Forest of Dean by The Local Answer

The Local

ANSWER

JULY 2016

200,000 DELIVERED MONTHLY IN GLOUCESTERSHIRE

f o r l o ca l p e o p l e

FOREST OF DEAN WIN A COCKTAIL MAKING KIT WORTH Â£500! DETAILS INSIDE

The Local

ANSWER

Forest of Dean – 22,000 copies Gloucester – 46,000 copies Gloucestershire South – 41,000 copies Gloucestershire North – 20,000 copies Cheltenham – 43,000 copies Cotswolds – 28,000 copies

Chris Raymond Sales Director

01242 541079 chris@thelocalanswer.co.uk

Editorial & Production Lois Kingscott

Welcome to July ... This month’s ‘Delicious Dish’ recipe tells you how to bake some wonderfully light and fruity strawberry muffins. Why not make a batch and enjoy the summer sunshine with an alfresco Afternoon Tea? If you’re lucky enough to win our latest competition prize – a cocktail making kit worth £500 – you could turn it into a sizzling summer party and create some mouth-watering drinks for friends and family! Check out Caron Burrows’ ‘Interior Design’ article, which gives tips on creating a comfortable yet tidy space for your beloved pets within the home. If you like getting out and about with nature, have a read about foraging for burdock, or perhaps do a bit of garden visiting, as recommended by Julia Smith. You might even go in search of the large blue butterfly – read up on its fascinating story and learn how it came back from the brink of extinction in our ‘Wildlife Matters’ feature.

editorial@thelocalanswer.co.uk

Inside this month ...

Helen Kingscott editorial@thelocalanswer.co.uk

Distribution Robert Kingscott – 01242 541071 distribution@thelocalanswer.co.uk

Accounts Kerry Fell accounts@thelocalanswer.co.uk

Managing Director Dave Kingscott dave@thelocalanswer.co.uk

1 Ullenwood Court, Ullenwood, Gloucestershire GL53 9QS

01242 510500 thelocalanswer

@thelocalanswer

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

Delicious Dish 5 Cocktail Time 6 Wild Food Foraging 6 Wildlife Matters 9 Looking Good Feeling Great 11 Holidays & Travel 13 Parenting & Guardianship 15 What’s On 16 Win a £500 Cocktail Making Kit! 18-19 Motoring 25 Homes & Gardens 26 Interior Design 27 In the Garden 29 Quick Crossword 30 Word Search 32 Sudoku 33 Index, Competitions, Solutions 34 Competitions: 18-19 & 23 Page 3

A venue for all occasions The Park Falfield is an ideal venue for your perfect wedding and other celebratory events. The family run stylish boutique hotel is set in spectacular grounds, nestled in the beautiful Gloucestershire countryside, and the interior is similarly attractive with first class facilities. The warm welcome, excellent service and wonderful food combine to ensure you and your guests are going to enjoy the experience. So what will you eat? The Park has achieved the AA Dinners Award for its special servings with an emphasis on local and freshly prepared ingredients. It also has a great and growing reputation for its classic and innovative seafood dishes with the finest, sustainable fish and shellfish sourced from the south coast. There’s an assurance of quality for party nights or host a private party with everything from small finger buffets exclusive use of the bar. Party guests can through to barbecues, hog roasts and always extend their visit by staying in one of the fabulous new hotel rooms and opulent banquets. Whatever your celebration, The Park enjoy a delicious home cooked breakfast Falfield loves to party in style and is the following morning. The Park is becoming increasingly available for private hire for all types of events, including weddings, popular as a wedding venue and is fully anniversaries, Christenings, birthdays, licensed for civil ceremonies. With a wakes etc. As well as catering, the hotel perfect backdrop to your fairytale can also arrange entertainment, wedding, the hotel’s events team is determined to deliver your special day transport and floristry on your behalf. You can enjoy one of their themed exactly how you want it to be – from an

Come & Enjoy our new Summer Seafood Menu

The new menu features fresh, innovative seafood dishes sourced from the finest, sustainable fish and shellfish from the South West coast.

intimate affair for as few as four people to full and exclusive use of the venue and its rooms, grounds and facilities. The bridal suite has been refurbished with no expense spared. Featuring a four-poster bed, a luxurious bathroom suite and opulent décor it really does have to be seen to be fully appreciated. There’s nothing like a visit to help you understand the quality on offer – why not call on 01454 260550 to book a lunch or dinner to get a ‘taste’ or arrange an appointment to get the full tour?

Open to non residents

Enjoy our beautiful surroundings for breakfast, morning coffee, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner and traditional Sunday roasts. Relax with a drink in our beer gardens with its play area for children and take advantage of our complimentary dog kennels.

Everyone is welcome! First Thursday of Every Month 6-course Seafood Taster Menu

Tantalise your taste-buds with a wonderful variety of delicious ocean fayre. ONLY £45 per person!

Keep an eye on our facebook/website for details

Lunchtime Special

Mondays-Saturdays 12 noon-3pm 2 courses £12 3 courses £15

Golden Years Deal

Every Thursday 9am-12 noon Buy a cup of coffee and get a second FREE! 12 noon-3pm Enjoy a delicious 2-course lunch for only £10!

t 01454 260550 e info@theparkfalfield.co.uk w theparkfalfield.co.uk The Park Hotel, Gloucester Road, Whitfield, South Gloucestershire GL12 8DR

Page 4

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

Delicious Dish with Helen Kingscott

Strawberry Muffins Heavenly light and fruity muffins that taste fantastic on their own, or would be great for creating your own home-made afternoon tea Ingredients: 300g plain flour; 2tsp baking powder; 1tsp bicarbonate of soda; 185g unrefined caster sugar; zest of 1 lemon, grated; 300ml buttermilk; 2 large eggs; 1tsp vanilla

Why not visit Primrose Vale Farm Shop & PYO and make your muffins with their delicious strawberries?

extract; 150g unsalted butter, melted; 150g fresh strawberries, chopped. Method: 1 Heat the oven to 190°C (gas mark 4). Grease a 12-cup muffin tray or use paper cases. 2 Sift the flour, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda and a pinch of salt into a mixing bowl. Stir in the sugar and grated zest and make a well in the centre. 3 Whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, vanilla and melted butter. Pour the mixture into the well in the flour and stir until the ingredients are just combined. 4 Add the fruit and lightly fold to combine. Do not over-mix as the batter is fine a bit lumpy. 5 Divide the mixture evenly between the muffin cups. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. Let them cool in the tin for five minutes before turning out on to a wire rack. Tip Try experimenting this summer with different berries or other fruits and create a variety of delicious muffins. Altneratively, if you’d like to save this recipe for the winter months when a lot of fruits are out of season, try using frozen fruit (thawed) or bake plain muffins and top with jam.

Pam Everitt

Lic.AC., BA (Hons), MBAcC

Five-Element Acupuncture

Central Newent

Anxiety and panic attacks Arthritis and joint pain Location Asthma & other lung complaints Back & sciatic pain Eczema & Psoriasis, Depression & insomnia Digestive disorders Menstrual & menopausal problems Migraine & headaches ●

●

call email web

07717 581175

pam@pame-acupuncture.co.uk pame-acupuncture.co.uk British Acupuncture Council Member

The Local Answer

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 5

Cocktail Time with Lois Kingscott

Wild Food Foraging with Steven Hawley

Burdock White Russian The White Russian was originally a variation on another vodka drink – the Black Russian. This drink is thought to have originated in Brussels in 1949, and it soon became popular due to its ease of creation and smooth flavour. The introduction of cream to change the drink’s colour produced the official White Russian cocktail. Though fresh cream is preferred, milk is an acceptable substitute. The cocktail experienced a brief flurry of popularity in the 70s before fading out for two decades. The White Russian was then immortalised in 1998 by the movie ‘The Big Lebowski’. Initially something of a flop, the film didn’t reach cult status until 2002 when it ignited the White Russian’s popularity once more. There are many variations on the drink, including the Blonde or Blind Russian that substitutes the cream for Irish Cream. Ingredients: Ice; 30ml fresh cream; 30ml kahlua (coffee liqueur); 90ml vodka. Method: 1 Pour cream, kahlua and vodka into a cocktail shaker. 2 Shake well and strain over ice into a low ball glass.

PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY Why not have a Mocktail? For a non–alcoholic alternative, mix 30ml fresh cream with 30ml non-sweetened coffee flavoured syrup. Page 6

I never leave the house with the intent of looking for foods to forage. Often I’m heading out just to walk the dog, but will accidentally stumble over something that I can take home to make a light post-walk snack with, or just to nibble on the move to keep the walk interesting. But there is usually nothing more interesting than learning about new things to stuff in my mouth. When Renée, my dog, came trotting back to me after a particularly frisky run through the countryside, she had lots of burrs stuck in her coat. I already knew that these little burrs were the inspiration behind the invention of Velcro (thanks to a low budget documentary I once watched) but I wondered if they could also be eaten.

Forever expanding my knowledge of free nosh Always looking to expand my knowledge of free nosh, I took a couple burrs home and researched them online to discover that they were the seeds of the Burdock plant – this fact would no doubt have been covered in the documentary, but I had done a good job of forgetting all the little details. As soon as I read the word Burdock I knew it was edible – not only that, but also delicious. Dandelion and Burdock is a drink I always enjoy on a hot summer afternoon, but I haven’t plucked up the courage to try and make it for myself yet as I don’t want to put myself off the drink for good! If – like me – you fancy a cool glass of Dandelion and Burdock this summer, why not forage the ingredients for yourself and let me know how you got on with your recipe on Twitter (@PottyWhite). But remember, there are other critters out there that want a taste too, so never take more than you need! If you’re not 100% sure that the plant you’re picking is safe for human consumption, don’t pick it. If you’re prone to food allergies, or pregnant, always seek medical advice before consuming anything foraged in the wild.

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

Cleeve Mill Business Park, Cleeve Mill Lane, Newent Gloucestershire GL18 1AZ

Tel: 01531 820258 www.millparkvets.com SMELLY BREATH is not normal in

pets and is a Don’t let BAD BREATH common sign of DENTAL come between PROBLEMS! you and If bad breath is your pet! coming between

COST PRICE PET FOOD

you and your pet, please talk to your vet today

Joining our Pet Health Club brings many advantages... 25% OFF FOOD (= cost price for most foods) All year flea and worm treatment Vaccination course 2nd Healthcheck at 6 months ... AND MUCH MORE! The Pet Health Club is a preventative health scheme to help keep your pet and finances in tip-top condition For more information visit our website: www.millparkvets.com

SAVE OVER £172 A YEAR ON YOUR PET’S HEALTHCARE (Conditions apply) www.thepethealthclub.co.uk

Scale & Polish Cats £99 Dogs £149

Summer Dental Offer* *Please note these prices include anaesthesia but exclude extractions and any medications. Offer available 1st July-30th Septemer 2016

CONSULTATION BY APPOINTMENT Mon-Fri: 9-10.30am, 2-3pm & 4.30-6.30pm Sat: 9-11am Sun: Closed

OPENING TIMES (Reception) Mon-Fri: 8.30am-7pm Sat: 8.30am-12.30pm Sun: Closed

EMERGENCIES – at all times phone 01531 820258 At night or weekends your call will be diverted to our local emergency veterinary service, which means a vet and nurse are dedicated to your pet’s needs 24 hours a day.

CHAMBERLAIN of Newent PLANT CENTRE

HANGING BASKETS & CONTAINERS FROM £5 Family run business spanning over 100 years We sell and grow all our own bedding plants. Spring, summer, autumn or winter – any time of the year we make our own hanging baskets and pots. We can also make hanging baskets to order, especially for the summer. Any size, big or small, with moss or liners, any colour or specific plants that you would like, we can make for you. We can even make something up for you while you wait.

6 PACK SUMMER BEDDING FROM £2

Open Monday-Saturday 9-5 and Sundays 10-4

Ledbury Road, Newent, Gloucestershire GL18 1DL 01531 822581

www.chamberlainplantcentre.com Page 8

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

Wildlife Matters

with Jenny Stevens of Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust

The large blue: back from the brink July is the perfect time to look for butterflies and we’re spoilt with so many wonderful species in Gloucestershire. One of the most wonderful, in story as well as appearance, is the large blue butterfly. Despite its name, it is by no means a giant. With a wingspan of up to 44mm, this little insect is a delight to behold. Its vivid blue hue, black outline and row of black spots across the upper wings make it distinguishable from its smaller counterparts. It is a true asset and heart-warming success story for our county.

One of Gloucestershire’s most prized possessions

Dave Simcox

Declared extinct in Britain in 1979, the large blue is now one of Gloucestershire’s most prized possessions. Its reintroduction to just two sites in the country – Daneway Banks in the Golden Valley and Dartmoor in Devon – proved successful thanks to the hard work and dedication of a number of butterfly experts, volunteers and organisations including Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust and Butterfly Conservation, with support

from Grundon Waste Management. The butterfly’s extinction was extremely frustrating for conservationists, as it wasn’t a decline that had gone unnoticed. For many years specialists had studied the large blue and failed to reach a conclusion as to why it was suffering. Break through studies revealed that it was the gruesome nature of the insect’s life cycle that was the key to its survival.

It cunningly fools the red ants into ‘adopting it’

David J Slater The Local Answer

Once hatched, the large blue starts life as larvae, feeding on the flower heads of wild thyme and marjoram. After this period the caterpillars drop to the ground, where they are discovered by a very particular type of red ant (Myrmica sabuleti). The caterpillar cunningly fools the ants into ‘adopting it’ and carrying it to their nest. There it feasts on the young grubs for almost a year. After pupating, it emerges from the brood chamber as an adult to find a mate. The discovery of this very complex life cycle meant that scientists could solve the mystery of its decline. It

showed the large blue needs wild thyme, populations of the red ant to be present, and a short turf in order to survive. This information enabled individuals and organisations to ensure these exacting factors were present at reintroduction sites.

Its reintroduction has been a great success Sample stock of the butterflies were selected from Scandinavia and carefully reintroduced at Daneway Banks in 2000. Through careful land management, specialised grazing methods, and meticulous surveying, the reintroduction has been a success, with the large blue flourishing at the site near Sapperton, Gloucestershire. Over 2000 were seen flying in June 2014 and the first adult of 2016 was reported on 5th June. The large blue will continue to fly until mid-July and I would urge anyone with an interest to seek it out, as a really rare and special species – not to mention a huge success story for the county of Gloucestershire and conservation as a whole.

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 9

Vaporise your smoking addiction Managing director of Spa Vapes Limited and ex-heavy smoker Paul Gifford has been selling the products and benefits associated with ‘electronic cigarettes’ for nearly 5 years after himself converting to ‘vapor’ from smoke. Having quickly witnessed the benefits to his health and well-being, Paul realised that, with such a large and diverse range of products to choose from, there was a ‘gap in the market’. With shops already established in Gloucester, Cheltenham and Cirencester, SpaVapes Newent opened at the end of May. Andrew Steele has been involved with the company since its formation and now manages the outlet in The Shambles. SpaVapes’ success will come as no surprise to anyone who has visited any of their stores – local businesses run by local people. There‘s a real focus on quality of products and service, delivered through a friendly, engaging team that clearly enjoy their work. With the majority of us not understanding the full health and financial benefits associated with a conversion from smoking to vaping, a visit to SpaVapes is wonderfully educational. Whether you are considering a starter kit or require advice

Andrew Steele (left) and Paul Gifford at the SpaVapes Newent official launch with ‘Prince Charles’. Inset: Andrew with his Jack Russell pup ‘Little Dick’.

on the latest ‘pro vaping’ devices, you’ll get all the help necessary. Along with a warm welcome from Andrew and his assistant – new Jack Russell pup ‘Little Dick’ – you’ll receive free, expert advice on device selection and quitting

What is an e-cigarette?

Healthier

An electronic cigarette comprises three sections – battery, atomizer and tank. The tank, many of which are refillable, holds the e-liquid. The battery powers the atomizer to heat the e-liquid and, when air is drawn through, fine vapours are produced for the user to inhale.

You will soon notice how much healthier you feel without the toxins inhaled from cigarettes – apart from the nicotine (although you may choose ‘non nicotine liquids), vaping does not use the other 4000+ chemicals that cigarettes contain.

Which one do I choose?

Once you have your e-cigarette, your only expenditure will be for the E-Liquid and replacement atomizers. Depending on the brand/flavour of the E-Liquid, an average ‘20 a day’ smoker will only need to spend £6-£9 a week – imagine the savings!

The devices come in all shapes, sizes, colours and styles to suit ladies and gents alike. Andrew will help you to choose a suitable product and explain the benefits of the device.

Wealthier

cigarettes. There’s a real commitment to serving the community, tailoring ‘start ups’ and progress checks to your specific needs, and generally moving people away from the harmful toxins of cigarettes. There’s a great deal of information on SpaVapes website too. SpaVapes stock quality ELiquids from the UK and USA including ‘non nicotine’ products. If you’re fed up of being a social outcast, your clothes smelling of tobacco, or needing to go outside to satisfy your addiction, then why not visit Spa Vapes Newent – and think how you could better enjoy the cash you save! You can also take advantage of their promotional offer below.

Newent’s Vaping Shop

The Shambles Retail Village, 18 Church Street, Newent, Glos. GL18 1PP

Open 10am-4pm Tuesday to Saturday

SpaVapes. Page 10

every E-Cigarette FREE 10ml with Starter Kit purchased E-Liquid with this voucher during July 2016

www.spavapes.co.uk

T: 01242 210555 E: info@spavapes.co.uk www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

Looking Good, Feeling Great with Matt Wagstaff

Eating out healthily Although often very tasty, eating out can disrupt a healthy diet when making the wrong food choices. Unhealthy food can often be masked within restaurant marketing, making food sound healthier than it is, or within processed ingredients. Opting for the healthier option when eating out or at a social gathering can be hard, but is very beneficial, and doesn’t have to taste poor! A treat every now and again is good, but if you regularly eat out or need to focus on a strict healthy diet, follow the tips below!

Check the menu before Most restaurants have their menus online these days, and checking out choosing a side salad or seasonal what they serve before hand makes veggies, which will fill you up more! planning your meal easier. You can Check how the food is also call up about possible alternatives or swaps to make your meal healthier. cooked The way food is cooked can have a big Be picky with the side dish impact on health. For example, Sides can often be the unhealthiest choosing a grilled option over fried part of the meal, such as fried will reduce overall calories. What the potatoes or heavily filled pasta. food is fried in will also alter overall Choose wisely – go for a baked sweet health of the meal – healthier oils such or white potato, which reduces the as coconut oil should be chosen. amount of fat and chemicals, or double up your vegetable portion by Be wary of dressings and

Take your time Taking your time when eating can help reduce the amount of food you consume. It takes roughly 20 minutes for your brain to react to the food you have eaten and assess whether you are full or not. Eat slower and take a sip of your drink between mouthfuls and you’ll probably find you fill up on less food.

sauces

Ask for it ‘your way’

Salads often seem like the best option when you’re trying to eat healthily, and many people underestimate the fat and calories in the sauce they pour onto their tasty grilled food. However, salad dressings and sauces often contain large amounts of sugar, trans fats and preservatives. Having a simple olive oil dressing or a small amount of balsamic vinegar is much better for you, and asking for the dressing or sauce on the side will help reduce the amount you use.

Don’t be afraid to ask for the food to be cooked differently – a lot of restaurants will be happy to oblige to most simple alterations to their cooking styles. Also, remember to ask about menu ingredients – staff should be up to date on what goes into their food and how it is prepared.

Drink plenty of water Enjoying your food alongside a glass of water can help fill you up quicker, which is good if you are looking to reduce calorie consumption. An easy

The Local Answer

way to do this is to drink a glass of water between courses.

Make your own dessert Instead of indulging too much in often over-sugary restaurant desserts, try buying or making your own to have when you get home. It will still be a treat but just slightly better for you. If you do decide to have a dessert, try to go for the healthier options such as sorbet rather than ice cream, or a fruit or yoghurt based pudding.

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 11

Holidays & Travel with Al Hidden

A September Swiss sampler September’s great for visiting Switzerland, so start planning your long weekend now! The peak summer season is over, the weather’s usually good and, from Gloucestershire, easyJet’s Bristol– Geneva service is convenient. So catch a Friday flight and enjoy a long weekend on Swiss time. Since Geneva Airport station opened, it’s a short walk from ‘Arrivals’ to your train along Lake Geneva and the Rhone valley. Arriving at Brig a couple of hours after landing, grab a snack and a glass of delicious local Dôle at the Bahnhofbuffet. Then change to the Matterhorn-Gotthard-Bahn and travel onwards up the valley – birthplace of daylight again in Canton Uri’s famous hotelier, César Ritz. Urserental (lit. bear’s valley) where Realp or fast-growing Andermatt Fall asleep to the offer accommodation. In between tinkling of cowbells there is peaceful Hospental – try The sun’s setting, rich and golden Pension Egg or Gasthaus Pension like perfect Rösti, as you reach Fiesch. zum Turm for delicious pizza and Check into the cosy Fiescherhof, local yak dishes. For (relatively) Derby or another village hotel, dine bright lights, book one of on Fondue or Raclette, then fall Andermatt’s cosy B&Bs (try Bellavista on Oberalpstrasse 67) or five-star asleep to the tinkling of cowbells. Next morning, visit Eggishorn and luxury at the new Chedi Andermatt. the Aletsch Glacier by cable car, or Go up the Gemsstock walk the beautiful Goms valley to for stunning views Oberwald. After a short train ride through the Furka tunnel you reach After Sunday breakfast, why not go

The Local Answer

up the Gemsstock for stunning views and later descend the romantic Schöllenenschlucht where, centuries ago, shrewd locals reputedly tricked the Devil! At Göschenen where the autobahn and old mainline dive into tunnels, you can catch a train or bus down the Reuss valley. On the way you’ll pass Erstfeld, where the new 35-mile (57 Km) Gotthard rail-tunnel makes engineering history as the world’s longest! Lakeside Flüelen, or historic Altdorf with its famous William Tell statue, are both excellent options for your final night. Martha Arnold-Boi’s Zopfgarten B&B is one of Altdorf’s hospitality secrets. Advance booking is essential, but whether you B&B or stay in Martha’s self-catering apartment, it’s wonderful.

Four days, seven cantons and wonderful experiences ensure great memories Then it’s Monday, you’re saying ‘Uf Widerluege’ to Kanton Uri and crossing Switzerland’s Mittelland to Geneva Airport. Four days, seven cantons and many wonderful experiences should ensure great memories – and have you planning to stay longer next time you visit Switzerland!

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 13

Parenting & Guardianship with Roberta Smart

Plan your way to a successful summer July is here and the big school holidays are approaching. So, what is the secret to a happy, healthy holiday time? How can you ensure you really enjoy the time spent with your children whilst retaining your sanity? My secret sauce for simple summer success is planning! If you take a little time now, you can create a harmonious holiday that your kids will thank you for and make it one to remember. Begin by listing out all the things you want to do while you can, then list the things you’d love to do but don’t think you can (because of time, money or distance). Seriously, this is a top tip – you never know what might happen, so be prepared! Include basic daily activities to create a routine – lunch, chores, walk the dog, visit granny, etc. and you have an outline. Before filling your diary, check your budget and when payday is so you can plan more spending for times when you feel flush. Budgeting is vital for a pain free summer, and including the kids by allowing them to plan around an amount of money can be a fun and educational way to spend a rainy

The Local Answer

afternoon. For example, how many ways can you think of to enjoy £10? Mix free events with paid ones, so there is always something on the calendar to look forward to. You can use these events to keep the kids focussed during other times, such as bedtime and chores time. Below are just some of the many ways you could spend time with your kids this summer – hopefully you’ll find some inspiration!

play dough creatures, decorating biscuits, baking cupcakes – whatever floats your boat. YouTube has tons of great videos to inspire you.

Monday

Thursday

Picnic in the park. This will include food prep, outdoor play, meeting friends and travel to and from your chosen destination.

Have a library day where you read and write stories, draw and colour in pictures, and enjoy some quiet time with lots of cuddles and sharing of new discoveries. Scrap booking and ‘making Tuesday Climbing wall, soft play, go karting, etc. a newspaper’ of events throughout the with their best friend. Joint ventures holidays can provide a great keepsake mean double the fun and better for the future. memories. Look for offers from certain Friday outlets to get cheaper tickets, or partner Swimming – utilise your local pool and offers from your mobile phone supplier. look out for 2-4-1 vouchers in your local press for other events too! Wednesday

Making and baking. Make the kitchen Saturday/Sunday the event and enjoy creating unusual Geocaching and camping. A great way to get out in the countryside and discover buried treasure – literally. Checkout geocaching.com for more information. You can find local campsites for a night under the stars and you will only need the basics to make a most memorable adventure. There is always supermarket shopping to do, and getting the kids involved in sourcing great deals is great fun and they learn useful lessons. Remember as a parent you are never off duty and your kids never stop learning, so make sure they have a range of things to do and opportunities to stretch themselves from time to time. Robertaleesmart.com

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 15

What’s On The Local Answer Event Listings are compiled and presented in good faith with the kind support of many contributors. We recommend you use the contact details provided to check event information updates prior to planning your visit. 1-2 JULY MILEFEST – MUSIC FESTIVAL 25 acts over 2 stages. Great bands, family fun, food and drink, camping (no dogs) – all raising money for Milestone School for severely disabled young people. Funds raised will help provide fun outdoor learning for the students. 6-11pm Friday and 1-11pm Saturday at Hartpury GL19 3BG. Tickets: Weekend £10 (£3 u14s), Friday £6 (£2 u14s), Saturday £6 (£2 u14s) available from Milestone School, Hartpury Post Office or 07794 587133. milefest.co.uk. F/T: Milefest 1. 2 JULY WALK 4 WILDLIFE 2016 – CRICKLEY HILL Our annual walk celebrates the county’s countryside. The 3.5 mile circular route follows in the footsteps of naturalist and explorer Edward Wilson and will take in some spectacular views with a wide range of wildlife. 11am-3.30pm. Free to enter, some activities charged. For details visit gloucestershirewildlifetrust.co.uk or call 01458 383333. 5 JULY TRUMBO

In 1947 Dalton Trumbo was Hollywood’s top screenwriter; blacklisted for his political beliefs. Learn how Dalton used

words and wit to win 2 Academy Awards and expose the absurdity and injustice under the blacklist, which entangled everyone from gossip columnist Hedda Hopper to John Wayne. 7.45pm. £7 (£6). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. 9 JULY CARIBBEAN EVENING Hallmark Hotel presents a fun-filled Caribbean Evening in the Parkside Suite. Featuring Hearts Aglow Steel Band plus a traditional Caribbean style buffet. £22 pp – a donation from each ticket will be given to ‘Increase the Peace’. For tickets email gloucester.events@hallmarkhotels.co.uk or call 0330 028 3408. Hallmark Hotel, Matson Lane, Gloucester GL4 6EA. CANTORES CHAMBER CHOIR – ‘MUSIC OF OUR TIME’ Cirencester Parish Church (director John Holloway). Music from the 20th and 21st centuries. Jongen’s little performed Mass for Choir and Organ (John Wright). Durufle’s Quatre Motets, choir favourites Ola Gjeilo and “New Romantics” Eric Whitacre & Karl Jenkins, Macmillan, Aston. 7.30pm. Advance tickets £10, £15 on the door. Details www.cantores.net or Lorna Eayrs 01242 603988. 9 JULY – 10 SEPTEMBER CELEBRITY DUSTY DUCK TRAIL Discover our new Celebrity Dusty Duck trail landing at Slimbridge this summer to celebrate our 70th anniversary. The sixfoot-tall Dusty and his friends all form part of a specially created new trail, which takes you across the whole of the

VINYL RECORDS VINYL WANTED

Local buyer pays cash for your unwanted LP’s, EP’s & 45’s. Most 60’s, 70’s, 80’s & 90’s records considered, large or small collections. Prog, Psych, Punk, Heavy Rock, Britpop & New Wave especially wanted e-mail lists to: willowpitch@blueyonder.co.uk 01242 702947 or 07785 515987 Page 16

stunning grounds. 9.30am to 5.30pm. Price included in admission. 01453 891900. WWT Slimbridge, Bowditch, GL2 7BT. 15-17 JULY POP UP SPA WEEKEND Day, Twilight and Weekend tickets available. Hot tubs, saunas, spa treatments and much more! Fri & Sat 10am-11pm, Sun 10am-5pm. For more details call 01452 830222. Hillside Brewery, Holly Bush Farm, Ross Road, Near Longhope, Gloucester GL17 0NG. hillsidebrewery.com. 16 JULY CANTORES CHAMBER CHOIR – ‘MUSIC OF OUR TIME’ Holy Apostles, Cheltenham (director John Holloway). Music from the 20th and 21st centuries. Jongen’s little performed Mass for Choir and Organ (John Wright). Durufle’s Quatre Motets, choir favourites Ola Gjeilo and “New Romantics” Eric Whitacre & Karl Jenkins, Macmillan, Aston. 7.30pm. Advance tickets £10, £15 on the door. Details www.cantores.net or Lorna Eayrs 01242 603988. 20 JULY AS YOU LIKE IT Rosalind, in love with Orlando and banished from court, takes on the appearance of a boy and travels with her cousin to the Forest of Arden where her father and his friends live in exile. 7.30pm. £14 (£12). Gates open 1.5 hours before each performance for picnics. Bring low-backed seating. Come prepared for all weathers. Free parking. Tuckwell Amphitheatre, Shelburne Road, GL51 6HE. 01242 258002.

Pro m ot e y ou r bu s i n e ss i n 2 2,0 00 m a g a zi n e s Call Chris now!

The Local

01242

ANSWER 541079

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

Sunday 21st August 11am-7pm Newlands Park, Southam Lane, Cheltenham GL52 3PE

ALL THIS ...

£2

Danters Fun Fair Motor Show Pig Roast Live Shows Music • Land Train Birds of Prey Assault Course Zip Line • Stalls

entry per adult and much more! Under 12s FREE!

Join in every day on Nick Jr. nickjr.co.uk

d Chase an ill w ll a h rs a M es pearanc make ap ls between a rv at inte m-6pm! 11.30a

Work from Home

© 2016 Spin Master PAW Productions Inc. All Rights Reserved. PAW Patrol and all related titles, logos and characters are trademarks of Spin Master Ltd. Nickelodeon and all related titles and logos are trademarks of Viacom International Inc.

Start Your own Business

selling from catalogues and online Immediate Start! Part or full time

The Bird & Deer Park is in full swing now as all the ducklings hatch and, with luck, we may have another young fallow deer to join the others in the park. Toffee and Treacle the miniature donkeys are back, and the Pygmy goats are always amusing. So whilst peacocks display, carp bask along the edge of the lake, Fallow deer roam and Reindeer prance, The Bird Park will be offering lots to see and enjoy. There will be children’s events throughout the summer holidays to include theTeddy Bears’ Picnic and “Tea andTalk” in the Castle Folly, overlooking the fallow deer for groups. The New Visitor Centre is a wonderful destination for shopping, relaxing with a tea or coffee and enjoying views of the park whilst tucking into an ice cream! If you’re looking for a location for children’s parties, Teal the Gypsy Caravan is a must, as is the Mad Hatter’s Marquee. So no matter what your needs are this summer, The Bird Park is here to help! Call 01452 812727 or visit www.thebirdpark.com for more information.

Work in your local area!

No qualifications or experience required!

Choose your own hours! Make it a fulltime business!

Facebook Page at www.Klifestyles.co.uk

Klifestyles

Work from Home with Kleeneze

The Local Answer

Apply for no commitment information at: http://klifestyles.weebly.com

07817 296056

Come and see, feed and stroke our beautiful fallow deer, our wonderful collections of peacocks, waterfowl, pheasants and the amusing pygmy goats ... all very tame and will feed from your hand!

Open 7 days a week 10am-5pm • 01452 812727

www.thebirdpark.com

The Bird and Deer Park Prinknash, Cranham, Gloucester GL4 8EX

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 17

IT’S PARTY TIME! Ever fancied hosting your own cocktail party but not sure you’ve got all the things necessary? Now’s your chance to win everything you need to deliver the perfect party for friends and family – shakers, glasses, brollies and stirrers, spirits, mixers, fruit and other accessories. We’re even including a couple of recipe books to get the ideas – and drinks – flowing! Whether you want to host the ‘Cocktail Party of the Year’ or simply add another dimension to a celebratory event, The Local Answer will provide one lucky reader with everything they need to become a cocktail maker extraordinaire!

WIN A COCKTAIL MAKING KIT WORTH £500! The Local

courtesy of ANSWER It’s easy to enter our draw ...

For your chance to win this fantastic cocktail making kit worth £500 send your name, address (including postcode) and telephone number to ‘TLA Cocktail’, The Local Answer, 1 Ullenwood Court, Cheltenham, GL53 9QS. Alternatively, enter via email by sending your details to competitions@thelocalanswer.co.uk stating ‘TLA Cocktail’ in the subject line. Closing date: Tuesday 12th July 2016. In addition to our usual competition rules you must be at least 18 years old and by entering you agree to have your name and photograph featured in our next issue and online should you win. Only one entry per household accepted.

Congratulations to last month’s winner! Ian Leaver of Tewkesbury! Ian was delighted to have won our TLA Cash competition and plans to put the money towards a holiday in September. He said: “It’s fantastic – thank you very much! We’ll probably go somewhere nice and hot – maybe Spain!”

We really enjoyed reading the entries and learning what you, the readers, like best about The Local Answer. It’s great feedback and means we can continue to improve the magazine and bring you content that you love!

22 JULY ROBIN HOOD Jenny Wren and her Merry Men take on the Sheriff of Nottingham as Robin Hood strives to win the Golden Arrow and the hand of Maid Marian. 7.30pm. £14 (£12). Gates open 1.5 hours before each performance for picnics. Bring low-backed seating. Come prepared for all weathers. Free parking. Tuckwell Amphitheatre, Shelburne Road, GL51 6HE. 01242 258002. 26 JULY CHARLTON KINGS FLOWER CLUB OPEN EVENING We invite you to our open evening when Andrew Lloyd will present ‘Midsummer Madness’. Sacred Hearts Church Hall, Charlton Kings, Cheltenham GL53 9AU. 7.30pm, doors open 6.30pm. Sales, tables, raffle and refreshments. Tickets £9 – available from Elizabeth Hobbs (01242 863077) & Eileen Sacker (01242 527848). MAN UP Meet Nancy: single, hungover and exhausted by the endless set-ups foisted upon her by well-meaning but clueless friends. As she travels across London, freshly-hatched divorcee Jack mistakes her for his blind date. What follows is a chaotic, hilarious night neither of them will ever forget. 9pm. £7 (£6). Gates open 1.5 hours before each performance for picnics. Bring low-backed seating. Come

prepared for all weathers. Free parking. Tuckwell Amphitheatre, Shelburne Road, GL51 6HE. 01242 258002. 27 JULY A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM Join the lovers Hermia, Helena, Lysander and Demetrius this summer as Rain or Shine follow them into the intoxicating dream world of fairy queen and king, Titania and Oberon. 7.30pm. £14 (£12). Gates open 1.5 hours before each performance for picnics. Bring low-backed seating. Come prepared for all weathers. Free parking. Tuckwell Amphitheatre, Shelburne Road, GL51 6HE. 01242 258002. 30-31 JULY CIDER & CHEESE FESTIVAL

Enjoy cider and cheese while relaxing in the sun. Live music, entertainment and free entry all afternoon! 12 noon til 10pm. For details call Rita – 07983 179283 or email ritaoldpats@hotmail.com. Patesians Sports and Social Club, Everest Road, Leckhampton, Cheltenham GL53 9LG.

Shipton Golf Course

31 JULY DOTTY THE DRAGON

Dotty the baby fire dragon flies down to the village in search of friendship. But not everyone loves dragons – not even cuddly, fluffy, baby fire dragons. Little people aged 3 years+ will love this friendly tale. 5pm. £11 (£9, family £36). Gates open 1.5 hours before performances for picnics. Free parking. Tuckwell Amphitheatre, Shelburne Road, GL51 6HE. 01242 258002. 2 AUGUST CHICAGO Roxie Hart is a small-time chorus dancer who would kill for fame. After doing just that, she lands behind bars alongside vaudeville star Velma Kelly who, with the help of hotshot lawyer Billy Flynn, has spun her crime into a media frenzy. 9pm. £7 (£6). Gates open 1.5 hours before each performance for picnics. Free parking. Tuckwell Amphitheatre, Shelburne Road, GL51 6HE. 01242 258002.

Free Taster Ski Session Saturday 23rd July Booking essential – limited spaces Please call

01452 501438

✁

“A 9 hole pay & play course in the Heart of the Cotswolds” No need to book – Open every day from 7am until dusk ● Family run course offering affordable golf for all ● Coffee shop and terrace ● Small stock of ‘everyday’ golfing equipment and clothing ● PGA Fellow Professional available for lessons and advice ● Children’s holiday workshops

Archibald Golf Academy NEW Stuart Golf development programmes

to suit all ages and abilities FOR 2016! Available for corporate days, birthdays and special occasions

Tel: 01242 890237

www.shiptongolf.co.uk

☎

shiptongolf@tiscali.co.uk

Shipton Golf Course

✉

Nr Frogmill, Shipton, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL54 4HT

The Local Answer

to book

3 Slopes, including England & Wales longest Ski Slope Ski, Snowboard, Tube, Eat, Drink, Party, Shop, Jump on the Airbag

Alpine Ski Equipment Specialists

01179 160190 (Please hold the line, as it may divert)

Half Price Skiing when you buy skis/board or boots www.my-race.com

Matson Lane, Robinswood Hill, Gloucester GL4 6EA 01452 501438 www.gloucesterski.com

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 21

It’s amazing – why not join us? We have great ambitions! It’s simple – we want to provide children and adults with mental and/or physical disabilities from around Gloucestershire with more new and exciting opportunities so they can experience the wonderful benefits riding can bring. We know riding has a tremendous impact – just visit our website and read “Miriam’s Story” to understand what an incredible difference we can and do make.

helping to make a significant difference, not just to a child or adult with mental and/or physical disabilities, but to their families.

For the first time this August, we are opening our doors to provide a range of activity days to new and existing riders – disability doesn’t stop in the holidays so why should we? However, the simple fact is that we need volunteers – people like you who might have a few hours to spare. We understand people have busy lives, but if you become a volunteer, you can be assured you will be

If you think you could make a difference, visit www.cotswoldrda.org.uk/get-involved to find out more!

“Anyone thinking of volunteering, just do it! It is so much fun!” Pat Redmond, Volunteer

“What we do isn’t like magic – it IS magic!” Claire Jenkins, Charity Manager

We are looking for volunteers to help during: • Our normal working term-time week • After School Club from 4.30-6.30pm or • Our brand new Holiday Activity Days (full details on our website)

Cotswold

It’s what you can do that counts

Riding for the Disabled Association

01242 584420 • www.cotswoldrda.org.uk • info@cotswoldrda.org.uk

Jackie Brutton Riding Centre, Prestbury Park Racecourse, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL50 4SH

WIN TICKETS! courtesy of the bacon theatre

Gulliver’s Travels As part of the Open-Air Theatre Festival we’re offering a pair of tickets to join Lemuel Gulliver on a fantastical and hilarious voyage into the unknown as The Pantaloons perform ‘Gulliver’s Travels’ on 29th July in the Tuckwell Amphitheatre. The Pantaloons present a brand-new, adventurous and delightfully innovative adaptation of Jonathan Swift’s classic satirical story, loved by adults and children alike. Just please don’t step on any Lilliputians in the rush to get tickets! Tickets cost just £14 (concessions £12) and may be booked online at bacontheatre.co.uk or by calling the box office on 01242 258002. To enter our draw to win a pair of tickets, send your name, address and telephone number to ‘Gulliver’s Travels’, The Local Answer, 1 Ullenwood Court, Cheltenham, GL53 9QS. Alternatively, enter via email by sending your details stating ‘Gulliver’s Travels’ to competitions@thelocalanswer.co.uk. Closing date: Tuesday 12th July 2016. 3 AUGUST ROMEO AND JULIET

Romance. Swordfights. Potions. Tragically slow messengers. The critically-acclaimed Pantaloons give Shakespeare’s tale of illfated love a fresh twist – a delightfully inventive take, featuring live music, audience interaction and that famous bit with the balcony. 7.30pm. £14 (£12). Gates open 1.5 hours before each performance for picnics. Bring low-backed seating. Come prepared for all weathers. Free parking. Tuckwell Amphitheatre, Shelburne Road, GL51 6HE. 01242 258002. 4 AUGUST CHELTENHAM SCHOOL OF DRAMA SUMMER SCHOOL SHOW Following four days of intensive drama training in the Bacon Theatre with the Cheltenham School of Drama, young performers aged 6–18 years present an enchanting stage production to showcase

The Local Answer

their talents. 6.30pm. £8 (£6). Gates open 1.5 hours before each performance for picnics. Bring low-backed seating. Come prepared for all weathers. Free parking. Tuckwell Amphitheatre, Shelburne Road, GL51 6HE. 01242 258002. 5 AUGUST AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS

Race against the clock with Phileas Fogg and his valet Passepartout as they travel around the world by any means necessary and in just 80 days! Will they do it? Will the misguided Detective Fix arrest them? All these questions will be answered in this exciting adventure, featuring original songs, trains, boats, romance, sword fights and even an elephant. 7.30pm. £14 (£12). Gates open 1.5 hours before each performance for picnics. Bring low-backed seating. Come prepared for all weathers. Free parking. Tuckwell Amphitheatre, Shelburne Road, GL51 6HE. 01242 258002.

To advertise call 01242 510500

20 AUGUST SPONGEBOB UNDER THE SEA DISCO At All saints Academy, Blaisdon Way, Cheltenham. 4-6pm. £5 per ticket. Contact Carolyn on 07906 963960 to purchase. www.facebook.com/Caz-Funny-Faces-FacePainting-816971255096101. 21 AUGUST GLOUCESTERSHIRE CHARITY FUN DAY

Come and join us at the second Gloucestershire Charity Fun Day for our Charity Partners – Riding for the Disabled, The Childrens Opportunity Centre and Longfield Hospice. 11am-7pm. Newlands Park, Southam Lane, Cheltenham GL52 3PE. There’s plenty for everyone so check out our Cheltenham Fun Day Facebook page for regular updates. See you there!

Page 23

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR FREE NO OBLIGATION VALUATION SERVICE Visit our website for a comprehensive stock list of quality used cars – www.courtfarmgarage.co.uk 2010 (10) AUDI A3 1.6 TDI S Line 39,000 miles • Full service history • 5 door hatchback • Black • Rear park sensors • Bose sound system • HPI Checked £12,000 2015 (15) SEAT IBIZA 1.4 Toca 10,000 miles • 5 door hatchback • White • Immaculate • Removable Sat Nav with rev counter • Rear sensors • HPI checked £8,500

Speak to us about our car finance on offer with

2013 (63) SEAT IBIZA 1.2 TSI FR • 29,000 miles • Full service history • 3 door hatchback • Stunning in white • Cruise control • Sat Nav • Black alloys • HPI checked £8,500 2006 (06) VOLKSWAGEN 1.2 URBAN FOX • 84,000 miles • Service history • 3 door hatchback • Red • 1 registered keeper • HPI checked £3,000 2010 (60) VOLKSWAGEN GOLF 1.4 TSI SE DSG • 35,000 miles • Full VW history • 5 door hatchback • Silver • Automatic • Immaculate • 1 registered keeper • HPI checked £8,500 2007 (07) 1.2 E 55 VOLKSWAGEN POLO • 72,000 miles • Service history • 5 door hatchback • Blue • Economical 1.2 petrol engine • 2 registered keepers • HPI checked £3,000

blackhorse

2013 (13) NISSAN JUKE 1.5 dCi Acenta [Premium Pack] • 21,824 miles • Full service history • 5 door hatchback • High spec diesel • Sat Nav • White • HPI checked £11,000

Open Mon-Sat 09.00-17.00, Sun 12.00-17.00, Wednesday evenings until 8pm Broad Street, Littledean, Gloucestershire GL14 3JT

tel: 01594 827835 vwaudicourtfarmgarage@gmail.com mob: 07765 492239

Abbey Group, Units 23/24, Neptune Business Centre, Tewkesbury Road, Cheltenham, GL51 9FB

www.abbeybusinessequipment.com

The Abbey Business Lounge at Gloucester Rugby’s Kingsholm Stadium sponsored by Gloucestershire’s leading business solutions provider

Page 24

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

Motoring with Luke Edwards

An evolution via motorsport Audis have a special Germanic build quality and their technology has been tried and tested in motorsport since the first Audi Quattro in 1980. I recently had the opportunity to attend a review of the whole Audi range (they currently have 50 models) and decided to try out some of their everyday driver cars. The cars I chose were the A1 Sportback, the S1 and the well-regarded A4 Avant leather one makes such a difference. estate. If you like the A1 but want more in the horse power department, the A practical choice Audi S1 is worth trying. Competing Starting with the A1, it’s very much against the Ford Fiesta ST3 and MINI the entry level Audi – from just JCW All4 Paceman, the S1 holds its £15,150 (on the road) – but the own. The S1 offers Audi’s stunning “Vorsprung durch Technik” (lead by rally bred quattro system for superb technology) DNA seeps through. The road holding, it is the faster car with interior is a nice place to be, driving 0-62 in 5.8 sec, and has more power position is spot on and the perky 1.0 at 231 ps. Costing £25,600, the Audi TFSI engine offers up to 67.3 mpg. S1 is more expensive than the Fiesta, The size of the A1 makes it simple but offers all weather security, has a to park around town and a practical high quality interior and is available choice for many situations. From in three and five door versions. previous experience, the A1 will also A permanent feature on retain good second hand values. The the school run only suggestion I would make is to spec a nice steering wheel – the one The final car I tested was the A4 on the test car was very plastic in Avant (Estate) – a car which over the feel. The wheel is a key touch point years has become a trademark for for a driver and a comfortable Audi. This model is so practical and

The Local Answer

has become a permanent feature on the school run, at country shows and for business users who need the huge luggage capacity. The Avant is a class leader in this respect, with 505 litres of space with the seats up and 1,510 litres with them down. The quattro system features as standard and the new Avant is 110kg lighter than its predecessor.

Years of reliable motoring The A4 Avant (in 2.0 TDI form) comes in a touch cheaper than its BMW and Mercedes equivalents at £31,500 and is slightly more fuel efficient (70.6mpg). The A4 also looks the part – it has had a few styling changes, but Audi always make subtle additions and their cars age so well. The A4 is like a wellbred German explorer, often covered in mud and dust but, with a wash down, can turn up at a sophisticated evening event and gravitate respect. All three Audi’s are fantastic purchases, they will hold their money well, provide years of reliable motoring and the badge has proven motorsport heritage to ensure it is welcome everywhere.

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 25

Homes &

Gardens

Rectory Fields, Rudford, Gloucestershire GL2 8DT

Tel: 01452 668005/01453 297010/01285 238089 Company registration: 090645563

www.marshallsdriveways.co.uk

HOME CARE ROOFING & BUILDING

FOR ALL YOUR PROPERTY NEEDS

Our range of services include: New roofs and repairs ◆ Tiles ◆ Slates ◆ Felt and battening ◆ Lead work ◆ Repointing ◆ Ridge tiles and chimney repairs ◆ Flat roofs SUPERB EPDM rubber ◆ Moss removal and fungicidal OFFER treatments ◆ Roof coatings ◆ Dry verge 20% OFF systems ◆ External painting ◆ uPVC fascias for over 60s & soffits ◆ Gutter repairs and cleaning ALL WORK FULLY GUARANTEED For a FREE QUOTATION please call: FREEPHONE

0800 474 8424 or 01452 348487 (Please dial area code when calling)

R R S

R Richards & Son Ltd FAMILY BUSINESS

FR EE

SC A SU FFO PP LD LI IN ED G

ROOFING AND FASCIA BOARD SPECIALISTS Serving Glouc estershir e and beyond

◆ Ne w Roo fs ◆ Ne w Bu il d s ◆ S la t e, C hi mn ey an d Til e Re p ai r ◆ N e w Va l l e y s ◆ F e l t a n d B a t t e n i n g ◆ L e a d Wo r k ◆ L e a k R e p a i r s ◆ Fi b r e g l a s s R o o f i n g ◆ F e l t R o o f i n g

Fascias & Soffits and Guttering – Carports Replacement Fascias in a range of colours

15 Years Guarantee

FENSA

Registered Company

FREE WRITTEN QUOTATIONS - NO OBLIGATION LOCAL REFERENCES SUPPLIED

Insurance Backed Guarantee

01432 870957/ 01242 300028 / 07437 016736 Page 26

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

Interior Design with Caron Burrows

A place for your beloved pets It isn’t just the people we share our home with we need to consider when decorating – there’s also the cats and dogs (or other animals) in our lives. Like it or not, our pets are definitely part of the family and they bring along their own toys and possessions. Here are a few design tips to help keep your pets happy and your animal loving home looking gorgeous. Take a good long look around your home – where would be the most sensible place for your pet to call their own space? It does not have to be the kitchen or utility room. It could be the hall way, the landing or even the spare room – the choice is yours. Once your pet space has been agreed, start to add your animal’s personal bits and pieces.

special area. The mat does not have to be one sold especially for the pet market – children’s table mats have great designs too. Alternatively, download a photograph of your pet Jazz up the wall and have it turned into a pet mat at A photograph of your pet or an one of the many online photo print animal theme mounted low down at shops. A shallow drawer fitted into pet level will instantly add fun and the kickboard of your kitchen is a segregate the area. great place to store pet bowls and act as a neat eating area. A place for food bowls A fun mat to place food bowls on Pet bed choices will again help segregate the pet’s What is your preferred choice of bed and what is it made from? There are many choices from custom-built to adapting an existing item. Think about the size of the bed in relation to the size of your pet so that you don’t need to take up any room than is necessary.

The built-in bed A space saving and practical idea is a built in bed, which slots seamlessly between drawer and cupboard units, taking up no extra floor space. For a minimalist look,

The Local Answer

a tiny doorway discreetly tucked into the corner of built-in wall unit is a quirky retreat for the house cat.

Customise Customisation is currently bang on trend – re-use an old suitcase, piano stool or wooden crate by lining it with a soft cushion covered with fabric to match your choice of interiors.

Colour To avoid your pet’s space looking out of place, dress with colour to match the existing palette of your home. Cushions covered in the same fabric as your curtains, or a coordinating throw or blanket that can be easily laundered is a sensible choice.

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 27

Save Time, Money, and Space, and have your lawn cut perfectly

• • • • • • • • • • •

Call us for your free no obligation site survey. We install, support and guarantee for 2 years.

• •

Can replace a ride-on mower Suitable for any lawn size Can cut 24 hours 7 days a week Fully rainproof, cuts when wet Can cope with slopes to 45% incline Automatic recharging Anti theft protection (GPS) Can cope with complex gardens No fuel – no emissions Very low noise (Only 57db) Deals with most obstacles such as trees, ponds, walls, furniture Smart phone enabled Mulches grass – no emptying or collecting Main dealer for Stihl iMow & Husqvarna Automower in the Forest of Dean

Tel: 01594 841014 15A High Street, Lydney GL15 5DP MON-WED & FRI 9AM-5PM THUR 9AM-8PM SAT 9AM-5PM Page 28

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

In The Garden with Julia Smith

Take time to do a bit of garden visiting Can it be July already? With such a late spring, time seems to be galloping on. Take the time this month to do a bit of garden visiting – the national garden schemes are a wonderful day out, particularly when a whole village takes part. It is lovely to saunter around someone else’s garden and get ideas on planting partners – and hopefully a lovely bit of homemade cake! Check www.ngs.org.uk to see where is available in your local area.

Try to keep insects under control Keep checking for pesky red lily beetles and squash them! You may have problems with your Bay trees having yellowed, distorted and curled leaves at the tips – this is caused by Bay suckers, which are sap-feeding insects and prevalent at this time of the year. Prune off affected stems to keep it under control and remove the leaf litter from around the base of the Bay. I wouldn’t spray with anything, as you will be wanting to use the leaves in

The Local Answer

cooking. However, if you don’t plan to use the leaves in the kitchen, use a contact insecticide in early May to kill the females before they have laid their eggs and repeat in June – a handy tip to remember for next year!

Pea shoots are really tasty in a salad If you have grown early potatoes they should be ready to lift now. Keep sowing ‘cut and come again’ varieties of lettuce in small batches in old mushroom boxes, etc. They need to be placed out of the hot sun and kept moist but not soaking. These can be kept by the kitchen door and snipped at for sandwich fillings and salad bowls. Do the same with peas, as pea shoots are really tasty in a salad and they grow easily in containers. Try your hand at taking cuttings from perennial herbs like Lavender, Rosemary and Sage. Take the cuttings early in the day and choose non-flowering sideshoots that are soft at the tip and woody at the base – about 10cm long.

Cuttings should have rooted by late August Pull away from the main stem gently, leaving a little bit of the bark still attached (these are called ‘heel’ cuttings). Take off the lower 5cm of leaves from the stem, dip the end into hormone rooting powder (garden centres have this) and then insert several of these cuttings into a small pot of gritty compost. Firm them in and water well, then cover the whole pot with a plastic bag (ensuring it doesn’t touch any of the leaves), label and place somewhere warm but out of direct sunlight. The cuttings should have rooted by late August.

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 29

Quick Crossword 1

ACROSS

1 5 7 8 9 10 11 13 14 18

21 22 24 25 26 27 28 29

Obtained by begging Corpse Stupid (remark) Cable At a distance Improper Hubbub Told falsehood North African desert Available at premises (2-4) Prompts (memory) Phases Fashionable fad Indolent Genuine, ... fide Slithery reptile Contributes Word comparison

DOWN 1 Scaredy-cats 2 Athenian 3 Numeral 4 Fiery pepper sauce 5 Fab Four group 6 Local lingo 12 Misjudge 15 Kept clear of 16 Pus-filled sore 17 Woolly llama relatives 19 Few, ... many 20 Entrap 22 Genders 23 Photo book

W h y n ot u s e t his s pa ce t o a dve rt is e yo u r b u s i n e ss ? For details please telephone Chris on

The Local

Don’t look until you’ve finished! Solutions on ‘Index of Advertisers’ page.

C G PAVING &

01242

ANSWER 541079

DRIVEWAYS PATIOS LANDSCAPING Block Paving • Tarmac Gravel • Drainage Kerbs • Steps •Paths •Turfing •Fencing & Decking FREE quotations

ly pp ca t&

r 99le ca £r7singrive fo d

5 YEAR

GUARANTEE WITH ALL WORKS

Fully insured

01242 801706 01452 341699 07544 004927 Guaranteed to beat any genuine quote candgpavinguk@gmail.com

www.cg-paving.co.uk Page 30

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

Cloudy2Clear Windows – Service With A Smile!

It’s been a crazy few months for Cloudy2Clear Windows. The company which specialises in repairing windows which are steamed up, broken or damaged by replacing the panes – not the frames – has grown rapidly as homeowners take advantage of their services. Managing Director Paul Spiller feels that it’s all about service: “Our product is simple. If your double glazing is misted up we can replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window, in any type of frame, and with a new 5 year guarantee. But it’s not just

The Local Answer

about saving people money, although that obviously helps. “Many tradespeople have struggled since last year and I honestly feel that during the good times a minority perhaps didn’t focus on customer care as much as they should have done. We make sure we turn up when we say we will, do the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle. I often get comments back from customers on how they really didn’t expect that sort of service which, in a way, is very sad for the service industry as a whole.”

Cloudy2Clear service Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds, and Paul is finding that his approach is a major factor in his success. “The truth is that it’s not just the personal satisfaction that I get from doing a good job but also it makes good business sense. I get a huge amount

To advertise call 01242 510500

of business from friends and family of people I’ve done work for, which just goes to show how much a little bit of effort is appreciated.” So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Paul a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be happy to help!

Page 31

WORD SEARCH R K W X X P T D P M P A Y C T I T S A P I T N A

T I R B V X O U I C X I F E P Z R Y A F E R M R

S T U A V T G M Z Y S Q K O G Q C E E K X T M Q

E C Z V Y H R P V H P M W I S C H T N F J P A Y

B G H L G F A L M W U W C V Z C U K X A W J N Q

P I F N Q R C I P S O N N H A T V I L S C E B B

P X L V I R S N X E H S T R D D A L I P U L Z Y

A A R T V T E G F T P V A B Y X E Z O X Y Z C W

Z Z S U O Z Z S C I H U T O R A X D T A T Z B L

L E Z R Y N X E H R H C F R P C V U N A O C O H

C M T I O S G C L F M Y Z S Y G L B P F T U E O

I S L R P O D W T S M W D C Z C I A Z U L A P A

T S G T O N N U G E W K H H T Y S T X X F Z M B

Foods of the Worlds ANTIPASTI ASADO BILTONG BORSCHT CROISSANT DIM SUM DUMPLINGS ESCARGOT FISH AND CHIPS

GOULASH HAGGIS HUARACHE JERK CHICKEN MOULES-FRITES MOUSSAKA PAD THAI PAELLA PIZZA

SACHERTORTE SCHNITZEL SUSHI TABBOULEH TACOS TAPAS TZATZIKI

T J N O A T R U V L U S N T A Q I G L P H E T F

R L N H F N R H H U G A P S C E G A C H G L Q T

F I S R C A X E G O C B X A O S G M Y C H N M Z

H I I Q O D W F H M C I X R S P A P M R R H H A

F P I H S U S K M C C X W J A A H C V O B D Z A

£10 OFF!

T A B B O U L E H C A J O D V H D Q R I Z M I I

R Q X A U C G D A R A S T A I K S O C S F F E K

N E K C I H C K R E J H F E P N A K A S S U O M

ecoclean

Q X B P M R X E I R A D I M S U M I C A G P W R

ltd

G O U L A S H G X I E D B Y N Q S T E N H W Z B

Q H V M N K C H L C W S F W C Q F C P T F T V P

CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CARE & CLEANING

USING CODE JL25

07804 610105 01452 898247 www.ecocleancarpet.co.uk hello@ecocleancarpet.co.uk

Don’t look until you’ve finished! Solutions on ‘Index of Advertisers’ page. Page 32

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

Sudoku Fill the grids so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 to 9.

Family run business Specialists in all types of upvc fascias, soffits and guttering ● Re-felting & batoning ● Complete roof re-fits ● Re-pointing of ridges, chimneys & walls ● Exterior painting ● Leadwork ● Gutter cleaning and repairs ● EPDM Rubber roofs – all flat roof repairs

Public Liability Insurance held for up to £1,000

Your Local Independent Family Oil Company

Heating Oils Agricultural Fuels Local Service Competitive Prices

Forest of Dean 01594 825130 Caldicot 01291 422 656

Don’t look until you’ve finished! Solutions on ‘Index of Advertisers’ page.

THE SOLUTION FOR YOUR NEW BATHROOM ...

www.estuaryoils.com The Local Answer

To advertise call 01242 510500

Your local family business

Page 33

Index of Advertisers FOOD & DRINK

PROPERTY 4 Sanctuary Group TwoCan Estate Agents

The Park Falfield

WHAT’S ON

RETAIL

CLUBS & SPORTS Gloucester Ski & Snowboard Shipton Golf Course EVENTS & ATTRACTIONS Bacon Theatre Gloucestershire Fun Day Hallmark Hotel The Bird & Deer Park

21 Chamberlain Plant Centre 21 Vinyl Records

HOMES & GARDENS

GARDENING SERVICES 2 Handylink 7 Mincost HEATING & PLUMBING 8 Estuary Oils 16 WINDOWS & DOORS Albany Windows Cloudy 2 Clear

BATHROOMS Severn Vale Bathrooms 33 & 36 BUILDING SERVICES C&G Paving 30 CB Home Improvements 33 Home Care Roofing & Building 26 5 Marshalls Driveways 26 10 R. Richards & Son 26 CLEANING SERVICES 22 Ecoclean 32 23 17 20 17

HEALTH & BEAUTY Pam Everitt Acupuncture Spa Vapes

INFORMATION Cotswold RDA

GRAPHIC DESIGN 34 33 Chiswell Creative 28 MOTORING SERVICES Court Farm Garage 24 33 PET SERVICES Millpark Vets 8 35 If you don’t see the 31

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CARE SERVICES Barnwood Trust Glos County Council Fostering Lifelink COMPUTER SERVICES Abbey Group RECRUITMENT & TRAINING Klifestyles

12 14 26

goods or services you provide listed here – take advantage and

BE THE FIRST!

To advertise telephone:

01242 510500

PUZZLE SOLUTIONS C

D G E

O W

G I

A R

E K

N N

O G S

V I L

C R

D E

D D

A S

L E

O N

E X

E S

C I

E N

O S

S C

R K W X X P T D P M P A Y C T I T S A P I T N A

E A

B O D

A G E

B O N

T I R B V X O U I C X I F E P Z R Y A F E R M R

S T U A V T G M Z Y S Q K O G Q C E E K X T M Q

E C Z V Y H R P V H P M W I S C H T N F J P A Y

B G H L G F A L M W U W C V Z C U K X A W J N Q

P I F N Q R C I P S O N N H A T V I L S C E B B

P X L V I R S N X E H S T R D D A L I P U L Z Y

A A R T V T E G F T P V A B Y X E Z O X Y Z C W

Z Z S U O Z Z S C I H U T O R A X D T A T Z B L

L E Z R Y N X E H R H C F R P C V U N A O C O H

C M T I O S G C L F M Y Z S Y G L B P F T U E O

I S L R P O D W T S M W D C Z C I A Z U L A P A

T S G T O N N U G E W K H H T Y S T X X F Z M B

T J N O A T R U V L U S N T A Q I G L P H E T F

R L N H F N R H H U G A P S C E G A C H G L Q T

F I S R C A X E G O C B X A O S G M Y C H N M Z

H I I Q O D W F H M C I X R S P A P M R R H H A

F P I H S U S K M C C X W J A A H C V O B D Z A

T A B B O U L E H C A J O D V H D Q R I Z M I I

R Q X A U C G D A R A S T A I K S O C S F F E K

N E K C I H C K R E J H F E P N A K A S S U O M

Q X B P M R X E I R A D I M S U M I C A G P W R

G O U L A S H G X I E D B Y N Q S T E N H W Z B

Q H V M N K C H L C W S F W C Q F C P T F T V P

COMPETITION WINNERS COMPETITION RULES Thank you to all who took part in our June 2016 competitions and congratulations to the winners! TLA Cash – Ian Leaver of Tewkesbury. Cricket – Tony Huskisson of Cheltenham.

1 Prizes are as stated and no cash or prize alternative will be offered. 2 Employees of The Local Answer and their families or households are not eligible to enter. 3 The first correct entry drawn at random after the closing date will win the prize as stated. 4 The winner will be notified by telephone after the closing date has passed. 5 The Editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. 6 Entrants must be over 18 years,

unless stated. 7 Proof of posting is not regarded as proof of receipt of entry. 8 The Local Answer accepts no responsibility for the provision of the prize, which remains at all times the full responsibility of the prize donor(s). 9 By entering any competition you agree to have your name published in the next issue of The Local Answer should you be drawn as a winner of the prize. 10 By entering any competition you agree to have your details passed to a third party.

BOOKING DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE – Wednesday 13th July 2016

Page 34

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer