune Business Centre, Tewkesbury Road, Cheltenham, GL51 9FB www.abbeybusinessequipment.com The Abbey Business Stadium, sponsored by Cheltenhams leading business solutions provider The Local Answer

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 47

‘Business opportunity that keeps on giving’ Since 1997, Telecom Plus, which operates the Utility Warehouse Discount Club, has grown from just an idea into a company with a £600 million+ turnover – a track record second to none! This phenomenal growth has been achieved by word of mouth “referral marketing”, and the company has received numerous accolades and rewards for outstanding services and value for money. Jason and Shelley Hyde were customers of Utility Warehouse (UW) for four years before becoming Distributors. Jason explains why they joined forces with their supplier: “ We were so impressed with the service, we began to recommend UW to family and friends. This was when our personal UW contact asked if we would like to look at the business model. Because it was extremely flexible and part time – you can choose the number of hours and when you want to work – we thought we’d give it a go. I was doing 6070 hour weeks in the building trade, so time was limited. Now we have built up a very nice residual income, paid into our account every month – whether we work or not.

Exciting incentives As well as receiving an income, generating discounts on your utility bills or raising funds for a good cause, there’s an exciting range of incentives which include owning your own BMW Mini; driving one of the company’s Porsche Boxsters; qualifying for luxury, all expenses paid holidays; earning vouchers to spend in M&S or John Lewis, plus significant cash bonuses for achieving targets.

In five years of being Distributors, as well as the income, we’ve got the free UW mini, we get the Porsche in October, and the three allinclusive holidays we’ve been on (Las Vegas, Paris and the Mediterranean Cruise on the Crystal Serenity) have been truly stunning.

This opportunity just frees up your life, giving

Jason receives the keys to his new Mini

you choices, and many friends are following us with this business model. That’s the beauty of this business – as long as you’re over 18, you can do this. We have builders, postmen, single mums, accountants, solicitors, IT consultants, printers, police officers and members of the armed forces – all achieving their goals in our team. You just need to tell people what you do, and how you can help them either save or make money, or both.

I’m now a company mentor and enjoy helping new Distributors to achieve their goals – whether to earn a few hundred pounds extra each month or become financially free.

I find myself regularly asking prospective Distributors ‘how many people do you know who use the phone, switch on a light, turn on the oven or use the internet?’ The UW doesn’t ask people to spend extra money on services they don’t use, they simply offer far better value on services already used! You could tap into a market where people and businesses are already spending many billions of £s every year. Every time your customers use their phone, switch on a light, turn on the heating or surf the net – you could be getting paid.

The UW offers a unique support and training programme, which includes a comprehensive package of manuals and marketing materials – providing everything you need to start building your own successful business. Initial training for new Distributors is provided free of charge at over 45 training

centres throughout the country and the great thing is, you can go as many times as you want – free of charge. There are around nine types of training days, which become available as you grow your business. We also hold career opportunity presentations to explain how the business model works. ” Contact Jason or Shelley (details below) if you would like more information about The Utility Warehouse, or to book your place at the next Career Opportunity Presentation 8pm Tuesday 9th September at The Regency Hotel, Cheltenham.

Jason & Shelley Hyde 01242 575462 / 07812 996653 shelley@utilities4you.net www.utility-saver.com

inspiring projects ... inspiring people ... inspiring you ...

Money Matters with Roger Downes of Andorran

Converting your dreams to reality ...

Spread the word ●

Extension ● Renovation ● New Build ●

“Where do you get new clients from?” It’s a question that often crops up in business and social discussions. My answer is always that existing clients are the best source of new ones and that, consequently, our most effective method of advertising is to ensure we do a good job.

But the question always makes me ask myself whether we are doing enough to spread the word about what we have to offer, and even that we exist in the first place. My answer here is always the same too – we are a small firm with a limited amount to spend on marketing and therefore any expenditure has to be focused.

Brainwashing the public

●

Basement, Barn & Loft Conversions ●

For a free quotation contact Ryan...

Unit 4 Space Business Centre Tewkesbury Road Cheltenham Gloucestershire GL51 9FL 01242 268114 07787 547405 r.farrell@farrdenn.co.uk farrdenn.co.uk

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Those with deeper pockets take a different approach. You only have to open the door to your wardrobe or your kitchen cupboard to see the number of branded products on show. Ask anyone whose slogan is ‘Every little helps’ or ‘Just Do It’, and you will get a high number of correct responses. So, brainwashing the public by constant advertising, particularly on television, does work for those who can afford to throw the money at it.

HMRC could help the smaller firms, but chooses not to.

A major company launching a new product or a nameawareness campaign gets tax relief on its expenditure, taking 20% or more off the cost of the exercise. If I take someone to lunch to encourage the one-on-one approach on which my business development is based, I get no tax relief and cannot recover the VAT. If Messrs Cameron and Osborne are serious about helping small businesses, they might look at this situation.

In the meantime, I’ll keep spreading the word by doing as good a job as I can – and writing articles for The Local Answer of course!

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 49

Index of Advertisers FOOD & DRINK The Edgemoor Inn The Old Rectory WHAT’S ON Cheltenham College Dean Close School Handsam Boat Company Hype Agency Market & Car Boot Newent Onion Fayre Over Farm Prinknash Bird & Deer Park Shipton Golf Course The Brewery The Roses Theatre The Seasons Art Class WWT Slimbridge HEALTH & BEAUTY Kim Brunwin NHS Let’s Talk

9 11 12 5 22 18 20 21 25 23 22 19 23 14 17 11 13

50 Spa Vapes HOLIDAYS & TRAVEL Miles Morgan 8 HOMES & GARDENS Bathrooms Severn Vale Bathrooms 51 Building Services FarrDenn Construction 49 GlosBuild 44 Home Care Property Maintenance 47 Marshalls Driveways 39 R. Richards & Son 42 RS Cladding 33 Weather Tech 33 Carpentry Three Piece Joinery 40 Electrical Services Roxon Electrical 42

Furnishing & Appliances 41 Bella’s Interiors Furniture Factory Outlets 26-27 Interior Needs 45 Just Fabrics 38 MWE Furnishings 33 New Blinds 39 Stoves and Fireplaces 40 The Nine Schools 4 Garden Services 39 Mark Clifford Landscapes Heating & Plumbing 41 Pete T Plumbing Kitchens Cotswold Kitchen & Bathroom 36 Granite Transformations 2 Hatherley Worktops 34-35 Windows & Doors Albany Windows 46 C&L Windows 37

Cloudy 2 Clear PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Auctioneers Mallams Care Services Bay Tree Court Care Centre Queensbridge Thirlestaine Park Care Home Computers & Software Abbey Business Group Education & Training Circus Day Nursery Legal & Finance Books Angel Pets Dragon Vet Centre Skip Hire & Recycling Stevens Recycling Utilities The Utility Warehouse

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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.

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Page 50

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DISTRIBUTORS REQUIRED FOR A FEW HOURS EACH MONTH IN YOUR AREA For details call Cindy on 01242 541075 or email distribution@thelocalanswer.co.uk