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DECEMBER 2016
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GLOUCESTERSHIRE SOUTH WISHING ALL OUR READERS A WONDERFUL CHRISTMAS!
The The Lo Local c al
AN ANSWER SWER
G loucestershire SSouth outh – 441,000 1,000 ccopies opies Gloucestershire G loucester – 446,000 6,000 ccopies opies Gloucester G loucestershire N orth – 220,000 0,000 ccopies opies Gloucestershire North FForest orest ooff D ean – 222,000 2,000 ccopies opies Dean CCotswolds otswolds – 228,000 8,000 ccopies opies CCheltenham heltenham – 443,000 3,000 ccopies opies
CChris hris R Raymond aymond SSales ales D Director irector
01242 0 1242 5 541079 41079 cchris@thelocalanswer.co.uk hris@thelocalanswer.co.uk
EEditorial ditorial & PProduction roduction LLois ois K Kingscott ingscott editorial@thelocalanswer.co.uk editorial@thelocalanswer.co.uk
The trees are going up, decorations are creeping out of the cupboards and it’s nearly time to order your turkey! 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’. And, if Christmas Day was a bit hectic and you’re looking for an easy Boxing Day dinner, use up your leftovers in this month’s ‘Delicious Dish’ – turkey with bacon, peas and cream. 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 .... ..
Helen H elen K Kingscott ingscott
D Distribution istribution N Nik ik CChavda havda – 001242 1242 5500245 00245 ooffice@achda.co.uk ffice@achda.co.uk
Accounts Accounts K Kerry erry FFell ell aaccounts@thelocalanswer.co.uk ccounts@thelocalanswer.co.uk
Managing Managing Director Director D Dave ave K Kingscott ingscott ddave@thelocalanswer.co.uk ave@thelocalanswer.co.uk
1 Ullenwood Ullenwood CCourt, ourt, Ullenwood, Ullenwood, G Gloucestershire loucestershire GL53 GL53 99QS QS
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W Welcome elcome ttoo D December ecember ......
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Cocktail TTime Cocktail ime 4 W ild FFood ood FForaging oraging 4 Wild D elicious D ish 5 Delicious Dish W ildlife M atters 7 Wildlife Matters Style Style & FFashion ashion 9 Motoring 1 3 Motoring 13 What’ss O n 1 4 What’s On 14 Holidays Holidays & TTravel ravel 1 17 7 TLA TLA Travel Travel 1 18-19 8-19 Homes H omes & G Gardens ardens 20 20 G Gadgets adgets & G Gizmos izmos 21 21 IIn n tthe he G Garden arden 23 2 3 SSudoku udoku 2 5 25 IInterior nterior D esign 2 7 Design 27 Q Quick uick Crossword Crossword 29 29 W Word ord SSearch earch 30 30 SSave ave the the Planet Planet 32 32 Money M oney M Matters atters 33 33 IIndex, ndex , CCompetitions, ompetitions, SSolutions olutions 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
“Can “Can I eat eat tthat?” hat?”
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. ● ● ●
SAL IRS ES SER VICING & REPA
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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. Tip: For those who like a little more sauce, try adding Tip: some chicken stock when you add the cream.
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Wildlife W ildlife M Matters atters
© David Slater
w with ith 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 The Local Answer
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
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.
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Style S tyle & F Fashion ashion with w ith Val Val Starr Starr
H Holiday oliday sseason eason ssparkle! parkle! The festive season has arrived and parties are in full swing – so is sparkle! No one can have missed that glitter and sparkle is everywhere this holiday season – not just on Christmas trees. The key to this look is not to wear sparkle head to toe, as this can be overwhelming. Instead, select a piece o f c l o t h i n g – s ay a t o p o r t r o u s e r s – and let this one item create your s p a r k l y l o o k . I f yo u a re m o re conservative but still want to appear on trend, why not go for a sparkly bag or shoes? Even a sparkly headpiece can create the wow factor.
A very very b bad ad iinvestment nvestment for for your your w wardrobe ardrobe Fashion occasionally attempts to sell us a ‘must have’, and this season it is pyjamas – for going out! If ever there was a bad investment for your wardrobe, this is surely it. This is not o n e o f t h o s e i te m s like the bomber
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j a c k e t t h a t w i l l b e h e r e f o r a f ew seasons – this is one that will be here today, and gone tomorrow. It has been spotted on many celebrities on the red carpet, often costing ridiculous prices. Some of our TV hosts have tried (and failed) to wear just the pyjama top and were, unsurprisingly, ridiculed. No matter how comfortable they are, pyjamas should remain inside the home. Not a good look for any party – unless, of course, it’s a pyjama pair with some great velvet loafers? party! And if you really want to splash the cash, consider having a pair of CChristmas hristmas jjumpers umpers h have ave b become ecome ‘‘must must h have’ ave’ items items customised velvet loafers made s p o r t i n g t h e i r i n i t i a l s, c l u b l o g o o r The Christmas jumper used to be the other personal mark – the choice is family joke for the, usually, unlucky endless and it’s about time men had recipient. Nowadays it has become a some more fun fashion options. ‘must have’ and the selection on offer is truly amazing – something for every member of the family,, as well as in every price range. Good memories are m a d e f ro m s i l l y j u m p e r s a n d n ow they have gone mainstream, why not i n d u l g e i n s o m e f u n by c h o o s i n g j u m p e r s w i t h a m o t i f yo u k n ow t h e wearer will enjoy. This is a look that is comfortable and can be dressed up or down – great for when we have overi n d u l g e d b u t w o u l d p re f e r n o b o d y k n ew ! A g o o d Velvet type leather slippers are jumper can hide a multitude of sins – after all, everywhere and can jazz up any we can go back to watching trouser outfit for us girls, plus provide some comfort for feet that have been our diet in the New Year. FFun un ffashion ashion o options ptions Idaonftceinng gthiveeniwghhtatawI acyaliln ‘ktihlleerghieftelosf. ffor or m men en comfort’ – a pair of ballerina type flats For the men, who would that fold into a little purse. You can h a ve t h o u g h t t h e re a r e b r i n g t h e m o n a n i g h t o u t a n d y o u some wonderful velvet know your feet will thank you when jackets for those who dare to you kick off your heels to walk home. wear them? The cut is very This really is a gift that keeps on giving d i f f e r e n t f ro m t h e o l d s m o k i n g a n d y o u w i l l b e r e m e m b e r e d e v e r y jacket image, and can look time they are slipped on. a m a z i n g w i t h we l l c u t p l a i n Whatever you wear to celebrate this trousers or even jeans. If he special time of year, enjoy it – fashion wants to go all out , why not should be fun. Happy Holidays!
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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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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. Million Dollar Quartet brings that legendary night to life, featuring a score of rock hits including Blue Suede Shoes, Fever, Great Balls of Fire, Walk the Line, Folsom Prison Blues, Hound Dog and many more. 7.30pm (2.30pm matinees Weds and 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. Dress code: Santa costumes or other Christmas attire. Distance: 3km or 1km. Medal for all participants. Visit
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www.santafunrun.com to enter or donate. Fun for all the family – including the dog! 11am at Pittville Park , Cheltenham. Visit 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’ss 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
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Digital A Digital Aerial erial IInstallations nstallations U pgrades Upgrades a nd R epairs and Repairs
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1100 DECEMBER DECEMBER – 8 JJANUARY ANUARY CINDERELLA
Cinderella comes to Bristol and it’s going to be even bigger and more spectacular than ever as national icons Torvill & Dean take to the stage as the Fairy Godparents. The classic rags to riches tale will be transformed into a breath-taking family extravaganza with glittering sets, gorgeous costumes, big song and dance numbers, real Shetland ponies and jaw-dropping skating sequences. So get your skates on and book your tickets for the best panto in town! Various times. The Bristol Hippodrome, St Augustine’s Parade, BS1 4UZ. atgtickets.com/venues/bristolhippodrome 1122 DECEMBER DECEMBER 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.
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Wotton-under-Edge Civic Centre Starting Mon 9th Jan 6.30-8pm To book your place contact: kkate@livingeverydaymiracles.net ate@livingeverydaymiracles.net 0 7800 7 17901 07800 717901 wwww.livingeverydaymiracles.net ww.livingeverydaymiracles.net The Local Answer
1144 DECEMBER DECEMBER LILY AND THE LITTLE SNOW BEAR
When Lily discovers a trail of soft little footprints, she’s in for a big surprise – a lost little snow bear! Brought to life by acclaimed Blunderbus Theatre, this funny, heart-warming tale is the perfect treat for Christmas. With a magical snowy setting, exquisite puppets and enchanting music, 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. 1155 DECEMBER DECEMBER NO MAN’S LAND One summer’s evening, 2 ageing writers, Hirst and Spooner, meet in a Hampstead
pub and continue their drinking into the night at Hirst’s stately house nearby. As the pair become increasingly inebriated, and their stories increasingly unbelievable, the lively conversation soon turns into a revealing power game, further complicated by the return home of 2 sinister younger men. 7pm. £16.50 (£14.50, students £12.50). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. 117-23 7-23 DECEMBER DECEMBER SANTA’S 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 CAROL Ebenezer Scrooge hates the season of goodwill, until a visit from 3 Phantoms one Christmas Eve makes him rethink his miserly ways and turn his wicked life upside down. Recommended 14 years+. 7.30pm. £14 (£12). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. 21-21 DECEMBER DECEMBER 21-21 THE POLAR EXPRESS
It’s Christmas Eve and you’re about to roller-coaster up and down mountains, and be served hot chocolate by singing waiters. Santa will be dropping by before the screening, so bring your letters for him and join us for an afternoon of festive fun. Relaxed Screening Tues 20th Dec. Meet Santa 4pm. Film 5pm. £7 (includes a treat from Santa). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, GL51 6EP. 01242 258002.
WinterWonderland
Winter Wonderland at The Bird & Deer Park was nominated as one of the top ten rural attractions to visit in rural England in 2014 by the Sunday Telegraph and in the top three for illuminations by The Huffington Post in 2015. The Bird Park offers a really beautiful evening for families and children with activities included in the entrance price. The Christmas event is open every weekend from the 3rd and 4th December and then daily from the 16th to the 24th December from 2.30-6pm. The park is also hosting a new daytime toddlers event starting on 6th December.
For more information visit www.thebirdpark.com or call 01452 812727. The Bird and Deer Park, Prinknash, Cranham, Gloucester GL4 8EX
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2222 DECEMBER DECEMBER ALL ON A WINTER’S NIGHT
Together with Paul Burgess, Dik Cadbury, and images by Martin Fry, Johnny Coppin presents material from his brand new album in a very popular concert of carols, songs and stories. 7.30pm. £16 (children £9). 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!
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31 31 DECEMBER DECEMBER NEW YEAR’S EVE!
As 2016 comes to an end, The Local Answer would like to thank all its customers, contributors and readers for a great year! However you plan to see in the New Year, have a great time and we’ll see you in 2017! 1111 JANUARY JANUARY THE TEMPEST The Tempest is brought to life on the Royal Shakespeare Company stage with the help of Intel and Andy Serkis’ Imaginarium. On a distant island a man waits. Robbed of his position, power and wealth, his enemies have left him in isolation. But this is no ordinary man and this no ordinary island. 7pm. £16.50 (£14.50, students £12.50). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. 118-22 8-22 JANUARY JANUARY SLEEPING BEAUTY Promenade Productions’ traditional family pantomime transports you to a fairy tale
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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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Holidays H olidays & T Travel ravel w with ith A Al lH Hidden idden
Ski Ski SSalzburgerland alzburgerland This month, with ski breaks in mind, we’re in the stunning Austrian Alps t h a t h a ve b e g u i l e d B r i t o n s fo r decades. Specifically, Sankt Johann im Pongau, an hour’s drive south of S a l z b u rg a n d w e l l - s e r ve d f r o m B r i s to l a n d B i r m i n g h a m a i r p o r t s . Alternatively, fit winter tyres, load y o u r s k i s, d r i v e o u t v i a n o r t h e r n France, Luxembourg and Bavaria, and say ‘sgott (from the traditional alpine welcome, ‘Grüß Gott ’) to Salzburgerland.
Edelweiß and well-rated BIO B a u e r n h of Rothof. As ever, TripAdvisor and Booking.com will be helpful when choosing. For a break from the pistes and Tbar lifts, Sankt Johann offers plenty to e n t e r t a i n . T h e s p e c t a c u l a r Liechtensteinklamm gorge is near Alpendorf, the heart of St Johann’s s k i i n g ( 2 k m s o u t h o f t h e t ow n centre), and the renowned Pongauer D o m d o m i n a te s t h e to w n s k y l i n e and delights church and architecture fans. It ’s also close to Central St . Excellent Excellent A Alpine lpine Johann’s tempting cafes (check out accommodations accommodations a and nd ffood ood Café Schiebel on Hauptstraße) and the main Wagrainerstraße-HansHowever you get here, you’ll soon Kappacherstraße-Färbergasse forget workaday cares, enjoy great shopping district. family skiing , and be tucking in to Walk alk iin nM Mozart’s ozart’s ffootsteps ootsteps S a l z b u rg e r l a n d s p e c i a l i t i e s s u c h a s W delicious Lungnau dumpling soup A r e yo u s h o p p e d , c u l t u r e d a n d and wickedly-sweet Salzburger skied out? Then how about dayNockerln. tripping into Salzburg to walk in the Accommodation in St . Johann footsteps of Mozart , the von Trapp embraces all tastes and budgets, family and Herbert von Karajan – Hotel they all lived in the ‘Sound of Music f ro m the ‘Amazing!’ Oberforsthof and popular Alpina City’. Back in St. Johann, it’s time for Sporthotel, to the three-star Pension delicious relaxed dining. Where to The Local Answer
eat? How about Suedlaender or Cavalli (Mediterranean and Italian respectively), the Hollywood Bar & Coffee at Bundesstraße 14 or Klamm Fuerst near the Leichtensteinklamm. After wining and dining in inimitable Austrian style, you’ll sleep well before more fun in the snow.
Everything g Everything good ood a about bout Austrian A ustrian ffamily amily sskiing kiing Austria is deservedly popular with us Brits when we crave the cold w h i te s t u f f a n d S a n k t J o h a n n A l p e n d o r f r e p re s e n t s e ve r y t h i n g that ’s good about the country ’s renowned family skiing. Being set in the heart of the Ski Amadé winter s p o r t re g i o n ( ye s, t h e n a m e i s d e r i ve d f ro m t h e ‘ A m a d e u s ’ i n Mozart ’s name), with its 760km of r u n s, t h e A l p e n d o r f r e s o r t , S a n k t Johann’s other attractions, and the enduring appeal of Land Salzburg shouldn’t disappoint. If you’re planning skiing in 2017, we reckon you should shortlist this quintessentially Austrian delight.
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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
16 days from £1999pp
FREE*
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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The Local Answer
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
www.newmarketholidays.co.uk/laa20108
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, experienced 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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Homes & Gardens H OME CARE CARE HOME OOFING & B UILDING ROOFING R BUILDING FOR ALL YOUR PROPERTY NEEDS Our range of services include: N New
roofs and repairs work N Felt & battening N Repointing N Ridge tiles & chimney repairs N Flat roofs EPDM rubber N Moss removal and fungicidal treatments N Roof coatings N Dry verge systems N External painting N uPVC fascias & soffits N Gutter repairs and cleaning
Hard Pressed for Time rs 1
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REE QUOTATION For a F For FREE QUOTA please call: FREEPHONE
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For For a free, free, n no o obligation obligation quotation quotation call call Chris Chris on on
01453 0 1453 5 548376 48376 or or 07597 07597 780433 780433
N.S DECORA N.S DECO OR RA ATI TTIIING N NG G Interior and Interior and
Exterior xterior Paint Painting
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Ser vicing & Repairs Design & Installation OFTEC/Gas Safe Certification Planned Maintenance
SPECIALISTS IN BUILDINGS OF AN HISTORICAL NATURE INCLUDING CHURCHES
Trading for over 43 years
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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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G
ROOFING
& CONTRACTORS CONTRACTORS
ibreglass New RRoofs G.R.P. .R.P. FFibreglass New oofs G Felt Flat Flat RRoofs oofs G Certified & Felt Certified IInstallers nstallers G Roof Roof & Chimney Chimney RRepairs epairs G Slate Slate Repairs G Flat Repairs Flat RRoof oof RRepairs epairs G Lead Lead Repairs Repairs aand nd SSealing ealing Gu uPVC PVC Fascias, Fascias, Soffits Soffits & Guttering ● uPVC Guttering uPVC Repairs Repairs G High High Pressure Pressure CCleaning leaning G Painting Painting & D Decorating ecorating 01452 0 1452 8 899903 99903 0 07503 7503 8 858963 58963
2222 Wilson Wilson Drive, Drive, Cheltenham Cheltenham GL51 GL51 0GY 0GY
M Miserden iserden N Nursery ursery
•B Big ig selection selection o off N Norway orway Open every day S pruce, B lu e S pruce, F raser Blue Spruce, Fraser Spruce, from 26th h Nov F ir a nd N on-Needle D rop Fir and Non-Needle Drop 10am-5pm N ordmann F ir T rees Nordmann Fir Trees Special S pecial F Festive estive •H and-crafted w reath hs Hand-crafted wreaths th, 110th 0th W eekend: 9 Weekend: 9th, •S easonal p ot p lants Seasonal pot plants a nd 111th 1th D ec. and Dec. P lease ccheck heck Please •H o l ly a nd m is t l e t o e Holly and mistletoe w ebsite ffor or d etails website details •T ree sstands tands Tree
Tel: 0 1285 8 21638 w ww.miserdennursery.co.uk Tel: 01285 821638 www.miserdennursery.co.uk email: info@miserdennursery.co.uk info@miserdennursery.co.uk email: Miserden, M iserden, S Stroud, troud, G Gloucestershire loucestershire G GL6 L6 7 7JA JA
a--z A a AERIALS ERIALS
A Aerials erials | Satellites Satellites | TTV V & VVideo ideo Sales Sales D DOMESTIC OMESTIC & COMMERCIAL COMMERCIAL
FOR ALL YOUR TV & AERIAL FITTING, INSTALLATION & SET-UP REQUIREMENTS
Insurance work undertaken Special Special rrates ates ffor or O OAPs APs
C Call all L Les: es: 0 01453 1453 8 890022 90022 aazaerials1970@gmail.com zaerials1970@gmail.com ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED
DYKES BUILDERS LOCAL • FRIENDLY • PROFESSIONAL
A family business delivering a quality service for your home
johndykes52@hotmail.com www.dykesbuilders.co.uk
07813 774370
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CARPENTRY
AND JOINERY
Call Martin Hill on 01285 651482 Mob: 07985 708863
Rectory Rectory Fields, Fields, R Rudford, udford, G Gloucestershire loucestershire G GL2 L2 8 8DT DT
Tel: T el: 01452 01452 6 668005/01453 68005/01453 2 297010/01285 97010/01285 2 238089 38 0 89 www.marshallsdriveways.co.uk www.marshallsdriveways.co.uk C Company ompany rregistration: egistration: 0 090645563 9 0 6 4 55 6 3
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All dr d ains an d blo l ckages G All emergency plu l mbing work G Pre-fixe d prices G Saniflo blockages & installations G High pressure jetting/drain repairs/relining G CCTV sur veys/homebuyers’ sur veys G Local Author ity insurance & wate r co mpany appro ve d G
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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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014 52 52 2 4 22
interior needs
es@interiorneeds.co.uk
We would like to wish all of our customerss a vvery ery Merr Christmas Chr tmas a nd a H appy N ew Y ear Merry and Happy New Year
Frrseoneal
• Curtains Curtains & fabrics fabrics poles Tracks & poles • Tracks Interior shutters shutters • Interior
pe design t in eriorrvice se
blinds Perfect fit fit blinds • Perfect indow Bay yw • Bay window treatments treatments
Lighting • Lighting Wallpap per • Wallpaper Mirrors • Mirrors
Come Come in in and and h have ave a b browse rowse a and nd jjoin oin u uss ffor or a ccup up o off ttea ea o orr ccoffee offee a and nd a m mince ince p pie ie • Sande sons • Romo • Zoffany • Prestigious • Casadeco • Bill Beaumont • Simpson & Yorke • Hardy • Villa Nova • Harlequin • Luxaflex • James Brindley • Silent Gliss • Velux • Blendwort rth
20% off Fabrics 20% off Blinds 10% off Shutters 10% off Wallpapers
N ew Opening Opening New T imes Times Monday Monday
S Showroom howroom cclosed losed
(open (open b by y aappointment ppointment only) only)
T Tuesday-Saturday uesday-Saturday 10am-5pm 10am m-5pm
Sunday Sunday Closed Closed
Sale starts 1st December 2016 until 31st January 2017 WE WILL BE CLOSED FROM CHRISTMAS EVE UNTIL 3RD JANUARY
Eastern Eastern A Avenue, venue, G Gloucester loucester G GL4 L4 3 3BU BU ((Next Next tto oT The he W Weavers eavers S Shop hop o opposite pposite P PC CW World) orld)
w www.interiorneeds.co.uk ww.interiorneeds.co.uk
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FREELANCE FREELANCE WINDOWS WINDOWS Discover D i s co ve r the t h e ccontemporary o nt e m po ra ry wway a y ttoo e nj oy yyour ou r cconservatory o n s e rrvvat o ry – every e ve ry dday ay enjoy
EEquinox quinox R Replacement eplacement TTiled iled R Roof oof S System ystem •Fully • Fully insulated insulated ttiled iled rroof oof system system •Energy-saving design optimum • Energy-saving d esign ffor or o ptimum ccomfort omfort •Less weather peace and • Less w eather nnoise oise ffor or p eace a nd ttranquility ranquility •Attractive • Attractive styling styling – inside inside and and out out •No onn llight • No ccompromise ompromise o ight
01453 01453 547340 547340 iinfo@freelancewindows.co.uk nfo@freelancewindows.co.uk www.freelancewindows.co.uk www.frreelancewindows.co.uk / www.fairtraders.co.uk www.fairtraders.co.uk
K
ordy’ dy’s Carpet Carpet Outlet tlet Store Store
• New c carpet arpet s store! tore! •Q Quality, y affordable afffordable c carpets arpets • Room Room size size remnants remnants & llarge arge selection selection of of samples samples • Over 80 off c carpets Over 8 0 rrolls olls o arpets & vinyls v inyls iin n stock! stock!
Don’t look until you’ve finished! Opening Opening times times Mondays: Mondays: Closed Closed • Tuesdays-Fridays: Tuesdays-Fridays: 9am-5pm 9am-5pm Saturdays: Saturdays: 8 8am-1pm am-1pm • S Sundays: undays: 1 10am-1pm 0am-1pm
0 01453 1453 8 890626 90626
Solutions on ‘Index of Advertisers’ page.
THE SOLUTION FOR YOUR NEW BATHROOM ...
Unit Unit 5 Wisloe Wisloe Road Road Business Business Park, Park, Cambridge, Cambridge, Gloucester Gloucester GL2 GL2 7AF 7AF N Next ext tto o ‘‘Buildit’ Buildit’ The Local Answer
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GGLOUCESTER LOUCESTER CARPET CARPET OUTLET OUTLET M a k i n g Carp Making C a r pet p e t Afforda A f f o r d ab able
WE HAVE MOVED! Same Fantastic Service Fully Stocked Warehouse
Wishing all Customers a
Wonderful Christmas
New Spacious Showroom
Same Fantastic Prices
Our showroom will close for the festive season at 5pm on Wednesday 21st December and re-open at 9am on Tuesday 3rd January
A AND ND WE WE S STILL TIILL LL WON’T WON T B BE EB BEAT BEATEN EATEN O ON NP PRICE! RICE! DDISCOUNT ISCOUNT CARPET CARPET WAREHOUSE WAREHOUSE ~ SSAME AME D DAY AY TAKEAWAY TAKEAWAY
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PLEASE PLEASE COME COME A AND ND V VISIT ISIT U US S AT A T OUR OUR SUPERB SUPERB NEW NEW HOME HOME
CLE GR AM
O OPENING PENING TIMES: TIMES: Monday-Friday M onday-Friday 9am-5pm 9am-5pm Saturday Saturday 9am-4pm 9am-4pm AD
Mill Mill P Place lace O One, ne, 9 90 0B Bristol ristol R Road, oad, G Gloucester loucester G GL1 L1 5 5SQ SQ www.gloucestercarpetoutlet.co.uk www.gloucestercarpetoutlet.co.uk
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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Specialists Specialists in in bathroom bathroom safety safety
With time you may find your bathroom becomes more difficult to use safely. It is possible to change your bath for a shower quite easily, as there are products available designed to fit the space taken up by a bath. Alternatively, you may decide you would like a wet room with a completely flat surface. Here are some photographs of a recent project where the customer replaced their old bath and shower with a tiled wet room, suitable for a wheelchair user with a young family.
Save S ave 20% 2 0% VAT* V AT*
*If you need to make changes to your bathroom due to disability or a medical condition, we are able to supply your bathroom VAT free, saving you 20%. Please ask for details.
• Change your bath for a large shower • Redesign your layout to make best use of space • Increase storage with built in units • Warm your feet and keep the floor dry with underfloor heating • Add grab rails and fold away shower seat • Tiles, wallboards, mirrors and accessories supplied • Experienced polite installers • Free design service and advice • 30+ years of experience in the bathroom industry
07496 0 0572 572 281 81 or Contact Rex on 07496 01453 884 4167 0 1453 8 84 167 for a free home visit to discuss your needs
w www.lifestylebathrooms.net ww.lifestylebathrooms.net e
Quick Crossword ACROSS 1 7 8 10 12 14 16 17 20 23 24 25
Suspect’s excuse Flight industry Skewered dish Sleepy feeling Ocean voyager Wheedle Actor, ... Sharif Calmly Counterfeit Song of the Swiss Sketching carbon Bequeath
DOWN 1 Lower leg joints 2 Necklace component 3 Affirm 4 Paved terrace 5 Missile’s strength 6 For men or women 9 Snap 11 Twin-hulled boat 13 Supplement, ... out 15 Wet (weather) 16 Place of business 18 Daffodil hue 19 Authoritative command 21 Lend to 22 Urban community
W h y n ot u s e t his s pa ce t o a dve rt is e yo u r bu s i n e ss ? For details please call
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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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G Gift 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. www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk
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You might be forgiven for thinking you have turned to the gardening page, but no this is ‘Money Matters’ and the author hasn’t gone mad! I’m referring to the increasing number of apprenticeships that are being taken on in small businesses. I’m speaking from first-hand experience. We took on Peter as an apprentice fifteen months ago and he has proved to be a first class signing. When the time is right, we will probably repeat the exercise all over again. So why aren’t all small firms taking on a school leaver and growing their own staff for the future? Judging by the difficulties we have had recently in recruiting a qualified member of staff, growing your own is definitely the way forward.
The The aavailability vailability o off ccandidates andidates h has as iincreased ncreased iin n rrecent ecent yyears ears The growth in apprenticeships in recent years has coincided with an increase in university tuition fees. I’m not saying that is the sole reason, but student debt has to be a big factor in the decision making for those reaching their GCSE and A-level years. So the availability of candidates increases. T h e G o ve r n m e n t h a s b a c k e d u p i t s p ro m o t i o n o f apprenticeships with legal protection for the term ‘apprentice’ and set out very clear and stringent rules for what an employer has to deliver if he/she is to get the financial benefits on offer in terms of grant assistance. They have also introduced an apprentice levy on larger firms to help pay for the cost of expanding the scheme.
1 in in 4 small small ffirms irms h has as aan n aapprentice pprentice Currently only around 1 in 4 small firms has taken up the o p p o r t u n i t y t o g ro w t h e i r o w n a n d s i g n e d o n a n apprentice. Those who haven’t quote cost and time as the biggest restrictions. I think this is short-sighted and doesn’t say too much for the small business owner community. It’s well worth a second look . Acorns to oak trees; seeds to beautiful flowers, as the gardeners who have stuck with this page will happily tell you. Have a great Christmas – I’ll be back in the New Year.
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Index of Advertisers WHAT’S ON EVENTS & ATTRACTIONS The Bird & Deer Park
15
HEALTH & BEAUTY Living Everyday Miracles
14
PROPERTY Park Home Life Richmond Villages Sanctuary Group The Property Centre
10 8 11 36
RETAIL Miserden Nursery
22
HOMES & GARDENS BATHROOMS Lifestyle Bathrooms Severn Vale Bathrooms
28 25 & 35
BUILDING SERVICES A1 Roofing & Contractors 22 Dykes Builders 22 Home Care Roofing & Building 20 22 Marshalls Driveways CARPENTERS 2H Carpentry and Joinery 22 CLEANING SERVICES Hard Pressed For Time 20 FURNISHING & APPLIANCES Gloucester Carpet Outlet 26 Interior Needs 24 Kordy’s Carpet Outlet 25 Thornbury Stairlifts 5 GARDEN SERVICES CT Roberts 20 Handylink 22 Lawn Doc 22
HEATING & PLUMBING Austin Heating & Air Conditioning 20 22 Drain Doctor PAINTING & DECORATING N.S Decorating 20 TV & AERIALS 1st Choice Aerials 14 A-Z Aerials 22 WINDOWS & DOORS Albany Windows 2 C&L Windows 29 Cloudy 2 Clear 31 Freelance Windows 25
EDUCATION & TRAINING Gloucestershire County Council 16 MOTORING SERVICES 12 Bridgend Garage REMOVAL SERVICES Little White Van Man 14 SKIP HIRE & RECYCLING Stevens Recycling 34
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7 Proof of posting is not regarded as proof of receipt of entry. 8 The Local Answer accepts no responsibility for the provision of the prize, which remains at all times the full responsibility of the prize donor(s). 9 By entering any competition you agree to have your name published in the next issue of The Local Answer should you be drawn as a winner of the prize. 10 By entering any competition you agree to have your details passed to a third party.
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