The Local
ANSWER
APRIL 2016
200,000 DELIVERED MONTHLY IN GLOUCESTERSHIRE
f o r l o ca l p e o p l e
GLOUCESTER WIN A £500 HOLIDAY GIFT CARD! – SEE INSIDE FOR DETAILS
The Local
ANSWER
Gloucester – 46,000 copies Gloucestershire South – 41,000 copies Gloucestershire North – 20,000 copies Forest of Dean – 22,000 copies Cheltenham – 43,000 copies Cotswolds – 28,000 copies
Sara Sheperia Publication Manager – Gloucester
01242 541076 sara@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 thelocalanswer
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, get out in the garden and follow Julia Smith’s tips on spring flowers, or if you’d prefer to take it easy, have a go at making this month’s cocktail – a Bloody Mary – and put your feet up.
Inside this month ... Food & Drink Delicious Dishes Cocktail Time Wildlife Matters Wild Food Foraging Leader’s Life Looking Good Feeling Great Parenting & Guardianship Education Property Motoring What’s On Win a £500 Holiday Gift Card! Homes & Gardens Interior Design In the Garden Gadgets & Gizmos Sudoku Word Search Quick Crossword Money Matters Index, Competitions, Solutions
4 5 7 8 9 10 11 13 17 18 23 24 31-32 33 35 43 49 53 54 56 57 58
Competition on pages 31-32
@thelocalanswer
www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk
Page 3
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
~ SPECIAL APRIL OFFER ~
Monday-Friday 12-3pm
✁
LUNCHTIMES ON LIGHT MEALS
*Offer applies to lunchtime menu only and valid at times shown above during April 2016. This advert to be handed in to redeem offer. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.
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
Page 4
www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk
The Local Answer
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.
James Newdeck
Guitar and Music FREE Theory Tutor INTRODUCTORY Beginners to Intermediate
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.
For any oc c as io n ORDER ONLINE NOW
LESSON
www.bowbells.co.uk
Gift Flowers Weddings Sympathy
Call James on 01452 859578/07941 639508 james.newdeck@outlook.com
01452 385553 46 Westgate St, Gloucester GL1 2NF The Local Answer
To advertise call 01242 510500
Page 5
WANTED URGENTLY PAPER BOYS/GIRLS Good rate of pay Contact us now: t 01242 500245
e office@achda.co.uk or apply online:
www.achda.co.uk
Work from Home Start Your own Business
selling from catalogues and online Immediate Start! Part or full time Work in your local area!
No qualifications or experience required!
Choose your own hours! Make it a fulltime business!
Klifestyles
Find out more at www.Klifestyles.co.uk
sean@kleenfocus.co.uk • 01452 840848/07817 296056 Work from Home with Kleeneze
Page 6
www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk
The Local Answer
Cocktail Time with Lois Kingscott
An extensive selection of Cantonese, Szechuan & Thai dishes
Bloody Mary
01452 698770 Find us on
Unit 1-2 Kingsway Local Centre, Thatcham Avenue, Kingsway, Gloucester GL2 2GT. (next to Tesco)
DINE WITH US IN
APRIL
20% OFF FOOD SUN-THURS ONLY The Local Answer
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 Why not have a Mocktail? For a non–alcoholic alternative, simply omit the vodka.
To advertise call 01242 510500
Page 7
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
Page 8
www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk
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
Wild Food Foraging with Steven Hawley
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.
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, is out of fashion, so you can usually When gorse is out of flower, kissing be sure to get a good crop of the delicate kissing is out of fashion yellow petals most of the year. They can be Because the last week of the month is used to garnish a salad, or an unopened always a gentle reminder that I’m only one 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 com-pany. 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.
Family-friendly dental practice in the heart of Gloucester, we offer: GENERAL DENTISTRY DENTAL IMPLANTS FACIAL AESTHETICS SEDATION FOR TREATMENT COSMESTIC DENTISTRY
2 Three Cocks Lane, Gloucester GL1 2QU
01452 521440 The Local Answer
info@rogermoore.info
www.rogermoore.info
To advertise call 01242 510500
Page 9
Happy Feet
Leader’s Life
Putting comfort back in your step
with Councillor Paul James
Nail Cutting, Corns, Callus, Athletes Foot Fungal Infections
Home visit 07557 221513
Registered Foot Health Practice S.A.C.Dip.
The Docks and Quays – jewels in our crown The area of Gloucester which has seen the biggest change in recent years has been the Docks and Quays. It’s easy to forget just how much it has been transformed. The Docks used to be comprised of largely derelict warehouses and a sea of tarmac car parking. Gloucester Quays a decade ago was a collection of low value industrial uses. The City Council was one of the first occupiers at the Docks in the late 1980s, with the aim of spearheading the area’s regeneration. Other early arrivals include Dr Fosters Pub and the two museums. The Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum has recently undergone a major refurbishment and the Waterways Museum is part way through one.
Men’s modern & traditional haircuts by
Deano’s Mo er
bile Barb Men’s cuts £11 Boys/OAPs £8.50 Over 20 years experience Please give me a call anytime on
07866 157042 or 01452 614907 and I will come to your home or work place
Such a desirable place to live In more recent times, restaurants like Vinings and the Barge Arm have opened, alongside cafes on land and on the water. The Docks is such a desirable place to live now, with many of the Victorian warehouses having been converted to stylish apartments and new builds having taken place, that it has its own estate agents – Naylor Powell – and hairdressers – Head Kandy and Studio 1. The area will continue to change. There are plans for the vacant building next to the Soldiers’ Museum to be converted to a number of restaurants. Peel Group will be turning the former car park outside the Waterways Museum into a new public square. Planning consent has just been granted to develop the long-term derelict Bakers Quay with a hotel, restaurants and bars, and 166 new apartments. There are still hurdles to overcome but work could start on site in the summer. Let’s not forget Tommi Nielsen’s boatyard, which brings some wonderful ships in for repair, using their remarkable craftsmanship. Wouldn’t it be great if we had a Tall Ship permanently in the Docks? I know some people think the Docks has had too much attention at the expense of the city centre. In reality, the City Council devotes more money and resources to the city centre, with much more to come. But the Docks and Quays are jewels in our crown and we should make the most of them. @cllrpauljames
Page 10
e:paul.james@gloucester.gov.uk
ON ROAD
OFF ROAD
All Aspect of servicing & repairs including road bikes, mountain bikes and suspension servicing
SECOND HAND BIKE SALES Collection & delivery service available Call Nige for expert advice on
07551 923072/01452 534622 or email bickosbikeshack@virginmedia.com
www.bickosbikeshack.co.uk
www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk
The Local Answer
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
The Local Answer
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 11
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
Charnwood House N URSIN G H OME
Charnwood House Nursing Home specialises in caring for elderly people, younger people with a physical disability and people with dementia. Warm and friendly atmosphere. Highest standards of nursing care provided.
Owned and managed by Wotton Rise Nursing Home Ltd ● Residents always treated with dignity and respect ● Registered nurses on duty 24 hours a day providing personal and nursing care ● Freshly prepared home cooked food from a menu of residents’ choice ● Activity programme to include regular external entertainers ● Attractive patio and garden for residents ● Close to shops ● Wheelchair access throughout the home ●
Contact Diana or Marina Martinez for more details
Tel: 01452 523478 01452 451249 email: wottonrisenursinghome@hotmail.co.uk 49 Barnwood Road, Gloucester GL2 0SD
HAPPY TO HELP YOU
Fast, effective weight loss with one to one support
One-to-one fi"ng service
The Farmers Club GL2 9RG
WIGS, HAIR FORMS AND PRODUCTS
Mob: 07947 828321
jennypegler@talktalk.net www.cambridgeweight plan.com/jennyp
Self-referrals No NHS prescrip!on required
DO YOU NEED HELP AT HOME? ● Gardening ● Domestic Duties ● Organising & Attending Appointments ● Correspondence
Award Winning Consultant
new £10 OFF forclients first week
Accredited HBSA Fully Trained and Accredited Appointment only
Fully insured
Call Janet on 01452 615505 or 07403 169012
In associa on with Lily de Beer Established for 30 years
Unit 2, Venture Business Centre, Madleaze Road, GL51 5SJ
kate@gloucesterwigs.co.uk ☎ 01452 721321
www.gloucesterwigs.co.uk
AVALON Residential Home
SAINTBRIDGE HOUSE NURSING & RESIDENTIAL HOME
01452 300307
We are a small friendly care home providing 24 hour care, respite care and day care for residents with physical and mental disability. We have recently added 6 rooms with en-suite shower facilities.
We have a team of dedicated and fully trained staff to deal with clients’ needs.
Offering single en-suite bedrooms for up to 36 residents ●
ARTI Care Homes (Gloucester) Ltd Quality - Independence - Dignity 17 Barnwood Road, Gloucester GL2 0RZ
www.avalonresidentialhome.co.uk The Local Answer
Tastefully decorated and homely Lovely patio and landscaped lawn area for residents to enjoy in the warmer weather ● Dedicated, caring and hardworking staff ● Exceptional hygiene standards ● Weekly unisex hairdresser. Chiropodist, dentist, physiotherapist and optician visits arranged ● Activities Co-ordinator with an ongoing programme of events to keep residents occupied and maintain both physical and mental well being. ●
Please call us on 01452 417400 for further details or visit our website
189 Painswick Road, Gloucester, Gloucestershire GL4 4QQ E: info@saintbridge-house.co.uk www.saintbridge-house.co.uk
To advertise call 01242 510500
Page 15
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.
The Local Answer
To advertise call 01242 510500
Page 17
David Stevens
FOR ALL YOUR PROPERTY MAINTENANCE, REPAIRS AND REFURBISHMENTS Plumbing and Electrics
Wall and Floor Tiling Kitchen and Bathroom Fitting
General Building Repairs & Maintenance
Roofing Repairs and Maintenance Guttering & Upvc Cladding And much much more For more details please call
01452 617394 or 07790 816203 info@dstevens999.co.uk www.dstevens999.co.uk
The Local Answer
GC T
THE GLOUCESTER CHARITIES TRUST Opening doors for older people in Gloucestershire
Providing affordable housing and practical assistance to older people in Gloucestershire.
The Trust manages a nursing home, residential home, four sheltered housing schemes and a day service for people with dementia know as the Kimbrose Club. The Trust supports local people to live full and independent lives whilst providing care to meet individual needs.
Head Office Telephone: 01452 500429 E-mail: info@gloschar.org.uk
www.gloucestercharitiestrust.co.uk
To advertise call 01242 510500
Page 19
Gloucestershire’s Agent of the year
*Based on internal figures between June – December 2015
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 The Local Answer
To advertise call 01242 510500
Page 21
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 welldesigned, 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 060 mph time to 4.9 seconds verses 5.3 for the manual.
The Local Answer
The Golf R manages 296bhp via front and rear electronic differentials and grip through its clever fifthgeneration 4MOTION four wheel drive system. It is lowered on sports suspension by 20mm which gives a planted feel.
Several driver settings
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.
The Golf R shares the same fourcylinder 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 A perfect all rounder consumption is a quoted 39.8mpg (40.9mpg with the DSG). The Golf R gripped like it was on rails On the road there were several due to the intelligent four wheel drive driver settings to select on the system. The accurate steering feel and excellent 5.8inch colour touchscreen. stopping power was superb. I can imagine the 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 threedoor model with six-speed manual gearbox, and £31,315 for the threedoor with six-speed DSG gearbox. The five-door versions cost £30,555 and £31,970 respectively.
To advertise call 01242 510500
Page 23
What’s On The Local Answer Event Listings are compiled and presented in good faith with the kind support of many contributors. We recommend you use the contact details provided to check event information updates prior to planning your visit. EVERY WEDNESDAY BEGINNERS MAT PILATES FOR LADIES NEW CLASS STARTS April 20th. Ashchurch Village Hall, GL20 8LA. Wednesdays 7.15pm (except every 2nd Wednesday of the month). Cost: £8. To Book: 0752 847 1091 or www.synergispilates.co.uk. 1-31 MARCH DAFFODIL & EARLY MAGNOLIA MONTH March is the perfect time to see the host of golden daffodils in all their spring glory! Wander through swathes of yellow and enjoy the spring sunshine from beneath the glorious tree canopy. Batsford’s 73 species of Magnolia will also start to bloom, filling the Arboretum with clouds of pink and white. Please call for an update on 01386 701441 or visit www.batsarb.co.uk. Batsford Arboretum, Batsford, near Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire, GL56 9AD. 25 MARCH – 10 APRIL THE GIANT DUCK HUNT
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.
A group of giant ducks will be landing at Slimbridge this Easter holidays, can your family spot them all? Pick up an activity
Wedding/Special Occasion Cars
Cinderella Dreams Call Phill Aubrey 07913 201367/07540 828998
Engagements Weddings Birthdays ◆ Prom Nights ◆ Anniversaries ◆
www.facebook.com/CinderellaDreamsMotors Page 24
FUNCTION ROOM PRIVATE HIRE SNOOKER DARTS BAR/LOUNGE POOL 1 HOUR FREE
SNOOKER
◆
Cinderelladreammotors@hotmail.com
25 MARCH – 7 MAY MAMMA MIA Join the ultimate feel-good party at the world’s sunniest and most exhilarating smash-hit musical! Set on a Greek island, a story of love, friendship and identity is cleverly told through the timeless songs of ABBA. Various dates and times. 0844 871 3012. 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 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. 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.
WITH THIS VOUCHER Redeem at the bar Conditions apply
The Capital Venue | Edison Close | Waterwells Business Park | Gloucester GL2 2FN | Tel: 01452 223 214 www.thecapitalvenue.com | enquiries@tc-venue.co.uk
www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk
The Local Answer
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
17 APRIL VIENNA FESTIVAL BALLET: SWAN LAKE 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 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
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. 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 WE’LL GATHER LILACS – THE MUSIC OF IVOR NOVELLO An evening of Novello nostalgia, all those wonderful melodies from Glamorous
Shipton Golf Course
Based on the literary classic by Thomas
✁
“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
www.shiptongolf.co.uk
☎
shiptongolf@tiscali.co.uk
Follow us on Twitter – ‘Shiptongolf’
Shipton Golf Course
✉
Nr Frogmill, Shipton, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL54 4HT
Page 26
Night, Perchance to Dream, The Dancing Years and King’s Rhapsody. Pittville Pump 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; for an unforgettable evening of Beatles classics in one concert. 8pm. £16.50. 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 Evenings: 01452 770409 ross.milne2012@btinter net.com WATERLANE GL6 7PL
Pro mo t e y ou r b u s i n e ss i n 4 6,000 m a g a zi n e s
Call Sara now! 01242 541076
The Local
ANSWER
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
www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk
The Local Answer
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! Based on the classic children’s book by Jill
Tomlinson. Ages 3yrs+. 10.30am. £10 (£8, family £32). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. www.bacontheatre.co.uk. 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 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 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
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 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 28
www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk
The Local Answer
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.
Homes & Gardens
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 ●
PAVING SPECIALISTS
• Driveways • Patios • Drainage • Fencing • Landscaping • Turfing • Decking • Repair Work
01242 238030
mike@bellasinteriors.co.uk www.bellasinteriors.co.uk Unit 1, Lansdown Ind Est, Cheltenham GL51 8PL
FROM
£14
PER HOUR
FREE Quotations, Advice, Samples & Brochures
(REGULAR CLEAN)
Regular Clean Party Clean ● One-Off Clean ● After Build Clean
5 Year Guarantee with all works. Many local references available
●
www.berudman.com
07843 277723 ~ 01242 255043 Covering Cheltenham & Gloucester
The Local Answer
QUALIT Y DOMESTIC CLEANING YOU CAN TRUST ●
www.tidy-homes.com enquiries@tidy-homes.com 07764 364 638
To advertise call 01242 510500
Page 33
C C O
Making Carpet Affordable
WE WON’T BE BEATEN ON PRICE DISCOUNT CARPET WAREHOUSE SAME DAY TAKEAWAY ALDI TOYS R US
JD KARTING
Bristol Road
Call now for the cheapest quote in Gloucestershire!
B4 07 GLOU CEST 2 CARP ER OU ET ENTRTLET ANC E Clifto n Ro ad
GLOUCESTER CARPET OUTLET Entrance Opposite Aldi (Not to be confused with any other carpet shops at Morelands)
Philip St
OPENING TIMES: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm. Saturday 9am-4pm
NOT TO BE CONFUSED WITH ANY OTHER CARPET SHOPS IN MORELANDS Ask for Dan or Ben Unit 6G, Morelands Trading Estate GL1 5RZ
☎ 01452 413513 www.gloucestercarpetoutlet.co.uk
Find us on:
facebook®
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.
The Local Answer
To advertise call 01242 510500
Page 35
interior needs Luxurious Curtains and Soft Furnishings ◆ Curtains
Frrseoneal
pe design t n i eriorrvice se
& Fabrics ◆ Tracks & Poles ◆ Interior Shutters ◆ Conservatory Roof Blinds ◆ Blinds/Perfect Fit Blinds ◆ Bay Window Treatments ◆ Lighting ◆ Wallpaper
Tel: 01452 522 422 enquiries@interiorneeds.co.uk
Mon-Sat: 10am-5pm Sun: CLOSED
10% OFF BLINDS & AWNINGS ●
● Sandersons ● Romo ● Zoffany ● Prestigious ● Casadeco ● Bill Beaumont Simpson & Yorke ● Hardy ● Villa Nova ● Harlequin ● Luxaflex ● James Brindley ● Silent Gliss ● Velux ● Blendworth
Eastern Avenue, Gloucester GL4 3BU (Next to The Weavers Shop opposite PC World)
www.interiorneeds.co.uk
HW
HATHERLEY WORKTOPS LTD Your local worktop specialist Covering the Cotswolds
■
Granite ■ Composite ■ Quartzstone ■ Wood ■ Corian ■ Laminate
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 ■
Worktop Refits ■ Door Replacements ■ Kitchen Upgrades ■ Full Kitchens ■ Electrical ■ Plumbing ■ Gas ■ Tiling ■ Stud Walls/Plastering
H SELECTOSMEE View sam RVICE ple comfort o s in the f your own hom e
The Local Answer
To advertise call 01242 510500
Page 37
Unit 1, Stanley Court Telford Way, Quedgeley Gloucester GL2 2AE
MONDAY-FRIDAY 9-5 SATURDAY 10-4 SUNDAY 11-3
e.info@quedgeleycarpets.co.uk
01452 883113
QUEDGELEY CARPETS www.quedgeleycarpets.co.uk
YOUR LOCAL INDEPENDENT COMPANY THAT YOU CAN TRUST
THE LARGEST SELECTION OF LAMINATE & LUXURY VINYL FLOORING IN GLOUCESTERSHIRE
Telford Way
Naas L ane
B40
08
A38
Dr Rudloe
Holiday Inn
Edison Close
3500 sq ft showroom and warehouse with over 50 rolls of carpet and 20 rolls of vinyl in stock at any one time. Massive savings on room size remnants Free measuring service and sample viewing in your own home, just ask Wayne, Rich and Ashley Furniture moving, removal of old flooring, vacuuming, easing of doors – all services available.
EXCELLENT SERVICE AND QUALITY PRODUCTS DISPLAYED IN OUR EXTENSIVE NATURALLY LIT SHOWROOM
G Kelly PLASTERING SOLID PLASTERING DRY LINING SKIMMING ● PARTITIONING ● FIBROUS CORNICE ● EXTERNAL RENDERING ● FLOOR SCREEDING HIGH STANDARD OF WORKMANSHIP WITH 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE ●
☎ 01452 543 973 or Mobile 07967 838 979
● ●
Tel: 01452 714337 Mob: 07716007326
glassfixglazing@gmail.com
Safe and easy access
SUPPLIED & INSTALLED 01452 526040 07972 777876
www.glassfixglazing.co.uk
mark@eliteloftladders.co.uk www.eliteloftladders.co.uk
YOUR LOCAL QUALIFIED ELECTRICIAN
Call us on Rubbish Removal Skip Hire Alternative Domestic & Commercial info@wemoveanyjunk.com
01452 768703
www.wemoveanyjunk.com CLEANING & CLEARANCE SPECIALISTS GROUP GRIMEBUSTERS UK EXTREME
is part of the:
REGISTERED WASTE CARRIER
Card payments accepted
ELITE LOFT LADDERS
01242 86
2480
Free Estimates and Advice All Aspects of Electrical Work Competitive Rates Inspection and Testing P.A.T. Testing
07786 787068 / 01242 862480 neil@cleevelyelectrics.co.uk
Luxury Fitted Wardrobes Modern or Traditional – we have a wardrobe style for you! FROM ONLY £580 FITTED!
10 YEAR GUARANTEE
The wardrobe people The Local Answer
Please call for a FREE quote, price list or just advice without any obligation ... 01452 548152
www.spacemasterglos.com To advertise call 01242 510500
Page 39
Take pride in making your home sparkle
We offer a tailor made service to suit your specific requirements All types of soft furnishings including – Curtains, blinds, pelmets, headboards, upholstery, bedding. www.chosencurtains.co.uk sales@chosencurtains.co.uk Prospect House, Church Road, Churchdown, Glos 01452 551846 – Open Monday-Saturday 9am-5.30pm
Curtain alterations & refurbishment, Solar window films & Insect screens
Gloucester’s no 1 family run window cleaning business Window frames, ledges and doors sparkle every time
★
Gutter clearing with powerful gutter sucker able to reach ★ over conservatories or awkward places Gutter, fascia and conservatory roof cleaning – fully insured
NEW LOOK
Home Improvements
2w0or%k booOFkeFoud t
All types of new roofs and repairs - Flat roof specialist Repointing - Ridge and chimney repairs - External painting - upvc fascias soffits and gutters - All work fully guaranteed
Impressed with their quality, professionalism and speed. Al’s modern cleaning methods produces a much better result. Al and his team are trustworthy and personal. Mr P (Abbeymead, Gloucester)
rried and ca g April durin
Call us now for your FREE QUOTATION
01452 347952/07464 019488
please dial area code when calling
CALL TODAY 01452 301342 sparkle@alswindowcleaning.co.uk
Spread the Cost of a New Worcester Boiler with our Finance Options Now Available!
newlookhomeimprovements269@outlook.com
www.alswindowcleaning.co.uk
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: 01452 768007/01242 370390 reception@combi-man.com
The Local Answer
Worcester 29CDI Boiler installed with Filter, Sesi & Comfort Controls, including 10 year warranty from Worcester. All this for as little as £26.32 per month (offer based on like for like replacement boiler with horizontal flue, over 120 months with £300 deposit – 9.9% APR)
To advertise call 01242 510500
Page 41
1st Choice
Aerial & Satellites
CHOSEN LAWNMOWER SERVICES
Phoenix Gardeners Let us do the groundwork for you
Digital Aerial Installations Upgrades and Repairs
10% off with this advert Mark Hawkes
of all domestic lawnmowers Mower collection and delivery For a reliable, friendly service please call Graham
Call Mark on MOB: 07979 421 501 TEL: 01452 549 286
Tel: 01452 311511
07771 783528 01452 731100
www.phoenixgardenersgloucester.co.uk
Glos Garden Services Ltd
DW
www.glosgardenservices.co.uk
E SERVICE RE
Landscape 15% Gardeners off
ALL TYPES OF TREE SERVICES
Fencing, driveways, ponds, paths, lawns and tree surgery valid during April
info@glosgardenservices.co.uk
01452 913633 All major credit cards accepted
19 The Grange, Cheltenham Road East, Glos GL51 0TF
Ground Maintenance by
Small long established family run business
Competitive rates Free estimates and advice
01242 802684/07900 155 086 email: sales@dwtrees.com
www.dwtrees.com
N O O PE W N
ADRIAN GIBBS
Tree pruning & thinning ● Shrub shaping ● Hedge trimming ● Fencing ● Turfing ● Drives & Patios (block paving & gravel)
●
S
We’ll beat any genuine quotation by 10% references available
T
COMPANY REGISTRATION 09302713
find us on
SERVICING & REPAIR
◆ Fencing ◆ Turfing ◆ Garden Landscaping ◆ Decking ◆ Patios ◆ Plant Advice ◆ Complete Garden Makeovers ◆ Hedge Cutting & Planting
NEWLY REFURBISHED SHOP Stocking large seeds, tools, bird feeders, bird seeds and other garden essentials.
Chamberlain
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
Page 42
Plant Centre
Family run business spanning over 100 years We sell and grow all our own bedding plants. Spring, summer, autumn or winter, any time of the year we make our own hanging baskets and pots. Any size, big or small, with moss or liners, any colour or specific plants that you would like, we can make for you.
Open Monday-Saturday 9.30-5, Sunday 10-4 Ledbury Road, Newent, Gloucestershire GL18 1DL 01531 822581
www.chamberlainplantcentre.com
www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk
The Local Answer
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
The Local Answer
To advertise call 01242 510500
Page 43
Lawns cut from £12 Lawn Care, Edging, Strimming, Turfing, Artificial Grass, Weeding, Fencing, Hedges Cut
Ring James on
07830 646 544
greenteamgardenservices.com
ROOFING & CONTRACTORS DRIVEWAY AND PATIO SERVICES
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
●
85 Cheltenham Road East, Churchdown, Gloucester GL3 1JN
BLOCK PAVING TARMACING ● GRAVEL ● SLABS ● FENCING ● ●
Telephone: 01452 712 368 www.laland1.com www.lsland1.com
*the customer is entitled to a 14 day cooling off period by law
22 Wilson Drive, Cheltenham GL51 0GY
Paul’s Plumbing • 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
01452 898123
01242 713800 / 07778 340485
www.markclifford-landscapes.co.uk
Master Sheds Each structure is custom built to your own requirements – perhaps to fit a corner of the garden or a difficult location.
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 44
www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk
The Local Answer
Female Plumber Kerry Baker
Professional qualified plumber Fully insured No job too small
Mobile
07880 258 158 kerry@thefemaleplumber.co.uk
ROOFING & BUILDING SOLUTIONS
for all your property needs
REGISTERED INSTALLER Our range of services and installations include: ● Replacement UPVC fascias, soffits and guttering ● New roofs and repairs – tile, felt, lead and slate ● Flat roofs (including Rubber) ● Chimney repairs ● Lead work ● Gutter clearing ● Dry verges All general maintenance and building work, including the small jobs around the house that you hate to do!
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
Fully Insured Fully Qualified CRB Checked
STEVE HOLLAND ELECTRICAL LTD The po wer to ligh t u p you r h om e
RHODES CARPENTRY LTD Over 18 years carpentry experience
Kitchens & Bathrooms ●
●
Design • Installation Re-Wires • Repairs Testing from £2000 • Inspection • Maintenance
General Building Works (Internal/External) ●
● ●
t 01242 250058 e steve@shelimited.co.uk w shelimited.co.uk
OVEN & RANGE CLEANING OVENS ● EXTRACTOR FANS ● MICROWAVES ● HOBS ● AGAS ● RAYBURNS
Local independent oven cleaning specialist 100% biodegradable and non-caustic products. Tidy, clean, and efficient system.
£5
Supply & fit all makes and models; we can even custom build to customer’s own specification and available space. Our service also includes plumbing, electrical, decorating, plastering, tiling etc., if required. No hassle for the customer - we arrange it all. All types of works undertaken. Custom built wardrobes, loft conversions, door hanging, decking, pergolas, patios.
For a compe ve Quote please contact: Home: 01452 533 102 Mobile: 07870 586701 or Email: lee@lrcarpentry.co
SAFE STYLE HOME IMPROVEMENTS When Quality Counts You Can Count On Us
• New roofs and repairs • Slate and tiled roofs • Flat roof specialist • Roof cleaning and moss removal specialists • Chimneys re-pointed and Chimney removal • Ridge tiles re-pointed •All lead work • We supply and fit uPVC fascias, soffits, bargeboards and guttering of your choice at discount prices • We cover storm damage
OFF* 01452 404600 07958 383366
* Please mention this advertisement for your £5 discount
www.ovenandrangecleaning.co.uk info@ovenandrangecleaning.co.uk The Local Answer
Fully Insured ~ All work guaranteed We’ll beat any ‘like for like’ quotation! For a FREE ESTIMATE please call:
01452 347643 (Please dial area code when calling) or email: safestylehomeimprovements1@gmail.com
To advertise call 01242 510500
Page 45
Rectory Fields, Rudford, Gloucestershire GL2 8DT
Tel: 01452 668005/01453 297010/01285 238089 www.marshallsdriveways.co.uk Company registration: 090645563
HOME CARE ROOFING & BUILDING
FOR ALL YOUR PROPERTY NEEDS
Quality Workmanship ◆ Competitive Prices ◆ Qualified Staff ◆ Free Quotations
FANTASTIC OFFER
20% OFF for over 60’s
T: 01452 379283 M: 07824 326701
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
For a FREE QUOTATION please call: FREEPHONE 0800 474 8424 or 01242 809264 (Please dial area code when calling)
Town & Country
matt@folleyelectrical.co.uk www.folleyelectrical.co.uk
Heating and Plumbing Ltd
safe GAS
REGISTER
tm
m: 07787 523425 t: 01452 649370
NO CALL OUT CHARGE FREE ESTIMATES
e: enquiries@townandcountryheatingandplumbing.co.uk w: townandcountryheatingandplumbing.co.uk
Boiler and heating installations, repairs & servicing Gas boiler service from £40+VAT Oil boiler service from £70+VAT Combination boiler replacements from £1150+VAT (Subject to existing system condition) Free boiler service for all new boilers installed in 2016 All types of plumbing & heating work and repairs Bathroom & kitchen installations Landlord Certificates
Page 46
www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk
The Local Answer
The Local Answer
To advertise call 01242 510500
Page 47
Page 48
www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk
The Local Answer
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
The Local Answer
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
Page 49
ROOFING & DRIVEWAY SPECIALIST NEW ROOFS & REPAIRS
TILES • SLATES • FLAT RUBBER GUTTERING • FASCIAS • SOFFITS • UPVC
GlosBuild proudly supports Cancer Research UK Please visit our page at www.justgiving.com/glosbuild
GENUINE
10% OFF for over 60’s du ring April 2016
TARMAC BLOCK PAVING
REGULATED & INSURANCE APPROVED
GLOSBUILD Professional & Reliable General Builders OVER 40 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE! Page 50
FREE QUOTATIONS
01452 739 284 ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED
info@glosbuild.co.uk www.glosbuild.co.uk Court Farm, Tewkesbury Road, Twigworth, Glos. GL2 9PX
www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk
The Local Answer
The Local Answer
To advertise call 01242 510500
Page 51
Karl Dewick
Painter | Decorator Paperhanger | Airless Sprayer
DOMESTIC | INDUSTRIAL | COMMERCIAL Painting & Decorating Property Maintenance House & Garden Clearance
07979 223331
kdewick@hotmail.com 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
●
24 hou rs a day 7 days a week 365 days a year
CALL NICK ON
01452 424 804 FREEPHONE
0800 068 1216
For more information please visit the website @
www.fix-my-oven.co.uk
DIRTY COOKER OR OVEN? Tel: 01452 223 063
www.ovenbusters-cheltenham.co.uk
GREAT WEEKEND HIRE OPTIONS
Cultivator £25
Small Digger £90
Hedge Trimmer £25
Plate Compactor £25
EFFIC IENT, SPEED Y DELIV ERY
Post Hole Borers £35
Pressure Washers £25
Cherry picker hire available with free site surveys
Massive range of sale items including
and
and all gardening and hand tools
7.30am-5pm and 8am-12pm Saturdays
Byard Rd, Gloucester GL2 5DF ☎ 01452 526616
www.ermin.co.uk Branches in: Gloucester, Cheltenham, Stroud, Cirencester, Worcester, Ross-on-Wye Page 52
www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk
The Local Answer
Matt Grimshaw Carpentry Ltd Your local Carpenter/ Kitchen Fitting Specialist
Sudoku Fill the grids so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 to 9.
All aspects of carpentry undertaken ● ●
Kitchens ● Doors ● Timber Flooring Stairs ● Roofing ● Bespoke Joinery 10% ● Decking ● Fencing
01242 604423/07792 088822
DISCOUNT
ON KITCHEN FITTING WHEN QUOTING TLA
WRIGHT SKIPS mattgrimshawcarpentry@live.co.uk www.mattgrimshawcarpentry.co.uk
2, 4 and 6 yard skips available
Call now for a FREE quote
We also supply Building Aggregate and collect your unwanted household appliances, furniture and electrical items
GRP Electrical
01452 545867/07979 508191 58 Springwell Gardens, Churchdown, Gloucester GL3 2AL
LTD
www.wrightskipsuk.com
Domestic, Commercial and Industrial Work undertaken
Get ready for the dark nights with external security lighting Kitchen lights Rewires Showers Fault finding Inspection & testing Landlord certificates Distribution board upgrades Free Estimates ~ No Call out Charge
10% OFF EVERYTHING for work booked and carried out before 30 April 2016
144 Finlay Road Gloucester GL4 6TF Tel: (Gloucester) 01452 307413 Tel: (Cheltenham) 01242 649642 Mob: 07970 547277 Email: info@grpelectricalltd.co.uk www.grpelectricalltd.co.uk
The Local Answer
Don’t look until you’ve finished! Solutions on ‘Index of Advertisers’ page.
THE SOLUTION FOR YOUR NEW BATHROOM ...
To advertise call 01242 510500
Your local family business
Page 53
WORD SEARCH D M Q W N R C Q H V D N K P J S E N W G Q Q B K
G X M A K L T U X A F W Z H F E E U G L J R W U
Y E U F A W N A W V W F A O A R W L G F I W D F
J E H S C C J T H D A H R T B D Y E I O I G M Q
K O S W O W T A C C E S S O R I E S L T V H H V
L I O I L O F T R O P J N G M S U M S L X Y X O
C A Q S I K J Y B F G W U R W L N A T E E E Y F
G J I K N U V A F E Y Y J A I I H E Y J A R T U
F A N C M M O A G A L C L P U J X R L Q H L Y Z
A E R S R S H X N L S A W H R H O T I I J O A F
D M U M L E P L I F D H G E H Y B S S D W P I A
R D B V E N M C H J Q S I R N E K N T V T Q D J
Fashion ACCESSORIES BEACHWEAR COLLECTION COMMERCIAL DESIGNER CHIC CLASSIC CLOTHING FAD
FASHIONABLE GARMENT INDUSTRY JEWELLERY MAINSTREAM MANNEQUIN MEDIA MODERN PHOTOGRAPHER
PORTFOLIO STYLIST SUIT TAILORED TEXTILES VINTAGE VOGUE
E M L X V N W M T V A E N O A N I I V E Q Y E J
L Q B A U Z T Q O K E R I C N D F A M A D Q M Z
V I N T A G E Y L C E T H S F A Q M A H D X J D
C A L L Q J L R C D C W Y W U J B L N X E J Y A
Z S N Y F R O N O E E K E J W Y Q L N R T R V R
F B W O U R G M L A P H N U L Z I K E Q T B Z I
£10 OFF!
T D P S H L T L R U T Q V O T I F E Q S B S U M
K C U D L N O C I H C K W P O E U R U K B P W Z
T I U B F C I G Y P O T T V U R V D I Q N W Q D
ecoclean
T H B O U B T S E V B F B P G W N B N G L C U D
ltd
D E S I G N E R N T Q B P X X I E S F U V G Y W
D M X Q L G N T H B X Y J D E R O L I A T H B T
CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CARE & CLEANING
USING CODE JL25
07804 610105 01452 898247 www.ecocleancarpet.co.uk hello@ecocleancarpet.co.uk
Don’t look until you’ve finished! Solutions on ‘Index of Advertisers’ page. Page 54
www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk
The Local Answer
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
The Local Answer
about saving people money, although that obviously helps. “Many tradespeople have struggled since last year and I honestly feel that during the good times a minority perhaps didn’t focus on customer care as much as they should have done. We make sure we turn up when we say we will, do the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle. I often get comments back from customers on how they really didn’t expect that sort of service which, in a way, is very sad for the service industry as a whole.”
Cloudy2Clear service Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds, and Paul is finding that his approach is a major factor in his success. “The truth is that it’s not just the personal satisfaction that I get from doing a good job but also it makes good business sense. I get a huge amount
To advertise call 01242 510500
of business from friends and family of people I’ve done work for, which just goes to show how much a little bit of effort is appreciated.” So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Paul a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be happy to help!
Page 55
Quick Crossword 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
ACROSS 1 4 7 8 9 12 15 17 18 21 22 23
Monotonous Different Sultan's wife Restraining cord Straighten Inflame One who solicits votes Sliced very thinly Duck's call Finest Oral sense Of earthquakes
17
18
19
W h y n ot u s e t his s pa ce t o a dve rt is e yo u r b u s i n e ss ?
20
21
22
DOWN 1 Appeals board 2 Accustomed 3 Coal vein 4 Australian gemstone 5 Announces 6 Wealthy 10 Ledger entry 11 Satirical routines 13 Plague 14 Chafes 16 Stops momentarily 18 Give up 19 Leg joint 20 Flows away
For details please telephone Sara on
23
The Local
© Lovatts Puzzles
Don’t look until you’ve finished! Solutions on ‘Index of Advertisers’ page.
01242
ANSWER 541076
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
Page 56
www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk
The Local Answer
Always there if you need us
SELF ASSESSMENT TAX RETURNS Licenced Bookkeeping Services for Sole Traders including VAT/CIS. Competitive Rates and Free Quotation. Nicola Hamlin
E GLOUCESTERSHIR
08457 909090 or jo@samaritans.org
AICB CB.Cert PM.Dip
NJH
07443 875 227
N J H
Bookkeeping Services
njhbookkeeping@gmail.com
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
10% OFF
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
The Local Answer
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 57
Index of Advertisers FOOD & DRINK Blue Orchid Cafe Rene So Thai Tiger’s Eye
7 6 4 4
WHAT’S ON CLUBS & SPORTS James Newdeck Guitar Lessons 5 Shipton Golf Course 26 EVENTS & ATTRACTIONS Bowden Hall 29 Hallmark Hotels 25 The Bird & Deer Park 28 The Capital Venue 24
HEALTH & BEAUTY Cambridge Weight Plan Deano’s Mobile Barber Gloucester Wigs Happy Feet Roger Moore Dental Practice
15 10 15 10 9
PROPERTY & STORAGE David Stevens Property Maintenance Norton Park Park Home Life Storage King The Property Centre TwoCan Estate Agents
19 21 19 18 60 20
RETAIL Antiques Wanted Assured Mobility Bicko’s Bike Shack Bow Bells
26 16 10 5
Chamberlain Plant Centre Eastgate Shopping Centre Ermin Plant Hire Vinyl Records
42 27 52 26
HOMES & GARDENS BATHROOMS Severn Vale Bathrooms 53 & 59 BUILDING SERVICES 44 A1 Roofing & Contractors BE Rudman 33 Elite Loft Ladders 39 39 G Kelly Plastering Glos Build 50 Home Care Roofing & Building 46 LA Landscapes 44 Marshalls Driveways 46 Roofing & Building Solutions 45 CARPENTRY Matt Grimshaw 53 Rhodes Carpentry 45 CLEANING SERVICES Ecoclean 54 Oven Busters 52 The Oven and Range Cleaning 45 Tidy Homes 33 ELECTRICAL SERVICES Cleevely Electrics 39 Folley Electrical 46 GRP Electrical 53 Steve Holland Electrical 45 FURNISHING & APPLIANCES Bella’s Interiors 33 Chosen Curtains 41 Gloucester Carpet Outlet 34
36 Interior Needs Just Fabrics 47 38 Quedgeley Carpets Sapphire Carpets 37 Space Master 39 GARDEN SERVICES Adrian Gibbs Grasscutting 42 Challenge Fencing 44 42 Chosen Lawnmowers 42 DW Tree Services Glos Garden Services 42 46 Handylink Lawn Doc 52 Lawn Man 44 Mark Clifford Landscapes 44 Master Sheds 44 Phoenix Gardeners 42 HANDYMAN SERVICES New Look Home Improvements41 Safe Style Home Improvements45 HEATING & PLUMBING Drain Doctor 52 KB Female Plumber 45 Paul’s Plumbing 44 PBT Installations 45 The Combi Man 41 Town & Country 46 KITCHENS Hatherley Worktops 37 PAINTING & DECORATING Paul Dewick 52 TV & AERIAL 1st Choice Aerials 42 WINDOWS & DOORS
Al’s Window Cleaning Albany Windows C&L Windows Clearway Doors & Windows Cloudy 2 Clear Glassfix Glazing Inceil
41 40 51 48 55 39 33
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CARE SERVICES Avalon Residential Home Barnwood Trust Charnwood House Glos County Council Fostering Gloucester Charities Trust Help at Home Lifelink Saintbridge House Samaritans COMPUTER SERVICES Abbey Group Computer Cookie LEGAL & FINANCE NJH Bookkeeping MOTORING SERVICES Cinderella Dreams Warners of Gloucester POLITICAL PARTIES UKIP Gloucester RECRUITMENT & TRAINING Klifestyles SKIP HIRE & RECYCLING Grimebusters Stevens Recycling Wright Skips
15 32 14 12 19 15 15 15 57 56 57 57 24 22 2 6 39 57 53
PUZZLE SOLUTIONS T
E
D
O U
I
S
I B
U
L
T
B
N A
A
L
O B
A
E
N D
D
E Y
I
C
K
S
U
D
N O B
I
E
E
B
E
S
A
S
T
I
L
E
I
N D
A
S
H
L
E
E
D
L P
S
I
P H
A
V
E
U L
E
S
M
T
I
E E
D M Q W N R C Q H V D N K P J S E N W G Q Q B K
R C
E
A
E
E R
T S
Q U
T
K
H
A
I
T
R
T
P
S N
B B
N
M
R
U N
O
S E
N
R
I
S M
I
C
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
G X M A K L T U X A F W Z H F E E U G L J R W U
Y E U F A W N A W V W F A O A R W L G F I W D F
J E H S C C J T H D A H R T B D Y E I O I G M Q
K O S W O W T A C C E S S O R I E S L T V H H V
L I O I L O F T R O P J N G M S U M S L X Y X O
C A Q S I K J Y B F G W U R W L N A T E E E Y F
G J I K N U V A F E Y Y J A I I H E Y J A R T U
F A N C M M O A G A L C L P U J X R L Q H L Y Z
A E R S R S H X N L S A W H R H O T I I J O A F
D M U M L E P L I F D H G E H Y B S S D W P I A
R D B V E N M C H J Q S I R N E K N T V T Q D J
E M L X V N W M T V A E N O A N I I V E Q Y E J
L Q B A U Z T Q O K E R I C N D F A M A D Q M Z
V I N T A G E Y L C E T H S F A Q M A H D X J D
C A L L Q J L R C D C W Y W U J B L N X E J Y A
Z S N Y F R O N O E E K E J W Y Q L N R T R V R
F B W O U R G M L A P H N U L Z I K E Q T B Z I
T D P S H L T L R U T Q V O T I F E Q S B S U M
K C U D L N O C I H C K W P O E U R U K B P W Z
T I U B F C I G Y P O T T V U R V D I Q N W Q D
T H B O U B T S E V B F B P G W N B N G L C U D
D E S I G N E R N T Q B P X X I E S F U V G Y W
D M X Q L G N T H B X Y J D E R O L I A T H B T
not regarded as proof of receipt of entry. 8 The Local Answer accepts no responsibility for the provision of the prize, which remains at all times the full responsibility of the prize donor(s). 9 By entering any competition you agree to have your name published in the next issue of The Local Answer should you be drawn as a winner of the prize. 10 By entering any competition you agree to have your details passed to a third party.
BOOKING DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE – Thursday 14th April 2016 Page 58
www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk
The Local Answer