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JUNE 2015
EATING OUT EVENTS & ATTRACTIONS HEALTH & BEAUTY HOLIDAYS & TRAVEL PROPERTY HOMES & GARDENS SERVICES PETS SHORT WALKS RECIPES VOUCHERS COMPETITIONS WIN A PORTRAIT SESSION WITH YOUR PET IN OUR PICTURE PERFECT COMPETITION
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ANSWER
Cotswolds – 28,000 copies Cheltenham – 43,000 copies Gloucestershire North – 20,000 copies Gloucestershire South – 45,000 copies Gloucester – 42,000 copies Forest of Dean – 22,000 copies
Andrew Dagnall Publication Manager – Cotswolds
01242 541076 andrew@thelocalanswer.co.uk
Editorial Lois Kingscott editorial@thelocalanswer.co.uk
Helen Kingscott
Welcome to June ... It’s showtime! There’s plenty of festivals and shows going on throughout June from ‘Bjorn Again’ and ‘Chess’ to ‘Love Me Tender’ and ‘Sinatra, Sequins & Swing’. Have a look at our What’s On section for more ideas. If you’re planning your summer holiday and need some inspiration, check out this month’s travel article on the wonderfully diverse Kenya. The ‘Money Matters’ article offers some tips for organising your currency early enough to benefit from good exchange rates, so have a read if you’re planning a vacation soon. We’ve got some wonderful competitions and prizes this month including winning a trip to a design studio in Glasgow and a portrait session with your pet! Don’t forget Father’s Day on Sunday 21st June – why not treat him to a meal at one of our fantastic restaurants. Alternatively, make him a sweet treat and cook June’s ‘Delicious Dish’ – rhubarb and vanilla tart.
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Inside this month ... Delicious Dishes 5 Cocktail Time 6 Looking Good, Feeling Great 7 Parenting & Guardianship 9 Wild Food Foraging 10 Holidays & Travel 11 What’s On 12 Picture Perfect 18-19 Homes & Gardens 21 Interior Design 23 In the Garden 27 Sudoku 28 Quick Crossword 29 Word Search 30 Money Matters 33 Index, Competitions, Solutions 34
Competitions: 16, 19 & 25
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Delicious Dishes with Helen Kingscott
Rhubarb and vanilla tart A fresh tangy tart topped with tasty hazelnuts Ingredients: 500g rhubarb, cut into 11cm lengths; 75g caster sugar; 1tsp vanilla paste or seeds from 1 pod. For the pastry: 100g cold butter; 200g flour; 2tbsp caster sugar; 1 large egg, lightly whisked. For the filling: 1tbsp cornflour; 120g golden caster sugar; 300ml crème fraiche; 2 large eggs plus 1 yolk, beaten; tsp vanilla paste or seeds from 1 pod; 50g roasted hazelnuts, roughly chopped (optional).. Method: 1 Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the rhubarb on to a baking tray, sprinkle with sugar and dot with vanilla. Mix then arrange in a single layer and cover with foil. Bake for 12-15 minutes until just cooked, but holding its shape. Set aside. Why not visit Primrose Vale Farm Shop & PYO and make your tart with their delicious raspberry red rhubarb?
T HE I NN
AT
2 To make the pastry, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs then add the sugar. Stir in the egg, then knead until the dough just comes together. Wrap in cling film and rest in the fridge for 30 minutes. 3 Roll the pastry out on a lightly floured worktop to about 5mm thick and a size slightly larger than a 12cm x 30cm fluted tart tin. Use to line the tin, pressing the pastry into the flutes. Trim the pastry then push the sides up about 3mm proud of the tin. 4 Chill for an hour then bake blind – cover with greaseproof paper, fill with baking beans and bake for 12 minutes. Remove the beans and bake for five more minutes until you get a pale biscuit colour. Turn the oven down to 150°C. 5 In a bowl, mix together the cornflour and the sugar so it doesn’t clump. Add the crème fraiche, eggs and vanilla, then mix. Pour into the tart tin then bake for 30 minutes or until the custard is just set with a slight wobble. 6 Turn the oven off and leave the door ajar for 15 minutes, then remove and cool on a wire rack. Top with rhubarb, reserving the syrup. Chill until ready to serve, sprinkle over the hazelnuts (if using) and serve with syrup.
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Cocktail Time with Lois Kingscott
Sangria Sangria is a typical beverage from Spain and Portugal, which usually consists of wine, chopped fruit, a sweetener, and a small amount of brandy. The fruit can include orange, lemon, lime, apple, peach, melon, berries, pineapple, grape, kiwifruit and mango. A sweetener such as honey, sugar, syrup or orange juice is often added to take any bitterness away from sour fruit or the brandy. Instead of brandy, other liquids such as Seltzer, Sprite or 7 Up may be added. The use of the word sangria in labels is now restricted under European law. Only sangria made in Spain and Portugal is allowed to be sold under that name after the European Parliament green-lighted new wine labeling was introduced in January 2014. Ingredients (to make 1 litre): Ice; ½ lemon; ½ orange; 2 tbsp white sugar; 500ml red wine; 250ml fresh orange juice; 250ml ginger ale; 50ml brandy; mint to garnish. Ice cubes Method: 1 Wash and chop the orange and lemon, including skins, and add to a pitcher. 2 Add the orange juice and sugar to the pitcher and stir with a wooden spoon to dissolve the sugar. 3 Add the ginger ale, red wine and brandy to the pitcher and stir. 4 Add ice cubes and serve. Garnish with a sprig of mint if preferred.
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Looking Good, Feeling Great with Matt Wagstaff
Quick tips to lose weight and burn fat With summer starting, beach holidays booked and a high chance of dropping a few layers, now is the time you often see hurried diets being started, gyms starting to get busier and more joggers pounding the pavements. The media often prints articles on health and weight loss that are likely to confuse the reader, so here are some simple tips on how to lose weight and remain healthy this summer and onwards!
Sleep More Getting 7-10 hours sleep per night is vital for losing weight and staying in shape. Gaining fat has been shown to be very common in those who do not get enough ‘zzz’s’. This is due to hormone imbalances, which leads to an increased desire to eat when tired, and a stress response which in turn leads to higher fat accumulation. So turn out the lights (including phones) and relax!
Drink More Water Drinking water, especially before meals, is very beneficial for weight loss. Firstly, it helps to boost metabolism – the break down process for energy within the body. Drinking 500-700ml water before meals can help control hunger cravings, which means you consume fewer calories during a meal. Remember to avoid sugary drinks
such as sodas and fruit juices where Exercise possible. The obvious one. Raising your heart rate helps to burn body fat and lose weight, Eat More Greens and exercising in different formats is Eating more fruit and key. Performing aerobic exercise vegetables can help such as swimming or cycling with weight loss goals helps you burn calories and because the fibre in excess body weight. Combining these foods helps the this with some resistance or circuit digestive system to use, or style training helps boost metabolism, get rid of, nutrients within the which is increased by gaining more gut. Fruits and vegetables muscle tissue. A higher metabolism contain a lot of water and have fewer calories than many other foods. leads to a higher rate of fat loss. Vegetables should be eaten with every Ditch the Short-Term Diet meal, and fruit eaten in lesser quantities Short-term diets can often be a gimmick. due to their natural high sugar nature. They occasionally work for a short time, Eat Breakfast but are not effective long-term and more Starting the day with a decent meal is often than not actually damage the essential and probably one of the most body’s metabolism and ability to burn important contributors to healthy weight fat. Instead of dieting, focus on making loss. Having breakfast starts the healthy changes such as switching from metabolism working, helping to burn refined sugary foods to fresh, single calories and fat. Contrary to past ingredient whole foods, food that has a guidance, eggs are a great way to start short sell by date and food that rots! the day, as they are full of great nutrients including vitamin A, vitamin B12 and a good array of amino acids or protein molecules. Eating protein and ‘good fats’ in the morning also helps burn fat for energy in the body! Coconut oil is a great food to start your day with, as it is very easily absorbed and used in the body.
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Parenting & Guardianship with Roberta Smart
Recognise your parenting style Are you aware of how you parent? Do you follow your own parents’ style or are you trying something new? Here are nine ‘parenting styles’ as recognised by experts, all with different methodologies, offering varied outcomes for the children. Can you spot your style?
Authoritarian A strict, disciplined household. Military-style parenting featuring little warmth or space for ‘personality’ can create fearful children with low self-esteem with potential for aggressive behaviours as a means of venting frustration.
Authoritative Creates clear boundaries, has high but fair expectation of all children, with high levels of attention. Self expression is encouraged and independence fostered. Children are seen as happy and confident with good social skills and emotional control.
Neglectful or Uninvolved The least demanding and least responsive. As parents are highly self-involved, communication is at the lowest end. Only the basic needs of children are fulfilled, other developing needs being ignored or rejected.
long run it could create over-dependent Attachment children with low self-esteem and fear of Here, utmost importance is given to failure. developing strong emotional bonds. Parents are sensitive to their children’s needs and Slow Also known as ‘simplicity’ or ‘free-range’. offer continual emotional support. This can Parents allow children to grow as per their create robust, individualistic children. Often tastes and let them take the helm of their features homeschooling, organic eating and own life. With few demands or expectations, alternative approaches to education. they encourage children to explore the world Spiritual at their own pace. They allow them to develop their own interests and ultimately Spiritual or God centred parenting will hold faith at the centre of all decision making and let the child be who they want to be. teaching. Spiritual parenting creates a closely Equalitarian bonded family who constantly reinforce the This method sees the family as a team with presence of ‘Spirit’ within the family, all members having a say and a valued following rituals and celebrations and always opinion. Children are offered options and seeking to be God Centred. choices with information about So do you recognise your family here, or consequences to help them choose informatively. Mistakes are accepted and maybe you would like to adopt some of the seen as learning opportunities. There is no ideas listed? One thing is for certain – it’s concept of ‘punishment’ as all team never too late to try something new, and your kids just might thank you for it! members are equal.
Instinctive This style of parenting follows intuition with a ‘go with the flow’ attitude. Parents nurture their children in the same way they were brought up – they apply the same logic and rules that were applied to them in childhood.
Helicopter Parents ‘hover’ around their child like a helicopter – overprotective and constantly focussed on safety and security. Whilst this is suitable when the child is an infant, in the
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Wild Food Foraging
WANTED!
with Steven Hawley
A great skin cleanser
For the last couple of months I’ve been writing about wild plants that wouldn’t look out of place on your dining table at meal times. Even though the petals of the Wild Rose – or Dog Rose – do make a refreshing cup of tea, which is supposed to aid digestion, I thought I might try something different this time. Historically, the use for Dog Rose petals has been mostly medicinal. But since you will no doubt be spotting this plant on your countryside dog walk and, like myself, wondering if you can eat it – the answer is yes, but I’ve yet to find a suitable culinary use to suit my taste buds. If you experiment and stumble upon something delicious, be sure to let me know via Twitter – @PottyWhite. To make home-made rose water, ideal for restoring your skin’s PH balance after a thorough cleanse, put enough distilled water to cover your harvest into a saucepan and bring to the boil. Place the rose petals into the boiling water and lightly simmer for a good 15 minutes – don’t be afraid to cram the petals in! Strain them from the boiling liquid into warm, sterilised, airtight jars and quickly close the lid to create an airtight seal as it cools. If you use cold jars they might crack from the sudden heat, so slowly warm them in the oven first to acclimatise them. If you’re the frugal sort, portion the liquid between small jars such as those which might have once contained salmon paste. Once cool, store in the fridge and they should keep for up to a month. Each jar should be enough for a good body massage. That being said, I hope the better half doesn’t read this otherwise I will have locked myself into servitude for the foreseeable future! 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. Page 10
Have you heard Cotswold Riding for the Disabled Association are looking for new ponies? We require two 13.2hh and two 14.2hh geldings ideally aged between 8 and 12 years old. They must be well schooled and have a good temperament. If you think you have what we require, please contact Debbie Powell on 01242 584420 or email info@cotswoldrda.org.uk.
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Holidays & Travel with TLA Travel Expert
Natural landscapes and diverse wildlife Located near the equator in East Africa, Kenya has wonderfully diverse natural landscapes and wildlife, which are a significant part of why it is such a popular tourist destination. The main tourist season runs throughout the cool, dry months of June, July and August, and the hot, dry months of December and January. When the rains fall from March to May Kenya is much quieter, fewer tourists visit, accommodation prices fall, and some places close altogether. Wildlife-watching, khaki-clad tourists sat in open-top safari jeeps are the key selling point for Kenya’s tourist industry. The Maasai Mara is the conservation area to visit for the most dramatic game viewing and widest range of safari experiences. The immense wildebeest migration takes place during July through to October and
sees the movement of over two million animals – including gazelle, zebra and eland – from the Serengeti National Park to the Maasai Mara National Reserve. But this isn’t the only wildlife hotspot. The Samburu National Reserve showcases over 50 species of wild animals including oryx, zebra, giraffe and ostrich, while the Malindi Marine National Park is endowed with magnificent reefs and coral gardens that harbour sea turtles, whale sharks, dolphins and more.
Amazing alpine highlands There’s a great deal more to Kenya than animals, though. After a dramafilled safari, there’s nothing better than lounging around on beautiful whitesand beaches. The dazzling tropical coast has offerings for a whole range
of holiday-makers from those who enjoy a buzzing resort, to more chilled out customers who want to indulge in an exclusive island hideaway. If wildlife and beaches aren’t your thing, there are plenty of adventures to be had. The Rift Valley lakes are a natural area of outstanding beauty and offer a unique aquatic bird viewing spot; Amboseli provides stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro; while Mount Kenya features amazing alpine highlands and fantastic glacial topography of volcanic ridges. Accommodation varies from midrange safari lodges with buffetstyle cafeterias to private luxury tented camps, and all-inclusive beach resorts to exclusive luxury lodges. Whether you pack a bikini for the beach or binoculars for a safari, Kenya is sure to impress.
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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. EVERY DAY RIVER AVON BOAT TRIPS 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! The Handsam Boat Company. 07860 895416. Explore the River Avon from Abbey Park, Evesham. 27 & 30 MAY FAIRY AND WIZARD WORLD
Children can create their own miniature fairy grottos and their own special make belief home for wizards and faries in the activities tent! 01452 812727. thebirdpark.com. 31 MAY BLACK IS THE COLOUR OF MY VOICE A Nina Simone inspired show following the fictional character Mena Bordeaux, a successful jazz singer seeking redemption after the untimely death of her father. 7.30pm. £12 (£10 concessions). Subscription Rooms, George Street, Stroud GL5 1AE. 01453 760900. subscriptionrooms.org.uk. 2 JUNE THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING
The extraordinary story of the renowned astrophysicist Stephen Hawking. Stephen falls deeply in love with fellow Cambridge student Jane Wilde then receives an earthshattering diagnosis. With Jane fighting tirelessly by his side, Stephen embarks on his most ambitious scientific work,
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studying the very thing he now has precious little of – time. Together, they defy impossible odds and break new ground in medicine and science. 7.45pm. £6.50 (£5.50). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, GL51 6EP. 01242 258002.. 5-7 JUNE AMERICANA FESTIVAL A breezy musical weekend covering various forms of American music styles, acoustic and electric, including country, roots-rock, folk, bluegrass, R&B and Delta Blues. Music starts at 8pm on Friday night and doors will be open from 11.30am on Saturday. Early bird tickets £23. Normally £28 (£24 concessions) weekender ticket. stroudamericanafestival.co.uk 5-14 JUNE BURFORD FESTIVAL 2015 The Festival’s 50 events feature music of all kinds (contemporary, baroque, choral), an outdoor production of Twelfth Night, a theatrical installation project, 25 open gardens, tours, talks by authors and a fascinating range of other speakers. See www.burfordfestival.org for details. 6-7 JUNE BURFORD COLLECTORS CLUB 5TH RALLY Classic vehicles, trade stands. Admission £4 adults, £2 concessions, under 16s free (must be accompanied by a paying adult). 10am. Rough Grounds Farm, Burford Road (A361), Lechlade, GL7 3EU. burfordcollectorsclub.co.uk. 7 JUNE – 7 JULY BREAD MAKING COURSES Enjoy a full day making bread. Suitable for novices or previous experience, learn the skills from a real baker. Refreshments and lunch provided. Visit our website for dates and prices. www.grahamsbakery.org. 07779 302309. 9-13 JUNE HMS PINAFORE AND COX & BOX Presented by The Cotswold Savoyards. You’ll be familiar with HMSP but probably not C&B. It’s a fast moving story of two men renting the same room without knowledge of the other. Cox works days and Box nights. Cox has a day off finding Box and mayhem ensues! 7.30pm (2pm Sat mat). £13-£19. Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573. everymantheatre.org.uk.
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11 JUNE MARTIN ALVARADO; TANGO DE AMOR Widely considered one of Argentina’s finest singers, Martín Alvarado is like an Alfie Boe of the tango world. Accompanied by phenomenal Finnish talent on the piano and bandoneon Mikke Helenius. Meanwhile the elegance and artistry of the Argentine tango dance is performed by award-winning Guillermo Torrens and Maria Maragaki, who will also teach a class before the show. Show only – £15 (£13 concessions). With tango class – £20 (£18 concessions). 7.45pm. Subscription Rooms, George Street, Stroud GL5 1AE. 01453 760900. subscriptionrooms.org.uk. 11-28 JUNE COTSWOLD OPEN STUDIOS Discover artistic talent around Cirencester at Cotswold Open Studios at 14 venues including Quenington Fresh Air Sculpture Show and a group exhibition at Wetpaint Gallery – near Beeches Car Park, Cirencester. Maps at Wetpaint Gallery, Tourist Information or visit cotswoldopenstudios.com. Studios open 10am–4pm on weekends 13th–14th, 20th–21st and 27th–28th June. Group exhibition at Wetpaint 11th–28th June (10am–5pm Tuesdays to Saturdays). 12 JUNE SINATRA, SEQUINS & SWING – THE CAPITOL YEARS LIVE!
Sensational concert-show – recommended “must see” by President of Sinatra Music Society. World class 15 piece orchestra featuring players from BBC Big Band/Ronnie Scott’s Orchestra and stunning new UK Swing star vocalists. 7.30pm. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, Cheltenham GL50 1QA. From £16.50. Box Office: 08445 762210 or cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk.
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12 JUNE DIABETES UK FUNDRAISING BALL Held in honour of Carmel Jones, Chosen Hill School are holding a ball at the Pittville Pump Rooms in aid of Diabetes UK. Tickets include entry, a three course dinner and live music from the Chip Shop Boys and Steve Sims. Join an existing table or create your own table of ten. Doors open at 7.30pm. Black tie. £55pp. To join contact Kate Nicholls (kn@chosenhill.gloucs.sch.uk), Matt Day (md@chosenhill.gloucs.sch.uk) or call 01452 713488. OF OOZIES AND ELEPHANTS
A touching documentary about the elephants that are loved and valued for logging. It shows how the Oozie (head rider) relates to his elephant and how the survival of these precious animals could improve. Followed by a Q&A with the film-makers. In aid of the Cheltenham Minster Church Bells Appeal. 7.30pm. £10 (£8). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002.
12-13 JUNE DEAR CASSANDRA & THE STRANGE CASE OF DR JEKYLL AND MR HYDE Caramba Theatre Company. Join Cassandra Austen as she recalls her famous sister Jane’s life through their letters followed by the famous R.L. Stevenson story of the struggle between good and evil with horrifying consequences. The Old Police Station (Court Room), Chipping Campden. 7.30pm. Contact 07952820456. www.caramba-theatre.co.uk. 13 JUNE SACRED HEARTS ANNUAL SUMMER FETE Live Music by the Jazz Shed, Ukes Anon, dancing by Janet Marshall and Danceworks. Bouncy castle for children, children’s games, hobby horse racing, pimms tent, BBQ, nearly new toys, books, plant stall etc. 12 noon to 3pm. Sacred Hearts Catholic Church, Moorend Road, Charlton Kings GL53 9AU. Visit Facebook: Sacred Hearts Catholic Church Charlton Kings Summer Fete. 70S THEMED PARTY NIGHT Dust off those flares and get your boogie on for the best of the 70s. Includes a welcome drink, 70s music and chef’s choice of buffet. Fancy dress otional but encouraged. Prize given for best dressed. £15 per person. Hallmark Hotel Gloucester, Matson Lane, GL4 6EA. 01452 525653.
16 JUNE THE IMITATION GAME
A nail-biting race against time following Alan Turing and his brilliant team at Britain’s top-secret code-breaking centre, Bletchley Park, during the darkest days of World War II. 7.45pm. £6.50 (£5.50). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. bacontheatre.co.uk. 18 JUNE THE WEST GLOUCESTERSHIRE WEDDING SHOW Come and meet some of the best local Wedding Suppliers in a relaxed environment with beautiful surroundings. Free Entry. Free Magazine. Free Car Parking. 5pm-9pm at Stonehouse Court Hotel, Bristol Road, Stonehouse GL10 3RA. thewestgloucestershireweddingshow.co.uk
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.
CELEBRATE Father’s Day with us 21st June Edge, Near Stroud, Gloucestershire GL6 6ND Tel: 01452 813576 www.edgemoor-inn.com The Local Answer
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19 JUNE SOLSTICE WALK 2015 Step forward and support Longfield Hospice Care for the Cotswolds. 5k or 10k walk starting from 6pm. Live music, children’s entertainment, BBQ and bar. Entry fee £15 per adult, £7.50 per child (under 5s go free). Entry forms available 01453 886868 or email events@longfield.co.uk. Register online at longfield.org.uk. From Longfield, Burleigh Lane, Minchinhampton, GL5 2PQ. VINTAGE & CRAFT FAIR GLOCUESTER Live entertainment, vintage beauty, vintage tearoom, classic cars plus lots more. £1 entry, kids free. 11am-5pm. Blackfriars Priory, Ladybellgate Street, Gloucester GL1 2HN. 07738 115572. helsbellesboutique.co.uk. 20 JUNE ISLANDS IN THE STREAM
with country music’s greatest hits including ‘Ruby’, ‘9 to 5’, ‘Jolene’, ‘The Gambler’, ‘Coward of the County’ and ‘Lady’, enjoy the awesome vocals and gentle humour of Dolly and Kenny’s legendary live shows. 8pm. £18.50 (£16.50 concessions). Subscription Rooms, George Street, Stroud GL5 1AE. 01453 760900. subscriptionrooms.org.uk. FAMILY FUN DAY – OLD PATS CLUB A fun filled day for all the family, with organised novelty sports and races, tag rugby, BBQ, bouncy castle, face painting, a grand raffle with a Star Prize up for grabs, and more. Free admission. 3pm. Patesians Sports & Social Club. Everest Road, Leckhampton, Cheltenham. 28 JUNE WE SALUTE YOU! Charity variety show in aid of The Poppy Appeal. Highlights from BBC TV series ‘Allo Allo’ performed by Twyning Players, Marches Military Wives Choir, war time sing-along with Annie Martin (contestant in the 2015 talent show series ‘Stars in their Eyes’) and much more. Flag waving and singing the National Anthem are compulsory! Commemorating Armed Forces Day. £15. 7.30pm. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire GL20 5NX. Box Office: 01684 295074.
Shipton Golf Course
Celebrating the queen and king of country, Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers. Stacked
3-4 JULY MILEFEST – MUSIC FESTIVAL 25 acts over 2 stages. Great bands, family fun, food and drink, camping – all raising money for Milestone School for severely disabled young people. Funds raised will help provide fun outdoor learning for the students. 6-11pm Friday and 1-11pm Saturday at Hartpury GL19 3BG. Tickets: Weekend £10 (£3 u-14s), Friday £5 (£1 u14s), Saturday £6 (£2 u-14s) available from Milestone School, Hartpury Post Office or 07794 587133. milefest.co.uk. Facebook/Twitter: Milefest 1. 8-11 JULY CHESS THE MUSICAL
Promenade Productions present this acclaimed view of the Cold War, full of political intrigue as USA and USSR play out another epic battle on the international stage. The show has a strong love interest too – a romantic triangle between the two players in a world championship and the woman who manages one and falls for the other. £12-£16 (concessions available). Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. promenadeproductions.co.uk.
“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
Tel: 01242 890237
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Nr Frogmill, Shipton, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL54 4HT
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WIN TICKETS! courtesy of the bacon theatre
A cornerstone of English drama The National Theatre Live season continues this summer with ‘Everyman’, broadcast live from the iconic London South Bank venue at The Bacon Theatre on Thursday 16th July. BAFTA® winner and Academy Award® nominee Chiwetel Ejiofor (12 Years a Slave) takes the title role in this dynamic new production, directed by Rufus Norris (Broken, London Road). Everyman is successful, popular and riding high when death comes calling. He is forced to abandon the life he has built and embark on a last frantic search to recruit a friend, anyone, to speak in his defence. A cornerstone of English drama since the 15th century, Everyman explodes onto the stage with words by Carol Ann Duffy, Poet Laureate, and movement by Javier De Frutos. Tickets cost just £16 (£14 for concessions) 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 ‘Everyman’, The Local Answer, 1 Ullenwood Court, Cheltenham, GL53 9QS. Alternatively, enter via email by sending your details to competitions@thelocalanswer.co.uk, stating ‘Everyman’. Closing date: Thursday 11th June 2015.
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The Local Answer
Summer is here at The Bird and Deer Park Glorious views from the new Visitor Centre The Bird & Deer Park now boasts its own stunning Visitor Centre with glorious views overlooking the park, a lovely shop and of course light refreshments can be purchased. The Reindeer’s enclosure is the hot spot where last year Frozen and Blanco were born right in front of 40 building contractors – what a result! This year we are hoping that this great event will be seen by visitors from the balconies of the new centre. Rudolph, Prancer and Comet are just some of the great attractions that can be seen at The Bird Park all year around. The birds are nesting and hatching daily, reminding us that summer has now begun in earnest.
Bijou Birthday Parties For those of you that want to spend a different kind of day at the park, why not host your child’s special day in the glorious Gypsy Caravan or the Mad Hatters Marquee? Both locations are unique due to the wildlife around and the quality of the venues themselves – you could be the first to find somewhere really original to spend that special day. So book your child’s special birthday at the park to enjoy the shop, views and wildlife and have a truly unique birthday. Call 01452 812727 for more information or visit thebirdpark.com.
Open 7 days a week 10am-5pm • 01452 812727 • www.thebirdpark.com The Bird and Deer Park, Prinknash, Cranham, Gloucester GL4 8EX
Picture Perfect Most Embarrassing Dad
Thanks to all of you who sent in your brilliant pictures to enter our ‘Most Embarrassing Dad’ competition. Congratulations to Thomas, Jacob and Lyla Belle Rooum of Gloucester who submitted the winning image (above) of their dad, Chris! They have won £300 worth of beer for their dad courtesy of Battledown Brewery, Donnington Brewery, Gloucester Brewery, Goffs Brewery and Wickwar Brewing Co. Some of our other favourites are pictured above right.
WIN A FAMILY PHOTOSHOOT WITH YOUR PET! The theme for our July competition is ‘Adorable Animals’! Simply submit a photograph of your pet and you could be the winner of this wonderful prize! Courtesy of Jo Hansford Photography, the winner will also receive a portrait session with their pet and a 10” framed print of their favourite photograph. To enter, email your photo along with your name, address and telephone number to editorial@thelocalanswer.co.uk, stating ‘Adorable Animals’. One entry per person. You must ask permission to take photos of anyone or their belongings. See Index page for full competition rules. Closing date: Thursday 11th June 2015.
CHESS THE MUSICAL COMES TO CHELTENHAM
Promenade Productions will be presenting this fully staged production with a full Orchestra for the first time at The Bacon Theatre from Wednesday 8th to Saturday 11th July at 7.30pm each evening. Played out on an international stage and filled with political intrigue, CHESS the Musical also has a strong love interest – a romantic triangle between two players in a world Chess championship and the woman who manages one and falls in love with the other – and features the well-known numbers ‘I know him so well’, ‘One night in Bangkok’ and ‘Anthem’. Set in the 1970’s, a time when tensions created by the Cold War were easing, the storyline for CHESS is based on one of the most surreal of all Cold War confrontations – the Chess tournament between the USA and the USSR. The characters of the protagonists are loosely based on those of Victor Korchnoi and Bobby Fischer and the championship held in Merano, Italy.
WHY NOT MAKE YOUR MOVE AND CONTACT THE BACON THEATRE BOX OFFICE NOW – 01242 258002
,
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Interior Design with Vicky Walker
Window Dressing Dressing a window can be as diverse as you wish. You need to think about what you want to achieve – it may be privacy, adding warmth, functionality or just for decoration.
like a blanket sandwiched between the main fabric and lining. This gives a really sumptuous look and feel as well as keeping out draughts. 1. Privacy Interlined curtains are This can be in the form of a simple sheer roller blind, which will give a great for draughty doors or contemporary feel to the room and old cottages. won’t block out that much light during 3. Functionality the day so you are able to keep them How often do you draw pulled down fully. Alternatively, you curtains? Are you someone could have shutters fitted, though who always pulls them these do tend to make the room look shut as soon as the light dark. A slightly lighter version would goes down? If so, choose be to have venetian blinds, which can curtains with a simple neat be either wooden or aluminium, and heading that are easy to this gives you the option of tilting the pull open and shut with slats so you can choose how much minimal adjustment. privacy you want. Invest in a good quality track or curtain pole to make the curtains run much more smoothly. Silent Gliss as a brand is certainly the ‘Rolls Royce’ of tracks – try one and you will notice the difference.
4. Decoration
2. Warmth
These are used to simply dress the window and not be functional. It may be that you want a roman blind to pull up and down but have ‘dress’ curtains either side, which means that you would never pull them. With this choice you would need less fabric, which means you have the option of choosing a more expensive fabric!
Full length curtains in a thick fabric will certainly add warmth to a room and 5. Curtain Headings you can also interline them, which is There are various types of headings
but briefly they fall into these names: Pencil pleat: simple gathered heading. Pinch pleat: classical pleat pinched into three, also known as French pleat. Goblet: traditional heading shaped like a goblet – not so commonly used today. Eyelet: contemporary heading with rings punched into the fabric – no curtain rings are required on your curtain pole and cannot be used on a track. Wave heading: contemporary heading which folds back into waves – this needs to be fitted onto a specialist track. Simple but needs to be calculated accurately.
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Wyevale Garden Centre (formerly Blooms), Haresfield Road, Nr Stonehouse, Glos GL10 3DP
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Page 23
Design your own Cotswolds cushion!
AND WIN A TRIP TO A DESIGN STUDIO IN GLASGOW! courtesy of Just Fabrics and Voyage Maison Just Fabrics have teamed up with Voyage Maison and are launching a great competition. They are asking entrants to design a cushion using any medium – oils, watercolours, pencil, anything. – taking their inspiration from the Cotswolds. The lucky winner will be flown to Voyage Maison’s design studio in Glasgow for an overnight stay and to work with a designer to finalise the cushion. Two runner ups will also have their designs made up into cushions. The competition will close on the 31st August 2015. Just Fabrics’ Online Interior Designer Alice says: “This is a fantastic opportunity for someone to see their design made into a cushion and sold in our retail stores and online.” Step 1 Get Creative! Design your Cotswolds cushion using any medium you like - oils, watercolours, pencil anything! The finished cushion will be 43cm x 43cm.
Step 2 Photograph your entry and upload online. (see website)
Step 3 A panel of experts will select a shortlist of 10 entries. We will then ask for the original design to be sent to us to view in person.
Step 4 The shortlist of 10 will be showcased on social media where 3 finalists will be chosen based on a combination of likes and a representative from Voyage Maison’s decision.
Further details can be found on the website – www.justfabrics.co.uk/competition – or contact Alice or Jane on 0845 4989043 for more information.
Winning ways with water
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BUILDING AND REFURBISHING SWIMMING POOLS
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In The Garden with Julia Smith
Every garden should have roses The weather should now be milder and more settled (perhaps!), so you can transplant courgettes, marrows, pumpkins and squashes that have been sown inside, or if you haven’t got any, sow directly into a prepared piece of ground. Outdoor tomato plants can be put out now as well. This month the roses come into their own and – in my opinion – every garden should have roses in it. My favourite no nonsense rose for climbing is the ‘Blush Noisette’, as it is really healthy with lovely small pale pink scented flowers that carry on from May till October and needs virtually no pruning. I also love Rosa ‘Gertrude Jekyll’ which is smothered with the most deliciously scented pink flowers. The pink colour is a wonderful foil for bright blue and, as my door is that colour, I have a climbing ‘Gertrude Jekyll’ outside. I would say however that it needs a boost after its first flush of flowers, so give it some more rose food in late June to keep it going. ‘Morning Glory’ (Ipomoea), which is a climbing annual, looks lovely growing through it with glorious blue flowers.
can scrape off 10cm or so of soil and top up with fresh soil, something like John Innes No.3. Use slow release plant food pellets to make sure the plant is being fed (refer to the instructions on the packets as to the number needed). It is also a good idea to thin out some of the stems of plants such as delphiniums or phlox at this time. Take out about a quarter of the weakest ones at the base – this will ensure the remaining stems will be stronger. Any newly planted shrub or perennial will need watering in the first few weeks to keep it healthy until the roots grow. Don’t spray water on every day – use a can and give the surrounding ground a good soaking once a week. If the ground is dry use a whole can for each plant. Water in the early morning or mid-evening – not in the heat of the day. Look at your downpipes from the guttering and see if there is any way you can fit in a water butt to help conserve the water from your tap. Butts are available now that are very slim and will fit in small spaces.
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This is a good time to sort out your long-term pots in the garden. Repot into slightly larger pots (don’t put directly into a huge pot from a small one, as the plants don’t grow well). Don’t use pots that curve inwards at the top either for these long-term plantings, as they are next to impossible to remove the rootball without breaking the pot. The very big pots are impractical to empty and redo, so with these you
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Page 27
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
Don’t look until you’ve finished! Solutions on ‘Index of Advertisers’ page.
THE SOLUTION FOR YOUR NEW BATHROOM ... Your local family business
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Quick Crossword ACROSS DOWN 1 Privileged class 1 Develop 7 Former soldiers 2 Rupture 8 Edible organs 3 Measure (out) 10 Horseracing track 4 Furnishing scheme 12 Entitling 5 Diminishing 14 Moved through water 6 Admiration 16 Tasks 9 Large spoon 17 Scraps 11 Partly cooked 20 Pop instrumentalists 13 Gesture of assent 23 Finnish steam bath 15 Radiates 24 Highly charged 16 Sharply serrated 25 River-mouth land 18 Musical composition 19 Taunts 21 Curved-bill bird 22 Auction
W h y n ot u s e t his s pa ce t o a dve rt is e yo u r b u s i n e ss ? For details please get in touch ...
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© Lovatts Puzzles
Don’t look until you’ve finished! Solutions on ‘Index of Advertisers’ page.
01242
ANSWER 510500
HATHERLEY WORKTOPS LTD
HW
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Worktop Refits ■ Door Replacements ■ Kitchen Upgrades ■ Full Kitchens ■ Electrical ■ Plumbing ■ Gas ■ Tiling ■ Stud Walls/Plastering
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Page 29
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Why n ot u s e t his s pa ce t o a dve rt i s e y o u r b u s i n e ss ? For details please get in touch ...
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01242
ANSWER 510500
Don’t look until you’ve finished! Solutions on ‘Index of Advertisers’ page. Page 30
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ADVERTISEMENT
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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Abbey Group, Units 23/24, Neptune Business Centre, Tewkesbury Road, Cheltenham, GL51 9FB
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Any Currency Yes OK, it’s the name of one of my favourite, locallytrained racehorses, but this month ‘Money Matters’ is not off in search of gambling winnings. Well, maybe it is when I come to think about it, but not in the conventional sense of our four-legged friends at Prestbury Park. This month ‘Money Matters’ examines the risks attached to dealings in foreign currency. I have just returned from a busy trip to the US and in my normal style I left currency buying until the very last minute. Well, at the airport actually!
Plan early or be lucky! The dollar/sterling exchange rate had already moved against me in the short time that the currency market in the UK has had to react to the result of the General Election. But I had to be picked up from the floor when I was told the going rate at the airport was over 1.80. I waited and sorted it out when I got there. It set me thinking – how much money is made or lost simply by the timing of a foreign currency transaction? Anyone going on holiday is affected, as are all of our businesses that trade abroad. It’s that important to some of them that they employ full-time staff to manage their exposure. They’re not always right, mind you – the markets didn’t predict the election result any better than the pollsters did. So what to do? Plan early (do as I say not as I do obviously!) and make sure that there is a good cushion available to you should the movement be adverse. Or maybe simply be lucky!
To advertise call 01242 510500
Page 33
Index of Advertisers FOOD & DRINK The Edgemoor Inn The Inn at Fossebridge
HOMES & GARDENS 13 5
WHAT’S ON CLUBS & SPORTS Shipton Golf Course EVENTS & ATTRACTIONS Bacon Theatre Forestry Commission Live Promotions – Bjorn Again Prinknash Bird Park Promenade Productions Showcase The Bristol Hippodrome
14 16 14 16 17 20 20 15
HEALTH & BEAUTY Cheltenham CBT NHS Let’s Talk
7 6
HOLIDAYS & TRAVEL Barnes Coaches
11
RETAIL MillAquia Leisure
26
BATHROOMS Severn Vale Bathrooms 28 & 35 BUILDING SERVICES Marshalls Driveways 22 R. Richards & Son 22 CARPENTRY 28 Three Piece Joinery CLEANING SERVICES Ecoclean 22 FURNISHING & APPLIANCES Bella’s Interiors 22 Just Fabrics 24-25 GARDEN SERVICES DW Tree Services 27 Mark Clifford Landscapes 27 PAS Landscapes 26 HEATING & PLUMBING Pete T Plumbing 28 Seasoned Hardwood Logs 26 KITCHENS Dream Doors 23 Hatherley Worktops 29
WINDOWS & DOORS Albany Windows C&L Windows Cloudy 2 Clear
If you don’t see the goods or services you provide listed here – take advantage and
2 21 31
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CARE SERVICES Barnwood Trust 8 Helping Hands Home Care 6 Richmond Witney 4 Samaritans Glos 34 Somerset Care 9 COMPUTER SERVICES Abbey Group 32 FUNERAL SERVICES Alexander Burn 33 MOTOR SERVICES Valkyrie Chauffeurs 33 Westlands Hyundai 36 PHOTOGRAPHY SERVICES Jo Hansford Photography 19 SKIP HIRE & RECYCLING Stevens Recycling 33 UTILITIES Utility Warehouse 26 & 32
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COMPETITION RULES
COMPETITION WINNERS Thanks to all who took part in our May 2015 competitions and congratulations to the winners: Picture Perfect – £300 worth of beer – Thomas Rooum of Gloucester. West Midlands Safari Park – Four tickets to visit the park – Nicole Bassett of Bourton on the Water. Live Promotions – Four tickets to see Bjorn Again – Angela Leech of Andoversford. Aquajardin – Pond kit – M.J. Hunt of Longlevens
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 – Monday 15th June 2015
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