The Local
ANSWER YOUR FAVOURITE, MOST USEFUL MAGAZINE
Gloucestershire North 20,000 DELIVERED DECEMBER 2015 www.thelocalanswer.co.uk
EATING OUT EVENTS & ATTRACTIONS HEALTH & BEAUTY HOLIDAYS & TRAVEL PROPERTY HOMES & GARDENS SERVICES PETS SHORT WALKS RECIPES VOUCHERS COMPETITIONS MERRY CHRISTMAS TO EVERYONE FROM THE LOCAL ANSWER TEAM
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Gloucestershire North – 20,000 copies Gloucestershire South – 45,000 copies Gloucester – 42,000 copies Cheltenham – 43,000 copies Cotswolds – 28,000 copies Forest of Dean – 22,000 copies
Oliver Nivison Publication Manager
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Welcome to December ... The big day is nearly here and if you’re starting to panic about getting everything done in time, why not use our Countdown to Christmas Advent calendar to help you check off your list of things to do. If you’re heading out with friends for a festive tipple one evening, check out our Beauty article for some tips on looking fabulous this Christmas season. Our Food & Drink section is bursting with great eateries – remember to book your table as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. Have a look at our What’s On section for great days out for the whole family including Christmas markets, fayres, shows and parties!
Inside this month ... Cocktail Time Food & Drink Delicious Dishes Wild Food Foraging Food For Thought Pet Care Wildlife Matters Mirror Mirror on the Wall Looking Good Feeling Great Parenting & Guardianship Medical Health What’s On Countdown to Christmas Homes & Gardens In the Garden Word Search Interior Design Sudoku Quick Crossword Money Matters Save the Planet Motoring Index, Competitions, Solutions
4 4 5 6 7 8 9 11 13 16 19 21 26-27 30 33 34 37 39 41 43 44 45 50
Competitions on pages 23 & 28 Page 3
Cocktail Time with Lois Kingscott
FULLY LICENSED ITALIAN RESTAURANT
Best Italian Restaurant in Tewkesbury
OPENING TIMES MONDAY-SATURDAY 12 NOON-2.30PM 5PM-10.30PM SUNDAY 12 NOON-9PM
Mai Tai If you’re looking for a cocktail to whisk you away to a tropical paradise now the nights are drawing in and the weather is getting colder, the Mai Tai is the drink for you. The Mai Tai was supposedly invented in 1944 at Trader Vic’s restaurant in Oakland, California. He created the drink one afternoon for friends who were visiting from Tahiti. Carrie Guild – one of Vic’s guests – tasted the cocktail and exclaimed “Maita’i roa ae”, which is translated literally as “very good” or figuratively as “out of this world! The best!” Don the Beachcomber – Trader Vic’s rival – claimed creation of the cocktail in 1933 at his then-new bar named after himself (later a famous restaurant) in Hollywood. His recipe is more complicated than that of Vic’s and has a very different taste. Ingredients: 50ml dark rum; 15ml orange curacao; 10ml fresh lime juice; 60ml almond syrup; ice; wedge of lime and a chunk of pineapple to garnish. Method: 1 Put the ice in a cocktail shaker and add rum, orange curacao, lime juice and almond syrup. 2 Shake well and strain the drink into a tall glass with fresh ice. 3 Garnish with a wedge of lime and a chunk of pineapple.
PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY Why not have a Mocktail? For a non-alcoholic alternative, mix 90ml orange juice, 25ml lime juice, 1 teaspoon fine sugar, 1 tablespoon almond syrup and 10ml grenadine. Strain over ice and garnish with lime and pineapple. Page 4
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at The Royal Oak Inn
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Delicious Dishes with Helen Kingscott
Mincemeat, apple and cranberry lattice tart If mince pies are too traditional for you, why not try this extra fruity dessert alternative – perfect for serving at a festive dinner party. Ingredients: Flour for dusting your work surface; 500g puff pastry; 2 Granny Smiths apples, peeled, cored and diced; 140g fresh cranberries (or frozen and defrosted); ½ tsp cinnamon; ½ tsp mixed spice; 1 tbsp golden caster sugar, plus extra for sprinkling; zest ½ lemon; 411g jar mincemeat; 1 egg, beaten; whipped cream or brandy cream to serve. Method: 1 Heat oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas mark 6 and put a baking sheet in to heat up. Lightly flour a work surface, roll out the puff pastry to a 30x45cm rectangle, then put on a sheet of baking parchment. Mix the apples and cranberries, then add the cinnamon, mixed spice, sugar, lemon zest and mincemeat, and mix again. 2 Arrange the pastry in front of you with a short edge nearest to you. Spread the mincemeat mixture in a line down the centre, about 12cm wide, leaving 2cm of pastry at the top and bottom. 3 To create the lattice pattern, start at the top of the pastry and cut a 1.5-2cm wide horizontal strip of pastry on both sides of the mincemeat filling (so it is still attached next to the filling). About 1.5cm in from the filling, cut out a 0.5cm strip of pastry and remove this, then cut another 1.5–2cm strip (you’re creating a pattern like the teeth of a comb). Repeat this method
until you get to the bottom of the pastry. You’ll need to cut out the final strip and remove this. 4 Fold the top and bottom flaps of pastry up and over the filling. Fold the strips of pastry diagonally over the filling, starting from the top until you reach the bottom, creating a lattice pattern. You can now chill the tart for up to two days, or freeze for up to two months if not using straight away. 5 Brush the tart with the egg and sprinkle with the extra sugar. Using the baking parchment, transfer the tart to the hot baking tray. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown on top (add an extra 10-15 minutes if baking from frozen). Leave to cool for five minutes before serving with cream of your choice.
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Page 5
Wild Food Foraging with Steven Hawley
Hairy Bittercress As once fresh fruit festers forlornly on the branch and dead leaves squelch underfoot, you might be forgiven for thinking that there couldn’t possibly be anything left alive in these colder months worth foraging. For the most part there isn’t. Local wildlife will have been furiously piling on the pounds in the run up to winter for that very reason. But there is always something hardy enough to be found which can add a little twist to your meals. In the case of Hairy Bittercress, you might not even have to venture further than your own garden. This tenacious weed is often smuggled into your flower boarders via shop bought compost and plants, and once established can be a nightmare to eradicate. So if you’re a keen gardener and curse whenever you see it, why not make a little treat from the harvest of an afternoon spent weeding. Similar in taste to rocket, it makes an interesting flavoured pesto.
There are plenty of recipes online for pesto – simply substitute the basil or rocket in the recipe for the Hairy Bittercress and get creative! Here is a simple pesto recipe that should keep in the fridge for about a week.
Perfect for spreading on toast Add 15-20 washed Hairy Bittercress ‘rosettes’, 2 tablespoons of good quality olive oil, 1 garlic clove, the juice of a lemon, a handful of grated Parmesan and a good pinch of salt, pepper and sugar to a blender and pulse while adding a little dribble of olive oil at a time until you have the desired consistency for your intended use. Hey pesto! One small batch perfect for spreading on toast or adding to a simple pasta dish.
If you’re not 100% sure that the plant you’re picking is safe for human consumption, don’t pick it. If you’re prone to food allergies, or pregnant, always seek medical advice before consuming anything foraged in the wild.
Burley Field Lakes Farm Shop Leckhampton Lane • Cheltenham • GL51 4XT • 01242 861333 / 07914 940557
Open Thursday/Friday 10am-5.30pm & Saturday 10am-4.30pm www.burleyfields.co.uk
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Food For Thought
WIN A MEAL FOR TWO! WIN A THREE COURSE MEAL FOR TWO PEOPLE PLUS A BOTTLE OF HOUSE WINE COURTESY OF THE BELL INN All you need to do is take a festive ‘selfie’ with your copy of The Local Answer magazine and either post it on our Facebook page (The Local Answer) or tweet us @TheLocalAnswer! Crack out the tinsel, put on your Santa hat and get snapping! Please reference ‘The Bell Inn’. One entry per household. See Index page for full competition rules. Closing date: Thursday 10th December 2015.
DRAGON
Pet Care
with Oliver Wilkinson of Dragon Vet Centre 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.
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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 Page 8
Festive dangers for pets Supposedly 75% of pet owners will buy their pets a present this Christmas and apparently two thirds of pet owners will spend as much on their pets as they will on their partners! There are certainly a staggering array of Christmas presents designed just for our four-legged friends, from the run of the mill squeaky reindeer toy to the more extravagant ‘thatched dog kennel’. However, Christmas can be a busy time for us vets for all the wrong reasons, so here is a list of things to watch out for and avoid: Seasonal toxicities – Festive holly, mistletoe and poinsettia plants all make an appearance at this time of year, all of which can be toxic to pets. Vomiting, diarrhoea and local irritation from ingestion are common. Foods to avoid – Everyone knows chocolate can be bad for dogs so don’t make the mistake of leaving that chocolate orange wrapped under the tree for the dog to ‘discover’ on Christmas eve. Other foods on the ‘no go’ list are dried fruit and nuts, so beware of the Christmas pudding and mince pies. Some dogs are so sensitive to dried fruit that a handful of raisins or sultanas can cause serious kidney damage. Christmas leftovers – It’s usually OK to give Fido or Fifi a little piece of turkey as a treat, but beware of the cooked bones! These become brittle and can fragment when eaten, which can cause serious gut damage or impaction. Fatty foods can also trigger a nasty condition called pancreatitis, so be very careful letting your furry friend finish off the ‘pigs-in-blankets’. Ribbons, string and tinsel – Some of the most dangerous gut obstructions we see are caused by long string-like materials. Dogs eat the string from around the roast meat and cats play with and eat tinsel from the Christmas tree. These ‘linear foreign-bodies’ stretch out along the intestine, causing a cheese-wire type effect which can cause extensive damage and perforation to the intestine. Poisons – It’s hard to underestimate the lethal effect of antifreeze. It apparently has a sweet taste, which can appeal to cats and can easily be spilt from cars or on driveways. Even a small amount will cause irreversible kidney damage. Still, for all those winter worries, Christmas should be a happy and fun occasion for the kids and pets alike. Treat your best friend to a new toy or a bag of festive treats, but all in moderation or else you won’t be the only one having to start the New Year on a diet!
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Wildlife Matters with John Bromley
Feed the birds Sound like the title to a song you’ve heard before? Well, if you fancy hearing birds warbling away in your garden as merrily as Julie Andrews in the successful Mary Poppins film, then take heed of the song title and provide some sustenance to tempt them into your space. Once birds learn where there is a regular supply of food they will keep coming back, so there is no time like the present to start encouraging them.
Endless but tuneful lyrics Singing species in this county include blackbirds, which can be heard singing from chimneys, aerials and tree tops from spring onwards. They love to wander off into endless but tuneful lyrics whilst the similar sounding song thrush repeats its short lines two or three times.
Other songsters include the wren who tries to get War and Peace into a fifteen second burst of rapid song, and the shy dunnock which sings much more slowly. Then there are chaffinches with their short dry song usually ending in their distinctive “pink pink” call. And of course there is the robin. This red breasted songbird is the only species to sing all year round – even on Christmas Day – snow or no snow, which is why they appear on Christmas cards. Birds need to eat around half their body weight each day – more in cold or wet weather. As much as cold and hungry garden birds will eat anything on offer, it is worth providing them with calorie and protein rich food rather than just bread, which is bulky but not very nourishing.
Avoid salty bacon fat Over the winter period ‘fat’ balls containing a mixture of ‘good’ fat and seeds is a great way to feed birds. Several sources recommend removing any nylon mesh first because this can trap feet and cause injury. Hanging them near to a window allows close up viewing of the birds’ antics, which children will find enthralling. However, they can also be put onto a bird table or on the ground. Making your own fat balls is great fun and gives children something to do on a wet afternoon. Use a ratio of one third melted fat to two thirds food (seeds, nuts, oats, dried fruit etc.). It is important to use only melted lard or beef suet
DOG TRAINING AT YOUR HOME
JUSTIN JARDIM (Behaviourist) 0743 857 4764 echodogz.justin@gmail.com The Local Answer
because soft fat and oils will not set and end up smeared on feathers, destroying their insulating and waterproofing properties. Salt is also a toxin to birds so avoid bacon fat. Moulds to set the mix in can be made from coconut shells cut in half, shallow plastic cups or any other receptacle. To make a suspended fat ball make sure there is a length of string set through the mix.
It is important to have drinking water available Fat balls and peanut feeders attract most species including blue tits and finches. Wrens and dunnock like grated cheese placed somewhere quiet, whilst blackbirds and thrushes will savour chopped fruit such as apples and pears. Identifying and counting the feeding species is a great way to spend a cold miserable day. It is also important to have drinking water available either in a bird bath or shallow container on the ground. Never melt frozen water with salt – use boiling water.
ANTIQUES WANTED
We Buy 1800-1970’s single items, collections or complete house contents including: Old leather suit cases, Postcards, Dolls, Trains, Toys, Dinkys, Corgi, Match Box, Sporting items, Copper, Brass, China, Silver, Clocks, Watches, Boxes, Treen, Cutlery, Tapestries, Ephemera, Fountain Pens, Medals, Badges, Small furniture Please ask for a detailed list of items we buy Telephone: 01452 770409 evenings or Email ross.milne2012@btinternet.com WATERLANE GL6 7PL We travel to anywhere in the UK
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Page 9
Mirror Mirror on the Wall... with Katie Pollard
Shine bright like a diamond All that glitters is good. Showing up in the form of sparkly manicures, glossy cheekbones and glittery eyelids during New York Fashion Week, this particular look was so eye-catching it made repeat appearances on our runways in London. As a result, we’re now seeing an equal amount of sparkle on the catwalk and on our very own catwalk – the street! With the festive period fast approaching there’s only one product you should be applying this Christmas and that is glitter!
This look is perfect for the season that is all about making a statement. Whether it’s your Christmas décor, the tinsel covered tree or the finishing touches at the table, why should decorating your face be any exception? Glitter lips can sound scary to some, but actually, if you choose a mainstream colour, they’re totally wearable for those who don’t like to jump too far outside their comfort zone.
are now teaming embroidered jackets over jeans or prom style skirts with a pair of stylish trainers just goes to show how adventurous and playful you can really be with your own individual style! It’s a chic new direction, which allows fashion and beauty to be a little more experimental with daytime dressing, and this dressing shouldn’t stop with your clothes. You need to project it to your face to complete the look!
Invest in ready-made pots of glitter
Wear it subtly or shockingly One of the best things about glitter is that you can wear it subtly or shockingly. During the day make sure you keep the rest of your makeup simple. Balance out your super glittery eyelids with a bright, matte lip or subtle champagne shimmer and pair it with a nude lip for a daytime shine. At night, bring it to life with bold and striking flair, by using lashings of mascara paired For the best application, these little with golden or silver sparkles, to pots of sparkle stick really well to the really exaggerate the festivity! face with a bit of Vaseline. Dab along your cheekbones for an iridescent, glittery highlight to make a subtle statement. Or, if you’re feeling particularly daring, go all out and sprinkle some onto your eyebrows, with naked eyes, to help frame your face!
Back in the day the ancient Egyptians were grinding up the iridescent shells of beetles to create a cosmetic shine! Who knew they were onto something, which would once again come back around? If they can crush beetle shells to create their own magical look, we can definitely invest in ready-made pots of glitter! Glitter isn’t just for unicorns and fairies, it’s for the risk takers and dare devils too! Make it fun, illuminating and eye opening – the grown up way to wear glitter – and give your eyes an on-trend wake up call from their wintery slumber! Whatever is holding you back from embracing this glittery trend, forget about it and embrace the season to sparkle in style!
Sparkles are filtering down to the high street Like any look, it needs to serve more than just one wear. It needs to carry from day to evening and vice versa, which is why we’re seeing more sparkle filter down from high end to high street. Personally, I love the trend that is circulating this season. I think the fact that people The Local Answer
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Page 11
Swimming at Cheltenham College Sports Centre ADULT SWIMMING LESSONS
PRE-SCHOOL SWIMMING
Whether you’re a beginner, a returner or a more advanced swimmer looking to improve, you’ll find what you need in our adult swimming sessions.
Our Pre-School sessions are ideal for children aged 3-4yrs who are ready to take the next step in their swimming journey to gain confidence and independence, without an adult in the water. Spaces available every Tuesday & Wednesdays Next term starts January 12th 2016
We cater for all levels of swimming ability and previous experience. Classes are kept small with up to 6 participants in a class and our teachers are qualified to ASA Level 2 standard. Adult Stroke Improvement Every Thursday 7:00pm – 7:30pm Adult learn to swim and confidence building 7:30pm – 8:00pm 9 week course starts Thursday January 14th 2016.
Birthday Par ties £124.99
COLLEGE CHELTENHAM
Contact: Cheltenham College Swim School on 01242 705551 or sportscentre@cheltenhamcollege.org for more information
Looking Good, Feeling Great with Matt Wagstaff
Making the festive season healthier! Over the festive season we all tend to over indulge, whether with food, drink or time spent crashed out on the sofa! Having a few treats over the festive period is completely acceptable, though often the case is that the treats amount to rather a lot! The average person gains 2.2kg or 5lbs over the festive period, which just adds onto the potential New Year’s resolution list. You are more likely to achieve your fitness goals while sticking to a plan rather than ‘starting anew in January’. Keeping healthier whilst still having an exciting Christmas period is certainly achievable. Follow some of the tips below to keep your health in check this festive period!
hitting the dance floor at the work do, keep exercising and breaking a sweat through the Christmas period – try to By this I mean plan ahead for the be consistent. You won’t regret it come events that you feel you will over January when you’re ahead on your indulge – have one or two events or goals. meals where you let yourself go and Use your smaller crockery take a ‘cheat meal’. Planning ahead Funnily enough, choosing to use means you have something to look smaller plates during your main forward to, meaning you can focus on Christmas meals often limits the urge your healthy diet on other occasions. If to eat too much. Often we will fill the you are a very social person, consider plate that is in front of us no matter eating a small meal (healthy) before how big – therefore using smaller your event, so you won’t be as hungry plates reduces the amount of and less likely to over eat on less food. It’s not fool proof, but healthy foods. it has been shown to help
Plan for over indulgence (be realistic)
Get exercising before the January rush!
when attempting not to over eat.
People who keep exercising or start a fitness goal before the January resolutions tend to stick to it and are more likely to achieve it! Even if it’s going for some long family walks or
Just add water
The Local Answer
If you find that over the Christmas period you gorge on too much food at meal times, try drinking water before your meal as well as sipping between mouthfuls. This in turn fills you up quicker, restricting the need to over eat. This can also be said for when drinking alcohol – try to drink a cup of water between alcoholic drinks to avoid overconsumption and a wobbly walk home!
Soup up your starter Having soup as a starter similar to the above point has been shown to reduce hunger, reducing the amount eaten during the main course and possible pudding (which around Christmas is usually chocolatey!). Soup can also be made very healthy, especially making ones own where you can add as many vegetables as you like to add flavour. Thinner soups are better in this case.
Have breakfast & snack well Skipping meals is a sure way to end up over indulging, especially over Christmas time, as there is so much temptation around! Always make sure to start the day well – get a good breakfast in, such as poached or scrambled eggs, or some oats if you have an active day ahead. If you do end up snacking around Christmas, try swapping bad snacks for good ones, such as good unsalted nuts like almonds and walnuts or swap your milk chocolate for a darker variety 70%+. Fruit salads are another winner for a sweeter snack or dessert!
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Page 13
Cheltenham CBT Clinic NOW RECRUITING Private Psychotherapy Practice
offering cognitive behaviour therapy to treat clients suffering from emotional disorders BABCP Accredited CBT Therapist
Panic disorder Agoraphobia ■ Generalised anxiety ■ OCD ■ PTSD ■ Social anxiety ■ Specific phobias ■ Health anxiety ■ Depression At our clinic we are proud to offer a psychotherapeutic solution that has been scientifically tested with proven results. ■
FR EE
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Oriel Lodge, Oriel Road, Cheltenham GL50 1XN Call Deborah to book your clinic or skype appointment
01242 517770/07595 322317 www.cbtclinic.uk info@cbtclinic.uk
Page 14
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Long lasting benefits Oakwell Health offers a wide range of complementary therapies and holistic care. I don’t know whether to say unfortunately or fortunately I am gradually making my way through the lovely group of therapists. It’s a mixture really of going because of a necessity to help with my back pain, but also to experience the other types of treatments available and letting you know about them. I was asked to go and see their new masssage specialist Paula Badrock (pictured). Right from the first hello in reception, I was instantly at ease with this lovely lady. She was friendly, chatty and wanted to know all about why I had come to see her. What was troubling me? What had I done to cause my back to hurt? Had I ever had an accident? She was helped by the fact that she had been able to read my notes from seeing a couple of the osteopaths, but be assured she will delve into your medical history and find out exactly what is troubling you before she attempts her magic!
Over 15 years of experience Paula is very discreet and will leave the room whilst you undress to your undies, lie on the couch and cover yourself with the towel provided. She makes you feel very comfortable and explains that with over 15 years of experience and thousands of completed massages, she has seen bodies of all shapes and sizes – so don’t be put off. Paula uses a variety of different styles of massage – including Indian head, trigger point therapy and corrective massage – to customise the treatment to your needs. Now I have had numerous massages before – no hands, hot stones, relaxation – but wow does this lady give a good
sports massage! Yes it can be a little bit uncomfortable, but that is the whole point – she is trying to relieve your pain. I was told she was only using 4 out of 10 on me this time otherwise my body would fight back. Next time I can see that figure rising! Paula’s treatments provide long lasting benefits in addition to making you feel better instantly. She has developed an understanding of the body’s healing abilities and customises each treatment according to your needs.
Treating a range of conditions She works with a variety of clients – men, women, elderly and adolescents, athletes, pregnant mothers and people with chronic pain – treating conditions such as back and neck pain, headaches, lower lumber and leg injuries, pre and post natal ailments, RSI, frozen shoulders and sciatica. Her aim is to rejuvenate you and help you repair and unwind from the stresses of life. Again, when the treatment was over, Paula left the room to allow me to get dressed and arrived back with a cup of water – it is always advisable to drink plenty after any treatment. Normally a one hour treatment with Paula would be £40 and £25 for half an hour, but she is willing to reduce her prices by £5 as an introductory offer during December and January. Call her on 01242 221456 or email paula.badrock@gmail.com to book your appointment.
OSTEOPATHY | HYPNOTHERAPY | SPORTS MASSAGE | SPORTS THERAPY | REFLEXOLOGY
C E N T R E A N D T R E AT M E N T R O O M S
Christmas Vouchers available 01242 221456 | 45 Cirencester Road, Charlton Kings, Cheltenham GL53 8EX | oakwellhealth.com The Local Answer
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Page 15
Parenting & Guardianship with Roberta Smart
What kind of Christmas do you want? Every year we get sold the dream that this Christmas will be “the best ever” and inevitably we are left disappointed. This “best ever Christmas” usually involves spending too much money, eating too much sugar, consuming too much alcohol and spending too much time with people we avoid for the rest of the year – for a reason! This year – for the sake of the children and our sanity – let’s do things differently, shall we?
1 Decide on what kind of Christmas you want – a fun filled day of laughter and games? A quiet contemplative chill-out whilst the kids enjoy their presents? A gastronomic delight with friends? Or a family trip to visit the grandparents – then home in time for doctor who?
2 Prepare your children in advance. Let them choose aspects of Christmas that mean a lot to them – for my kids it’s Advent Calendars and a stocking in their room on Christmas morning. For many it is going to a carol service on Christmas Eve or leaving out mince pies and carrots for Santa
and Rudolph. Whatever you decide, remember to enjoy the ritual and embrace the joy it brings. Inevitably it is these simple repeated rituals that mean the most to us as we grow and which form the basis of our Christmas memories. Personally I am partial to a Baileys and a mince pie whilst madly wrapping gifts on Christmas Eve.
3 If you are expecting guests over,
inevitably fall out of the regular routines – eating more junk food and staying up later, especially when visiting over the holiday season. If this is what happens with your children, remember to cut them some slack on their attitude and behaviour – make some leeway for meltdowns and tantrums if they are over tired and high on sugar. And please – don’t take it personally when they ultimately prefer some other person’s plastic gift to your carefully chosen, beautifully wrapped gift. Seriously – it isn’t personal! Kids just have little to no empathy around gifting. They like what they like.
invite them to chip in with the meal preparation, guide them as to appropriate gift giving so that your children are not swamped and if you have a ‘separated family’ try to make sure there is no ‘gift rivalry’ between parents/step parents. 5 Remember, this is your Christmas Now is the time for too – so ask for what you want. A communication and bubble bath for a whole hour cooperation. uninterrupted? A walk in the 4 Once the kids break up woods? Make it happen. After all from school they – you deserve it! Page 16
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Want to help the young and vulnerable? ... volunteer as an Appropriate Adult If you are interested in the criminal justice system, or want to help children or vulnerable adults with mental health issues and learning difficulties, then this role is perfect for you. A quarter of a million vulnerable people are not being supported by an Appropriate Adult (AA) while in police custody, according to a report from the National Appropriate Adult Network. The report blamed a lack of awareness and a shortage of trained AAs. This is a critical safeguard in our justice system that arose, in part, due to vulnerable people confessing to crimes they did not commit.
Dedicating resources
Under the remit of ‘improving the lives of children, young people, families and vulnerable adults’, local charity County Community Projects (CCP) is dedicating resources, time and energy to train people to become Appropriate Adults. The role will include attending the newly-built custody suite at Waterwells, Quedgeley, where you will attend police interviews alongside the vulnerable person, ensuring they are conducted in a proper and fair manner. You will also ensure that the detainee’s welfare is safeguarded and that they fully understand their legal rights and entitlements. All AAs receive training accredited through the National Appropriate Adult Network. This will enable you to work safely in the role with
confidence. Shadowing support is offered for your first time out – to help induct you fully into the role. Once trained, you will be placed on a flexible rota system that allows you to choose your availability and, if you are available and an AA is required, you’ll receive a call from the AA Co-ordinator requesting your assistance.
Hugely rewarding experience
John Thornhill retired as an AA after 21 years and received the prestigious Community Service award from Chief Constable Suzette Davenport. John said: “It has been a hugely rewarding experience, as well as fascinating. I have served and supported vulnerable people in over 2,750 cases. It was a new world for me – I had never been in a police custody suite before I started. I loved the role and if I helped just one youngster back on to the straight and narrow, then it was worth it.”
To apply to be a fully trained Volunteer Appropriate Adult, you must be: G G G G
Aged 18 or over Able to commit yourself to an on-call rota to suit your availability Have good verbal and communication skills Able to establish and maintain good working relationships with a range of different individuals including the detained person, Police Officers, Social Workers, Solicitors and other representatives from statutory and voluntary agencies.
Interested? For details please contact
Kim Tredwell – Senior AA Co-ordinator Email Kim.Tredwell@ccprojects.org.uk or call 01242 228999 for an informal chat The Local Answer
To advertise call 01242 510500
Ap p ro p ri a t e Ad u l t National
Network
Page 17
Medical Health with Holly Prince
Common cold or influenza? Many people – myself included until recently – think that flu is similar to having a bad cold. However, this is not the case. Flu is caused by a different sort of virus to the common cold and it is more serious because, if complications occur, it can lead to bronchitis, pneumonia, or even death. Seasonal flu usually begins in the autumn months of September to November, with most cases occurring between December and March. Flu can affect anyone, including people in good health, and 15-20% of UK population are affected each year. People most at risk include pregnant women, people over 65, and those with diabetes – people with major illnesses affecting vital organs (e.g. kidney disease) are also at risk. Flu is contagious and is spread through coughing and sneezing, and touching infected surfaces such as door
handles and taps. Use disposable tissues and wipe surfaces with disinfectant to reduce the risk of other people catching the virus.
The effects may last for a couple of weeks As well as cold-like symptoms, including headache, sore throat, high temperature and a cough, with flu you may also have a fever but feel shivery, and feel achy and too weak to move much. The infection lasts about 7 days, but the effects may continue for another couple of weeks afterwards. Types of flu change over time so it is best to get protected – even if you have been previously. One basic thing you can do is to wash hands frequently, especially after touching your nose or mouth. Doctors urge people to have the flu jab, which protects people from being infected with the virus, and you can have this at your GP’s or local pharmacy.
It’s better late than never to get vaccinated
L et ’s Ta lk
The flu vaccination doesn’t work straight away, as it takes your body 1-2 weeks to recognise the virus and make cells (antibodies) that will be able to
destroy it if it does invade the body. Having the flu jab does not give you flu – it stimulates the body’s natural resistance to the virus. There are possible side effects such as tiredness, muscle pain, or tenderness at the site of injection, but these are minor and temporary, so it’s better late than never to get vaccinated. If you do contract flu, make sure you get plenty of rest – take a few days off work and try to stay away from other people so that they don’t get ill as well. Also drink plenty of fluids to keep hydrated and to help flush out toxins. Paracetamol can help ease headaches or muscle aches, but note that antibiotics and anti-viral medicines do not help to cure flu.
FREE CBT COURSES NEAR YOU
Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue ● Emotional Wellbeing ● ● Low Mood ● Stress and Anxiety ● Panic ● Anger ● Sleep ● ● Irritable Bowel Syndrome ● Obsessive Compulsive Disorder ● ● Mindfulness ● Low Self Esteem ● ●
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Foundation Trust For Gloucestershire
The Local Answer
https://courses.talk2gether.nhs.uk/ or call 0800 073 2200
To advertise call 01242 510500
Page 19
Page 20
www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk
The Local Answer
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. THROUGHOUT DECEMBER BREAKFAST AND TEA WITH SANTA
Join us for Breakfast and Tea with Santa at Stratford Garden Centre, Clifford Chambers. Mrs Claus, The Elves and Santa will provide all the entertainment while you and the family enjoy a scrumptious breakfast or a classic supper served in our Lime Tree Restaurant. Santa will be handing out presents from Lego (RRP £9.99) and a goody bag. You will be able to write your letter to Santa while sat at
the table. Breakfast is served from 9am– 10.30am and tea is served from 4.30pm– 6pm. For dates, bookings and availability please call 01789 205745. 28 NOVEMBER ELEGANCE AND OPULENCE IN CONCERT The stylised elegance of Charpentier’s Messe de Minuit, Saint-Saens’ opulent Christmas Oratorio and Elgar’s heartfelt adagio Sospiri. Charlton Kings Choral Society and the Regency Sinfonia. 7.30pm. Pittville Pump Room, GL52 3JE. 0844 576 2210. CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON Celebrate Christmas when The Brewery will be hosting their annual Christmas party. There will be fun for all the family with festive ballet, street dancing, festive carols as well as music from The Rock Foundry and local bands playing your favourite covers! Join in the festive cheer
and watch Santa turn on the fantastic Christmas lights. Eat, drink and be merry – there will even be a snow machine for guaranteed real snow! 4.30-7pm. Henrietta Street, Cheltenham GL50 4FA. 01242 574378. thebrewerycheltenham.co.uk FROM 1 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS CARVERY AT BATSFORD Join us for a delicious traditional Christmas carvery in the Garden Terrace Café in the run-up to Christmas. Carvery available Monday-Friday from 1st-18th December between 12-2.30pm. £14.50 per head for 2 courses. Tables must be booked in advance for a minimum of 8 people. The café can also cater for evening functions for a minimum of 20 people – available Monday-Sunday from 1st-20th December – please call 01386 701974 or email batsford.gt@gmail.com for details. Batsford Arboretum, Moreton-in-Marsh GL56 9QB.
BISHOPS CLEEVE PRIVATE HIRE
TAXI Local & Long Distance
Shipton Golf Course
www.bishopscleeveprivatehire.com
Shipton Golf Course, Nr Frogmill, Shipton, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL54 4HT
day in the Heart of the Cotswolds” “A 9Open hole payevery & play course from 7am until dusk No need to book – Open every day from 7am until dusk www.shiptongolf.co.uk
Follow us on Twitter:
‘Shiptongolf’
The Local Answer
shiptongolf@tiscali.co.uk
Tel: 01242 890237
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To advertise call 01242 510500
Page 21
WIN TICKETS!
courtesy of Promenade Productions Promenade Productions will be bringing laughter and mayhem to The Bacon Theatre in January 2016 with their Traditional Family Pantomime – Jack and the Beanstalk! Just when you thought Christmas festivities were over, this award winning society will make certain you start the New Year with a laugh. Jack is a young lad living with his widowed mother and a cow who provides their only source of income. When the cow stops giving milk, Jack’s mother tells him to take the cow to market and sell her. On the way Jack meets a strange old lady who offers him magic beans in exchange for the cow and Jack makes the trade. When he arrives home without any money, his mother is furious and throws the beans out of the window. Overnight a gigantic beanstalk appears which Jack climbs to a land hidden in the clouds and the home of the Giant! There are three ways to book your seats – call Showcase on 01242 224144, the Bacon Theatre on 01242 238002 or book online at www.promenadeproductions.co.uk. Tickets start from just £10. To enter our draw to win a pair of tickets, send your name, address and telephone number to ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’, The Local Answer, 1 Ullenwood Court, Cheltenham, GL53 9QS. Alternatively, enter via email by sending your details to competitions@thelocalanswer.co.uk, stating ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’. Closing date: Thursday 10th December 2015. 3-6 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL 40 trees decorated by school children, organisations and businesses illuminate the church. Favourite trees chosen by public vote. Celebration service at 6pm on 6th December. St Edward’s Church, Stowon-the-Wold. 10am-5pm. 4-5 DECEMBER CHIPPING CAMPDEN CHRISTMAS MARKET Friday 4th: 3-8pm. 40 stalls in the Square and Town Hall. Festive food, drink, music. Father Christmas 4-6pm. Saturday 5th: 105pm. Town Hall. Father Christmas 2-4pm. For more information see www.campdenmarket.co.uk CHRISTMAS FAYRE AT THE BREWERY
Get into the Christmas spirit at The Brewery! From 4–8pm there will be market stalls selling arts and crafts, live
The Local Answer
festive music and mulled wine. There will be local stall holders, talented crafts people and local businesses selling their unique, beautiful and tasty products. Don’t miss out! Grab a mince pie and enjoy the lovely atmosphere whilst you pack in some Christmas shopping. thebrewerycheltenham.co.uk. 5 DECEMBER VINTAGE & CRAFT FAIR GLOUCESTER An abundance of quality festive vintage and handmade stalls along with antiques and collectables. Perfect for one-off and unique Christmas presents. Fabulous live entertainment all day, vintage beauty, classic cars, BBQ, vintage tea party plus lots more. 11am-5pm. £1 entry. Children free. Blackfriars Priory, Ladybellgate Street, Gloucester, GL1 2HN. Contact Helen 07738 115572 or www.helsbellesboutique.co.uk. SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS Mirror mirror on the wall, which is the fairest panto of all? Well it’s sure to be the Hippodrome’s panto with spectacular cast, music, dance, sumptuous sets and costumes and a laugh-a-minute script. Warwick Davis heads up the cast as head dwarf Prof, with Andy Day as Muddles and Andy Ford as the Henchman. Who’s the fairest in the land, and will good triumph over evil? There’s only one way to find out – book your tickets now to this
To advertise call 01242 510500
magical family pantomime. 0844 871 3012. The Bristol Hippodrome, St Augustine’s Parade, Bristol BS1 4UZ. 5-6 DECEMBER BATSFORD FESTIVE WEEKEND There’ll be carols, treats in the Garden Terrace Café, special offers on Christmas decorations (during this weekend only), plenty of Christmas trees to choose from, beautiful homemade wreaths, greenery and mistletoe and a whole host of gift ideas! Bring the children to meet Santa in his grotto with donkeys and ‘Desmond’ the Great Horned Owl from 12pm both days! Grotto entry fee is £5 per child, which includes a present from Santa. For more information, visit www.batsarb.co.uk or call 01386 701441. Batsford Arboretum, Moreton-in-Marsh GL56 9QB. 5-6 & 12-13 DECEMBER TAURUS CRAFTS CHRISTMAS MARKETS Celebrate Christmas in style by doing your seasonal shopping at Taurus Crafts Christmas Markets. Over 30 stalls offering an inspirational selection of arts, crafts, gifts, decorations, food and drink, and locally grown high quality Christmas trees. Local choirs and bands feature throughout the markets. 10am to 5.30pm. Free entry. Free parking. www.tauruscrafts.co.uk. 01594 844841. Old Park, Lydney Park Estate, Lydney, Gloucestershire GL15 6BU.
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WinterWonderland
DAYTIME AND EVENING EVENTS From 28th November 2015
Daytime ticket price includes a visit to meet Santa, a gift, craft marquee and entry to the park. Evening ticket price includes a visit to meet Santa, a gift, the Christmas Fairy, illuminations, face painting, craft marquee and entry to the park.
The Bird & Deer Park has been hosting Christmas since 2008 and has been cited by the Huffington Post in 2014 for the beautiful lights, and in the Sunday Telegraph in 2011 for being amongst the top 10 attractions to visit in Rural England. The Park’s new Visitor Centre is lovely at any time, but with the wonderful views of the illuminations from the balconies it has become a must of the Cotswolds as a Christmas treat.As you walk around the Park the sounds of birds, rushing water and glistening lights are really enchanting – especially the famous Wendy House where the beautiful nativity can be found – and then of course the exciting bit ... Santa! Santa can be found in all his glory in
the hand crafted ash sleigh behind the stunning reindeer sculpture made of horseshoes created byTom Hill.This Grotto is beautiful with its many trees, twinkling lights and of course a gift for the children. A
professional photographer* is on hand to capture all the family on your special day out. Of course we must not forget the famous three – Rudolph, Prancer and Comet – our resident Reindeer who are fed at 4pm in their enclosure. The Christmas Fairy will be found in the twinkling Gypsy Caravan with a special something for the children, and cards for Santa that have been made in the Craft Marquee can be given to her for safe delivery. Our face painters are on hand to put those finishing touches to the outfit. Festive food available* within the Park and normal refreshments can be found in the Visitor Centre. Free parking.
The Bird and Deer Park, Prinknash, Cranham, Gloucester GL4 8EX Winter opening: 10am-4pm daily • 01452 812727 • www.thebirdpark.com
*Hot food, drinks and gifts are available for purchase. *Professional photographs are not included in the entry price. Group bookings available upon request. Gifts are suitable for children over the age of one and are not gift wrapped.Tickets are non-refundable or exchangeable. Illuminations are turned on at dusk. Photographs are not permitted inside the grotto.
6 DECEMBER OF MICE AND MEN
The hit Broadway production Of Mice and Men, filmed on stage in New York by National Theatre Live, comes to UK cinemas. Golden Globe® winner and Academy Award® nominee James Franco (127 Hours, Milk) and Tony Award® nominee Chris O’Dowd (Bridesmaids, Girls) star in the hotly-anticipated screenings of this ‘riveting, powerful production’. This landmark revival of Nobel Prize winner John Steinbeck’s play is a powerful portrait of the American spirit and a heart-
breaking testament to the bonds of friendship. 7pm. £16.50 (£14.50, students £12.50). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. 9 DECEMBER SANTA’S LITTLE HELPER
(£8), family £32. The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. 10 DECEMBER ANNUAL MENINGITIS NOW CHRISTMAS CONCERT
Young Albert Tuttle is nearly 7 years old; far too old to believe in Santa. But Albert is in for a big surprise for as he sleeps on Christmas Eve, a big fat man wearing bright red pyjamas tumbles down his chimney like a roly poly pudding. With lots of laughs and sing-along songs, little people aged 3-7 will love this funny, festive adventure with a very happy ending, guaranteed to have their spirits flying higher than Rudolph. 10.30am. £9
Performances from a male voice choir, local primary schools and even the promise of snow and a visit from Father Christmas. Tickets on sale from 1st October – call 0345 1204530 or visit www.meningitisnow.org/christmasconcerts. Prices: £10 nave seats, £5 aisle, £30 family ticket (2 adults, 2 children) in the nave, £15 family ticket in the aisle. 7.30pm. Gloucester Cathedral, GL1 2LX.
S po n s o r a p o ny th i s C hr i s tm a s !
This is the perfect gift for Christmas! Making a regular or one-off donation to the upkeep of your favourite pony is the perfect way to ensure we can provide them with the very best care. Our ponies are very special, endlessly patient and deserve your help.
For more information about our ‘Sponsor a Pony’ programme either:
• Visit www.cotswoldrda.org.uk/sponsor-a-pony • Call us on 01242 584420 or • Email us on info@cotswoldrda.org.uk
Cotswold
Bertie
It’s what you can do that counts
Riding for the Disabled Association Jackie Brutton Riding Centre, Prestbury Park Racecourse, Prestbury, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL50 4SH
The Local Answer
Dave
To advertise call 01242 510500
Rocky
Bilbo Page 25
The Loca
10
Go for drinks and a catch up with friends
1
9
Make the children’s outfits for their nativity
4
Go for a walk with the family and admire all the festive lights
15
Don’t forget to send your letter to Santa!
Make your Christmas pudding and give the kids their advent calendars
14 Crack out the festive films, snuggle up on the sofa and have a movie marathon
22
19 Last day to send your post second class
Wrap your presents and charge your camera batteries
13
2 Book tickets to see a pantomime and arrange to meet Santa
Write Christmas cards
8
21
Write a list of what you want to buy for friends and family
Last day to send your post first class
16
Ice your Christmas cake
al Answer
7 Go shopping for all your cupboard essentials – don’t forget the cranberry sauce!
18
12 Buy a Christmas tree and decorate the house
20
Make mince pies and Christmas cookies
23
Do your fresh food shopping
6
Perform a random act of kindness such as donating old toys to charity
3 Plan your Christmas menu and start using up food in the freezer
Christmas Jumper Day!
11
17
Have a big tidy up ready for when your guests arrive
24 Prepare food for the big day. Put a carrot out for Rudolph and a mince pie for Santa
Merry Christmas!
Have a wonderful day! We hope you have enjoyed following The Local Answer’s Countdown to Christmas Advent calendar and that it has reminded you of some fun festive activities to take part in during December!
Help your kids make presents and cards for their teachers
5
Order your turkey!
25
WIN TICKETS! courtesy of the bacon theatre
Jane Eyre National Theatre Live screening. Almost 170 years on, Charlotte Brontë’s story of the trailblazing Jane is as inspiring as ever. This bold and dynamic production uncovers one woman’s fight for freedom and fulfilment on her own terms. From her beginnings as a destitute orphan, Jane Eyre’s spirited heroine faces life’s obstacles head-on, surviving poverty, injustice and the discovery of bitter betrayal before taking the ultimate decision to follow her heart. Tickets cost just £16.50 (£14.50, students £12.50) and may be booked online at bacontheatre.co.uk or by calling the box office on 01242 258002. To enter our draw to win a pair of tickets, send your name, address and telephone number to ‘Jane Eyre’, The Local Answer, 1 Ullenwood Court, Cheltenham, GL53 9QS. Alternatively, enter via email by sending your details to competitions@thelocalanswer.co.uk stating ‘Jane Eyre’. Closing date: Thursday 10th December 2015.
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www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk
The Local Answer
10 DECEMBER JOHNNY COPPIN: ALL ON A WINTER’S NIGHT One of England`s finest singer-songwriters presents a feast of carols, songs, humorous readings and folklore in a show that has become an essential Christmas event. He is joined by the queen of the accordion Karen Tweed, Cheltenham’s very own Paul Burgess on fiddle and recorders, ex Decameron members Dik Cadbury and Geoff March, plus seasonal images by award-winning photographer Martin Fry. 7.30pm. £16 (children £9). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. 19 DECEMBER STAR WARS CONVENTION May the force be with you at The Brewery. To celebrate the release of Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens on 18th December, The Brewery are hosting a Star Wars convention! With the excitement building throughout the evening there will be plenty of roaming characters, a competition for the best dressed and much more! An unmissable event for any Star Wars fan! thebrewerycheltenham.co.uk. 20 DECEMBER JANE EYRE Almost 170 years on, Charlotte Brontë’s story of the trailblazing Jane is as inspiring
an afternoon of festive fun. Autism Friendly Screening on Monday 21st December. Meet Santa from 4pm. Film at 5pm. £7 (includes a treat from Santa). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. 26 DECEMBER BOXING DAY AT BATSFORD Burn off your Christmas dinner with a magical winter walk through the arboretum, followed by a free glass of mulled wine (while stocks last!). 10am3pm. Arboretum entrance fee applies. For more information, visit www.batsarb.co.uk or call 01386 701441. Batsford Arboretum, Batsford, Moreton-in-Marsh GL56 9QB. 31 DECEMBER NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY IN AID OF WOMEN V CANCER Celebrate with live music, buffet and bubbly at midnight. Fabulous raffle prizes. Tickets £20. 8.30pm–1pm. At St. Margaret’s Hall, Hatherley, GL51 3NU. Tickets from www.billetto.co.uk/pinkpedalersNYE or Sue 07798 746572. FIRE AND ICE BALL Welcome in 2016 with friends or family at either our Fire & Ice Ball or our Family Celebration. Prices start from £19.99 per person. Hallmark Hotel Gloucester, Matson Lane GL4 6EA. 01452 525653. gloucester.events3@hallmarkhotels.co.uk
as ever. This bold and dynamic production uncovers one woman’s fight for freedom and fulfilment on her own terms. 7pm. £16.50 (£14.50, students £12.50). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. 21-22 DECEMBER PADDINGTON
Adapted from Michael Bond’s beloved books, Paddington follows the comic misadventures of a polite young bear with an endearing talent for comic chaos. Arriving alone at Paddington Station from deepest Peru, Paddington soon finds that city life is not all he had imagined. Santa will be dropping by before the screening of this magical adventure film, so bring along your letters for him and join us for
Visit Over Farm Market this Christmas ●
Farm grown trees
Meet Father Christmas
●
Local turkey, meat & game
●
● Fresh, seasonal vegetables
●
Hampers & gifts
●
Christmas carols
Club of Cheltenham North
Cheltenham
TREE OF LIGHT The Promenade
Christmas, in particular, is a very special time to remember a loved one, friend, pet or just an opportunity to wish somebody well
Leave a name for us to hang in a sealed decorative label on the tree which will be lit from 4th till 28th December
Forms for your message and donation available from The Wilson Tourist Information Centre and the Municipal Offices OR apply on-line at: www.cheltenhamtreeoflight.org.uk
supporting
Just one mile from Gloucester city centre
overfarm.co.uk Over Farm Gloucester GL2 8DB 01452 521014
The Local Answer
Registered charity number: 1021635 www.cheltenhamnorthrotaryclub.org
To advertise call 01242 510500
and other Rotary charities
Page 29
Homes & Gardens
awnings store
Live in style – inside and out... Due to increased demand, and a desire to deliver the best service possible, our showroom is now only open by appointment. You will be free to browse at your leisure, without pressure. Experienced staff will be on hand to help and advise.
Telephone 01242 526 189 or fill out form on website for showroom appointment or home visit Showroom open by appointment
FREE EASY PARKING!
Unit K Churchill Industrial Estate, Churchill Road, Leckhampton, Cheltenham GL53 7FD
www.awningscheltenham.co.uk Page 30
Get a clear picture this Christmas! Mark Hawkes (pictured below with colleague John Nicholls) founded 1st Choice Aerial & Satellite in 2004 and has since helped hundreds of customers across the county with their aerial and satellite requirements. With more than 15 years’ experience in the industry, Mark offers a friendly, reliable and straight forward service to bring Freeview, Sky and Freesat channels to homes across Gloucestershire. So why choose 1st Choice for your aerial and satellite installation? As well as a vast experience and knowledge of the industry, Mark operates a fast and flexible service with staff on hand seven days a week. 1st Choice provide a full service, including digital aerial installation, satellite system repairs and LCD TV wall mounting and multi-room installation, and are also able to arrange European Satellite TV channels and extra TV points in homes. So whether your TV needs fixing in time to watch the festive films or you need help installing a TV to surprise a loved one this Christmas, Mark and his team are on hand to help. Call 1st Choice on 01242 649120 or freephone 0800 389 6894.
1st Choice
Aerial & Satellites
10% off with this advert
www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk
Digital Aerial Installations Upgrades and Repairs
Mark Hawkes
Tel: 01242 649120 The Local Answer
CLEEVE SUPPLIES NEW LOOK SHOP NOW OPEN Mon-Sat 9-5.30pm & Sunday 10.30-2.30pm
PRE CHRISTMAS CLEAN?
NEW
PET SUPPLIES in store from Jan 16
BUY 3 CLEANING PRODUCTS AND GET
LIGHT BULBS 10% OFF BUY 3 & GET 1 FREE WINTER
SLEDGES & SNOW SHOVELS
EXCL LED
WINTER CAR PACKS AVAILABLE IN STORE
IN STOCK
✁
FIREWORKS FOR SALE
10% OFF
Voucher must be produced at time of payment. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Valid from 28th-31st December 2015. Minimum £50 purchase
Tobyfield Road, Bishops Cleeve GL52 8NN. Tel: 01242 672806
ALL TYPES OF TREE SERVICES
Tree pruning & thinning ● Shrub shaping ● Hedge trimming ● Fencing ● Turfing ● Drives & Patios (block paving & gravel)
●
E SERVICE RE
S
T
DW
Small long established family run business
Competitive rates Free estimates and advice
01242 802684/07900 155 086 email: sales@dwtrees.com
www.dwtrees.com
Cotswold Garden & Landscaping Garden Maintenance • Turfing Hedge Cutting • Fencing Patios • Block Paving Tree Felling All waste taken away References available
All areas of work undertaken
01242 898398 / 07967 713488 Manor Farm, Stoke Road, Cheltenham GL52 7RY cgl.chelt@gmail.com
Landscape • Tree work • Garden Design • Garden Maintenance • Turfing • Lawn Cutting • Hedge Trimming • Pond Work • Patios • Decking • Pergolas • Fencing • Sheds • Driveways Diploma in Horticulture ~ Established 1993
Free Quotes ~ Competitive Rates
01242 713800 / 07778 340485
www.markclifford-landscapes.co.uk
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C
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N
H
A
M
Specialists in Paving and Turf Laying, Driveways, Fencing and Timber Work Andy Durrant 07786 602 992 Stuart Parker 07866 534 925 E: andydurrant7@hotmail.com W: www.landscape-creations.co.uk
www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk
The Local Answer
In The Garden with Julia Smith
Dress up your garden for the festive season Gardens tend to become forgotten at this busy time of year, but they can be dressed up for the festive season by putting outdoor fairy lights in trees, which can be seen from the house, and hanging homemade wreaths in prominent places. Don’t forget the birds either by tying up a tasty fat ball or seed feeder. Dress the house with stems from the garden and use the bare twisted branches of corkscrew hazel or willow for a vase. Use the red or yellow stems of Cornus (dogwood) or Salix (willow), which can be used inside, or alternatively pushed into pots outside to add height to flowering displays. The RHS do this in their gardens and it looks very effective!
Fashion a front door wreath The long rope-like stems of clematis can be used to fashion a front door wreath. Use florists wire to add any sprigs of holly or other things like dried Hydrangea heads, cones etc, add a tartan bow and there you have it!
A good Christmas tree for the house is the Fraser Fir tree (Abies Fraser). Apparently it not only doesn’t drop its needles, but it also has that lovely Christmas tree smell, which is something that I think is so important in a real tree. Cut a piece off the trunk and stick in a bucket of water for a few hours before erecting it (think of it like a vase of cut flowers). Keep it in a stand with a water reservoir, don’t site it by a radiator and it will look glorious all Christmas.
another spell. To be honest, life is too short – so I would say enjoy them now and send them to the big compost heap in the sky in the new year! There is still time to do some planting before the coldest weather of the season arrives in January/February, so if it is suitable and not too waterlogged, container grown deciduous trees and shrubs can still be planted. Happy Christmas!
Now is the time for poinsettias to flourish Poinsettias are on sale everywhere this month. They originate from Mexico and like warm, dry, draughtfree conditions. They are better bought from somewhere indoors like a garden centre, as standing on a cold market stall outside will do them no good at all. They are very difficult to bring through to next Christmas and have strange requirements such as being kept in the dark for a length of time and then brought into the light for The Local Answer
To advertise call 01242 510500
Page 33
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O O T F R O S T F G J B G N I I K S D S X Q I G
L T U A H S U Q I X I K O L S Y Q A X T Q H C R
A M B D E E O O C H T D W S E E K O K Q B Z A Z
T J Y J Z V M H P Z Z B R F G V S M T O Z Q H B
E A Z A P O I T X Z K K U R F D X D V X U C X E
Winter BOOTS CHILLY COAT COLD CUDDLE FIREPLACE FREEZING FROST GLOVES
HAT HIBERNATE HOTCHOCOLATE ICESKATING JACKET JUMPER PENGUIN POLARBEAR SCARF
I C O C Q L U F W N J I N T T X K J T J A F L D
R C C C L G W W S A I F W C E H O Q K P W H A T
A Q E Y F S O I V E U F L B C K X Z J O V J E U
E S O S X P L C N B N K P J Q Y C W D F T E L Y
B N J C K S W Q O T Q J E X B P P A O R Z N S H
R G A C H A P G D S E E H M N B T Z J F A B A Z
A J B C S E T S K Q D R O X N A G G O B O T H S
ecoclean SHOVEL SKIING SLED SNOW TOBOGGAN WHITE WINTER
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READY FOR CHRISTMAS?
L Z P C N R Y I J G X L H B C C G C B I N W N U
O O F G S W L X N H X O D N C V X F Q K H O R N
P O U J S I V L C G M N J O B J S M A Q W W U C
T I F I R E P L A C E H L R Y T J G C R X J Y O
N Y X G I H N N J U S D L F U H Y J U M P E R G
ltd
CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CARE & CLEANING
USING CODE CM20
07804 610105 • 01452 898247
www.ecocleancarpet.co.uk hello@ecocleancarpet.co.uk
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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
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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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Pro mo t e y ou r b u s i n e ss i n 20,000 m a g a zi n e s
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ANSWER
Female Plumber
Full domestic cleaning service
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Live in style...
Due to increased demand, and a desire to deliver the best service possible, our showroom is now only open by appointment. You will be free to browse at your leisure, without pressure. Experienced staff will be on hand to help and advise. For the widest range of blinds visit Gloucestershire’s largest indoor showroom... Unit K Churchill Industrial Estate, Churchill Road, Leckhampton, Cheltenham GL53 7FD
Telephone 01242 526 189 or fill out form on website for showroom appointment or home visit
main dealer
Showroom open by appointment
FREE EASY PARKING! www.newblindscheltenham.co.uk Page 36
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Interior Design with Caron Burrows
Dressing your guest room for Christmas visitors Here we are again – the festive season is fast approaching and Christmas often means opening up your home to friends and family – and sometimes putting them up for a night or two. Whether you’re lucky enough to own a guest room, or can shuffle the family around to fit in a few more, dressing the room correctly can all add to the spirit of Christmas. Once the room has been given a good clean and stripped of clutter and personal items, the fun of preparing for your guests can commence. Go on, let your hair down – it is Christmas after all!
the Christmas decorations when all the festive fun is over. A Christmas door mat placed by the bedroom door will help your guests remember which room is theirs.
Dress the bed
Offering your guests a comfortable night’s sleep is the primary role of the spare bedroom. Help it deliver on this by dressing the bed thoughtfully. With your already chosen colours in mind, begin to layer the bed – fresh crisp linen, topped with knitted or fur throws and finished off with Colour Injecting some colour doesn’t mean you cushions of various shapes, sizes and have to call in the decorators for a textures will give your guests that luxury complete redecoration. There are a living feel. number of colours that can be Check the lighting associated with the festive season – If the spare room is not used regularly, reds, dark greens, gold, silver and white you may not realise when bulbs have all help to give a cosy, Christmassy feel gone or lamps are dusty and damaged. to a room. A red Father Christmas sat on Check the lighting is adequate for the window sill with a matching red dressing and bedtime reading. Draping throw on the bed would welcome any fairy lights around a bed is a great way guest. to keep the festive mood in a spare room.
Flooring
Bring in a couple of cosy rugs to your colour scheme, which also help to insulate the room to keep that snug feeling. These can be purchased at a reasonable price and packed away with
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Hang some decorations If children make up part of your guestlist, they will be particularly delighted with this detail. A few decorations go a long way and can
successfully send the message that this is a home to have fun in at Christmas. If your guest room is too compact for a full-sized wardrobe, hooks or pegs provide useful clothes storage for visitors and can be used to hang decorative items such as Christmas baubles or tinsel.
Leave bathroom basics Visitors should not have to ask for a clean towel, so put together a set of bathroom basics and leave it in the guest room. Follow your colour scheme with a pile of fluffy towels and face cloths – a few handmade bits are always a nice touch. A small bag made from Christmas themed fabric containing hand knitted washcloths, guest soaps and shampoos will make your visitors feel cared for.
To advertise call 01242 510500
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Plumbing Services
-INSTALLATION
&
SERVICE-
Sudoku Fill the grids so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 to 9.
WISHING A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL OUR CUSTOMERS
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BOILER SERVICE only £65+VAT Our business is focused on customer service and expert knowledge ●
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7
e: mail@platinumplumbingservices.co.uk www.platinumplumbingservices.co.uk
Our team are here to help. Contact us today
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Find us on
curtain store Due to increased demand, and a desire to deliver the best service possible, our showroom is now only open by appointment. You will be free to browse at your leisure, without pressure. Experienced staff will be on hand to help and advise.
Telephone 01242 526 189 or fill out form on website for showroom appointment or home visit Showroom open by appointment
FREE EASY PARKING!
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THE SOLUTION FOR YOUR NEW BATHROOM ...
Unit K Churchill Industrial Estate, Churchill Road, Leckhampton, Cheltenham GL53 7FD
www.curtainscheltenham.co.uk The Local Answer
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Your local family business
Page 39
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?
For a free no obligation quotation call 01242 511384
Brand New Showroom Now Open Unit 41, Space Business Centre, Tewkesbury Road, Cheltenham, GL51 9FL
Quick Crossword 1
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Untitled Reproductive organ Circus performer Of past times Provided with personnel Thought of Physically demanding Rasping Egg shapes Fatigued Singer, Buddy ... Absorbed (water)
DOWN 1 Utmost 2 Climb 3 Adds soundtrack 4 Upon 5 Enduring 6 Tired reflex 10 Finger or toe 11 Giggle 13 Relied 14 Sun umbrella 16 Underground hollow 18 Solemn vow 19 Move to & fro 20 Money rolls
Andy Edwards
Painter & Decorator
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Free Quotes Expert Service at Affordable Prices Domes c and Commercial
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07761 503818 andyedwards1980@outlook.com
R Richards & Son Ltd FAMILY BUSINESS
R R S
ROOFING AND FASCIA BOARD SPECIALISTS
FR EE
SC A SU FFO PP LD LI IN ED G
Serving Glouc estershir e and beyond ◆ N e w R o o f s ◆ N e w B u i l d s ◆ S l a t e , C h i m n e y a n d Ti l e R e p a i r ◆ N e w Va l l e y s ◆ F e l t a n d B a t t e n i n g ◆ L e a d W o r k ◆ L e a k R e p a i r s ◆ Fi b r e g l as s Ro o f i n g ◆ Fe l t Ro o f i ng
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FENSA
Registered Company
Insurance Backed Guarantee
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Gloucestershire’s Plumbing, Heating and Renewable Technologies experts specialising in:
Oil and Gas Boiler Installations Oil and Gas Boiler Repairs Central Heating installations Gas Work & Maintenance Ground & Air Source Heat Pumps Solar Thermal Panels Underfloor Heating Power Flushing
Call us now on
01242 323923 70 Mendip Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL52 5EF
shutters store
Live in style...
Due to increased demand, and a desire to deliver the best service possible, our showroom is now only open by appointment. You will be free to browse at your leisure, without pressure. Experienced staff will be on hand to help and advise.
For the widest range of blinds visit Gloucestershire’s largest indoor showroom... Unit K Churchill Industrial Estate, Churchill Road, Leckhampton, Cheltenham GL53 7FD
Telephone 01242 526 189 or fill out form on website for showroom appointment or home visit
main dealer
Showroom open by appointment
FREE EASY PARKING!
NEW RANGE MADE IN BRITAIN DELIVERED WITHIN 3 WEEKS!!
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Matt Grimshaw Carpentry Ltd Your local Carpenter/ Kitchen Fitting Specialist
All aspects of carpentry undertaken Kitchens ● Doors ● Timber Flooring ● Stairs ● Roofing ● Bespoke Joinery 10% ● Decking ● Fencing ●
01242 604423/07792 088822
DISCOUNT
ON KITCHEN FITTING WHEN QUOTING TLA
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All chimneys and fully lined flues CCTV Chimney Inspections
ICS
Fully Insured Insurance Certificates Issued Book your chimney sweep today!
Paul Horton: 07921 214492
Severnside Sweeps
www.severnsidesweeps.co.uk
REGISTERED MEMBER
STEVENS RECYCLING Domestic and Industrial Skips
Money Matters with Roger Downes of Andorran
Profit at all costs? It hasn’t been a good few weeks for big businesses appearing to want to profit at all costs. Firstly Volkswagen are exposed as having misled the public and the authorities about the greenness of some of their cars. And then it’s the turn of Thomas Cook – heavily criticised by the independent review into the sad deaths of two youngsters nine years ago as putting profitability ahead of customer service.
Could profit be sacrificed to help loyal customers? The latter statement could be directed at so many big businesses with which we deal on a daily basis. At all of the major banks the question is how do we make more money for our shareholders? Would it ever enter their thinking to suggest that profit could be sacrificed occasionally in the name of helping out a loyal, but perhaps struggling, customer? Insurance and telephone companies are little better. They both rely heavily on internet traffic and getting through their complex telephone routines to talk to someone about your account is on a par with contacting HMRC to discuss your Notice of Coding.
Business ethics are at risk
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Ham Villa Road, Charlton Kings, Cheltenham GL52 6NB
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Sometimes it isn’t customer service that is compromised or ignored in the name of keeping the shareholders happy. No, it’s business ethics that are at risk. Most major retailers now go to great lengths to audit how their clothing is produced in Asia after there were so many incidences of sweat-shop labour being involved in its production. Their record is much better nowadays, but recent stories would suggest that the process hasn’t been eliminated completely. Businesses have to embrace strong ethics even if there is no immediate financial gain. And no business manager should ever dismiss the importance of customer service. Every one of them should read the independent review of the Thomas Cook incident and reflect on how many of the problems identified there are relevant to the businesses that they manage.
To advertise call 01242 510500
Page 43
Save the Planet with Aimee Campanella
Bags for life – a more sustainable answer Textile recyclers across the UK process thousands of kilograms of nonwoven/cotton shopping bags (‘bags for life’) each month. These are bags that are meant to stay with us for life and instead are being exported for reuse or recycling abroad due to the low demand for second hand reusable shopping bags in the UK. With supermarkets now charging 5p for carrier bags, there is hope that this number will decline as more of us take our ‘bags for life’ to help us with our weekly shop, and reduce the additional miles these items travel if they end up in a recycling box. Most reusable shopping bags are manufactured in countries such as Bangladesh or China and may travel up to 7000 miles to be used by us in the UK. When these and other textiles are then received by a textile recycler, an average of 89% of the used textiles will travel as far as Central Africa or South Asia, adding another 5000-6000 miles onto its journey. Although many people try to make a habit of taking a ‘bag for life’ with them during their weekly shop, it’s
easy to forget. How often have you found yourself in the supermarket having once again forgotten your bag at home and having to buy a new one at the checkout? Since the 5p per carrier bag charge was implemented in early October, it’s worth starting a new habit of ensuring you have a bag ready to go in your car or by your front door.
T-shirt to tote bag If you do not currently have a ‘bag for life’ to take on your upcoming weekly shop, do not fret. Rather than buying a new bag at the checkout you can make one at home before you go out. All you need is an old tshirt, a pair of scissors and about ten minutes. 1 Find any old t-shirt, flip it inside out. 2 Remove the neckline, cutting in around 3-4cm. This will be the bag opening. 3 Remove both sleeves, cutting in around 3-4cm. These will be your straps. 4 Along the bottom of the t-shirt, cut strips that are 56cm long and 2cm wide. Save time and cut both sides of the t-shirt at the same time.
A British fashion designer has recently developed a handmade tshirt backed with a 30 year guarantee. At only £25 each, the tshirts are ethically made in Portugal using organic cotton. The guarantee even covers returning the shirt if it rips, tears or needs any repair. This is the future of sustainable fashion. If we changed the way the UK supplies, uses and disposes of clothing, we could reduce the carbon, water and waste footprints of clothing consumption by 10-20% each. This could cut around £3 billion per year from the cost of the resources we use to make and clean clothes.
Retailers must make clothing that is built to last Although making a shopping bag from an old worn out t-shirt is a great solution to keeping more textiles for reuse and recycling in the UK, fashion still needs to slow down and retailers need to start thinking about making clothing ethically that is built to last. So instead of reaching for the usual 3 pack of t-shirts that fade and lose their shape after a few washes as this year’s stocking stuffer, consider going for gifts that are made in the UK or even better, making your own.
5 Take two of the strips cut along the bottom, double knot and repeat until each strip has been tied to another strip, sealing the bottom of the t-shirt which will be the bottom of the bag. 6 Take the edge of the fabric along the neckline and sleeves and pull slightly to smooth out any rough cutting. Flip outside in and your bag is ready to go! Page 44
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Motoring with Christian Tilbury
Want to live the electric dream? Even the most hardened petrol and diesel fans can’t have failed to notice that electric cars are literally on a charge. Once considered to be a pipe dream and with many manufacturers’ past efforts being little more than show cars, electric cars have come on leaps and bounds in an incredibly short period of time. So much so, that it’s now possible to own a practical electric car that has an acceptable range and turn of speed for the price of a conventionally-fuelled hatchback.
Advances in technology Only a couple of years ago there were under 4,000 plug-in vehicles on the road and that figure has now risen to in the region of 40,000. The immense growth in the Electric Vehicle (EV) sector can be attributed to the advances in technology, an increasing amount of
vehicles available and also the extension of the charging network across the country. If you’re considering an electric car though, they’re not suitable for everyone. Ideally, you need to be covering at the most 100 miles a day with a route that you know well and also have access to off-street parking where you can charge the car overnight. If you can meet these criteria and are happy with the cost of a new vehicle due to production EVs being relatively new, then there’s plenty of models to choose from and, better still, the Government will even contribute towards the cost of selected EVs with its Plug-in Car Grant. Obviously, you can offset the purchase cost against what you’ll save on fuel and, if you’re really ‘green’ with solar panels providing a level of electricity to your home, then you can charge your
EV literally free. In the future, it’s likely that electric cars will also be seen as a place to store electricity for other uses – potentially earning money for owners – but that’s a good few years away. If you’re wondering what EV to choose, then one car that’s becoming increasingly popular and which offers a great entry into electric vehicle ownership is the Renault ZOE. Awarded the titles of What Car? 2015 ‘Best Electric Car for less than £20,000’ and ‘Best Electric Vehicle’ in the Auto Express Driver Power 2015 survey, the Renault ZOE offers five-door versatility and a decent specification for as little as £13,445 after the Government Plug-in Car Grant. The official NEDC range is 149 miles and Renault estimates that in realworld driving conditions that this equates to around 106 miles in summer and 71 miles in winter
Plug into the future of motoring Like a lot of EVs, owning and driving the ZOE is remarkably easy. With instant torque it’s great around town and it’s more than comfortable on the motorway too. The only thing you’re guaranteed to find a little strange at first is the noise – or rather the lack of it. Like purchasing a ‘normal’ car, buying an EV does require plenty of research, but if you do opt for an electric car then you can be safe in the knowledge that you’ve plugged-into the future of motoring in every sense.
s ’ e i d Ed
Your local friendly garage offering
MOTS ● SERVICING AND REPAIRS W E N ● TRACKING AND TYRE SERVICES ●
Opening Times: Monday-Friday 8.30am-5.30pm
help@eddies-autos.co.uk Old Station Yard, Station Road, Beckford, Tewkesbury, Glos GL20 7AN The Local Answer
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TAXI
QB Cabs 07850 888565 Caroline Walters qbcabs@hotmail.com Based in Broadway
Contracts ● Airport Transfers ● Local Rates ● Courier
Gloucestershire’s VW AUDI Group Specialist Servicing From £95.00 MOT £39.95 Cambelts From £249.00 Air Conditioning regas £45.00 Free Courtesy Cars – Collection & Delivery
www.v-hubservices.co.uk
01684 214444 Sales: Mon-Fri: 9am-6pm Sat: 9am-4pm Sun: Appointment only
Service: Mon-Fri: 8.30am-5.30pm Sat: 8.30am-12.30pm Sun: CLOSED
UNIT 8A: Beta Close, Delta Drive, Tewkesbury, Glos. GL20 8SR
RT BODYSURE
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BODYWORK REPAIRS & PAINTING Had a bump? Or is something rusting? Come to RT Bodysure to get your vehicle looking 100% again
Got a dent? We’ve got a fabulous dent removal system Split plastic bumper? We’ve got the kit to repair it Bent anything? We’ve got a straightening jig
We can fix almost anything and, because our prices are sensible, you enjoy great value at RT Bodysure
REFURBISHMENT
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Index of Advertisers FOOD & DRINK
INFORMATION
Burley Field Lakes Corner Cupboard Inn Eastern Thai Salerno The Bell at Willersey
6 5 4 4 7
WHAT’S ON
CCP – Volunteering Cotswold RDA Fastershire
17 25 10
PROPERTY & STORAGE Park Home Life
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RETAIL
CLUBS & SPORTS Cheltenham College Sports CLC Sports Centre Rotary Club of Chelt North Sherdons Golf Centre Shipton Golf Course EVENTS & ATTRACTIONS Bacon Theatre Over Farm Prinknash Bird Park Promenade Productions The Bristol Hippodrome
12 14 29 21 21 28 29 24 23 22
HEALTH & BEAUTY Cheltenham CBT NHS Let’s Talk Oakwell Health The Guild
14 19 15 14
Antiques Wanted Cleeve Supplies
9 31
HOMES & GARDENS BATHROOMS Severn Vale Bathrooms 39 & 51 BUILDING SERVICES Marshalls Driveways 30 R. Richards & Sons 41 CARPENTRY Matt Grimshaw 43 CLEANING SERVICES Bredon Hill Cleaning Services 36 Ecoclean 34 Oven Busters 36 Pink Fairy Cleaning 36 Severnside Sweeps 43
FURNISHING & APPLIANCES New Blinds New Blinds – Awnings New Blinds – Curtains New Blinds – Shutters Upholstery Techniques GARDEN SERVICES Bartlett Tree Experts Cotswold Garden & Landscaping DW Tree Services Landscape Creations Mark Clifford Landscapes HEATING & PLUMBING KB Female Plumber Maisemore Apiaries Pete T Plumbing Platinum Plumbing PAINTING & DECORATING Andy Edwards MW Design TV & AERIAL 1st Choice Aerial WINDOWS & DOORS Albany Windows Clearway Doors & Windows Cloudy 2 Clear
36 30 39 42 52 32 32 32 32 32 36 42 42 39 41 37 30 40 38 35
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AUCTIONEERS Mallams CARE SERVICES Barnwood Trust Samaritans The Order of St John FUNERAL SERVICES The Co-operative Funeralcare MOTOR SERVICES Bishops Cleeve Private Hire Carsmetix Eddie’s Autos Motor Mods QB Cabs RT Bodysure V Hub Warners Westlands Hyundai PET SERVICES Dragon Vet Centre Echo Dogz SKIP HIRE & RECYCLING Stevens Recycling
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O Z N C U E T Z H K E Y C G T D Y E G T B V D E
T G Z I L J I O O G X U S A X M T T A U O K N A
C J G D Z H H V V G X D L E R A F L B W O B Y O
H G D Q E E W P E X B B E Z N F S N N Y T W A G
O U X L F B E K L W D F D R W Y D N H B S J I M
C C N S D P A R I M L G E H S K E Y V B U J K K
O O T F R O S T F G J B G N I I K S D S X Q I G
L T U A H S U Q I X I K O L S Y Q A X T Q H C R
A M B D E E O O C H T D W S E E K O K Q B Z A Z
T J Y J Z V M H P Z Z B R F G V S M T O Z Q H B
E A Z A P O I T X Z K K U R F D X D V X U C X E
I C O C Q L U F W N J I N T T X K J T J A F L D
R C C C L G W W S A I F W C E H O Q K P W H A T
A Q E Y F S O I V E U F L B C K X Z J O V J E U
E S O S X P L C N B N K P J Q Y C W D F T E L Y
B N J C K S W Q O T Q J E X B P P A O R Z N S H
R G A C H A P G D S E E H M N B T Z J F A B A Z
A J B C S E T S K Q D R O X N A G G O B O T H S
L Z P C N R Y I J G X L H B C C G C B I N W N U
O O F G S W L X N H X O D N C V X F Q K H O R N
P O U J S I V L C G M N J O B J S M A Q W W U C
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COMPETITION RULES
Thank you for all who took part in our November 2015 competition and congratulations to the winner: Bristol Theatre – Pair of tickets to see Coppelia – Lauren Lawley of Tewkesbury. Burley Field Lakes – Tickets to the firework night – Tony Smith of Cheltenham.
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. 10 By entering any competition you agree to have your details passed to a third party.
BOOKING DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE – Friday 11th December 2015
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The Local Answer
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