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GLOUCESTERSHIRE NORTH WISHING ALL OUR READERS A WONDERFUL CHRISTMAS!
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EEditorial ditorial & PProduction roduction LLois ois K Kingscott ingscott editorial@thelocalanswer.co.uk editorial@thelocalanswer.co.uk
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W Welcome elcome ttoo D December ecember ...... The trees are going up, decorations are creeping out of the cupboards and it’s nearly time to order your turkey! While there’s no doubt many of us will indulge this festive season, we must be mindful of what we’re feeding our furry friends. Oliver Wilkinson explains about the festive dangers for pets in our ‘Pet Care’ article. If you’re having difficulty thinking of gifts ideas this year, we have plenty of suggestions in our features – ‘Gadgets & Gizmos’, ‘Motoring’ and ‘In the Garden’ all have some great ideas that are sure to help you out . Remember to put thought into your presents and don’t let Christmas cost the earth. Annabel Laughton gives her advice on reducing our environmental impact in ‘Save the Planet’. Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without a little sparkle, and Katie Pollard has rounded up the best beauty tricks to get you through the festive season in style. Read more in ‘Mirror Mirror on the Wall’. From all of us at The Local Answer, we hope you have a wonderful Christmas and a fantastic New Year! See you in 2017!
IInside nside tthis his m month onth .... .. Cocktail TTime Cocktail ime W ild FFood ood FForaging oraging Wild D elicious Dish Dish Delicious W ildlife M atters Wildlife Matters P et CCare are Pet M irror M irror o n tthe he W all Mirror Mirror on Wall M otoring Motoring SSave ave the the Planet Planet W hat’s O n What’s On TTLA LA Travel Travel H omes & G ardens Homes Gardens G adgets & G izmos Gadgets Gizmos IIn n tthe he G arden Garden IInterior nterior D esign Design Quick Crossword Crossword Quick Word SSearch earch Word Sudoku Sudoku Index , CCompetitions, ompetitions, SSolutions olutions Index,
4 4 5 6 7 9 11 11 15 15 16 16 18-19 18-19 20 20 23 23 25 25 27 27 29 29 30 30 33 33 34 34 Page 3
C Cocktail ocktail Time Time with with Lois Lois K Kingscott ingscott
W Wild ild F Food ood F Foraging oraging w with ith S Steven teven H Hawley awley
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Sangria Sangria Sangria is a typical beverage from Spain and Portugal, which usually consists of wine, chopped fruit, a sweetener, and a small amount of brandy. The fruit can include orange, lemon, lime, apple, peach, melon, berries, pineapple, grape, kiwifruit and mango. A sweetener such as honey, sugar, syrup or orange juice is often added to take any bitterness away from sour fruit or the brandy. Instead of brandy, other liquids such as Seltzer, Sprite or 7 Up may be added. T h e u s e o f t h e wo r d s a n g r i a i n l a b e l s i s n ow r e s t r i c t e d under European law. Only sangria made in Spain and Portugal is allowed to be sold under that name after the European Parliament green-lighted new wine labelling was introduced in January 2014. Ingredients Ingredients ((to to make make 1 litre): litre): Ice; ½ lemon; ½ orange; 2 tbsp white sugar; 500ml red wine; 250ml fresh orange juice; 250ml ginger ale; 50ml brandy; mint to garnish. Ice cubes Method: Method: 1 Wash and chop the orange and lemon, including skins, and add to a pitcher. 2 Add the orange juice and sugar to the pitcher and stir with a wooden spoon to dissolve the sugar. 3 Add the ginger ale, red wine and brandy to the pitcher and stir. 4 Add ice cubes and serve. Garnish with a sprig of mint if preferred.
P PLEASE LEASE D DRINK RINK R RESPONSIBLY ESPONSIBLY Why Why not not have have a M Mocktail? ocktail? For a non-alcoholic alternative, mix 750ml cranberry juice, 500ml orange juice, 100ml fresh lemon juice, 30ml lime juice, 1 pear (diced) and 1 apple (diced). Page 4
“You forage your own food?” A new acquaintance once asked. “On occasion,” I responded. “That’s interesting,” she glanced around the pub garden, “Can I eat that?” She asked and pointed to a weed growing out of a flower boarder. “I have no idea. What is it?” “Shouldn’t you know?” I offered a shrug by way of response, took a sip of my beverage and went to investigate. The problem with having a hobby as diverse as foraging is that everyone automatically assumes you’re an expert on the subject and are keen to test your knowledge to try and catch you out . The mistake to be made is allowing your pride to get the better of you and guess to impress. That’s how you get yourself a quick trip to hospital for a s to m a c h p u m p – s o m e t h i n g t h a t h a p p e n e d to m e a s a child during my first ever forage when I mistook Laburnum pods as a type of runner bean. But like many foragers, I’m just a student of the land and am constantly learning. Ever since my first accidental p o i s o n i n g , I n e ve r a ss u m e I k n o w w h a t s o m e t h i n g i s without fully investigating it first.
““I’m I’m ttiddled iddled a and nd m might ight b be ew wrong.” rong.” On this occasion, the plant turned out to be chickweed. I’m never far from my phone so I spent a couple of rounds researching the plant by comparing pictures and descriptions to information found online. The conversation in the group had moved on by the time I had found my answer, and the initial interest shown by others had anticlimactically fizzled out like a cheap sparkler when it was apparent that I was no Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall. “Chickweed, eh? Can we eat it?” “Probably, but I wouldn’t recommend it.” “Why not?” “Because I’m tiddled and might be wrong.” “You’re rubbish!” That last comment might be true, but I’m still alive! Don’t just take my word as fact when foraging – always do your Control of Substances own research. Hazardous to Health IIff yyou’re ou’re nnot ot 100% 100% sure sure that that tthe he plant plant yyou’re ou’re ppicking icking iiss ssafe afe for for hhuman uman consumption, consumption, ddon’t on’t pick pick it. it. If If you’re you’re prone prone ttoo ffood ood aallergies, llergies, oorr ppregnant, regnant, always always sseek eek medical medical advice advice bbefore efore cconsuming onsuming anything anything fforaged oraged in in tthe he wild. wild.
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D Delicious elicious Dish Dish with w ith Helen Helen Kingscott Kingscott
Turkey w ith b acon, p eas Turkey with bacon, peas and cream cream and SServes erves 2 2-3 -3 IIngredients: ngredients: 3 thick rashers of streaky bacon or pancetta, diced small; oil for frying; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1 clove garlic, chopped; leftover turkey, chopped fairly small; 200g frozen peas; 2-3 tbsp double cream; salt and pepper. TTo o sserve: erve: 200 -300g tagliatelle; fresh parmesan or coriander depending on preference. Method: M ethod: 1 In a heavy frying pan fry the bacon or pancetta until just crispy. Turn the heat down, then add the onions and garlic and cook gently until soft but not coloured.
An An ideal ideal rrecipe ecipe tto ou use se u up p aallll the bacon acon aand nd the leftover leftover turkey, turkey, b that that e extra xtra p pot ot of of cream cream you you bought mountain off bought ffor or tthe he m ountain o Christmas desserts! Christmas d esserts!
2 Add the peas and allow to bubble for a couple of minutes. When the pan is almost dry again add the turkey and heat through. 3 Add the cream and season well with salt and pepper. Allow to bubble until the cream has reduced a little and the sauce has a nice coating consistency. 4 Serve tossed with the cooked tagliatelle, with either the parmesan or coriander.
Now Now Taking Taking Christmas Bookings C hristmas B ookings
Tip: For those who like a little more sauce, try adding Tip: some chicken stock when you add the cream.
Telephone: T elephone: (01242) (01242) 6 602303 0 230 3
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CORNER C ORNER C CUPBOARD UPBOARD IINN NN 83 Gloucest 83 Gloucester er SStree treett,, Winchcomb nchcombee,, Cheltenham Cheltenham GL GL54 L54 55LX LX ww www.cornercupboardwinchcombe.co.uk ww.cornercupboardwinchcombe.co.uk
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Wildlife W ildlife M Matters atters
© David Slater
with with Jenny Jenny S Stevens tevens o off Gloucestershire Gloucestershire Wildlife Wildlife Trust Trust
Starling Season As we say goodbye to the long warm days of summer and the colour that autumn brings, it’s easy to feel a little down-trodden by the harsh lines and cold air of winter. You’d be forgiven for thinking it a dull season for wildlife, but to the avid eye, it is rich with delights that don’t grace our landscapes in warmer months. We welcome migrant birds such as re d w i n g s and fieldfares to hedgerows; the occasional flock of spectacular waxwings to garden berry trees; beautiful ducks such as teal, shoveler, wigeon and pintail overwinter on wetland sites such as Coombe Hill. But perhaps the most spectacular of winter treats is the sight of a starling murmuration.
Flecks Flecks o off iiridescent ridescent green green and and purple purple A n u n a ss u m i n g b l a c k b i rd a t f i r s t glance, up close the starling glistens with flecks of iridescent green and purple. They are year-round residents in the UK and by no means a rare sight in gardens and atop telegraph p o l e s . B u t a u t u m n s e e s l a rg e n u m b e r s a r r i ve f ro m m a i n l a n d Europe, and they remain with us until spring. From October onwards, lucky observers will see thousands of them fo r m f l o c ks a n d t w i s t a n d t u r n Page 6
through the sky in a murmuration. Mesmerising to watch, the birds gradually gather on the wing and swoop together in unison, creating i n c re d i b l e f l u i d s h a p e s t h r o u g h t h e air. The freewheeling, pulsating curves produced by masses of these small birds are an annual highlight for many a wildlife-enthusiast.
flying in unison may be too daunting for a bird of prey to consider approaching.
A sight sight tto ob behold ehold W h a t e ve r the reason, murmurations are a sight to behold and I would urge you to seek one out at this time of year. The best time to c a tc h a s h ow i s a t d u s k – a f i n a l hurrah before they settle down for the night. The location can be a little trickier. While they roost in a number of different habitats – from reed beds to city centres – like so many of nature’s wonders, you’re never guaranteed to see one, which is what makes them even more special.
Promising Promising ssightings ightings throughout throughout tthe he ccounty ounty © Ian Rose
I t i s t h o u g h t t h a t t h e re a re a number of reasons for these aerial displays. The most widely believed is that it is a survival tactic. Starlings ro o s t i n l a rg e n u m b e r s t h ro u g h t h e winter and so attract predators such a s s p a r r o w h a w k a n d p e r e g r i n e. Murmurations could be a way of confusing predators – staying as close to the centre of the group as possible would mean less chance of being picked off, while the large group www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk
In previous years, sightings have been reported in Gloucester city centre, with promising signs in Abbeymead appearing in October 2016. Countywide, the South Cerney area has proved reasonably reliable, w i t h W W T S l i m b r i d g e re g u l a r l y reporting shows too. If you’re keen to track down a display, visit starlingsintheuk .co.uk for details of the most recently recorded roost sites and murmurations. This should give a good indication of prominent viewing spots. The Local Answer
P Pet et C Care are
w ith O liver W ilkinson with Oliver Wilkinson o fD ragon V et C entre of Dragon Vet Centre Established in 1904, Dragon Vet Centre Cheltenham is a centre of excellence f large and small – and offers a full rang services from routine vaccinations, worming and flea prevention to complex internal medicine investigations, orthopaedic and key hole surgery for dogs and cats. As one of the largest veterinary practices in Cheltenham Dragon can draw on the expertise of a number of vets with great deal of experience in all fields of veterinary medicine and surgery. Our Cheltenham Vet clinic is staffed 24/7 so in the event of an emergency, registered clients simply need to call and attend our surgery based at the Cheltenham racecourse where there is unlimited free parking.
THIS T HIS MONTH’S MONTH’S SPECIAL OFFER S PECIAL O FFER
O LY L 2 ONLY N Y £20 £ 0 LUS FREE FREE FLEA FLEA & WORM WORM TTREATMENT REAATTMENT PPLUS FFOR OR ALL ALL NEW NEW CLIENTS CLIENTS The above above ddiscount iscount iiss aavailable vailable The tthroughout hroughout December December 2016 2016 limited ttoo oone ne – limited voucher pper er voucher hhousehold ousehold
As I was enjoying a quick lunchtime walk with the dogs the other day,, I received an urgent call from the clinic – a dog had just eaten a decent quantity of chocolate cake and the owner was rightly concerned about whether it might cause a problem. A medically induced vomit later and the chocolate was out of its system before any harm was done. Now that Christmas is approaching, cases of ‘chocolate toxicity’ increase along with all those naughty festive treats.
Chocolate Chocolate iiss n not ot tthe he o only nly e evil vil Most people know that chocolate is bad for dogs – even a small amount of dark chocolate can make a small dog very sick . But chocolate is not the only evil. Other foods that dogs don’t always tolerate include dried fruit such as raisins (avoid t h e C h r i s t m a s p u d d i n g ) , w h i c h c a n c a u s e s e r i o u s k i d n ey problems. Then there are the rich, fatty left-overs from Christmas dinner, which are often tipped into Fido’s bowl, triggering stomach upsets or pancreatitis in susceptible dogs. Some festive plants can also be quite toxic. Poinsettias, holly and mistletoe are all potentially poisonous and even small a m o u n t s i n g e s te d c a n c a u s e g a s t ro i n te s t i n a l p ro b l e m s . Mistletoe berries are particularly lethal. One of the nastiest toxins we see in winter though is antifreeze. It is supposedly quite sweet , and cats are particularly prone to licking it up from driveways. It causes devastating kidney damage and is one of the saddest and most frustrating toxicities to treat. If you do spill any, make sure you clean it up thoroughly.
K Kittens ittens llove ove playing playing with with decorations decorations
DRAGON D RA R AGON V VET ET C CENTRE ENTRE Prestbury Park , New Barn Lane, Cheltenham GL50 4SH
01242 01242 580 580 324 324 ~ info@dragonvet.co.uk info@dragonvet.co.uk Opening hours: 8.15am-7pm Mon-Fri & 8.15am-1pm Sat 2244 hour hour On On SSite ite EEmergency mergency Service Service ~ 0 01242 1242 522 522 022 022
w www.dragonvet.co.uk ww.dragonvet.co.uk The Local Answer
FFestive estive ddangers angers ffor or ppets ets
If you have young cats, you can expect them to have great fun with your Christmas tree, which to them is like an indoor climbing frame. They love playing with the decorations, but tinsel, string and ribbons are all too common causes of intestinal blockages, so be wary if they are playing with them. The colder weather often exacerbates arthritis and hampers the mobility of older pets. Fortunately, there is plenty that can be done for a stiff old dog or cat, so if they are particularly affected this winter talk to your vet about treatment options. Ultimately, Christmas should be a time of fun for you and y o u r p e t s , b u t o n e f i n a l t h o u g h t – w i l l yo u b e o n e o f t h e supposed 2/3 pet owners who spend the same amount or more on presents for your pets than your partner? I’m hoping my wife isn’t!
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Hair Hair S Salon alon
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C Clean, lean, h healthy, ealthy, n natural atural beauty. beauty. Made Made with with extremely extremely h high igh standard standard ingredients. ingredients. All All products products of of OWay OWay Beauty Beauty cconsist onsist ooff a minimum minimum of of 98.8% 98.8% active active ingredients, ingredients, oils, oils, extracts, extracts, essential essential oils, oils, and and emollients emollients derived derived from from n natural, atural, organic, organic, biodynamic biodynamic a and nd ethical ethical origins. origins. OWay O Way B Beauty eauty ooffers ffers tthe he m maximum aximum p possible ossible g guarantee uarantee – tthe he N NATURE ATURE ccertification ertification seal. seal.
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M Mirror irror M Mirror irror o on n the the W Wall... all ... with with Katie Katie P Pollard ollard
CChristmas hristmas CCrackers rackers LLeave eave your your skin skin feeling feeling silky silky ssoft oft
Between Christmas shopping, eating as much turkey as we can and decking the halls with too much tinsel, there’s never enough time to get yourself ready for the evening’s festivities. This month, I’ve rounded up the best beauty basics to get you through the party season in style.
A An na abundance bundance o off g glitter litter When it comes to Christmas, it really is a case of the more the merrier – and I’m not just talking about the consumption of wine and amount of helpings you have at the dinner table! It ’s the month of merriment after all, and when it comes to glitter and sparkle it ’s the only time of year you can get away with an abundance of the stuff. Eyes, lips, nails, hair – the good news is l o t s o f g l i t te r m a k e - u p c a n b e u s e d everywhere, so luckily you only need to i n ve s t i n o n e p r o d u c t . A l i t t l e p o t o f g l i t te r i s l i k e a l i t t l e p o t o f m a g i c , especially at Christmas! Technically it doesn’t matter which brand you use, as long as it’s one you’ve used before and you know is kind to your skin (in case, like me, you’re the sensitive skin type). MAC Glitter pots are light in texture and h a ve s e r i o u s l y h i g h l eve l s p a r k l e t h a t will brighten any festive facial!
babe, letterbox lover or raspberry ripple, pay tribute to this beauty staple with the likes of Bobbi Brown’s Creamy Matte Lip Colour in ‘Red Carpet’, adding a touch o f H o l l y wo o d g l a m o u r to evening attire, or for something bolder try MAC’s ‘Ruby Woo’ for a bit of razzle d a z z l e. M a i n t a i n a n a l l night-long colour by keeping t h e a p p l i c a t i o n to t a l l y seamless with a matching lip liner. Simply line the lips with the pencil and fil l in w i t h yo u r c h o s e n s h a d e – let’s make sure it’s not just the red wine that’s staining your lips at this year’s Christmas party!
TTry ry a ffun un ttwist wist o on n tthe he CChristmas hristmas p palette alette
R Rouge ouge iiss rrevived evived over over tthe he ffestive estive p period eriod As we all know, red is undeniably the colour of Christmas. Not just for Rudolf’s nose and Starbucks’ coffee cups, all the various shades of rouge are revived, restyled and re-worked over the festive period. Whether you’re more of a berry The Local Answer
Now we’re really working our way through the beauty book classics as it’s time for, yes you guessed it , the smouldering smoky eye. If you’d rather keep it more current than classic, why not try a pop of purple, navy or emerald green for a fun twist on the Christmas palette. Charlotte Tilbury ’s ‘Eyes To Mesmerise Kits’ come in an array of flattering shades, contain everything you need to create the perfect smoky eye and wrap up as the perfect present for any make up lover.
B e t w e e n t h e g r ey s k i e s a n d l a te nights of winter, skin can often start to look lackluster and will be in need of a little pick me up. If you haven’t already, it’s time to get familiar with a strobing s t i c k – t h e n ew t re n d o f h i g h l i g h t i n g . T h e k ey i s p re p p i n g s k i n w i t h a n illuminating primer. Use Max Factor ’s Smooth Miracle Primer to create a base for your make up and leave your skin feeling silky soft. Roll on Topshop’s Glow S t i c k u n d e r t h e e y e s , a l o n g t h e b ro w and cheekbones for maximum impact – its creamy texture is easily absorbed into the skin. Ensure to work it in with a beauty blender for the best application. Last but not least , no elegant occasion is complete without the reason that every girl is late to a party, and that is the winged eyeliner! It’s difficult e n o u g h a s i t i s to g e t t h a t first-time-flick , so for perfect precision, carefully trace as close as you can across the l a s h e s h o l d i n g d ow n y o u r lid so it’s tight and smooth. For an extra twinkle, pop a line of your glitter above the flick and in the inner corners o f y o u r e y e s . A p ro d u c t with a fine tip pen provides the easiest a p p l i c at i o n – g i ve Topshop’s ‘Magic Liner’ a go, as this enables you to draw a line across the lid w i t h o u t t h o s e s m u d g es and smears. S o fo r a s k i n - c r i n g e f r e e a l te r n a t i v e to wearing an actual Christmas jumper, take inspiration from the classics this season and create a look that will k e e p yo u g l ow i n g u n t i l dawn!
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Motoring Motoring with w ith Luke Luke Edwards Edwa wards
M Motoring otoring ggifts ifts ffor or tthe he ccar ar m mad ad B u y i n g C h r i s t m a s g i f t s fo r t h e motoring fan in the family can be a bit of a challenge, but here are a few ideas that may help out. Guy Martin’s new book ‘Worms to Catch’ is out now and, after d ev o u r i n g h i s f i r s t b o o k q u i c k e r than a child with an ice cream on a hot summer day, it is well worth a read. His down to earth view of life has really proved there is still room for characters in our politically correct culture. Formula One World Champion Damon Hil l also released his autobiography this year and I have heard rave reviews. Having bought a dog-eared 1971 paperback copy of his father’s book ‘Life at the Limit ’ at Prescott Hill Climb earlier this year, I hope the quality of anecdotes runs in the family.
FFerrous errous D Dueller ueller e easily asily w wins ins m my y ccar ar p product roduct o off tthe he y year ear
For something that smells great for the car, try buying an item from the Dodo Juice range o f c a r p r o d u c t s . I h av e b e e n using Dodo Juice for several years and not only do their products work , but they are the car equivalent of that popular high street shop Lush. They do a variety of car waxes and a fantastic wheel cleaner called Ferrous Dueller. Unlike their other products, it smells like an old goat , but is non-toxic. It ’s kind to all alloy wheels, turns a fancy purple colour on contact with brake Mans’ is a film that I keep going back dust and makes wheels cleaner than to. Constant fights with the studio you can imagine. It easily wins my company nearly b ro k e the car product of the year. Hollywood star, but after using 45 real international racing drivers, his SSomething omething tto o llook ook vision of recreating the 24 hour forward forward tto o iin n2 2017 017 ev e n t s h o n e t h r o u g h . m o to r s p o r t T i k t f h c e s o r c a r s o w s , Oth er f il ms such as events and motor circuit season ‘ S e n n a’ , ‘Vanishing p a ss e s c a n a l l b e b o u g h t a t Point ’, ‘No Man’s this time of year and provide Land’ (for Porsche), something to look forward to ‘Ronin’ and ‘Bullitt ’ in 2017. ( a n ot h e r M c Q u e e n film) all offer some I wo u l d l i k e to f i n i s h t h i s fantastic viewing year by thanking you for for the car mad. reading my monthly motoring columns and Car manufacturers w i s h i n g yo u a n d yo u r also produce rather families the very best for the nice After Shaves. season and safe motoring in B e n t l ey f o r M e n 2 0 1 7 . I w o u l d a l s o l i k e to A b s o l u te h a s t o p Jaguar, thank Audi, n o te s of pink Volkswagen, Ford, Peugeot , pepper and ginger Chrysler MG , F i at w h i l st Ferrari Automobiles, SMMT, Castle Leather Essence Driving D riving D DVDs VDs o offer ffer Combe Circuit , Bell Racing ( ye s t h a t i s t h e ffantastic antastic v viewing iewing and the Kingscott family for name) has notes of A driving DVD is a great choice and bitter orange, cloves all their help this year. there are some real classics out and bergamot . Jaguar Looking forward to bringing there. Steve McQueen’s 1971 ‘Le also produce fragrances for men. you all things motoring in 2017! The Local Answer
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UNIT U NIT 8 8A: A: B Beta eta C Close, lose, D Delta elta D Drive, rive, TTewkesbury, ewkesbury, G Glos. los. G GL20 L20 8 8SR SR
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Save S ave t the he P Planet lanet with w ith A Annabel nnabel L Laughton aughton
Don’t Don’t llet et CChristmas hristmas cost tthe arth cost he eearth Whatever meaning Christmas has for each of us, there’s one element we all share – presents. But the shops filling up from late October makes me pause to think of the environmental impact of all those plastic toys and reindeer jumpers, each of which has taken energy and resources to make, package and transport , and many of which will hardly be used before they are thrown out. So can we show our appreciation and love for friends and family at Christmas without costing the earth quite so much? Well, with a little thought and planning, we can.
that ’s right for them, so ask in advance. It might not be a total surprise, but you know they ’ll enjoy and use your gift . Failing that , give them the receipt so they can return it – make sure you buy from a shop that has a store near them, though. I don’t really like gift receipts, as they usually mean an exchange only, whereas they may prefer something from a different shop.
Will Will tthey hey sstill till be be using using the the gift gift iin nm mid-January? id-January? Rule number one – if you’re buying someone a physical object, make sure it’s a gift they’ll like and something of g o o d q u a l i t y t h at w i l l l a st . W h e n d e c i d i n g , t r y t h e J a n u a r y te s t – w i l l they still be using this in the middle of January? This rules out many joke presents, which are usually a no-no in environmental terms. Unless you know the person really well, it can be tricky to find something
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Gift G ift p pre-loved re-loved items items
an experience – they have been s h o w n to m a k e u s h a p p i e r t h a n objects in the long run, and can be so thoughtful.
H Homemade omemade iitems tems a are re v very ery w well-received ell-received How about a massage, wine tasting evening or membership of a charity? You could also make your own presents. Who wouldn’t be happy with a big jar of homemade chocolate biscuits, chutney, or a box of truffles? One year I made truffles rolled in cocoa and edible gold-dust , which were very easy and very wellreceived!
Buying gifts second hand can also CConsider onsider a ‘‘no no work really well. I’ve been given u unnecessary nnecessary p present resent pact’ pact’ second hand books many times and, Finally, think about who you actually as long as they’re in good condition, I want to give presents to. Sometimes prefer knowing I’m reusing something we feel an obligation to get a present pre-loved. Alternatively, buy someone for a particular person, but they could be feeling the same, meaning both parties could end up spending money o n s o m et h i n g t h e ot h e r p e r s o n doesn’t even like! In these situations you can consider a ‘no unnecessary p r e s e n t p a c t ’ – u s e M o n ey S a v i n g Expert’s template to email family and friends suggesting this. Or how about pooling your resources for a meal or a family day out instead of individual presents? Everyone loves to feel included and considered at this time of year, and with a little care we can come up with personal ways to show our gratitude t o o u r f r i e n d s, a n d to l e s s e n o u r impact on the planet at Christmas.
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What’s W hat’s O On n TThe he LLocal ocal A Answer nswer EEvent vent Listings Listings are are ccompiled ompiled and and presented preesented in in good good faith faith with with the the kind kind support support of of many many contributors. contributors. Wee re W recommend ecommend yyou ou uuse se tthe he ccontact ontact ddetails etails pprovided rovided to to check check event event information information uupdates pdates pprior rior ttoo pplanning lanning yyour our vvisit. isit. 28 28 NOVEMBER NOVEMBER – 3 D DECEMBER ECEMBER MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET
The worldwide smash-hit musical inspired by the famous recording session that brought together rock ‘n’ roll icons Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins for the first and only time. Featuring rock hits including Blue Suede Shoes, Great Balls of Fire, Walk the Line and many more. 7.30pm (2.30pm Weds/Sat). The Bristol Hippodrome, St Augustine’s Parade, BS1 4UZ. atgtickets.com/venues/bristol-hippodrome 22-3 -3 DECEMBER DECEMBER CHIPPING CCA AMPDEN CHRISTMAS MARKET Friday 2nd: 3-8pm. 40+ stalls in the Town Hall and Square. Festive food, drink , music. Father Christmas 4- 6.30pm. Saturday 3rd: 10am-5pm. Town Hall. For more information: campdenmarket.co.uk. 4 DECEMBER DECEMBER 5TH ANNUAL SANTA FUN RUN Kick start the festive season with lots of fun and fundraising for 2 great charities in Santa costumes or other Christmas attire. 3km or 1km. Medal for all participants. www.santafunrun.com to enter or donate. Fun for all the family – including the dog! 11am. Pittville Park , Cheltenham. www.sunriserotaryclub.co.uk for more info.
6 DECEMBER DECEMBER CHELTENHAM CHORAL SOCIETY Join in the singing with Cheltenham Choral Society for a Tapestry of Christmas Music. At Pittville Pump Room. 7.30pm. With Aithrie and Prestbury St. Mary’s Schools. In aid of Holst Museum. £10/£5 Town Hall Box Office 0844 576 2210. 77-13 -13 DECEMBER DECEMBER FEAST YOUR EYES! Claudia Araceli’s evocative watercolours and Molly Abbott’s vibrant ceramics perfectly complement each other. Claudia’s paintings are inspired by light and atmosphere. Molly’s creamy clay is worked with textures and colours. Gardens Gallery, Montpellier Gardens, Cheltenham. 8 DECEMBER DECEMBER CHRISTMAS HATS An evening with Gloucestershire singersongwriter Hattie Briggs featuring The Black Feathers, Natalie Holmes and Asha McCarthy. 7pm. Stroud Subscription Rooms. Tickets £12 advance, £14 door, £5 u-16s. Pre-ordered mulled wine & mince pie £4. 01453 760900. subscriptionrooms.org.uk 1100 DECEMBER DECEMBER – 8 JJANUARY ANUARY CINDERELLA Cinderella comes to Bristol with Torvill & Dean as the Fairy Godparents. The classic rags to riches tale is transformed into a breath-taking family extravaganza with glittering sets, gorgeous costumes, real Shetland ponies, big song and dance numbers and jaw-dropping skating sequences. Various times. The Bristol Hippodrome, St Augustine’s Parade, BS1 4UZ. atgtickets.com/venues/bristol-hippodrome
S Shipton hipton G Golf olf C Course ourse Shipton Golf Course, Nr Frogmill, Shipton, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL54 4HT
HOLE HvO PA P AYay & PLAY PLAY COURSE COURSE IN IN THE THE Open Op““A eAn9e every eLrEyPAY d day HEART HEuntil RT OF F THE T E COTSWOLDS” COTSWOLDS” from from 7 7am am uAnRT tiO l dusk d uH sk
NO NO NEED NEED T TO O BOOK BOOK – O Open pen ev every very day day from from 7am 7am until until dusk dusk
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12 DECEMBER DECEMBER 12 THE MENINGITIS NOW CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION CONCERTT Start your festive season in the beautiful Gloucester Cathedral, with an evening of traditional carols and inspirational readings – a magical evening not to be missed. 7.30pm. Tickets from £5 available at meningitisnow.org or on 0345 120 4530. 14 14 DECEMBER DECEMBER LILY AND THE LITTLE SNOW BEAR
Lily loves SNOW! When she discovers a trail of soft little footprints, she’s in for a very big surprise, for at the bottom of the garden, she finds a lost little snow bear! Brought to life by Blunderbus Theatre, this funny, heart-warming tale of friendship is the perfect treat for Christmas. With exquisite puppets, enchanting music and a magical snowy setting, this modern day fairytale is presented especially for little bears aged 3+ and their grown-ups. 10.30am. £10 (£8) or £32 for family of four. The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, GL51 6EP. 01242 258002.
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17-23 17-23 DECEMBER DECEMBER SANTA’SS COMING TO SLIMBRIDGE Join us for breakfast then visit Santa in his magical grotto, make a snowman biscuit, build an elf den, toast marshmallows, get creative making arts and crafts – and don’t forget to send a letter to the North Pole at our post office! Breakfast 9.30am-12noon. Meet Santa 10am-1.15pm. For details visit wwt.org.uk/slimbridge or call 01453 891900. WWT Slimbridge, Glos GL2 7BT. 1188 DECEMBER DECEMBER A CHRISTMAS CA AROL Hard-hearted Ebenezer Scrooge hates the season of goodwill. Until a visit from three Phantoms one memorable Christmas Eve makes him rethink his miserly ways and turn his wicked life upside down. Age recommendation 14 years+. 7.30pm. £14 (£12). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. 221-21 1-21 DECEMBER DECEMBER THE POLAR EXPRESS It’s Christmas Eve and you’re about to roller-coaster up and down mountains, teeter across mile-high bridges and be served hot chocolate by singing waiters more astonishing than any you can imagine. Santa will be dropping by before the screening, so bring along your letters for him and join us for an afternoon of festive fun. Relaxed Screening on Tuesday
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20th December. Meet Santa from 4pm. Film at 5pm. £7 (includes a treat from Santa). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. 2255 DECEMBER DECEMBER CHRISTMAS DAY!
Merry Christmas to all our readers. We hope you have a fantastic day and enjoy the festivities! 3311 DECEMBER DECEMBER NEW YEAR’S EVE!
As 2016 comes to an end, The Local Answer team would like to thank all their customers, contributors and readers for a great year! However you plan to see in
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the New Year, have a great time and we’ll see you in 2017! 18-22 JANUARY JANUARY 18-22 SLEEPING BEAUTY
Promenade Productions’ traditional family pantomime transports you to a fairy tale world with a beautiful princess, handsome prince, good fairies and one very nasty fairy. Great fun for all the family with lots of boos, laughs and audience participation. 7pm (2.30pm matinees – Sat and Sun). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. Tickets £10 -£14 from Showcase (01242 224144) or visit promenadeproductions.co.uk 1188 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY ELIZABETH’S FOOTPRINT CHARITY BALL Raising money for Wallace & Gromit’s Grand Appeal children’s charity. Join us for a wonderful evening at Cheltenham Town Hall. Drinks reception at 7pm, carriages at 1am. Black Tie. Dancing, auction, raffle and more. £100 a ticket. For details email elizabethsfootprintcharityball@gmail.com.
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T The he L Local ocal
AN ANSWER SWER
Air Air Holidays Holidays & B Breaks reaks • CCoach oach & Rail Rail Breaks Breaks Theatre, Theatre, SSports ports & EEvents vents • Family Family Fun Fun Breaks Breaks Cruising Cruising • Rock, Rock , P Pop op & LLive ive EEntertainment ntertainment
of the Northern Land of Ligh ts Cruise Lights
BUY ONE GET ONE GET
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Sailing from Bristol on board Marco Polo on 13th February 2017 Marco Polo cruises north along a Norway ’s fjor j d- and island-clotted coastline l , in search of the h Aurora Borealis. CCruise ruise highlights highlights Calls at Ålesund, Tromsø, Honningsvåg and Alta Clear nights g bring chan chances to view the Aurora Borealis l Kristiansund, the ‘City of Islands’ Historic Bergen, ‘Gateway to the Fjords’ Stylish entertainment , traditional British & International cuisine, guest lecturers & on-board leisure facilities 15 nights’ full-board accommodation on board Marco Polo For full itinerary or to book visit
www w.newmarketholidays.co.uk/laa19338
*Buy One Get One Free offer applies to bookings made by 6 December 2016 quoting promotional code ZZN9M7. Offer is sub bject to availability l b l and may be removed at anytime.
Cir que du Soleil Cirque Amaluna 2 days from £169pp Departing on 21st January & 18th February 2017 The spectacular performance of Cirque du Soleil has to be seen to be believed. It’s a fest for the senses! TTour our highligh highlights ts A Circle ticket for ‘Amaluna’ at the Royal Albert Hall (upgrades available) One night’s bed and English breakfast accommodation at a four-star hotel in the Greater London area A visit to London’s West End Coach travel from the local area Escorted by a friendly tour manager For full itinerary or to book visit
aa11416 www.newmarketholidays.co.uk/llaa11416 These holidays are organised and operated by Newmarket Air Holidays Ltd. ABTA V7812. ATOL protected 2325. Subject to availability. Single supplements apply. Standard phone charges.
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FFor or m more ore iinformation nformation o orr tto ob book ook ccall all
QUOTE QUOTE
AA 0330 0 330 1 160 60 7 7938 938 LLAA Cliff Richard Cliff Richar d in Concert Concert 2 days from £239pp Departing 1st & 2nd July 2017 See Cliff Richard perform in concert in London! Tour our highligh highlights ts A seated ticket (value £55) for Cliff Richard in concert (upgrade available) One night’s bed and continental breakfast accommodation based on a twin room with private facilities at a good quality hotel in the Greater London area Return coach transfers between your hotel and the concert venue A short guided tour of London on day two Coach travel from the local area Escorted by a friendly tour manager For full itinerary or to book visit
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Dutch W Dutch Wa Waterways aterways & the River River Rhine Cruise 7 days from £794pp Departing on 5th May 2017 Sail through Dutch canals and waterways into the Rhine. CCruise ruise highligh highlights ts Six nights’ full board accommodation on board Olympia Embark in Amsterdam – delightful Dutch capital Call at Nijmegen, Düsseldorf, Bonn and Cologne Welcome Cocktail Party and Gala Farewell Dinner On-board entertainment and English commentary Escorted by a friendly, expereienced cruise manager Return rail journeys on Eurostar and transfers For full itinerary or to book visit
www.newmarketholidays.co.uk/laa19780
FOR FOR DETAILS DETAILS OF OF THE THE ABOVE ABOVE A AND ND M MANY ANY M MORE ORE FFABULOUS ABULOUS H HOLIDAYS OLIDAYS A AND ND TTRIPS RIPS V VISIT ISIT
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Gadgets G adgets & G Gizmos izmos with with Laura Laura N Nicklin icklin
His His ‘n’ ‘n’ h hers ers sstocking tocking ffillers illers Yes, it ’s that time of year again, when the plastic spiders and skulls of Halloween are being replaced with dancing Father Christmases and singing snowmen, and that familiar sense of dread sets in as the radio b e g i n s p l ay i n g N o d d y H o l d e r o n repeat. The good news is that there a re p l e n t y o f o p t i o n s fo r C h r i s t m a s presents that won’t leave a gaping hole in your wallet.
Android A ndroid O OXO XO SSmartwatch martwatch For the gents, not only is the Android OXO Smartwatch a stylish gift, but it also offers practical usage, reimaging the classic watch with all the technological advances of your will surely be worn out after a long s m a r t p h o n e. A t £ 4 9 . 9 5 i t i s a d ay o f r o a s t i n g quality purchase that doesn’t t u r k e y s, p o u r i n g have to break the bank . It sherry and can connect to your smartm a k i n g s u re p h o n e v i a B l u e to o t h , i s the family easy to navigate, and doesn’t miss has all the features of a the Queen’s smartphone, including speech. Take a built-in microphone some time out and speaker, music, to relax with the camera and even i Mu s i c Pillow, ringtone options. The compatible with Smartwatch can even any music player, help you with your New which is so much Year resolutions to lose that yo u r comfier than C h r i s t m a s we i g h t , a s i t regular headphones. contains a stopwatch, sleep The iMusic Pillow comes with an monitor and pedometer. AUX cable, built-in speaker, and even iiMusic Music P Pillow illow doubles as a soft alarm clock with a Christmas may be the season of morning alarm. All you need to do is goodwill, but it also comes with its connect and play! At £12.99, this fair share of stress, and any hostess i s a n i n d u l g e n t p u rc h a s e t h a t w i l l d e f i n i te l y b e a p p re c i a t e d when all your guests have gone and you can finally stop thinking about Brussels sprouts.
great children’s gift than something seriously cute. That’s exactly why the £14.99 Animal Speakers make the p e r fe c t l i t t l e s to c k i n g f i l l e r s . T h e s e portable Bluetooth speakers may look dainty, but they have a 2 Watt p ow e r o u t p u t , w h i c h a l s o m a k e s them mighty. After testing these little guys out , I can confirm you shouldn’t misjudge their size – they have a serious set of lungs on them! Along with a built-in microphone and rechargeable battery, the Animal Speakers differ in their cutesy forms, Animal A nimal SSpeakers peakers ranging from dog , cat , fox , panda, Let ’s face it , Christmas is pig and – of course – a unicorn. all about the kids, Something small, adorable and and nothing says a cheap to go in the stocking this year.
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IIn nT The he Garden Garden with w ith JJulia ulia Smith Smith
A Add dd interest interest ttoo yyour our ggarden arden iinn w winter inter This month Christmas trees are on our minds! I have to say, nothing can take the place of a real tree in my opinion, but some of the more expensive ‘drop resistant’ ones like the Korean fir just don’t have the real Christmassy smell.
c u t f l o we r s – a n d p u t t h e b a s e i n a container of water. Position it away from radiators and top up the water daily. An idea for a present for a g a rd e n i n g e n t h u s i a s t – b e g i n n e r o r more experienced – is a good pruning Position Position a away way from from manual, and I can rradiators adiators recommend ‘The Royal Horticultural Society The Fraser fir tree (Abies E n c yc l o p a e d i a of Fraser) has the right smell Pruning & Training’ by and doesn’t shed its Christopher Brickell and needles, but you do have David Joyce. It gives to p ay a p re m i u m good, easy to follow compared to the old advice on how and when traditional Norway spruce. to prune shrubs, trees and However,, what-ever tree climbers, and I always you buy, if it has a cut keep it to hand to refer to. end it will need watering every day. Saw off the bottom few inches when An added bonus is that it has plenty you get it home – as you would with of pictures!
Providing Providing ffragrance, ragrance, ccolour olour a and nd a ffood ood ssource ource ffor or b birds irds If you want to add interest to your garden in winter,, how about adding a w i n t e r f l ow e r i n g s h r u b s u c h a s Mahonia, Daphne bholua, Hamamelis (witchhazel) or Sarcococca (Christmas box). These provide fragrance and colour, as well as being an important food source for the birds in winter. T h e r e i s e ve n t i m e to d o s o m e planting before the coldest weather of the season a r r i ve s in January/February. If it is suitable and not too waterlogged or frozen, container grown trees and shrubs can still be planted.
A Add dd height height tto o fflowering lowering d displays isplays D r e s s t h e h o u s e w i t h s t e m s f ro m t h e g a rd e n , u s i n g t h e b a r e t w i s t e d branches of corkscrew hazel or willow for a vase. Use the red or yellow stems of Cornus (dogwood) or Salix (willow), which can be used inside or alternatively pushed into pots outside to add height to flowering displays. It is traditional to plant shallots on the shortest day of the year. Shallot bulbs are planted so that just the little t i p i s v i s i b l e a b o ve t h e s o i l a t a distance of 15cm in rows 20cm apart. You may have to keep replanting them, as the birds tend to pull them out until they root! H a p py C h r i s t m a s a n d a g o o d gardening New Year to you all! The Local Answer
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Matt Matt G Grimshaw rimshaw Carpentry Carpentry Ltd Ltd Your Y our llocal ocal C Carpenter/ arpenter/ K Kitchen itchen F Fitting itting S Specialist pecialist
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0 01242 1242 6604423/07792 04423/07792 088822 088822 mattgrimshawcarpentry@live.co.uk mattgrimshawcarpentry@live.co.uk www.mattgrimshawcarpentry.co.uk w ww.mattgrimshawcarpentry.co.uk
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Interior Interior Design Design with w ith C Caron aron B Burrows urrows
W Why hy h hire ire aan n IInterior nterior D Designer? esigner? An interior designer is a trained and qualified professional who creates f u n c t i o n a l a n d q u a l i t y i n te r i o r identify, e n v i ro n m e n t s . T h ey research and creatively resolve issues to design a safe, comfortable and appealing physical environment.
TThe he B Benefits enefits A n I n te r i o r D e s i g n e r w i l l b r i n g training and expertise to help make the most of any ideas and schemes you have in mind, working with you a n d n o t a g a i n s t y o u . T h ey w i l l b e sympathetic to your home, taking into consideration, style, age and use of space, and will help you work w i t h i n a b u d g e t , w h e t h e r l a rg e o r small. D e s i g n e r s u n d e r s t a n d e ve r y project is different, so whether you need a helping hand choosing curtains, a refreshing new colour scheme, or a complete renovation p r o j e c t , yo u r D e s i g n e r w i l l w o r k around you and tailor their service to your needs. You can be as involved a s yo u w i s h w i t h a n y i n te r i o r
project – you could ev e n g o s h o p p i n g w i t h yo u r D e s i g n e r to ensure you’re both on the same wave length.
CCost ost A n I n te r i o r D e s i g n service is not just for the wealthy – it can be accessible and affordable to everybody. Services and prices vary from designer to d e s i g n e r – s o m e w i l l c h a rg e p e r ro o m o r p e r m o o d b o a rd , w h i l e others charge per hour or per halfday. If required an Interior Designer can provide: CColour olour Consultation: Consultation: This type of consultation focuses on paint colours and colour schemes in different rooms. Designers have a wealth of experience of how colours work with each other, so will be able to advise on the best colour combinations. A Advisory dvisory CConsultation: o n s u l t a t i o n : T h i s i s fo r
those of you that have a rough idea of how you want your room to look and just want a chat to run your ideas past a professional. It could involve discussing furniture ideas, layout and positioning , colours, fabrics, lighting and more. Online Online Consultation: Consultation: If you are willing to do jobs such as measuring and sourcing yourself, an online consultation can give you the full benefit of a designer’s expertise. To put it simply, you will provide the designer with measurements of your c h o s e n p r o j e c t a n d s o m e ro u g h ideas of the project ’s needs and uses. The designer will then come up with a floor plan and mood board, listing products stockists and prices. Home staging: staging: If you are about to Home sell your home and feel it needs the designer touch, it can be money well s p e n t to e m p l oy a p r o f e s s i o n a l to enhance and make the absolute best of your furniture and features. There are many more services Interior Designers offer, including: • Mood/scheme boards to share the vision • Colour planning, flooring, lighting, soft furnishing and accessories • Source and cost all chosen items • Liaise with companies Ultimately, an Interior Designer will p r ov i d e yo u w i t h a d e s i g n s c h e m e that is not only personal to you, but one that makes your house feel like your home.
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AAerial erial & Satellites & Satellites
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Little White Van Man
For For A All ll Y Your our L Little ittle Moves Moves
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Sudoku Fill the grids so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 to 9.
Bigger van available Cost Cost effective, efffeective, reliable reliable removals in in and and around around removals Gloucestershire Gloucestershire
110% 0% o off ff with w ith tthis his a advert dvert Mark M ark Hawkes Hawkes
TTel: el: 01684 01684 325024 325024
07903 097465 01452 303850
littlewhitevanman.co.uk
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Index of Advertisers FOOD & DRINK Corner Cupboard Inn
5
WHAT’S ON CLUBS & SPORTS Sherdons Golf Centre Shipton Golf Course
36 16
HEALTH & BEAUTY Harvey & Martin
8
PROPERTY & STORAGE Park Home Life Sanctuary Group
13 14
HOMES & GARDENS BATHROOMS Blissful Bathrooms 29 Severn Vale Bathrooms 33 & 35 BUILDING SERVICES C&G Paving 21 Cheltenham Roofing Company 21 Home Care Roofing & Building 20 Marshalls Driveways 21 R. Richards & Sons 22 RND Renovations 21
CARPENTRY Matt Grimshaw CLEANING SERVICES Oven Busters Pink Fairy Cleaning FURNISHING & APPLIANCES Carpects Direct Rapport Interiors GARDEN SERVICES Cheltenham Town Landscaping DW Tree Services Grass Scape Handylink Jameson Tree Surgery Mark Clifford Landscapes HANDYMAN SERVICES Handy Hero for Hire HEATING & PLUMBING Dennis Grove & Son LLP Drain Doctor KB Female Plumber Hanbury Plumbing
26 22 22 26 26 24 24 24 22 24 24 22 20 33 26 20
Paul’s Plumbing Platinum Plumbing PAINTING & DECORATING Andy Edwards TV & AERIAL 1st Choice Aerials WINDOWS & DOORS Albany Windows Clearway Doors & Windows Cloudy 2 Clear
20 20 29 33 32 28 31
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CARE SERVICES Barnwood Trust COMPUTER SERVICES Abbey Group EDUCATION & TRAINING Gloucestershire County Council LOCKSMITHS Ollie’s Lock & Safe MOTOR SERVICES Carsmetix
2
Jonny Rocks Motor Mods SC Auto Services V Hub Warners Cars PET SERVICES Dragon Vet Centre REMOVAL SERVICES Little White Van Man SKIP HIRE & RECYCLING Stevens Recycling
16 12 13 13 10 7 33 34
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COMPETITION WINNERS Thank you to all who took part in our November 2016 competitions and congratulations to the winners! Promenade Productions – Abigail Stockton of Cheltenham.
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