The Local
ANSWER
APRIL 2016
200,000 DELIVERED MONTHLY IN GLOUCESTERSHIRE
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The Local
ANSWER
Cheltenham – 43,000 copies Cotswolds – 28,000 copies Forest of Dean – 22,000 copies Gloucestershire North – 20,000 copies Gloucestershire South – 41,000 copies Gloucester – 46,000 copies
Chris Raymond Sales Director
01242 541079
Welcome to April ... We have a fantastic competition this month in which you could be the lucky winner of a £500 holiday gift card courtesy of The Local Answer! For more details and to find out how you can enter, see the centre pages. Take advantage of the glorious sunshine and get out and about in the countryside in April. Why not forage for gorse, or take up running as a hobby – our ‘Looking Good Feeling Great’ feature has some great tips on how to hit the track while avoiding injury! Alternatively, if the weather has inspired you to book a getaway, have a read about sunny Lisbon in our ‘Holidays & Travel’ article.
chris@thelocalanswer.co.uk
Editorial Lois Kingscott editorial@thelocalanswer.co.uk
Helen Kingscott editorial@thelocalanswer.co.uk
Distribution Robert Kingscott – 01242 541071 distribution@thelocalanswer.co.uk
Production Alison Hambling alison@thelocalanswer.co.uk
Accounts Kerry Fell accounts@thelocalanswer.co.uk
1 Ullenwood Court, Ullenwood, Gloucestershire GL53 9QS
01242 510500
Inside this month... Cocktail Time Delicious Dishes Wild Food Foraging Holidays & Travel Wildlife Matters Pet Care Parenting & Guardianship Education Health & Beauty Looking Good, Feeling Great Style & Fashion Mirror Mirror on the Wall Medical Health Property What’s On
4 5 6 9 10 11 13 15 16
Win a £500 Holiday Gift Card! 42-43 Motoring
49
Homes & Gardens
50
Interior Design
53
Sudoku
57
In the Garden
59
Quick Crossword
63
Wordsearch
68
19 21
Save The Planet
75
23 27 31 40
Money Matters
79
Local Policing
81
Gadgets & Gizmos 77
Index, Competitions, Solutions 82
Competitions: 25, 42-43 & 45 thelocalanswer
@thelocalanswer
www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk
Page 3
Cocktail Time with Lois Kingscott
Celebrations of Cheltenham
Let’s Celebrate
Bloody Mary The Bloody Mary is often called ‘the world’s most complex cocktail’ because of the vast number of ingredients it contains, and there are three different claims to who invented it. The first is a bartender from New York’s 21 Club named Henry Zbikiewicz, who supposedly invented the cocktail in the 1930s. The second, a frequent visitor of the 21 Club, is the comedian George Jessel. But the third comes from Fernand Petiot who claimed to have invented the Bloody Mary before the other two, in 1921, while working at the New York Bar in Paris – later known as Harry’s New York Bar. Petiot said that he adapted Jessel’s drink from being simply vodka and tomato juice by combining “four large dashes of salt, two dashes of black pepper, two dashes of cayenne pepper, and a layer of Worcestershire sauce”. He then added a dash of lemon juice, ice, vodka and tomato juice before shaking, straining and pouring. The cocktail’s name is associated with several historical figures – most prominently Queen Mary I of England, who gained the nickname due to the mass executions she carried out while attempting to re-establish Roman Catholicism in England. Ingredients: Ice; 50ml vodka; ½ lemon, juice only; 6 dashes Worcestershire sauce; 3 dashes Tabasco sauce; 150ml tomato juice; pinch salt and ground black pepper; celery and wedge of lime to garnish. Method: 1 Place the ice in a tall glass and add the vodka. 2 Add the lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco sauce and tomato juice. Stir well. 3 Season to your taste with salt and pepper, garnish with celery and lime wedge, and serve immediately.
PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY
With a huge range of greeting cards and related gifts, a wide range of newspapers and magazines, stationery and an excellent selection of presents for all occasions, why go anywhere else? We have the largest wool and haberdashery stock in the area. In addition we have a range of wedding dresses, bridal wear, prom dresses, handbags, shoes, evening wear and accessories.
Unit 5 Morrisons Centre, Caernarvon Road, Up Hatherley, Cheltenham GL51 3BW
Why not have a Mocktail? For a non–alcoholic alternative, simply omit the vodka. Page 4
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Delicious Dishes with Helen Kingscott
Rhubarb panna cotta served with roasted rhubarb Tangy, light and creamy – a perfectly simple spring dessert Ingredients (serves 4): For the roasted rhubarb: 500g fresh rhubarb, cut into 3cm pieces; 2 tbsp caster sugar; 4 tbsp apple juice For the panna cotta: 75g caster sugar; 150ml double cream; 2 gelatine leaves, soaked in a bowl of water until soft, squeezed dry; 300ml buttermilk. Method: 1 For the roasted rhubarb: preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F/Gas 6). Place the pieces of rhubarb onto a baking tray, sprinkle with sugar then drizzle over the apple juice. 2 Roast in the oven for 8-12 minutes, or until just tender. 3 Blend 125g of the roasted rhubarb in a food processor to make a purée. Keep back the remaining roasted rhubarb to garnish the panna cotta. 4 For the panna cotta: put the sugar and cream in a pan and gently simmer. Stir continuously until all of the sugar has dissolved. 5 Soak the gelatine leaves in a bowl of cold water for 3-4 minutes, or until softened. Squeeze out all excess water. Add the softened gelatine leaves to the sugar and cream mixture. Continue to simmer until they are dissolved. 6 Add the rhubarb purée to the pan and stir until well combined. Remove from the heat and put aside to cool slightly. 7 Add the buttermilk and stir until the mixture is combined.
8 Place four ramekins onto a baking tray. Split the panna cotta mixture between the ramekins and chill in the fridge for 1-2 hours, or until set. 9 To serve, remove the panna cotta from the fridge. Briefly dip the base of each into a bowl of boiled water to loosen. Gently slide a knife around the edge of each ramekin and turn out into the centre of a serving plate. Spoon the remaining reserved rhubarb and juices around the edge of the serving plates.
CORNER CUPBOARD INN
Freshly cooked food - from bar snacks to three course meals - served in the relaxed, warm environment of our beautiful 15th Century Inn
FREE BOTTLE OF HOUSE WINE for every table of 4 people ordering main courses
on production of this advert during April 2016 – excluding Super Saver Menu
83 Gloucester Street, Winchcombe, Cheltenham GL54 5LX www.cornercupboardwinchcombe.co.uk OPEN Mon-Sat 10am-Midnight & Sun 11am-Midnight FOOD SERVED Mon-Fri 12-3pm & 6-9pm, Sat 12-9pm, Sun 12-8pm The Local Answer
To advertise call 01242 510500
Page 5
Wild Food Foraging with Steven Hawley
An extensive selection of Cantonese, Szechuan & Thai dishes
Gorse I’m sat on the sofa in my thermals with a rolled up piece of tissue lodged up each nostril. I’ve been kicked out of bed by my wife because – allow me to paraphrase for the younger readers amongst you – my persistent whimpering is causing her to seriously consider the benefits of a lifetime in jail! Even my dog has given up on me and remained in the warm, quiet bedroom. My only comfort is the eerie blue glow from the TV, which has been warning me of its inability to find signal for the last hour. A part of me knows I should get up and turn it off, but I take some comfort in knowing that I’m not the only one functioning incorrectly. My feverish melancholy is hardened by the knowledge that I’m quickly running out of hot herbal refreshments.
When gorse is out of flower, kissing is out of fashion Because the last week of the month is always a gentle reminder that I’m only one pay cheque away from financial ruin, I quickly write off the thought of a shopping trip in the morning to replenish my tea supplies and instead turn my attention to a gorse bush I spotted about an hour’s walk from home. It’s said that when gorse is out of flower, kissing is out of fashion, so you can usually be sure to get a good crop of the delicate yellow petals most of the year. They can be used to garnish a salad, or an unopened flower bud can be pickled and used in the same way as you would a caper. But always partial to a hot beverage, I prefer to just steep a couple of flower heads in a mug of hot water before slurping noisily in plenty of company. I mean, what good is being poorly if you can’t take every opportunity to announce it to the world? 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 6
01452 698770 Find us on
Unit 1-2 Kingsway Local Centre, Thatcham Avenue, Kingsway, Gloucester GL2 2GT. (next to Tesco)
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APRIL
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SHEP’S HOG ROAST The Old Rectory Re staurant G HO
For special occasions including WEDDINGS and PARTIES Free range pigs, farmed locally
Call Dave Sheppard on 07719 533602 or Naomi on 07825568405 sheps.hogs@hotmail.co.uk
Pro m ot e y ou r bu s i n e ss i n 43,0 0 0 m a g a zi n e s Call Chris now!
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ANSWER 541079
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Cole sbourne , Che lte nham GL5 5SB 01242 870120 Private Dining Room
Ideal venue for parties of all occasions and friends get-togethers No hire cost!
Cotswold Country Dining
A warm welcome awaits in this charming cosy restaurant. Offering locally sourced meats, fresh fish & vegetables, as well as delicious home made desserts.
Traditional Sunday Lunch £18.50 3 course multi choice menu
Spring Lunches £12.95 2 course multi choice menu Dinner from 6pm Lunch from 12 noon
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To advertise call 01242 510500
Page 7
Lunch Express Menu SPECIAL OFFER 2 COURSE MEAL £9.95 Select one main course and either a starter from 1-7 or a dessert from the menu (specialities not included) Takeaway available Sunday-Thursday 10% off menu prices
01452 535 185
www.so-thai.co.uk
Bearlands, Longsmith Street, Gloucester GL1 2HJ
F U S I O N R E S TA U R A N T A T T H E O L D B E L L - T W O B A R S , L O U N G E & R E S TA U R A N T
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Opening hours Monday-Thursday 12:00-15:00 & 17:00-00:00 Friday & Saturday 12:00-00:00 Sunday 12:00-17:00 Closed Sunday Evening 9a Southgate Street, Gloucester GL1 1TG (Above Costa Coffee) Reservations 01452 332993 www.theoldbell-tigerseye.co.uk
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The Local Answer
Holidays & Travel with Al Hidden
Double the experience in sunny Lisbon Lisbon has long been a favourite with us Brits. With weather ranging from mild to pleasantly hot, it’s an enticing year-round destination. For maximum contrast, combine selfcatering in historic hilltop Alfama with a central boutique-hotel indulgence. Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest neighbourhood, is a true ‘village within a city’ and only a 15-minute cab ride from Portela airport. It’s a microcosm of Lisbon with its narrow streets, sundappled staircases, tiny squares, churches and whitewashed houses, where washing dries between balconies.
Character-packed selfcatering accommodation Many Alfama properties, like Pateo Santo Estevao (Largo de Santo Estevao 4) or the Alfama Lounge Suites (Escolais Gerais), now offer character-packed self-catering
accommodation. Whatever your taste and budget, expect the amazing in medieval Alfama. Whether you stay here or just visit, don’t rush exploration of this neighbourhood. Local geology means it survived 1755’s catastrophic earthquake. It’s a treasure trove of architecture, cuisine, city views, mournful Fado songs and history dating to Roman times.
Ride the ‘Electrico’ through Alfama Try a Segway tour of Alfama or ride the yellow 1930s ‘Remodelado’ – the only trams that can negotiate the impossibly steep, narrow, twisty streets. Tram 28 is the highlight with its serpentine 11km route around Baixa, Alfama and Graça. It’s as much fairground ride as mass-transit, as the ‘Electrico’ squeezes between whitewashed walls with Rizla-paper clearance.
Try a boutique hotel for contrast For double the experience, pair time in your Alfama apartment with a few nights in a central Lisbon boutique hotel (try the Art Deco Britania off Avenida Libertade). Then set off on foot to explore sundrenched Praça do Comércio and Baixa, or ride the Elevador da Gloria up to Jardim de S. Pedro de Alcântara before chilling with snacks and Amendoa amarga on the terrace at Lost in Esplenada (R. Dom Pedro V). That brings us to food and Lisbon’s ubiquitous Pasteis de Belem (custard tarts), Bacalhau, Caldo Verde broth and other treats. Contrast the local Grelhador de Alfama (R. dos Remédios 137) with stylish seafood at Ribadouro (Av. da Liberdade 155). From basic to ultra-sophisticated, Lisbon kitchens delight and full stomachs are guaranteed.
Lisbon has everything From Alfama’s historic Castelo de São Jorge to Baixa’s designer boutiques and authentic late-night Fado, Lisbon has everything – all you’ll be short of is time to do everything in just one visit!
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Page 9
Wildlife Matters with John Bromley
Slimy old slugs and snails For many people April is a time of planting seeds and buying young plants for the garden. Unfortunately, garden pests such as snugs and snails, who just love their spring greens in the form of juicy young seedlings, will magically appear from nowhere to ravage your garden. In the UK there are 30 slug species but 95% live underground and are rarely seen, whilst only four species really cause any damage to plants. There are about 110 snail species but again very few live in gardens and only small numbers cause problems.
The garden’s natural vacuum cleaner
munching their way through fallen and rotting plant debris, fungi and other garden rubbish. They are also food for a host of other wildlife mentioned above. So rather than reaching for the poison, why not look at better and safer ways of managing them? The first thing to bear in mind is that they need moisture, which is why they mostly appear in wet weather and at night. Dehydration will kill them so they spend daytime hours hiding in cool damp places around the garden. Working with these molluscs is one option. Planting extra seeds or seedlings to allow for a few losses will still leave your garden looking lovely. Allowing plants to grow a bit bigger before planting out will enable them to survive otherwise fatal leaf and stem attacks.
So before you rush for the slug pellets take a moment to look around your neighbourhood – how many gardens can you see? Imagine the impact if every garden becomes a toxic zone full of poisoned slugs and snails, which in turn will poison frogs, toads, hedgehogs, blackbirds, thrushes, beetles and all the other Anywhere cool and damp wildlife that feed on them. will be a haven for them Slugs and snails do actually serve Creating a mollusc friendly area a useful purpose. They are the will quickly attract them. A paving garden’s natural vacuum cleaner, slab put down, a sack of leaves composting in a corner, a stack of flowerpots, an
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area of dense plant growth – basically, anywhere cool and damp will be a haven for them. By controlling where slugs and snails will be you then create options. Collect them daily and relocate them or humanely destroy them, or feed them bran, which ironically leaves them bloated and ‘sluggish’ making them easy prey for their predators. Alternatively you could make or buy a beer-trap so at least they drown happy!
Control them – it’s so much better than harming our already hard-hit wildlife The other option is to make your garden unappealing to them. Remembering they eat debris and like cool damp places, simply remove these attractive areas from your garden. Keep the soil free of fallen plant debris and other rubbish – even large pebbles provide cool damp shelter. Put down a mulch of wood chippings, scatter broken eggshells or spread coffee grounds around vulnerable plants. If you have a lot of potted plants, raise the pots onto stands to keep the lovely cover-providing bases off the ground. By exploring your garden in detail and learning where to find molluscs you will soon be able to control them, which is so much better than harming our already hard-hit wildlife.
The Local Answer
Pet Care
with Oliver Wilkinson of Charlton Kings Vet Centre The Charlton Kings Vet Centre is fully equipped with a sterile operating theatre, digital radiography, ultrasonography and laboratory equipment. Drop in and have a look around. You will see many of the same friendly faces from our main surgery at Dragon Vet Centre. You can book your visits and pick up food, medications or pet supplies at either surgery if it’s more convenient. 17 Lyefield Road West Charlton Kings Cheltenham GL53 8EZ 01242 220158
www.charltonkingsvet.co.uk
THIS MONTH’S SPECIAL OFFER
£10 OFF
VACCINATIONS OR CONSULTATIONS
FOR ALL NEW CLIENTS The above discount is available throughout April 2016 – limited to one voucher per household
CHARLTON KINGS VET CENTRE OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 9AM-6.30PM DRAGON VET CENTRE OPEN SATURDAY 9AM-12 NOON 24 HOUR EMERGENCY ~ 01242 522022 Charlton Kings Vet Centre in affiliation with
Prestbury Park, New Barn Lane, Cheltenham GL50 4SH T: 01242 580324 F: 01242 241908 www.dragonvet.co.uk
The Local Answer
Leptospirosis Leptospirosis is a bacteria that can infect multiple species including humans and dogs and is more commonly known as Weils disease. It is so named after Adolf Weil who first identified, in 1886, an acute, infectious disease that caused liver, kidney and splenic damage. It took another 20 years before the actual bacteria was identified. The most common source of transmission are rodents, although cattle and wildlife are also known to be hosts of the bacteria. Rats, mice or cattle pass it in their urine and humans and dogs become infected by contamination of food or water. Dogs drinking from stagnant water or streams and rivers that have farm waste run off are at risk of the infection. It has also been reported in housebound dogs that lick rodent urine off the floor. People working with animals (vets, farmers or abattoir workers) can be at a higher risk but it’s also reported in people who engage in outdoor water activities such as rowing, kayaking or wild swimming. In dogs the bacteria causes a wide variety of symptoms from vague illness and lethargy to much more serious kidney and liver damage, bleeding disorders and death. Being a bacteria it can be treated with antibiotics and supportive therapy, but permanent damage may have already occurred by the time a diagnosis is made.
New Dog Vaccine available Fortunately in dogs there is a very effective vaccine available. It is one of the diseases that we routinely vaccinate dogs against, along with parvovirus, distemper, hepatitis and parainfluenza. There are, however, multiple strains of the leptospira bacteria and until recently we only had a vaccine against two of those strains – Leptospira Canicola and Leptospira Icterohaemorrhagiae. This was known as a Lepto 2 vaccine. We now have a new vaccine called Lepto 4, which also protects against Leptospira Bratislava and Leptospira Grippotyphosa. These extra strains have caused recent outbreaks in the UK, most notably in the Bristol area. We are particularly sensitive to this disease due to its infectious nature to humans, so vaccinating our dogs not only protects them but us at the same time. On the plus side, cats are pretty resistant to the bacteria so at least we don’t need to vaccinate ‘Fluffy’! If you are concerned about what vaccines are most appropriate for your pet have a chat to your vet. Age, health status and contact with other animals all influence what vaccines we give and how often.
To advertise call 01242 510500
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Parenting & Guardianship with Roberta Smart
Give children freedom to play One of the most important things we can give to our children is the freedom to play. We must never underestimate the importance of play in the development of healthy children – mentally, physically and emotionally. In fact, it is so important it has been recognised by the United Nations High commission for Human Rights as a right of every child. 75% of brain development happens between birth and early 20s, and play develops both gross and fine motor skills. I remember my child’s Reception teacher explaining that a lack of gross motor skills would impinge on his ability to write and manage his hands. So throwing and catching, climbing, and sports will, strangely, help your child to write, draw and sew in later life!
self discipline, which is a vital part of coping with a busy modern life. Over-scheduling children your therefore can lead to problems in later life, rather than giving them the edge as many parents are led to believe. Pretend play develops empathy in children – the ability to imagine how someone else may feel – which enhances a child’s compassion and tolerance for difference in later life. Beginning with playing with dolls and leading to ‘playing schools’ or playing ‘mums and dads’ gives a voice to characters and the opportunity to try on a different identity.
Get involved
Creativity Play stimulates imagination and creativity – vital not only for artistic expression, but also for problem solving and innovation in adult life. The ability to imagine ‘what if’ stems from a creative brain, well fed in childhood. Good to know, as we are growing the adults and problem solvers of the future! Play also develops executive brain function – your child’s ability to manage their emotions, social situations and apply self control and
The Local Answer
So how can parents support their child in learning through play? Through ‘free play’, which is mainly unstructured and without cost, offering children the ability to mix with others, find a partner for their ideas and navigate their way through the various personalities they meet in other children. “Children don’t need toys, they need things to play with”. Offering the building blocks of play – cardboard boxes, dressing up materials, a ‘making box’ full of recyclables for art and building projects – will ensure children are stimulated and able to achieve their ideas, raising self esteem. Of course the best thing you can do is play with your child, which not only entertains them but enhances
the emotional bonds and trust between you, as well as lowering stress hormones in both you and your child, creating a safe, fun place to be and in turn a healthy, happy family. In the modern age of overwhelming reliance on technology, the decision to simply grab a few bedsheets and make a tent under the table, or play a game of ‘Snap’ on the carpet on a rainy afternoon, will offer a much needed respite – a calmer environment in which everyone can relax a little, laugh a lot and enjoy each others’ company.
To advertise call 01242 510500
Page 13
ENJOY SINGING? Private lessons with international soprano
Marilyn Hill Smith
from BBC “Friday Night is Music Night” Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Sound of Music”
For any age and ability – from amateur to professional
Convenient, comfortable one-to-one tutoring at home ● Expert, screened, well-matched tutors ● Tailor-made programme for every student ●
Call Marilyn on 07836 660284 Email: mhillsmith1@gmail.com
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Over 40 years teaching experience Acoustic ● Bass ● Electric or even ukulele! Purpose built professional studio For more information call Paul on 01242 692205 pnewmanguitar@yahoo.co.uk
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Universal Uniform suppliers and embroiderers of uniform and sportswear for work, school and leisure ~ ONSITE DESIGN SERVICES ~ Bespoke Team wear from stockists including Canterbury
Call in to see samples at Unit V1 Kingsditch Road, Kingsville Industrial Estate, Cheltenham, Glos GL51 9LX. Tel: 01242 580062 info@universaluniform.co.uk We are between Howdens and Newy & Eyre. Free parking OPEN Monday-Friday 9-5 www.theworkwearco.co.uk Page 14
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Education
with Mark Newman of UCAS
You’re hired! The benefits of being a real-life apprentice In recent years apprenticeships have grown in popularity and are offered at a number of levels from level 2 (GCSE level) to level 7 (masters level), allowing students to choose from numerous paths via a mixture of A levels, diplomas and apprenticeships. Young people can choose the path which suits their study style, personality, circumstances and their pockets – the most important thing is that they reach their full potential by whatever route is best for them. With 150,000 opportunities available in more than 170 industries, and 1,500 different job roles nationwide, and from large national companies to small local ones, there’s never been a better time to become an apprentice.
1 You’ll earn while you learn
4 You could go on to university You’ll receive a wage and paid holiday. Depending on the employer, learning will either be on a one day a week basis, or in blocks of several days, and either in the workplace or at a local college.
Once you complete your apprenticeship you may be able to go in to permanent work with your current employer, look at other jobs or go into higher education.
2 You’ll gain work experience
5 You could do a fee-free degree
technical subjects, which can lead to a full undergraduate degree as part of the apprenticeship. You work and study for a degree, while the government and your employer pay your fees. Check out the National Apprenticeships Service at – www.findapprenticeship. service.gov.uk/apprenticeshipsearch or the UCAS Progress search tool www.ucasprogress.com/search to look for apprenticeships in Gloucestershire.
Each week you’ll be working alongside Degree apprenticeships are a new type experienced staff, while gaining job- of higher apprenticeship in a range of specific skills and earning a wage. This means you can develop your Case Study – Steven Cant at Xograph Healthcare knowledge and skills quickly. Your employer will also provide you with Stonehouse-based medical equip- Gloucestershire College’s Gloucester practical experience so you can put ment company, Xograph Healthcare, Campus. that investing in He said: “My apprenticeship has your new skills to the test – what better believes apprenticeship training will help it given me so much confidence. I am way to prepare for full-time work? achieve its ambition for growth, and very happy to contribute to 3 You’ll receive a says its Gloucestershire College discussions both at college and apprentice has “made a huge during development meetings at qualification work. I have gained At the end of the apprenticeship you’ll difference” to the business. 23-year-old Steven Cant from and enjoyed the use receive a qualification such as NVQ, HNC, BTEC or City and Guilds award. All Stonehouse is an Apprentice of 3D drawing and of these are national, recognised Production/Development Engineer at feel this is the path I qualifications that will look great on Xograph, alongside studying for his wish to follow for HNC in Mechanical Engineering at my future career.” your CV.
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Page 15
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Maria Ranieri Long M.S.S.Ch. M.B.Ch.A. HCPC Registered
Qualified Chiropodist providing professional care and service in the comfort of your own home Toe nail cutting, thick yellow nails, corns, hard skin, in-growing toe nails, diabetic foot care, general foot care
Cleeve Healing Room
01242 705828 / 07719 664020
Surgery available at EnVogue Centre in Benhall Avenue, Cheltenham
Suzanne Cowling 07890 835469/01242 671041 suzanne@cleevehealingroom.co.uk www.cleevehealingroom.co.uk
HILLTOP DENTAL PRACTICE Maria Ranieri Long is the trading name of Ranieri Long Limited
www.hilltop-dental.co.uk
Dental care for the whole family
Den sts Robert Swinson (centre), Laura Wilbraham and Patrick Greer
We create a calm and caring environment, providing excellent dental care and customer service that we are proud of All General Dentistry ◆ Hygienist Tooth Whitening ◆ Dental Implants ◆ Preventive Sealants ◆ Sports Mouth guards ◆ Cosmetic Dentistry including Metal Free Crowns ◆ Inman Aligner Teeth Straightening ◆ Invisalign Teeth Straightening ◆ Treatment of TMJ disorders and Headaches ◆ Snoring Appliances – Sleepwell/Somnowell ◆ Treatment of Periodontal (gum) problems ◆ Root Canal Treatment (using microscope) ◆ Valplast Flexible Dentures ◆ ◆
Open from 8am Monday to Friday
42 Tommy Taylors Lane, Cheltenham GL50 4NJ. Tel: 01242 233774 Page 16
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Looking Good, Feeling Great with Matt Wagstaff
Prepare to run… don’t prepare to fail! Running is far and wide the most popular go-to activity to keep fit. It’s fairly equipment free, you don’t particularly need a gym or club, and you can generally do it all year round (if you’re not a fair weather runner!). Being prepared for running is something people often don’t address, believing it’s just a case of one foot infront of the other at an increased pace largely. Having this logic can often lead to injury, poor motivation and not hitting your personal best! Before starting, or as you build up the miles (slowly might I add), I suggest following some simple steps to give your body and mind what it needs to hit the road, track or treadmill – avoiding any undue barriers along the way!
Trainers for you Unless you have rock hard feet or regularly run on sand, trainers are going to come in handy! But you must make sure they are right for you – everyone’s feet are different, meaning certain trainer styles are good for you and some are not. Having an assessment in a local trainer shop or by a trained practitioner can give you feedback on what kind of gait you have and
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which trainers will be most appropriate. The wrong style and fit can lead to pain and injury!
Stretch & release to avoid injury Stretching regularly is a must for new and long-term runners – especially stretching the calf and lower leg muscles. Many runners who don’t perform enough stretching around runs suffer in the long-term with conditions such as plantar fasciitis, achilles tendonitis and shin splints. Stretching and releasing the upper thigh muscles is also key. Getting a regular sports massage along with foam rolling will lead to improved injury-free running performance.
Following a personally designed program from a club, trainer or a decent book will help you develop over time without over or under training. Prepare for a race with Follow a plan (don’t get enough time to build up your ahead of yourself) distance gradually, rather than being When beginning a running program under pressure, which generally or preparing for a race, following a leads to fatigue and injury. structured plan can be the difference between achieving the end goal and Strengthen the right bowing out early. People often build muscles up the miles too quickly when Running with good form works a preparing for a race due to time variety of muscles in the body and restraints or over confidence. leads to great overall fitness. Though due to an increased amount of runners working in sedentary jobs often seated for long periods, some vital muscles tend to weaken, leading to a dysfunctional running gait. Working on a specific rehab program, addressing common weak muscles such as your glutes and core musculature, will help improve running performance as well as all round posture. Being assessed by a qualified practitioner will address common dysfunctions, which in the long run can lead to knee pain, lower back pain and many other issues. Pain free running is the way forward!
To advertise call 01242 510500
Page 19
Electric bikes, take charge & get going!
My Colours My Style New Colours
New You
• Colour Analysis • Style Consultation • Wardrobe Planning
Carolyn Nicholls – Image Consultant carolyn@mycoloursmystyle.co.uk 07967 743 652
www.mycoloursmystyle.co.uk
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18 Suffolk Road, Cheltenham, GL50 2AQ
Take Charge Bikes, 17 Prestbury Road, Cheltenham GL52 2PN (near Pittville Gates)
01242 524 324 chelt@takechargebikes.co.uk
www.takechargebikes.co.uk Page 20
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DURING APRIL
The Local Answer
Style & Fashion with Carolyn Nicholls
Colour is the new black! How did I go wrong? It often starts in our teenage years. The desire to blend into the background, not to stand out from the crowd – so we discover black. Then when we start to put on a few pounds and we see black as our saviour slimming tool. We think black is a colour that is easy to coordinate and, when we have little time in the morning to make decisions about what to wear, it’s just a no-brainer! Before we know it our wardrobe has become a soul-less curtain of garments which all look exactly the same. We try to break out from the mould but the fear of colour and how to use it leaves us paralysed. Worse still, if black is not a good colour for us then we will look heavier and older – ouch! Fear not – there is a solution. First of all you need to understand that black may or may not be a great colour for you. There are of course people who look fabulous in black, but sadly for the majority of us we look older, appear to have more dark lines, and our skin looks
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pale and washed out. If we are Once you have put colour into the trying to look our best, that is a cameo items in your wardrobe you nightmare. can start updating your other key clothing. As a guide, use stronger Where do I start? and brighter tones on the parts of Getting the cameo right is an your body you are most absolute must. It is the face that we comfortable with – in doing so, concentrate on when we talk to one those are the areas that will be another and the colour we wear just more noticeable. Accentuate your below the chin is reflected in our assets! face. So the starting point is to get There is no doubt that you will those things right that we wear reap the benefits if you wear right next to our chin. That can be colours that flatter you. Once you relatively easy in winter – just add a start wearing them you will feel scarf in a colour that works for you more confident and you will look and bingo, you look better already. younger and slimmer – what more As it gets warmer, think of adding could you want? colour in your tops – shirts, blouses and t-shirts. Even just a small Look your best! amount of a good colour will There are so many tones and improve your look. shades to contend with that if you Get in front of the mirror and try want to find exactly which ones are for yourself to see if different right for you then Colour Analysis colours below your chin change with a qualified Image Consultant is your appearance. If a colour makes a brilliant way to achieve this. Your you look healthier, brighter and consultant will help you find a brings out the colour of your eyes, whole range of colours that make wear it next time you go out and you look well, younger and, listen for compliments. consequently, your best.
To advertise call 01242 510500
Page 21
OSTEOPATHY | CRANIAL OSTEOPATHY | CHIROPRACTIC SPORTS MASSAGE | SPORTS THERAPY
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UNIQUE WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAMME How to overcome sugar cravings and get to your comfortable weight for good! LEARN LONG TERM MIND/BEHAVIOUR CHANGING TECHNIQUES Book now onto one of the 1 hour seminars in Cheltenham
23 APRIL, 28 MAY, 25 JUNE THE FIRST 5 BOOKINGS GET A FREE PLACE! DISCOUNTED PRICE ONLY £15
It could change your life!
FREE CHIROPRACTOR ASSESSMENTS IN APRIL 2016 CALL NOW TO BOOK! 45 Cirencester Road, Charlton Kings, Cheltenham GL53 8EX 01242 221456 | oakwellhealth.com
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Lots more information & testimonials are on the website Places are limited, so book your place now! www.slimforgood.co.uk e: info@slimforgood.co.uk
m: 07990 517444 t: 01684 342300
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Mirror Mirror on the Wall... with Katie Pollard
Tomboys of summer Ever since the ‘tomboyish’ style of the eighties was revived in hair and make-up backstage at Robert Cavalli, the boy-meets-girl ensemble has become the look not only for the guys, but the girls too. Rather than the va-va-voom vixen or the ladylike uptown girl we’re used to seeing at the forefront of these trends, it is the turn of the laid back tomboy to take the spotlight.
and fresh is not the grungy, androgynous fashion you would expect. This year’s take on tomboy hair is to adopt a deep side parting and style it into a quiff. Yes, you read that right, a carefully – or not so carefully – cool, constructed quiff.
An easy and achievable style that works for everyone Comb in a deep side parting with an Original Tangle Teaser – the needled brush slides through wet hair without pulling out masses of it that, let’s face it, all of our regular hairbrushes do! Blow dry with Redken’s Guts 10 Volume Spray Foam, a product recommended specifically to create a slight peak in the front and straight length at the back. That way you get a bit of boy in the front with a bit of girl at the back.
It’s such an easy and achievable style that it works for all female and male hairstyles, so there’s no need to miss out! And if conforming to what’s ‘ontrend’ isn’t rebellious enough for you, just remember this take on the tomboy look isn’t the norm. After all, what would a true trend be without a little rebellion – tomboys, after all, just want to have fun!
However, this tomboy trend is hardly a new invention. The word tomboy dates back to the late 1500s, when it was used to describe a boldspirited or confident woman. During the Jazz Age the ‘garçonne’ was born – the French word referring both to the sporty, bob-haired look that women adopted and a specific type of dress.
Keep it surprising and fresh It wouldn’t be a new trend though if it wasn’t an old one revived, so this season’s take on tomboy elevates the look for not only a revival, but a reinvention. The trick for guys and girls to keep it surprising
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To advertise call 01242 510500
Page 23
BEAUTY AT THE CHELTENHAM PARK HOTEL For more information and to book please call the Spa Reception Desk on 01242 229297
30% DISCOUNT ON ALL TREATMENTS during April 2016 when you quote ‘TLA Spa’ at time of booking
WIN A Year’s Membership worth £800!
To celebrate last month’s grand unveiling of the £150,000 investment into the Health Club and Spa at the Cheltenham Park Hotel, we are giving you a chance to win 12 months’ free health club membership for you and your partner – worth over £800! Following the purchase of the hotel by Michels & Taylor, the health club and spa have been transformed with extensive facility upgrades to the changing rooms, poolside and beauty rooms – we are now back fighting fit!
The club and the team were thrilled to open the doors and now look forward to showing you the fantastic new look and facilities – including indoor heated pool, fully equipped resistance and cardio gym with brand new changing rooms, poolside, sauna and steam room. The club also offers a schedule of fabulous fitness programs and personal training, so there really is no excuse not to kick start your new fitness regime in stunning surroundings supported by an A-class team of instructors and fitness experts. Unlike larger, more daunting gyms, Cheltenham Park Hotel & Spa has a refreshingly different approach to keeping fit, offering a friendly, non-competitive environment to work out in. Now is a great time to become a member with no joining fee – terms and conditions apply, for more information, please call George on 01242 229297.
HOW TO ENTER
For your chance to win a year’s membership to Cheltenham Park Hotel’s Health Club & Spa, send your answer to the following question, along with your name address, telephone and email to ‘Spa Competiton’ at the postal or email address shown below.
Where is Cheltenham Park Hotel & Spa situated?
A Charlton Kings B King Street, Charlton C Gloucester Road, Cheltenham
Terms and Conditions: Entrants must be over 18 years. Current members of the club are excluded from entering. Normal membership rules apply. The prize is non transferable and no cash alternative is available. Prize is 12 months’ free membership to health club.
It’s easy to join The Cheltenham Park Health Club – simply contact us: T: 01242 229 297 E: cphleisure@cheltenhampark-hotel.co.uk W: leisureclubs.co.uk The Cheltenham Park Hotel, Cirencester Road, Charlton Kings, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL53 8EA Opening Times: Monday to Friday 6.30am-10pm, Weekends & Bank Holidays 8am-9pm
Regency Homeopathy As individual as you are
Lesley Lyons Registered Homeopath since 2005
Living Well
Home visits and Saturday clinics at The Isbourne Centre info@regencyhomeopathy.co.uk
April at last! We have been so looking forward to the colours of spring. There is a lot to delight and entertain you at the Isbourne Centre this month, too. Lyz Cooper, founder of the British Academy of Sound Therapy, has been researching therapeutic sound for over 20 years and has received recognition and awards for her work. Luckily for our guests, she will be with us on Saturday 2nd April for a wonderful day-workshop with ‘Sonic Journeys to Heal Your Life’, using different instruments. Music can be used to heal – come and bask in sound to feel amazing! A few simple shapes combine to make the universal sacred model called the ‘Gateway to the Heavens’. Their messages are built into our genetic make-up and we recognise them instinctively. Discover the purpose of these geometric shapes and how they mould your perception of reality and who you are. Author Karen French’s fascinating talk is on Monday 4th April. Camus wrote: “There is but one freedom, to put oneself right with death. After that everything is possible.” Anne Geraghty learnt this the hard way when her son died. Life is about something far greater than being happy, wealthy or successful. It is about freedom, love, creativity and work – life is about being alive. And to come fully alive, we have to consciously face our fears of death. Psychotherapist Anne has meditated in ashrams and monasteries, has experienced silent retreats and studied Tibetan Tantra. On 18th April she gives her talk ‘Love and Death’, explaining how when her son died, all her understandings of life were turned on their head. Dr Penny Sartori studies near-death experiences. She believes that the important messages coming back from those who have experienced the phenomena should not be overlooked, as they can benefit us all. A former intensive care staff nurse who has also undertaken doctoral research into NDEs, Penny is uniquely qualified to give her perspective at this talk on Saturday 30th April – ‘The Wisdom of Near-Death Experiences’.
www.regencyhomeopathy.co.uk
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S
E GLOUCESTERSHIR
08457 909090 or jo@samaritans.org
Mind Body Spirit l Cabin T ip ri&tuaHypnotherapistherapi
es
Call 01242 254321 or visit www.isbourne.org
07955 818738
Always there if you need us
Naomi Sheppard
Therapies: Level 4 Reiki Master Teacher Hypnotherapist Tarot Reading s Mediumship Psychometry Readings SOULS teaching group SOULS Meditation groups
Mobile: 07825 568405 Email: naomis.biz@hotmail.com Spiritual cabin therapies
Cheltenham CBT Clinic 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
Fi rs tA pp oi wh nt en m en TL quo t A tin g
■
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
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Medical Health with Holly Prince
Spots – everyone gets them Spots can be a cause of annoyance and embarrassment, but everyone gets them at some point in their lives. Spots are caused by the sebum (grease) in the tiny glands under the surface of the skin. It is secreted through our pores all the time to help stop our skin drying out. However, when there are abnormal changes, causing more secretion than usual, the pores become blocked and the bacteria builds up, causing a spot.
Hormonal changes and hereditary factors There are various types of spot – from small whiteheads and blackheads, to larger pustules and cysts. Acne is the term for a large amount of spots at one time. Spots can be caused by several factors. Hormonal changes during pregnancy, at certain points in the menstrual cycle, and during puberty lead to glands producing greater amounts of sebum – which is why teenagers are well-known for having acne.
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There are also hereditary factors, meaning that having spots is genetic, so if your parents suffered from acne, it is likely you will too. Spots can also be a result of some medications and also cosmetics, which can have an effect on the body and the skin. When we have an outbreak of spots, this can sometimes be made worse by smoking, humid environments, and stress.
An inevitable part of life, no matter your age Health experts now say that spots and acne are not caused by poor hygiene or sexual activity, and that there is no scientific evidence that getting spots is due to poor diet. Spots may be an inevitable part of life, no matter what age you are. However, there are things we can do to lessen the likelihood of getting spots, or prevent making acne worse.
Wash skin with warm water and pat dry For example, wash your face and hair regularly, but not too often as this can remove natural oils that the skin needs to stay healthy. Keep your skin clean by washing with warm water and a mild cleanser, and pat it dry, don’t rub it. If you do get a spot, or acne, don’t squeeze it as this can cause an infection, which will make it worse and may leave a scar. The best thing to do is to be patient, give it time and the acne will usually clear up on its own.
To advertise call 01242 510500
Page 27
WANTED URGENTLY
PAPER BOYS/GIRLS
Good rate of pay – contact us now: t 01242 500245 e office@achda.co.uk or apply online at www.achda.co.uk
Page 30
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honeybourne gate
living life the way you choose ... Well-being suite
Luxury living in a landmark retirement complex
Gym & fitness pool
Sa OP tu E rd N ay D 30 AY th Ap ri l
Guest suite Grand atrium Under-croft car park Restaurant/lounge Library/games room Roof-top terrace Movie room Hair & beauty salon
EARLY BIRD OFFER
Intelligently designed Staffed 24/7
FREE removals, FREE carpets plus, FREE wardrobes*
Age exclusive
(*Ask for details)
SALES OFFICE NOW OPEN TUES to SAT 10-4PM (open for informal viewings 9-5pm daily)
Contact us now for full details or to arrange a ‘no obligation’ visit
www.honeybournegate.co.uk
01242 233694
2 Gloucester Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL51 8DW ●
ATTENTION LANDLORDS Do you rent out a house or an apartment? We will rent your property from you for up to 5 years
And we also look after all the maintenance!
Are you tired of dealing with tenants? UNPAID RENT? VOIDS? MAINTENANCE? Would you like to walk away from these problems and have a completely passive rental income drop into your bank account each month? We will take the property off your hands for 3-5 years and pay you a guaranteed rent, every month, for the full term of our contract with you.
Forget the hassle, have a break, let us take the strain! Call Peter on 07801 547762 or go to our website for a full explanation of how it all works ...
www.progressivelets.org.uk
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To advertise call 01242 510500
Page 33
Looking for property? Get an expert opinion from a local agent in the know
Tel: 01242 523000
50 Andover Road, Tivoli, Cheltenham Out of hours phone 07974 216932
www.charterhouse4homes.co.uk
SAM RAY PROPERTY MAKE IT HAPPEN INDEPENDENT ESTATE AGENT 1% Selling Fees
We Conduct ALL Viewings for you... Rightmove ‘Premium Display’ for ALL Once Sold ... Sale Progressed to Completion Established 2005 & Great Local Reputation ‘A1’ Online Presence & Town Centre Office
•
PHONE (01242)
Website: Email: Office: Page 34
(min. fee £1750)
• • • • •
222 022
samrayproperty.co.uk info@samray.demon.co.uk 15 St Georges Road, GL50 3DT www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk
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01242 261679
LET WITH CONFIDENCE L ooki n g f or n e w L A ND L O RDS Delivering accurate, relevant and timely professional service to our clients for 25 years
The Coach House Annexe, Wellington Lane Cheltenham GL50 4JF www.johncaveproperties.co.uk
YOUR FRIENDLY, LOCAL Cheltenham Estate Agents Owned and run by local people, we have an excellent local reputation supported by a track record of getting results. Whether you’re looking to sell or buy, our commitment is to provide you with a friendly, honest, transparent and personal service. “Carver Knowles are the best agents in town!” say Pamela & Ian C, Cheltenham
01242 698000 • cheltenham-estate-agents.com 2 Imperial Square, Cheltenham GL50 1QB Page 36
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w 6 Ne 201 r fo
LUXURY LODGES
MASSIVE SAVINGS THROUGHOUT APRIL OPEN EVERY WEEKEND & WEDNESDAY IN APRIL No need for an appointment – staff will be on hand to show you our fabulous lodges between 9am-5pm
£20,000 OFF
the first 2 show lodges sold in April! Quiet, secluded position with stunning views Excellent location for road networks ● 45 plots for high quality luxury lodges ● Choices of sizes and internal layout ● CCTV for security and peace of mind ● Pet friendly ● Finance Available ● ●
LICENSED ALL YEAR ROUND OPEN 365 DAYS A YEAR
Sale prices start from just £29,500*
WE WILL NOT BE BEATEN ON PRICE – GUARANTEED!
Please call to arrange a viewing of some of the luxury lodges already on site:
w nortonparkhomes.com t 01452 731285 m 07792 676760
Norton Park, Tewkesbury Road, Gloucestershire GL2 9LH Page 38
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CK Charlton Kings Parish Council The Parish Hub – what’s new?
/Spas
NOW BASED IN CHELTENHAM email
Ken Dawson
ken@watercarespecialists.co.uk
One of the major projects undertaken by the Parish Council has been the total refurbishment of the former Stanton Room in Church Piece, Charlton Kings. Councillors worked to obtain funding and plan the extensive work programme needed. We can now provide outstanding, sustainable facilities in the new Parish Hub, which consists of: • The Stanton Hall, accommodating up to 80 people with state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment, including projector, large screen, full surround sound and total blackout. This equipment was provided following a successful bid by councillors to secure a grant from the Big Lottery Fund. Tables and chairs can be set out in conference or cinema style or stored to provide a large, open indoor space. • Conference Room for 12-16 people, also fully equipped with business facilities including wi-fi. • Purpose-built kitchen and toilet facilities for our function rooms. • Office accommodation for our staff. • Excellent new public toilets in Church Piece.
Need a venue for a regular meeting/ single event/party?
RESIDENTIAL
We already have fitness and dance classes, homework clubs, business meetings, exhibitions and interest groups using our Parish Hub. There is free parking close by. Both the Stanton Hall and the Conference Room are available for hire at very reasonable rates. Please contact the Parish Clerk for further details or to arrange a visit to view the accommodation.
Now seeking new landlords – highly competitive management fees apply
Dates of April public meetings
EXCELLENCE IN LETTINGS
46 Suffolk Road, Cheltenham, Glos. GL50 2AQ
t 01242 222972 e info@nresidential.co.uk
www.nresidential.co.uk
Mondays in the Stanton Hall Council: 25th at 7.30pm Planning: 11th and 25th at 6.30pm Clerk – Liz Dowie (01242 250087) Clerk@charltonkingsparishcouncil.gov.uk www.charltonkingsparishcouncil.gov.uk @CkParish
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To advertise call 01242 510500
Charlton Kings Parish Council Page 39
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 APRIL THE LONDON INN Lots of music at The London Inn. Saturday 2nd April – Built for Comfort at 9.30 pm. Saturday 30th April – The Tubby Bluesters at 9.30pm. Free Admission. SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL BANDS HERE. The London Inn, 195 London Road, Charlton Kings, Cheltenham GL52 6HU. 01242 525606. 25 MARCH – 10 APRIL THE GIANT DUCK HUNT
A group of giant ducks will be landing at Slimbridge this Easter holidays, can your family spot them all? Pick up an activity sheet on arrival then set off on a fun hunt which will take you all round the grounds. Spot them all and receive a yummy treat on your return. This Easter holiday there will also be some fun easter arts and crafts so you can make something to take home. While you are on the hunt keep an eye out for ducklings, handfeed some geese and go to hear an otter talk. 9.30am – 5pm. Price included in normal admission. 01453 891223. events.slimbridge@wwt.org.uk. WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire. GL2 7BT.
THE BIG BATSFORD CHICKEN HUNT!
You may have heard of an Easter Egg hunt, now find the chickens that laid them! They’re all hiding in the Arboretum – simply mark their locations on the map provided to win a prize! The chicken hunt costs £2.50 per child, plus Arboretum admission fee (children must be accompanied by an adult). No need to book, just turn up and enjoy! Visit www.batsarb.co.uk for details. Batsford Arboretum, Batsford, near Moreton-inMarsh, Gloucestershire, GL56 9AD. 25 MARCH – 7 MAY MAMMA MIA Join the ultimate feel-good party at Mamma Mia!, the world’s sunniest and most exhilarating smash-hit musical! Set on a Greek island paradise, a story of love, friendship and identity is cleverly told through the timeless songs of ABBA. Sophie’s quest to discover the father she’s never known brings her mother face to face with three men from her distant romantic past on the eve of a wedding they’ll never forget. Whatever age you are, you can’t help but have the time of your life at Mamma Mia! Various dates
and times. 0844 871 3012. For more details visit atgtickets.com/venues/bristolhippodrome. The Bristol Hippodrome, St Augustine’s Parade, BS1 4UZ. 3 & 23 APRIL CHELTENHAM CROQUET CLUB Try Croquet at Cheltenham Croquet Club, Old Bath Road. Taster Days from 10am3pm. All you need are flat soled shoes and a shower proof top. Just turn up or book your slot on 01242 512933 or email klimseabright@gmail.com. 4 APRIL BIG HERO 6
Walt Disney Animation Studios present an action-packed comedy-adventure about the special bond that develops between Baymax, a plus-sized inflatable robot, and prodigy Hiro Hamada. From 1pm join Art Playground in the theatre foyer for super hero craft activities before the film starts at 2pm. Tickets £7. The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. www.bacontheatre.co.uk.
Vol unt eer wit h us a nd do som ethi ng a ma zi ng! If you have a few hours to spare each week, why not become an RDA Volunteer? No experience needed – we’ll train you on the job. For anyone with more experience, have you ever thought of teaching? Find out more on our website or give us a call, join us for a coffee and see our wonderful work.
• Call 01242 584420 to speak to Claire or Debbie • Visit www.cotswoldrda.org.uk Cotswold • Email info@cotswoldrda.org.uk Jackie Brutton Riding Centre, Prestbury Park Racecourse, Prestbury, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL50 4SH
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It’s what you can do that counts
Riding for the Disabled Association
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QUEEN TRIBUTE
RHYTHM & BLUES
NIGHT Enjoy a martini cocktail reception followed by a divine three course dinner, with the serenading sounds of our 5 piece Live Rhythm & Blues band, then dance the night away with music provided by the DJ.
Enjoy a divine three-course dinner followed by a breathtaking performance from the champions of tribute Queen II. Then you can dance the night away with music provided by the resident DJ.
Friday 13th May 2016
Friday 17th June 2016
£38 per person Bed & Breakfast from £70 per room
£38 per person Bed & Breakfast from £70 per room
MASquerade
ball Join us for a truly spectacular night of mystery, charm and intrigue at our Masquerade Ball. Why not try your luck on the casino tables, or take to the dance floor with the fabulous sounds of the resident DJ until 1am. Your evening will also include a luxurious 3 course meal followed by coffee and chocolates.
MURDMEYRST ERY DINNER Enjoy a delicious three-course dinner with coffee whilst you flex your amateur sleuthing muscles solving a thrilling Murder Mystery plot! Followed by dancing the night away to the Resident DJ.
Friday 23rd September 2016 £36 per person £44 per person including half a bottle of wine Bed and Breakfast from £70 per room
Friday 28th October 2016 £33.50 per person
Mercure Gloucester BOWDEN HALL Bondend Lane, Upton St Leonards, Glos GL4 8ED Tel: 01452 632 632 E: 077cs@jupiterhotels.co.uk
Quote ‘LOCAL’ when you make a booking
WIN A £500 HO
LIDAY GIFT CARD courtesy of
The Local
ANSWER
It’s easy to enter our draw... How many copies of The Local Answer are distributed in Gloucestershire every month? For your chance to win a £500 Thomas Cook Gift Card to use on a UK or foreign getaway, send your answer to the above question, along with your name, address (including postcode) and telephone number to ‘TLA Getaway’, The Local Answer, 1 Ullenwood Court, Cheltenham, GL53 9QS. Alternatively, enter via email by sending your answer and details to competitions@thelocalanswer.co.uk stating ‘TLA Getaway’ in the subject line. Closing date: Monday 11th April 2016. In addition to our usual competition rules, by entering you agree to have your name and photograph featured in our next issue and online should you win.
6-10 APRIL CHEPSTOW WALKING FESTIVAL
behind the scenes to learn all about how award winning winning wine is produced. After the tour, we will head to the Cellar Door for a fabulous tutored wine tasting and cheese tasting. £45. 1.45–5pm. 01600 714152. Ancre Hill Vineyard, Monmouth, NP25 5HS. 17 APRIL VIENNA FESTIVAL BALLET: SWAN LAKE
A great selection of walks in the Lower Wye Valley – suitable for most abilities. If you are interested in wildlife, history, geology or stargazing, check out the walks at www.walksinchepstow.co.uk and book your place (essential as places are limited). £5 per walk or £10 Supersaver ticket (as many walks as you like). Transport cost for linear walks included in the price. 01291 641856. 16 APRIL CHELTENHAM’S 2ND VEGAN FAIR Fantastic range of stalls – all things vegan – food stalls, clothing, books, make up, animal rights stalls, animal charities, and talks throughout the day. Entry fee is donation only. 10am-4pm. St. Andrews Church, Montpellier Street, Cheltenham. VINEYARD TOUR WITH CHEESE AND WINE TASTING Enjoy a vineyard tour with cheese and wine tasting at Ancre Hill Estates. Go
One of the best known love stories, performed by the ever popular Vienna Festival Ballet; lavish costumes, stunning scenery, international stars and the glorious music from Tchaikovsky make this a night not to be missed. Swan Lake is the most popular ballet in the world, capturing the full range of human emotions like no other – from hope to despair, from terror to tenderness, from
Shipton Golf Course
✁
“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 available for lessons and advice PGA Approved ● Children’s holiday workshops Establishment
NEW
Stuart Archibald Golf Academy
Golf development programmes to suit all ages and abilities Available for corporate days, birthdays and special occasions
FOR 2016!
Tel: 01242 890237
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Follow us on Twitter – ‘Shiptongolf’
Shipton Golf Course
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Nr Frogmill, Shipton, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL54 4HT
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melancholy to ecstasy. 5pm. £19 (£18, children £14). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. www.bacontheatre.co.uk. 19 APRIL FAR FROM THE MADDING CROWD
Based on the literary classic by Thomas Hardy, this is the story of independent, beautiful and headstrong Bathsheba Everdene (Carey Mulligan), who attracts three very different suitors. This timeless story of Bathsheba’s choices and passions explores the nature of relationships and love, as well as the human ability to overcome hardships through resilience and perseverance. 7.45pm. £7 (£6). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. www.bacontheatre.co.uk.
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
VINYL RECORDS VINYL WANTED
Local buyer pays cash for your unwanted LP’s, EP’s & 45’s. Most 60’s, 70’s, 80’s & 90’s records considered, large or small collections. Prog, Psych, Punk, Heavy Rock, Britpop & New Wave especially wanted e-mail lists to: willowpitch@blueyonder.co.uk 01242 702947 or 07785 515987
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The Local Answer
WIN TICKETS! courtesy of the bacon theatre
Far from the Madding Crowd The Bacon Theatre film season opens on 19th April with ‘Far from the Madding Crowd’ [12A]. Based on the literary classic by Thomas Hardy, this is the story of independent, beautiful and headstrong Bathsheba Everdene (Carey Mulligan), who attracts three very different suitors. This timeless story of Bathsheba’s choices and passions explores the nature of relationships and love, as well as the human ability to overcome hardships through resilience and perseverance. Tickets cost just £7 (£6) 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 ‘Far from the Madding Crowd’, The Local Answer, 1 Ullenwood Court, Cheltenham, GL53 9QS. Alternatively, enter via email by sending your details to competitions@thelocalanswer.co.uk stating ‘Far from the Madding Crowd’. Closing date: Monday 11th April 2016. 21-24 APRIL THE COTSWOLD ART & ANTIQUE DEALER’S FAIR The very best of each discipline will be represented, including furniture, pictures, silver, early needlework and antique boxes, sculpture, bronze, clocks and barometers, carpets and textiles, glass, jewellery, English and Oriental ceramics, garden ornaments and statuary, as well as other decorative items. All works are for sale, with prices ranging from £100 – £100,000+. 10am – 5.30pm daily. Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Oxfordshire OX20 1PP. 22 APRIL THE EAGLES TRIBUTE NIGHT Come with us on a journey starting in the early 1970s where ‘The Eagles Songbook’ will first perform the band’s early hits including ‘Lyin Eyes’, ‘Best Of My Love’, ‘Desperado’ and many more! £15 per adult including a two course dinner. Over 18s only. Meal served at 7.30pm, band starts at 9pm. 01594 560400. Whitemead Forest Park, Parkend, Lydney GL15 4LA WE’LL GATHER LILACS – THE MUSIC OF IVOR NOVELLO An evening of Novello nostalgia, all those wonderful melodies from Glamorous Night, Perchance to Dream, The Dancing Years and King’s Rhapsody. Pittville Pump
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Room, Cheltenham. 7.30pm Tickets £17.50. Booking: 0844 576 2210 or www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk. 23 APRIL THE MERSEY BEATLES
Like the original Fab Four, Cavern Club favourites, The Mersey Beatles are Liverpool lads born and bred. They perform the best music ever made with the spontaneity, energy, excitement and respect which this fantastic music deserves, including Love Me Do, Let It Be, Beatlemania and Pepperland. 8pm. £16.50. The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. www.bacontheatre.co.uk. 24 APRIL FOREST ACTIVITIES FESTIVAL 2016 Everything from mountain biking, rugby and archery to Segway taster sessions along with bush craft, cookery and photography. Live music and food and drink from the region’s best exhibitors.
To advertise call 01242 510500
Dogs welcome to the festival as well as the dog show. Adult £3, under 18s £2, under 5s free. Free parking. 10am-5pm. The Speech House Hotel grounds, GL16 7EL. forestactivitiesfestival.co.uk. 25 APRIL BLUNDERBUS: THE OWL WHO WAS AFRAID OF THE DARK Plop is a baby Barn Owl. He has big round eyes and very knackety knees. Plop is exactly the same as every barn owl, except for one thing… he is AFRAID of the DARK. Join him as he journeys into the night-time world of campfires, fireworks, and moonlit adventures. With an irresistible blend of live music, puppetry and storytelling, this funny, gentle and reassuring tale is written especially for small people aged 3-7 and grown-ups who sleep with the big light on! 3yrs+. 10.30am. £10 (£8, family £32). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. 28-30 APRIL WUTHERING HEIGHTS BY CHARLES VANCE Wychwood Players embrace the power, pain and torment of Heathcliff and Cathy’s heart breaking relationship. 7.30pm at New Beaconsfield Hall Shipton under Wychwood. Box office opens 11th April. Tickets £8.50. 07817426305 or wychwoodplayersboxoffice@yahoo.co.uk
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29 APRIL – 15 MAY WYE VALLEY RIVER FESTIVAL Bringing a series of innovative, intriguing and spectacular events to locations along a 60-mile stretch of the River Wye. Environmentalists, artists and communities will come together for themed events including fire and flame, riverside revelry, performances, arts installations, workshops and walks and talks. 30 APRIL DAY OUT WITH THOMAS THE TANK ENGINE
Meet Thomas the Tank Engine and his friends at Dean Forest Railway. Ride on a real steam engine and shake hands with the Fat Controller. From 10.45am. Adult £14, child £8 (2-16yrs), family £42 (2 adults, 2 children). Admission includes unlimited travel on Daisy and The Big Steam Train, face painting, storytelling and much more. 01594 845840. Dean Forest Railway, Norchard, Forest Road, Lydney
GL15 4ET. 30 APRIL – 1 MAY ROSS BEERFEST
painting The Lady in Gold. 7.45pm. £7 (£6). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. www.bacontheatre.co.uk. 7 MAY PAWS ON PATROL
The third annual Ross on Wye Beer and Cider Festival. Live music, over 30 beers and ciders, BBQ and free parking. Noon till late. £5 entry. Rope Walk, Ross on Wye HR9 7BU. www.rossbeerfest.org. 3 MAY WOMAN IN GOLD Woman in Gold is the remarkable true story of one woman’s journey to reclaim her heritage and seek justice for what happened to her family. Sixty years after she fled Vienna during World War II, an elderly Jewish woman, Maria Altmann (Helen Mirren), starts her journey to retrieve family possessions seized by the Nazis, among them Klimt’s famous
Paws on Patrol in Gloucester Park from 12 noon. Displays from Police Dogs, The Quack Pack, LG Agility and Ali Magic. Free to enter novelty dog show, lots of stalls and fun activities. Free entry. See www.safergloucester.co.uk. 13 MAY RHYTHYM & BLUES NIGHT Enjoy a martini cocktail reception followed by a divine three course dinner, with the serenading sounds of our five piece live Rhythm & Blues band, then dance the night away with music provided by the DJ. £38 per person. Bowden Hall, Bondend Lane, Upton St Leonards GL4 8ED. 01452 632632.
Come and see, feed and stroke our beautiful fallow deer, our wonderful collections of peacocks, waterfowl, pheasants and the amusing pygmy goats ... all very tame and will feed from your hand!
NEW VISITOR CENTRE OPEN!
Give your child a magical birthday party in our beautiful gypsy caravan!
Open 7 days a week 10am-5pm • 01452 812727 • www.thebirdpark.com The Bird and Deer Park, Prinknash, Cranham, Gloucester GL4 8EX Page 46
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ÂŁ29.95 per person per event GLOUCESTER
Includes exciting Murder Mystery entertainment, delicious three course meal plus disco!
Join us for our
MURDER MYSTERY NIGHTS BOOK TODAY!
27th May 17th June 22nd July 19th August
23rd September 21st October 18th November 11th December
Hallmark Hotel Gloucester, Matson Lane, Robinswood Hill, Gloucester GL4 6EA e gloucester.events@hallmarkhotels.co.uk w hallmarkhotels.co.uk t 01452 525 653
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The Local Answer
Motoring with Luke Edwards
The Golf R – a hole in one In the sophisticated, practical and fun hatchback category, the Volkswagen Golf has always been a clever choice. The ‘R’ version of the Golf is pretty special and has been winning car awards throughout the last few years. When Volkswagen’s UK press department offered me their Golf R on test it was difficult to refuse. The car was a beautiful Lapis Blue – a colour now associated with fast Volkswagens – and the three door version. Golfs have always had kerb appeal and the Golf R will age like a fine wine.
Race inspired seats and a well-designed dashboard The Golf R’s interior is a nice place to spend time. Sliding into the Titan Black and Grey R logo race inspired seats, they gripped all the right places. The dashboard functions were well-designed, clear and easy to reach. I particularly loved the blue needles on the dials. The beautifully stitched leather and gloss black R logo height/reach adjustable steering wheel felt good and the six speed manual gearbox with golf ball gear knob felt classic Volkswagen. There is an optional DSG dual clutch box, which is one of the best in the business and takes the 0-60 mph time to 4.9 seconds verses 5.3 for the manual. The Golf R manages 296bhp via front and rear electronic differentials and grip through its clever fifth-generation 4MOTION four wheel drive system. It is lowered on sports suspension by 20mm which gives a planted feel.
Golf R would be a reassuring winter companion for a slippery journey to the office. The Volkswagen Golf R can be classed as a perfect all rounder. It has a generous standard kit list, ideal for family duties (huge boot space), and at the weekend is a car to be savoured. Prices start at £29,900 for the three-door model with sixspeed manual gearbox, and £31,315 for the three-door with six-speed DSG gearbox. The five-door versions cost £30,555 and £31,970 respectively.
Several driver settings The Golf R shares the same four-cylinder 2.0-litre turbocharged TSI petrol engine as the GTI, however the R’s engine has a modified cylinder head, exhaust valves, valve seats and springs, pistons, injection valves and turbocharger. The combined fuel consumption is a quoted 39.8mpg (40.9mpg with the DSG). On the road there were several driver settings to select on the excellent 5.8inch colour touchscreen. The options were ‘Eco’, ‘Race’, ‘Normal’ and ‘Individual’. A fifth profile ‘Comfort’ was available on this model as it had optional Adaptive Chassis Control. I tried the ‘Normal’ setting and the car felt like an everyday commuter. I then selected ‘Race’ and the game changed completely. The quad exhausts fired a fresh new tone and the engine management ordered a different animal. A lighter throttle when pushed gave a delicious harmony of turbo whirr, a higher growl of rev range – an exciting prospect for the road ahead.
A perfect all rounder The Golf R gripped like it was on rails due to the intelligent four wheel drive system. The accurate steering feel and stopping power was superb. I can imagine the The Local Answer
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Homes & Gardens PAVING SPECIALISTS
• Driveways • Patios • Drainage • Fencing • Landscaping • Turfing • Decking • Repair Work
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R R S
5 Year Guarantee with all works. Many local references available
www.berudman.com
07843 277723 ~ 01242 255043 Covering Cheltenham & Gloucester
R Richards & Son Ltd FAMILY BUSINESS
FR EE
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YOUR LOCAL HEATING & PLUMBING SPECIALIST
t 07762 386 851 e greg@flametreeinstallations.co.uk UP TO 10 YEAR BOILER WARRANTIES AVAILABLE
Live in style – inside and out... Awnings
Blinds
Curtains
Shutters
Why not make an appointment to view our great range of products?
Telephone 01242 526 189 or fill out form on website for showroom appointment or home visit
Unit K Churchill Industrial Estate, Churchill Road, Leckhampton, Cheltenham GL53 7FD
main dealer
Showroom open by appointment
FREE EASY PARKING! Page 52
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Interior Design with Caron Burrows
The home office The way we work is changing. As technology improves, more and more of us are embracing the opportunity to work from home. Alternatively, to have a dedicated space where bills and emails can be dealt with and crafting can take place is becoming increasingly popular.
Where
task light placed on your desk or attached to the wall provides extra light for close work.
Window treatments A blind is a good idea to help with glare. Venetian blinds are a good choice as they can be tilted at differing levels, and also come in many colours and finishes to blend with your chosen or existing colour scheme.
Not everyone is blessed with a spare room that can be turned into a home office, but that doesn’t mean you have to give up the dream of having a dedicated work space – you just need a bit of imagination. Perhaps you have an alcove that isn’t being used, a spot under the stairs, or an area within the kitchen that can be transformed into a Colour work space? An office doesn’t have to If you are using the corner of an existing room, try to integrate your be huge, so anywhere will do. colour choices to avoid the office area Lighting standing out like a sore thumb. The Natural light has many benefits when colour blue is believed to encourage positioning your laptop or computer intellect, while yellow stimulates screen – the last thing you want is glare thinking and orange triggers creativity affecting your vision. Choose a good – these are all common choices for general light that will match your office or study environments. existing decor. A dimmer switch will also help you regulate the light Seating strength and is adjustable throughout Your choice of seating is the most the day depending on natural light. A important and should be chosen
carefully. Comfort is paramount to support and protect your back, especially when you’re spending long periods of time sat at your desk. There are many choices available that can be purchased from charity shops and DIY outlets, as well as specialist shops. Fit your seat into your chosen colour scheme with cushions that will also help support your back and provide comfort for long days at the office.
Desk Let your imagination run wild when choosing a desk – it does not have to be the conventional desk that we all relate to in an office environment. A kitchen table, leftover kitchen worktops fitted to the wall, a vintage find in a charity shop – the list is endless.
Walls/storage Make the walls work hard. Blackboard paint is a wonderful thing and is a popular choice of mine – not only is it fun, it also means you can keep updating the wall with notes. You can also use clipboards in a new way by fixing them to the wall – this is a fantastic method to display ideas, memos and photos. By using labelled boxes you’ll keep all your documents easily to hand, meaning you can work in an orderly and organised manner. Empty coffee jars are a great up-cycle – use for pens, pencils and paint brushes.
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Page 53
HW
HATHERLEY WORKTOPS LTD Your local worktop specialist Covering the Cotswolds
■
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Cheltenham based Quartz & Granite Factory DIRECT PRICES Tel: 01242 523398 | 01452 290458 | 07970 190 965
www.hatherleyworktops.co.uk 18, 19 & 20 Malmesbury Road | Kingsditch Trading Estate | Cheltenham GL51 9PL ■
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Worktop Refits ■ Door Replacements ■ Kitchen Upgrades ■ Full Kitchens ■ Electrical ■ Plumbing ■ Gas ■ Tiling ■ Stud Walls/Plastering
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BellBali’nsds &InShutteterrs iors Where quality and customer satisfaction count ALL TYPES OF BLINDS MADE TO MEASURE
ROLLER ● VERTICAL ● PLEATED ● SHUTTERS ● VENETIAN ● WOODSLAT ● CANOPIES ● ROMAN ● PINOLEUM ● AWNINGS ● CURTAINS For a no obligation FREE quotation please call ●
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mike@bellasinteriors.co.uk www.bellasinteriors.co.uk Unit 1, Lansdown Ind Est, Cheltenham GL51 8PL
Bespoke curtains, so furnishings and crea ve needlework ~
all made to measure for your beau ful home
“All styles of curtains & blinds
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AW
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Fireplaces
Fresh thinking and built in the UK. Soft close features on all units as standard
andy@cotswold-kitchens.com INTERIORS www.jayainteriors
Est 1985
07799 830689
QUALITY BATHROOMS Complete fire installa!ons, design and manufacturers of a large range of fireplaces
✧ Free Surveys ✧ Made to Measure ✧ Large fireplace product showroom
Solid oak fireplaces, gas fires, electric fires, woodburning stoves, beams, limestone and marble fireplaces. Cast iron and woodburner insets
07799 830689
awdfireplaces.co.uk mail@awdfireplaces.co.uk Unit J, Bramery Business Park, Alstone Lane, Cheltenham GL51 8HE
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If you are looking for a quality bathroom with a real wow factor, supplied and installed to the highest standard, choose from the wide selection of styles
shaun@cotswold-bathrooms.com
www.cotswoldkitchensandbathrooms.com Sunnybank Stables, London Road, Charlton Kings, Gloucestershire GL54 4HG
01242 210090
enquiries@cotswoldkitchensandbathrooms.com OPENING TIMES: MONDAY BY APPOINTMENT ONLY TUES-FRI 10-5 SAT 9.30-3 BANK HOLIDAYS 10-4
To advertise call 01242 510500
Page 55
ELITE LOFT LADDERS Safe and easy access
SUPPLIED & INSTALLED 01452 526040 07972 777876 mark@eliteloftladders.co.uk www.eliteloftladders.co.uk
Landscaping and Decorating
General Painting, Decorating and Landscaping Services
Redecoration Wallpapering ◆ Small External Painting ◆ Fencing ◆ Patios ◆ Hedge/Grass Cutting ◆ ◆
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10%DISCOUNT when you mention The Local Answer
Please contact Lee on 07468 694743 or lee.robinson@hireahandyhero.com
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PAINTING & DECORATING BRIAN MITTEN
For all your painting and decorating needs, including floor and wall tiling, contact Brian ...
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Painters and Decorators Specialists in wallpapering and wall coverings
All internal and external painting for domestic and commercial premises including private houses, period residences and schools ~ Established over 30 years ~
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OVER 20 YEARS TRADE EXPERIENCE PROVIDING RESIDENTIAL PAINTING AND DECORATING SERVICES IN GLOUCESTERSHIRE. ◆ Interior and exterior decorating ◆ All wallpapering undertaken ◆ Quality workmanship and customer satisfaction guaranteed Fully insured and offering competitive rates
contact Stephen on
01242 698787 or 07789 172232 sflood@floods-decorators.co.uk
www.floods-decorators.co.uk
69 Stanway Road, Benhall, Cheltenham GL516BU
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info@gsc-decorators.co.uk
07517 427442 07818 453708 71 Langale Road Cheltenham GL51 3LX
www.gsc-decorators.co.uk
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Nick Burton Carpenter
Bespoke Furniture, Storage Solutions & Kitchens
Sudoku Fill the grids so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 to 9.
ALL JOINERY & DOMESTIC CARPENTRY WORK UNDERTAKEN
NO JOB TOO SMALL
01242 529316 / 07970 409134
nickburton156@btinternet.com
FLAIRLINE DECORATING SERVICES Professional painters and decorators and quality wallpapering
Family run business established over 29 years
For Free quotations call Neal on
07742 593893
1a Moorend Terrace, Croft Street, Leckhampton, Cheltenham, GL53 0EF
COME AND VISIT OUR
STYLISH SHOWROOM BATHROOMS // SHOWERS // TAPS // FURNITURE // TILES
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GARDENING
DEGREE QUALIFIED, FULLY INSURED
Lawns & borders Hedgecutting ● Pruning ●
SERVICING & REPAIR
●
of all domestic lawnmowers
Regular work welcome
Please call David Hopkins 01242 252637
www.ammonitepavingandlandscaping.co.uk Tod Cottage, The Leigh, Gloucestershire GL19 4AG
ALL TYPES OF TREE SERVICES
E SERVICE RE
Small long established family run business
Mower collection and delivery For a reliable, friendly service please call Graham
Telephone: 01242 680922 Mobile: 07703 826396 Email: m_kelsall@sky.com
Tree pruning & thinning ● Shrub shaping ● Hedge trimming ● Fencing ● Turfing ● Drives & Patios (block paving & gravel)
●
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Competitive rates Free estimates and advice
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BUTLERS ... the tree people Call us for anything to do with trees
01242 802684/07900 155 086 email: sales@dwtrees.com
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Master Sheds Each structure is custom built to your own requirements – perhaps to fit a corner of the garden or a difficult location.
01242 650620 John Wilson PROPERTY MAINTENANCE No Job Too Small ~ Free Estimates Painting & Decorating ~ Plastering ~ Plumbing Tiling ~ Carpentry ~ Coving ~ Fencing ~ Decking Fascia boards & Soffits ~ Loft access & Insulation
Very Competitive Rates for Bathroom & Kitchen fitting For a Reliable, Clean & Friendly Service, call John
01452 314011 07831 762644
www.mastersheds.co.uk
Unit D, Sudmeadow Road, Hempsted, Gloucester GL2 5HG
Garden Sheds, Summerhouses, Home Offices, Garages, Workshops, Site Huts, Stables, Kennels, Aviaries, Pavilions or any large timber buildings! Page 58
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01242 256733 07900 554406 Wilsonj2@blueyonder.co.uk 29 Pembroke Road, Hatherley, Cheltenham
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In The Garden with Julia Smith
Green green grass As daffodils finish flowering the faded flowerheads can be removed. The small daffodils which are being grown to naturalise can be left to form seedheads. Don’t cut off the foliage as it needs at least six weeks dying to replenish the bulb underneath so it can flower the following year. Moreover, don’t tie it up in strange bundles with elastic bands, as this can damage the leaves. This could be a good time to buy winter flowering trees and shrubs whose price may be reduced in garden centres – giving you a good show next winter. This is also a good time to plant evergreens into wellprepared soil with a balanced fertilizer added. Make sure you keep plants that have been sown in them well-watered during the baskets will have become pot-bound summer if it is dry. and need dividing and repotting with Reinstall pumps and filters ordinary garden soil (not rich compost which will contribute to the Now is also a good time to reinstall growth of algae) and top dressed pumps and filters in your pond that with grit to keep the soil in place. have been kept out of the frost since If you have a pond that gets autumn. Some of the marginal several hours of full sun a day you should consider growing water lilies. They like still water with no fountains or waterfalls and have large leaves that spread over the surface of the water, creating shade, which reduces algal growth. The flowers come in lots of colours and even sometimes have a scent as well.
mown don’t apply weedkiller for two or three days. Don’t compost the clippings that have been treated with weedkiller. However, I personally don’t mind seeing a lawn containing daisies and other flowers and life is easier if you learn to love them!
Keep a look out for red lily beetles Keep a look out for the red lily beetles on newly emerging lily shoots. Pick them off and squash them and, if you want, use a systemic spray like Provado Ultimate Bug Killer to keep them safe for up to six weeks.
Encourage the grass to grow Begin feeding the lawn in April when growth starts again. Apply a proprietary spring/summer lawn fertiliser in two applications. It should be high in nitrogen to encourage the grass to grow nice and green. If you need to apply a weedkiller on the grass apply it two or three weeks later when everything is growing strongly. Don’t mow for two or three days after applying, and if you have
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THE
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H A N DY M A N
GENERAL BUILDER/CARPENTER
LANDSCAPES DESIGNED AND BUILT TO ENHANCE YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE
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Tel Paul: 01242 262349 0790 9964 998
Prestbury Lodge, Prestbury, Cheltenham, GL52 5JE localh andymangl5@yahoo.co.uk
Julia Smith Gardening GARDEN & PLANTING DESIGNS From as little as £350
Telephone 07929 587751
juliasmith-gardening@blueyonder.co.uk www.juliasmith-gardening.co.uk
MAKING MORE OF YOUR GARDEN
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Driveways • Patios • Decking Fencing • Water Features • Turfing Lighting • Garden Maintenance Garden Design
For a free no obligation quotation please call Ian on
07971 288389 // 01242 527960 www.the-glc.com
Landscape C
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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
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GRASS
SCAPE
Specialists in Artificial Grass & Driveways
Block Paving ● Tarmac ● Gravel ● Artificial Grass ALL WORK 10 YEAR GUARANTEED All areas of work undertaken
01242 898398 / 07967 713488 Manor Farm, Stoke Road, Cheltenham GL52 7RY cgl.chelt@gmail.com
CS LANDSCAPING DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION
COTSWOLD
TREE SERVICES & GROUNDS MAINTENANCE Fully insured – ESTABLISHED 1995
FOR ALL YOUR GARDEN NEEDS
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mikeowen1@aol.com www.cotswoldgrounds.co.uk Call 01242 226880/07770 685 662
Acorn Gardening Services NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL! PATIOS - DRIVEWAYS & BLOCK PAVING FENCING - DECKING PLUS MUCH MORE! GARDEN WALLS - TURFING PLEASE CALL FOR A FREE GATES - SHEDS QUOTATION
✧ Low maintenance gardens ✧ Paving ✧ Driveways ✧ Water features ✧ Planting ✧ Decking and timber structures
Call Colin 01242 863249 / 07973 720360 cslandscaping@live.co.uk www.cslandscaping.net
D. GILES TEL: 01452 730071 MOBILE: 07821 015914
KONTIKI, WAINLODE LANE, NORTON, GLOUCESTER GL2 9LN
Ground Maintenance by
ADRIAN GIBBS
GRASSCUTTING (medium and large areas)
• TREE AND HEDGE CUTTING • TURFING (Commercial and Domestic)
For a free no obligation quotation, please call
01242 870291 or 07717 874524 Hill Barn Cottage, Cowley, Cheltenham
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Chosen View Ltd Building, Roofing and Carpentry Contractors
• 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
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www.markclifford-landscapes.co.uk
◆ Extensions ◆ New Builds and Loft Conversions ◆ Plastering ◆ Kitchens Everything ◆ Bathrooms ◆ Upvc Windows ◆ Doors supplied & ◆ Painting and Decorating fitted
FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTES www.chosenview.co.uk. enquiries@chosenview.co.uk
TEL: 01452 690516/07832 359448
Glos Garden Services Ltd
Gloucestershire
COMPANY REGISTRATION 09302713
01242 529 574 07595 880481
www.glosgardenservices.co.uk
We’ll beat any genuine quotation by 10% references available
Landscape 15% Gardeners off
Fencing, driveways, ponds, paths, lawns and tree surgery valid during April
info@justfencingglos.co.uk
info@glosgardenservices.co.uk
01452 913633 All major credit cards accepted
19 The Grange, Cheltenham Road East, Glos GL51 0TF find us on
JOE & JAMIE
find us on
~ Established 25 years! ~
LANDSCAPE GARDENERS All garden work undertaken and guaranteed! Fencing, Patios, Block Paved Drives & Gravel Surfaces Tree & Hedge Pruning, Trimming, Felling 10% OFF Turf supplied and laid ~ Lawns removed for OAPs Retaining Walls Built/Repaired
No job too small or too large ~ All waste removed For a FREE ‘no obligation’ estimate, call Joe or Jamie on
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Tel: 01452 668005/01453 297010/01285 238089 www.marshallsdriveways.co.uk Company registration: 090645563
01452 500942 or 07724 159342
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HARDWOOD
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Mob: 07968
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01242
ANSWER 541079
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YOUR ELECTRIC COOKER OR OVEN NOT WORKING? EST 2004 l cal www.draindoctorglos.co.uk
All drains and blockages ● All emergency plumbing work ● Pre-fixed prices ● Saniflo blockages & installations ● High pressure jetting/drain repairs/relining ● CCTV surveys/homebuyers surveys ● Local Authority insurance & water company approved
Tel: 07955 295360
●
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for all your property needs
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ALL WORK FULLY GUARANTEED
FREE ESTIMATES & ADVICE – REFERENCES AVAILABLE To arrange a full survey and quotation please call 01242 809650 or 07918 798530 Office 269, 20 Winchcombe Street, Cheltenham GL52 2LY
7 YEAR WARRANTY ON ALL
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Landlords Certifications
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1 Vineyards Trading Estate, Gloucester Rd, Cheltenham GL51 8NJ 72524
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Worcester trained and approved
For more information please visit the website @
www.fix-my-oven.co.uk
DIRTY COOKER OR OVEN? Tel: 01242 227 067
www.ovenbusters-cheltenham.co.uk
NOT JUST ELECTRICS! Experienced Qualified Electrician General building maintenance, plumbing, decorating.
No job too big or small Free quotations, Reliable, Friendly 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE References available
COUNTY ELECTRICAL
CONTRACTOR FOR
Call Ben on 01242 251743 or 07770 790767
THREE PIECE JOINERY
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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
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CROWN CLEARANCE
Reliable and flexible to suit your individual requirements at very affordable rates. DOMESTIC CLEANING, OFFICE CLEANING, SPRING CLEANS, IRONING, WINDOW/OVEN CLEANING AND QUALIFIED PET CARE. CRB checked, fully insured, excellent references.
HOUSE AND RUBBISH CLEARANCE WHY HIRE A SKIP? WE LOAD AND DISPOSE 7 DAY SERVICE SINGLE ITEMS SAVE £££’s ON SKIP HIRE FREE ESTIMATES CALL GORDON YOUNG ● ● ● ● ●
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01242 572966 07710761504
A professional, honest and cheerful top quality cleaning service.
BUMBLEBEE CLEANING SERVICES 07470 190480
Kings Ironing Tired of Ironing? Done in a clean, smoke-free environment Free delivery service
Call Georgina on 07788 768628
For all your needs:
Domestic Cleaning Oven Cleaning G Carpet Cleaning G Office Cleaning G One Off/Spring Cleaning G End of Tenancy Cleaning G After Builders Cleaning G Garden Clean Up & Pressure Washing G G
www.anyacleaning.co.uk
075 620 67 073
Specialist Cleaning Services
NEW Ironing service available
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pinkfairycleaning@hotmail.co.uk
07833 311 688
FULLY INSURED
Our attention to detail is what separates us from any other specialist cleaning service. We take pride in all the work we do and strive to provide the highest quality cleaning services and workmanship in a professional, perfectionist manner.
Fully insured and CRB checked All manners of Deep Cleaning, Carpet Cleaning, Oven Cleaning and Commercial Cleaning
DIRTY OVEN? Call James from Cheltenham on 07727 208275 PUT THE SPARKLE BACK INTO YOUR OVEN!
www.ovenclean.com OVENS, AGAS, RANGES, HOBS & EXTRACTORS
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Find out why Regency clean more letting’s properties in Cheltenham than any other company C a l l 0 1 2 4 2 2 7 9 5 9 0 o r 0 7 7 5 4 4 1 7 6 5 0 f o r a f re e q u o ta t i o n w w w. ch e lte n h a mre g e n cycle a ne r s.c o.u k
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Leckhampton
Plastering Services
HOME CARE ROOFING & BUILDING
FOR ALL YOUR PROPERTY NEEDS
All plastering works undertaken ● Lime plastering ● Dry lining ● Rendering ● Skimming ● Artex removal ● Plasterboarding ● Domes c and commercial Fully insured, reliable and dy Call now for a no obliga on quote
01242 572837 07810 092133
che.meyrick@live.co.uk www.leckhamptonplasteringservices.co.uk
Our range of services include: New roofs and repairs ◆ Tiles ◆ Slates ◆ Felt and battening ◆ Lead work ◆ Repointing ◆ Ridge tiles and chimney repairs ◆ Flat roofs EPDM rubber ◆ Moss removal and fungicidal treatments ◆ Roof coatings ◆ Dry verge systems ◆ External painting ◆ uPVC fascias & soffits ◆ Gutter repairs and cleaning ALL WORK FULLY GUARANTEED
FANTASTIC OFFER
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Barker & Bayliss
Gas & Oil heating systems serviced and upgraded by the experts Call us for a competitive quote
TJE Electrical Services
For a FREE QUOTATION please call: FREEPHONE 0800 474 8424 or 01242 809264 (Please dial area code when calling)
Plumbers & Heating Engineers
✓ Central Heating Systems Installed ✓ Landlords Gas Safety Checks ✓ Boilers Serviced & Replaced ✓ Systems Power Flushed ✓ Systems Upgraded
Electrical testing and certification of all properties Fully insured, competitive rates and very reliable ● Domestic installations and consumer units ● Additional sockets or light points ● Installation of new consumer units ● Rewires ● Portable appliance testing ● ●
Approved Installer Accredited Installer
CALL FOR A FREE & COMPETITIVE QUOTE 01242 524752 or 07776 400327 enquiries@barkerbayliss.co.uk www.barkerbayliss.co.uk 225458
FULLY QUALIFIED ~ OVER 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE
Registered through terry.evans@ymail.com ECA Call Terry Evans 01242 516067/07900 897287
RS LTD
RS Cladding & Roofing Ltd are specialists in all types of Roofing, Flat Roofing and all Rain Water Systems
Roof Repairs, Chimneys, Slates and Tiles
RS Cladding Ltd offer home owners quality uPVC fascias, soffits, guttering, downpipes and cladding in a choice of colours (white, rosewood, oak or black). They’re virtually maintenance -free and will never need to be repainted. All our products are guaranteed for 10 years for peace of mind.
RUBBER FLAT ROOFING
Whatever the weather, ClassicBond EPDM roofing membranes protect your property
When you need a sustainable, long lasting rooftop, look no further than the single-ply membrane with half a century track record of performance and durability
Call now for a FREE Quote FREEPHONE: 0800 747 1283 www.rscladdingandroofing.co.uk
email: rs.cladding.roofing@live.co.uk - 105/107 Bath Road, Cheltenham, Glos. GL53 7LE RS CLADDING LTD ARE PROUD SPONSORS OF GLOUCESTER RUGBY The Local Answer
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ecoclean
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ltd
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D M X Q L G N T H B X Y J D E R O L I A T H B T
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USING CODE JL25
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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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ROOFING & DRIVEWAY SPECIALIST NEW ROOFS & REPAIRS
TILES • SLATES • FLAT RUBBER GUTTERING • FASCIAS • SOFFITS • UPVC
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New Roofs G.R.P. Fibreglass & Felt Flat Roofs ● Certified Installers ● Roof & Chimney Repairs ● Slate Repairs ● Flat Roof Repairs ● Lead Repairs and Sealing ● uPVC Fascias, Soffits & Guttering ● uPVC Repairs ● High Pressure Cleaning ● Painting & Decorating 01452 899903 07503 858963
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Contact us for more details
01242 676974
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Find us on
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ARD developments ltd
For a complete building service
A professional company working throughout Gloucestershire and the surrounding counties for over 10 years. Offering a wide variety of services ranging from a labour only service to a complete building management solution. Helping to make home alterations the easiest and most pleasant experience possible. ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
Refurbishments & Conversions Electrical Installations & Alterations Kitchen & Bathroom Fitting GRP Fibreglass Roofing Solar Pv installations
Please contact us for a free quote: 01452 506801 www.arddevelopmentsltd.co.uk
Spread the Cost of a New Worcester Boiler with our Finance Options Now Available! We can offer various Finance Options to suit your personal requirements. We carry out Landlord Gas Safety Checks, Boiler Servicing, Legionnaires Risk Assessments and Electrical PAT testing £50 plus VAT (per service) We are fully Qualified Gas Safe Engineers, Worcester Accredited Installers & Green Deal Approved Installers
Plumbing, Heating and Electrics Registered office: 2 Bath Mews, Bath Parade, Cheltenham GL53 7HB
Tel: 01242 370390
reception@combi-man.com
Page 72
Powerflushing from £395 plus VAT, with a free Magnaclean (increase the performance and efficiency of your system)
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Page 73
Save the Planet with Mark Stead
“If it’s not dirty, wash at 30” Consider energy consumption when buying new appliances
Lots of us are now starting to think about the impact of our electricity use on the environment – not to mention the cost! In 2013, supplying energy to UK homes and businesses resulted in 190 million tonnes of carbon dioxide entering the atmosphere. The good news is that this is beginning to decline due to our switch to renewable forms of energy, and we can all take a few small steps to improve the situation further.
Lots of ways to save energy in the kitchen How many of us fill the kettle right to the top every time we make a hot drink? Something as simple as only filling the kettle with the amount of water you need will save a considerable amount of energy over the course of a year. There are lots of other things you can do to save energy in the kitchen. The most common setting on washing machines heats the water to 40°C. However, this temperature is not really necessary except for stubborn stains – remember “if it’s not dirty, wash at 30”. It’s also worth waiting until you have a full wash
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load, and the same applies to dishwashers and tumble driers. In fact, this spring and summer try to dry your clothes outside and avoid using tumble driers altogether unless you have to.
8% of electricity used in our homes comes from appliances left on standby
Of course, one of the biggest changes you can make is to consider energy consumption when buying new appliances. All appliances now have to display an EU energy label. However, it’s easy to be misled. For example, since July 2012 all new models of fridges and freezers need to achieve at least an A+ rating, meaning that A+ is the minimum standard rather than being among the best. The rating for TVs is also dependant on their size – a B-rated 24” TV might actually use less energy than an A-rated 32” TV. Finally, it’s worth thinking about your lighting. It is a common myth that it takes more energy to turn a light off and back on again. In fact, it makes sense to turn the light off even if you are only leaving the room for a short period of time. Try to also remember to turn lights off when there is plenty of natural daylight. As you can see, there are lots of simple steps that all of us can take to save energy. It needn’t take a huge effort and remember – it will save you money as well.
Turning appliances off at the switch rather than leaving them on standby is an easy but under-used trick. Figures show that 8% of the total electricity used in our homes comes from appliances left on standby – the equivalent of around two Mark Chairs the Gloucestershire power stations’ worth of Environmental Education Partnership electricity each year, which (GEEP). To find out more about their adds up to £740m a year of work please visit www.geep.org.uk. wasted electricity, according to the Energy Saving Trust (EST). Wasted energy from appliances left on standby is also responsible for 4 million tonnes of excess carbon dioxide each year. Lots of us also charge our mobile phones and other devices overnight. Did you know these continue to use energy even once fully charged? You can save energy by unplugging them as soon as they are charged.
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Page 75
Building & Property Services
Aubrey Howard is an innovative property services company made up of experienced project managers, architects and tradesmen. We aim to provide a fresh approach to your property requirements without the usual complaints and hassles that dog the building trade.
The Perfect Build
✧ Concept Design ✧ Architectural Drawings ✧ Planning Permission ✧ Listed Building Consent ✧ Project Management ✧ Consultancy ✧ Portfolio Management
Whether it is a leaky tap, a loft conversion or a larger building project, Aubrey Howard has the necessary experience and drive to make even the most daunting of projects a reality. We work collaboratively with our customers at all stages of a project and deliver an outstanding service on time and on budget. Always.
Our Services ✧ Plumbing ✧ Heating ✧ Carpentry
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24 genc Ho y Cal ur l Out
Contact us via email info@aubreyhoward.co.uk or call on 01242 269287 or 07758 334480 www.aubreyhoward.co.uk
Em
ALL QUOTATIONS COME WITHOUT OBLIGATION!
er
46 Suffolk Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL50 2AQ
Gadgets & Gizmos with Dan Wood
A great range of home security options Yale HSA6400 Series It’s true but sad to say that you only need to make your home look less appealing to any potential intruder than your neighbour and you should never take home security for granted – ask any victim of burglary. Expensive installations by specialist engineers are history. The Yale HSA6400 series comes in one tidy box with everything you need for self set up. The entire system is wireless and battery powered, including the external siren box. The standard package comes with a siren box, one dummy box, two PIR sensors and two door/window contacts as well as control panel. The telecommunicating version will also phone you if the alarm is activated, up to a maximum of three telephone numbers, so you’ll always know if the alarm is set off! Batteries last for roughly 18 months to two years and you can add up to 20 devices to the system so you have complete control over the extent and range of your set up. I found this very simple to install, easy to maintain and hassle free. The yellow Yale siren boxes can be seen from a distance and for an average price of £150, I can’t
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recommend this alarm system enough. You can even buy more complex versions, which include remote smartphone app operated CCTV PIR sensors so you can see inside your home if the alarm is triggered while you are away! Generally, Yale offer a great range of home security options from alarms to home CCTV and smart locks. I recommended this system to
relatives following a burglary next door last month and since then all three properties in the row have installed the Yale HSA6400.
Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 10” Tablets are increasing in popularity and I recently bought the Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 10”. Available in black or white and costing around £250 it offers excellent sound quality with speakers inbuilt either side, a slim housing, wide vibrant screen and the ability to increase storage via the inbuilt micro SD tray at the top. 1280 x 800 pixels, 1.2GHz and a 10 hour battery life mean not a day goes by without it being used or played on. Be careful though if you buy one or already have one – the rear plastic casing is slippery on cold hands and can be easily dropped by accident. The tablet is tough though – I dropped mine screen-down onto tiles a month ago having let it slip and there isn’t a single scratch or mark on it and it works perfectly.
To advertise call 01242 510500
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J.T.G
Building Services & Property Maintenance Public Liability insured
25 Years Experience
Roofing, Chimneys Drainage Re-pointing Structural Openings Plastering Brickwork, Patio’s Extensions etc Contact John Gurney
PC-Menders
IT help for Home and Small Business users • • • • • •
07799 246692 07775 876443 01242 693111
Repairs, Troubleshooting and Upgrades Windows 10, 8.1, 8, 7 and iPad set-up Virus removal Data recovery and transfer System set-up and Training Networks and Servers
phone: John on 01242 576650 email: help@pc-menders.co.uk
All Aspects of internal/ external plastering Specialist Work Building Services All work is Carried out to the highest standards Performed by trained professionals Covered by public liability insurance No job too small For a FREE quote Call 01242 693243 / 07798 585396 E: info@swsplastering.co.uk www.swsplastering.co.uk
Matt Grimshaw Carpentry Ltd Your local Carpenter/ Kitchen Fitting Specialist PLASTERING RE-SKIMS PLASTER BOARDING ● DRY LINING ● PAINT & DECORATION ● SMOOTHING OVER ARTEX ● ● ●
EXTERNAL RENDERING SCAFFOLDING SUPPLY ● DAMP PROOFING ● NEW CEILINGS ● STUD WALLS ● LIME WORK/RESTORATION ●
All aspects of carpentry undertaken
●
01242 232 672
Cheltenham www.dotanddab.info for reviews and portfolio! e: richard@dotanddab.info
● ●
Kitchens ● Doors ● Timber Flooring Stairs ● Roofing ● Bespoke Joinery 10% ● Decking ● Fencing
01242 604423/07792 088822 mattgrimshawcarpentry@live.co.uk www.mattgrimshawcarpentry.co.uk
DISCOUNT
ON KITCHEN FITTING WHEN QUOTING TLA
COTSWOLD
PLUMBERS
● HEATING ● PLUMBING GAS BOILER SPECIALISTS
CALL 01242 234 576 ●
✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
Leaks Overflows Burst Pipes Showers Pumps Toilets Taps Waste Disposals Tanks Hot Water Problems Immersion Heaters Cylinders
✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
Boiler Breakdowns Servicing Maintenance New Boiler Installs Radiators Pumps Programmers Cylinders Thermostats
WHY CHOOSE US?
What would you say if someone told you that your central heating system could be transformed, with very little disruption to your home, using highly qualified engineers, with the best quality materials possible at a price you could afford? A family run business, Cotswold Plumbers Limited has provided quality plumbing and heating services in Cheltenham and Gloucestershire since 2005. Our commitment to excellence is demonstrated through repeat custom and relationships that have been built around a first class experience. Offering our customers more...
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GAS
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REGISTER
Accredited Installer
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1st Choice
Beacon eLecTRIcaL LTD
Aerial & Satellites
DOMESTIC & CO MMERCIAL ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIO NS RENOVATIONS & REPAIRS ELECTRICAL SAFETY CHECK PORTABLE APPL IANCE TESTING
Digital Aerial Installations Upgrades and Repairs
CALL NICK 01242 700770 or 07917 785354
10% off
www.electricians-cheltenham.co uk nick@beaconelectrical.ltd.uk
with this advert Mark Hawkes
Tel: 01242 649120
CHARTERED CERTIFIED ACCOUNTANT AND TAX ADVISER SMALL BUSINESS SPECIALIST
Cole Accounting
Annual accounts Monthly management accounts ● Personal and corporate tax FREE NO OBLIGATION ● Bookkeeping, Payroll and VAT INITIAL MEETING ● ●
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STEVENS RECYCLING Domestic and Industrial Skips
ATTENTION! Let us lighten your load! Stevens Recycling
Ham Villa Road, Charlton Kings, Cheltenham GL52 6NB
01242 522647/529397
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MINI AND MIDI SKIPS HIRE
wit h a co de o f T L A0 2 0 3 56 co n d iti on s stevensrecycling584@gmail.com apply
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Money Matters with Roger Downes of Andorran
Would you believe it? Regular readers of this column will be familiar with my view that big is certainly not beautiful, as I champion the cause of small and medium sized businesses. So it was with gaping mouth that I read statistics recently on some of the very biggest organisations on the planet. Top of the lot, the biggest corporation (as the Americans like to call them) in the world is Alphabet. Who? I hear you cry. Well, it’s the ultimate parent company of Google, amongst others. Ah, makes more sense now. At the start of this year its £379 billion valuation saw it overtake Apple at the top of the tree, with Microsoft lagging behind at number three. You can see the connection as to market sector very easily. In the UK there are a range of industries in the top ten, with banks, pharmaceuticals, telecoms and oil companies all doubly represented. Royal Dutch Shell (do they only add Royal into the name to make us think they are from these parts?) top the list and have done so for some time, but they are only a fraction of the size of the USbased high tech companies.
An uncaring, dispassionate attitude towards customers Sadly I am not privy to the list of biggest companies ranked by the amount of tax that they pay in the UK, which would make interesting reading when you consider some of the stories circulating about the world’s new number one force. The presence of HSBC and Lloyds in the UK top ten, with Santander, Barclays and RBS all hot on their heels, serves to confirm my long-held view that the banks are in it for their shareholders not for their long-suffering customers. Even my own profession doesn’t escape the plague of over-exaggerated size. Last year PricewaterhouseCoopers rose to the summit of the accountancy world in terms of fees charged – a staggering £24.3 million for doing accounts and tax returns! Not really – they are essentially consultants rather than accountants these days, but their annual turnover is still phenomenal. What’s the key to their success? Monopoly. Not the board game (although this is the source of its name), but control over the markets in which they operate and what appears to be an uncaring, dispassionate attitude to customer service, because as soon as one customer leaves, another three come along. Rant over – see you next month when I will look at some of the key issues arising from the Chancellor’s recent Budget.
To advertise call 01242 510500
Page 79
CR
COTSWOLD REWIRES
DOMESTIC ELECTRICAL SPECIALIST
Cheltenham Plumbers
for all your plumbing and oil requirements From a leaking tap to a complete new bathroom Oil boiler servicing and replacements
Cost-effective FREE Quotations NO VAT TO PAY ON OUR SERVICE For professional service with a smile contact: SHANE IAN
07780 594421 07768 317151 www.cheltplumbers.com
shane@cheltenhamplumbersltd.co.uk
ian@cheltenhamplumbersltd.co.uk
• Full & Part Rewires • Fuseboards • Interior/Exterior Lighting • Complete shower installation • Extra Sockets • Fault Finding • Small repairs/maintenance Local references available No call-out charge ~ Free Quotations FRIENDLY • RELIABLE • PROFESSIONAL
Call Carl on 07970
919 764 or 01242 790072
cotswoldrewires@hotmail.co.uk 12 Holmer Crescent, Up Hatherley, Cheltenham GL51 3LR
Abbey Group, Units 23/24, Neptune Business Centre, Tewkesbury Road, Cheltenham, GL51 9FB
www.abbeybusinessequipment.com
The Abbey Business Lounge at Gloucester Rugby’s Kingsholm Stadium sponsored by Gloucestershire’s leading business solutions provider
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Female Plumber Kerry Baker
Professional qualified plumber Fully insured No job too small
Mobile
07880 258 158 kerry@thefemaleplumber.co.uk
Local Policing with Simon Ellson
chartered accountants
ACCOUNTANCY & TAXATION SERVICES
for new & existing businesses
01242 244856
accountancy@andorran.co.uk 6 Manor Park Business Centre, Mackenzie Way, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL51 9TX w w w. a n d o r r a n . c o . u k
Cheltenham Neighbourhood Policing Team
The challenges of spring After surviving another Race Week (only 22 more before I retire!), our attention turns to spring and the challenges the better weather and lighter evenings bring. Apart from the start of the police golf season and my annual effort to reduce my handicap, historically we see an increase in ASB related incidents in spring, particularly with youths in the towns, parks and gardens. If your child is out and about, do you know where they are going? Do you know who they are out with? They might seem obvious questions to ask, but often we are surprised by the reaction parents give us if we need to speak with them. Please ask a few questions before they go out – it might prevent a late night knock on your door from us. As regular readers will know burglaries are never far from my thoughts. I’m pleased to announce Sgt Jo Fletcher has joined the team and is now overseeing burglary investigations in Cheltenham. Recorded burglaries remain low but we have seen a trend of laptops, Xboxes and mobile phones being stolen. It may be houses are being targeted specifically for electronic items. If you have expensive items please ensure you make note of any serial numbers, keep the original boxes and enable ‘Find my Device’ if appropriate.
Register your device to help track it in the event of a theft
Plumb It Plumbing & Heating Services is a family run, Cheltenham based company that has built its customer base on good old fashioned service, value and reliability. SERVICES INCLUDE: · Central heating systems · Boiler installation and servicing · Gas fire installations · Kitchen appliances (from plumbing in dishwashers, washing machines, refrigerators and cookers)
· Plumbing installations, blockages & leaks · Gas safety & Landlord certificates
Plumb It Plumbing & Heating Services M: 07827 913291 E: info@cheltenham-plumber.com www.cheltenham-plumber.com The Local Answer
You can always register electronic devices on the www.immobilise.com website. If these items are ever stolen the police can search on the National Mobile Property Register – this might help track your item in the event of a theft. A recent burglary victim was notified via their ‘track my iMac’ app that their Apple Mac laptop was in a retail store in Cheltenham. After enquiries Police were able to retrieve the laptop and identify the offenders through CCTV at the store. A great result! For the more observant of you, you may have seen the very large ‘For Sale’ sign attached to the old police station at Lansdown Road. The two largest buildings and surrounding grounds are now up for sale, so if you know anyone interested give us a call! We have moved to the small building next door. If you need to speak with an officer in person please attend Hester’s Way station on Princess Elizabeth Way. Crime is low in Cheltenham but occasionally unusual things happen. But don’t panic – as Nick Ross used to say on Crimewatch: “Don’t have nightmares, do sleep well”.
Gloucestershire Constabulary Non-Emergency Number – 101 In an emergency always call 999
www.gloucestershire.police.uk
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Index of Advertisers FOOD & DRINK Blue Orchid Corner Cupboard Inn Shep’s Hog Roast So Thai The Gardeners Arms The Old Rectory Tiger’s Eye
Honeybourne Gate House Moves John Cave & Co Newcombe Residential Norton Park Park Home Life Sam Ray Storage King The Progressive Letting Co The Property Centre
6 5 7 8 7 7 8
WHAT’S ON CLUBS & SPORTS Cheltenham Activity Camps CLC Sports Centre Enjoy Singing Paul Newman Guitar Shipton Golf Course EVENTS & ATTRACTIONS Bacon Theatre Bowden Hall Hallmark Hotel The Bird & Deer Park
31 37 36 39 38 33 34 32 33 84
RETAIL
18 22 14 14 44
Antiques Wanted 44 Assured Mobility 28 British Heart Foundation 30 Celebrations of Cheltenham 4 Take Charge Bikes 20 14 45 Universal Uniform 44 41 Vinyl Records 47 HOMES & GARDENS 46 BATHROOMS City Plumbing 57 INFORMATION Charlton Kings Parish Council 39 Cotswold Bathroom Solutions55 Cotswold RDA 40 Severn Vale Bathrooms 57 & 83 BUILDING SERVICES HEALTH & BEAUTY A1 Roofing Contractors 71 Cheltenham CBT 26 Aubrey Howard Builders 76 Cheltenham Park Health Club 24-25 ARD Developments Limited 72 Cleeve Healing Room 16 BE Rudman 50 Hilltop Dental Practice 16 Chosen View 62 Isbourne Holistic Centre 26 Dot & Dab Plastering 78 Mobile Chiropodist 16 Elite Loft Ladders 56 Oakwell Health 22 G Kelly Plastering 71 Regency Homeopathy 26 Glos Build 70 Slim For Good 22 Home Care Roofing & Building 67 Spiritual Cabin Therapies 26 JTG Building Services 78 The Guild Hairdressing 20 Leckhampton Plastering 67 The Haven 16 Marshalls Driveways 62 PROPERTY & STORAGE R Richards & Son 50 56 Carver Knowles 36 RND Renovations Charterhouse 34 Roofing & Building Solutions 64 67 Crest Nicholson 35 RS Cladding and Roofing
Staverton Building Supplies 2 David Hopkins Gardening SWS Plastering 78 DW Tree Services Glos Garden Services CARPENTRY Matt Grimshaw 78 Grass Scape 57 Handylink Nick Burton Three Piece Joinery 64 Joe & Jamie Julia Smith Gardening CLEANING SERVICES Just Fencing Anya Cleaning 65 Landscape Creations Bumblebee Cleaning 65 Lawn Doc Ecoclean 68 Mark Clifford Landscapes Kings Ironing 65 Master Sheds Molly Maid 65 The Garden Landscape Oven Busters 64 HANDYMAN SERVICES Ovenclean 65 Hire a Handy Hero Pink Fairy Cleaning 65 John Wilson Maintenance Regency Cleaning 65 P.F Services ELECTRICAL SERVICES Safe Style Home Improvements Beacon Electrical 79 The Local Handyman Cotswold Rewires 80 HEATING & PLUMBING County Electrical 64 Barker & Bayliss D Palmer Electrical 71 Cheltenham Plumbers Steve Holland Electrical 71 Combi-Man TJE Electrical Services 67 Cotswold Plumbers Drain Doctor FURNISHING & APPLIANCES AW Fireplaces 55 Flametree Installations Bella’s Interiors 55 ID Godwin Jaya Interiors 55 KB Female Plumber Just Fabrics 51 PBT Installations MWE Furnishings Ltd 50 Platinum Plumbing New Blinds 52 Plumb It Sasha Interiors 54 Seasoned Hardwood Logs Watercare Specialists Ltd GARDEN SERVICES Acorn Gardening Services 61 KITCHENS Adrian Gibbs 61 Cotswold Kitchen Solutions Ammonite 58 Hatherley Worktops Bartlett Tree Experts 60 PAINTING & DECORATING Butlers 58 Brian Mitten Challenge Fencing 61 Flairline Decorating Chosen Lawnmower 58 Floods Cotswold Tree Services 61 G.S.C Ltd Decorators CS Landscaping 61 Trevor Rogers
TV & AERIAL 1st Choice Aerials WINDOWS, DOORS & CONSERVATORIES Albany Windows C&L Windows Clearway Doors & Windows Cloudy2Clear Inceil
58 58 62 61 62 62 60 62 60 71 62 58 60
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74 73 66 69 63
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AUCTIONEERS & VALUERS Mallams 30 CARE SERVICES Barnwood Trust 17 Driving Miss Daisy 29 Lifelink 30 Samaritans 26 COMPUTERS & SOFTWARE Abbey Group 80 PC Menders 78 EDUCATION & TRAINING Tutor Doctor 14 Winton House Day Nursery 12 HOUSE & RUBBISH CLEARANCE Crown Clearance 65 IMAGE CONSULTANT My Colours My Style 20 LEGAL & FINANCE Andorran 81 Cole Accounting 79 Thomson Bancks Solicitors 36 LOCKSMITHS Ollie’s Lock & Safe 81 MOTORING SERVICES Advance Windscreens 49 Warners 48 PET SERVICES Charlton Kings Vet Centre 11 SKIP HIRE & RECYCLING Stevens Recycling 79
56 58 56 71 60 67 80 72 78 64 52 64 81 67 71 81 62 39 55 54 56 57 56 56 56
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COMPETITION WINNERS Congratulations to the winners of our February 2016 competitions: Bacon Theatre – Pair of tickets to see ‘As You Like It’ – Daniel Stacey of Cheltenham, Angela Oxenham of Tetbury and Liz Halliwell of Stroud.
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COMPETITION RULES 1 Prizes are as stated and no cash or prize alternative will be offered. 2 Employees of The Local Answer and their families or households are not eligible to enter. 3 The first correct entry drawn at random after the closing date will win the prize as stated. 4 The winner will be notified by telephone after the closing date has passed. 5 The Editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. 6 Entrants must be over 18 years, unless stated. 7 Proof of
posting is not regarded as proof of receipt of entry. 8 The Local Answer accepts no responsibility for the provision of the prize, which remains at all times the full responsibility of the prize donor(s). 9 By entering any competition you agree to have your name published in the next issue of The Local Answer should you be drawn as a winner of the prize. 10 By entering any competition you agree to have your details passed to a third party.
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