Cotswolds by The Local Answer

The Local

ANSWER

MARCH 2016

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COTSWOLDS DON’T FORGET MOTHER’S DAY – SUNDAY 6th MARCH 2016

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The Local

ANSWER

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

Chloe Reynolds Publication Manager – Cotswolds

01242 541072 chloe@thelocalanswer.co.uk

Editorial Lois Kingscott

Spring has sprung and with Easter being early this year, there’s plenty for the whole family to do in March. Slimbridge Wetland Centre have a giant duck hunt for the children to get involved in, and Batsford Arboretum are hosting their own chicken hunt! The What’s On section is full of events and activities for you to enjoy. Mother’s Day falls on Sunday 6th March so why not treat your mum by cooking her this month’s Delicious Dish – tasty salmon and spinach puff pastry parcels. Many of you will have given up something for lent this year and chocolate is always a popular choice – read about the benefits and drawbacks of this sweet treat in our Medical Health feature.

Inside this month ...

editorial@thelocalanswer.co.uk

Helen Kingscott editorial@thelocalanswer.co.uk

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

Production Alison Hambling alison@thelocalanswer.co.uk

Accounts Kerry Fell accounts@thelocalanswer.co.uk

1 Ullenwood Court, Ullenwood, Gloucestershire GL53 9QS

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Welcome to March ...

Food & Drink Delicious Dishes Cocktail Time Medical Health Style & Fashion What’s On Homes & Gardens In the Garden Interior Design Word Search Save the Planet Gadgets & Gizmos Sudoku Quick Crossword Money Matters Index, Competitions, Solutions

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Delicious Dishes with Helen Kingscott

Salmon and spinach puff pastry parcels These tasty little parcels are packed with goodness and flavour

Ingredients (serves 4): 225g fresh spinach; 4 salmon fillets; salt and pepper to taste; 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 clove garlic; 1 tbsp pine nuts, toasted; 1 egg; 2 x 320g puff pastry sheets. Method: 1 Wash the spinach. In a frying pan, heat the olive oil and a clove of garlic, lightly crushed. After a few seconds add the spinach. Season with salt and pepper, then cover. 2 Cook the spinach for a maximum of 3 or 4 minutes,

then remove the lid, remove the garlic and add the toasted pine nuts. Stir and remove from heat. 3 At this point, season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Sear the fillet on both sides in extra virgin olive oil. 4 Then prepare the pastry – you can make it yourself or purchase it ready made. This recipe uses ready made. 5 Cut the puff pastry sheets in half, place each salmon fillet towards the edge of each sheet and cover with the spinach and pine nuts. 6 Brush all around the pastry edge with egg, then fold the pastry over the salmon, sealing the edges with a round bladed knife. 7 Take a few small cuts in the dough so that the steam can escape during baking. Brush with egg. 8 Bake in 200ºC oven for 25 to 30 minutes. 9 When done, remove from the oven and serve.

Vol unt eer wit h us a nd do som ethi ng a ma zi ng! If you have a few hours to spare each week, why not become an RDA Volunteer? No experience needed – we’ll train you on the job. For anyone with more experience, have you ever thought of teaching? Find out more on our website or give us a call, join us for a coffee and see our wonderful work.

• Call 01242 584420 to speak to Claire or Debbie • Visit www.cotswoldrda.org.uk Cotswold • Email info@cotswoldrda.org.uk Jackie Brutton Riding Centre, Prestbury Park Racecourse, Prestbury, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL50 4SH

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It’s what you can do that counts

Riding for the Disabled Association

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nt o nt d ou rch e i an sc a m op di M Co e sh 0% rt in th e a 1 dve iv a ce his re th t wi

Cocktail Time with Lois Kingscott

Mojito The Mojito was created on the island of Cuba and is one of the country’s cultural icons. Like the majority of cocktails, there are several stories surrounding its origin. One story links the drink to the famous explorer Sir Francis Drake, who was travelling to the city of Havana in the 1500s when an epidemic of scurvy and dysentery hit his ship. The local South American Indians were known to have remedies for tropical illnesses, so the ingredients were gathered from Cuba and formed into ‘El Draque’ – a cocktail of aguardiente (a crude form of rum), lime, sugar and mint. The lime juice would have helped significantly in fighting off the illnesses, and the mint and sugar helped to hide the harsh taste of the rum. Others say the drink was created thanks to the African slaves who worked in the Cuban sugar cane fields during the 19th century. Sugar cane juice called Guarapo was popular amongst the slaves and is often used to make mojitos. Ernest Hemingway became a big fan of the cocktail following a visit to a local Cuban bar called ‘La Bodeguita del Medio’. The mojito regained popularity in 2002 after it played a prominent role in a scene in the James Bond film ‘Die Another Day’, with James Bond (Pierce Brosnan) using the drink to seduce Jinx (Halle Berry). Ingredients: 1½ limes, cut into slices or wedges; 20 fresh mint leaves; 2½ tsp granulated sugar; 65ml white rum; splash of soda water or lemonade; ice; fresh mint sprig to garnish. Method: 1 Place the limes, mint and sugar into a highball glass and mash with the end of a clean rolling pin to bruise the mint and release the lime juice. 2 Add the ice and pour over the rum. 3 Add soda water or lemonade to taste and stir well. Garnish with a sprig of mint and serve.

PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY Why not have a Mocktail? For a non–alcoholic alternative, simply omit the rum. Page 6

➻ Cheese Hampers & Gift Boxes ➻ Wines, Ports & Beer ➻ Create Your Own Gift Set ➻ Chutneys & Crackers ➻ Cheese Wedding Cakes ➻ Knives, Plates and Boards ➻ Cheese Vouchers, Club & Tasting 5 Regent Street, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL50 1HE Tel: 01242 255022 Email: sales@thecheeseworks.co.uk

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Indulge in excellence Located on the Bath Road in Cheltenham, Prithvi is an Indian restaurant of the highest quality that aims to provide you with a dining experience to remember. Using a simple and refined culinary style, the restaurant boasts a mouthwatering selection of authentic Indian dishes to tease your taste buds. If you

TOUR Tandoor baked salmon & red pepper purée, asparagus, watercress, radish --Welsh lamb, peppercorns, nutmeg, girolle, pickled onions --Halibut, cauliflower, samphire mustard & coconut jus, rice --Venison, sprouts, red lentils, roasted garlic, tamarind, nan --Chocolate Torte, salted caramel ice cream

struggle to choose one dish, the ‘Prithvi Tour‘ is definitely worth trying. The tour consists of five dishes – two starters, two mains and a dessert – as well as a poppadom appetizer and a couple of extra ‘amuse bouche’ style tasters between courses. Dishes change with the seasons, but the sample menu (left) is what you can currently expect to enjoy.

Experience the real tastes of India Each course is packed with colours, textures and wonderful flavours, allowing you to experience the real tastes of India. What’s more, the restaurant is beautifully decorated with a relaxing ambience, and the staff are polite, professional, friendly and strive to make your dining experience the best it can be. It is no wonder Prithvi has been rated the best restaurant in Cheltenham, as well as one of the best curry houses in the UK. Why not try it for yourself and see what all the hype is about? Call 01242 226229 to book your table.

Lunch Express Menu SPECIAL OFFER 2 COURSE MEAL £8.95 Select one main course and either a starter from 1-7 or a dessert from the menu (specialities not included) Takeaway available Sunday-Thursday 10% off menu prices

01452 535 185

www.so-thai.co.uk

Bearlands, Longsmith Street, Gloucester GL1 2HJ

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Medical Health with Holly Prince

Chocolate: is it good for you? There has been much debate in the health world over whether eating chocolate is beneficial to health or not. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s have a look at the pros and cons of one of our most popular treats. Chocolate is well-known for making people feel happy. This elated mood is due to the release of tryptophan, serotonin and endorphins, which are the chemicals that make us feel good. However, the high sugar content of chocolate can cause mood swings due to the sharp rise and fall of the bloodglucose level.

Aiding endurance and altertness Small amounts of caffeine, which is found in chocolate as well as coffee, can aid endurance and alertness, and decrease feelings of fatigue. However, too much caffeine can cause restlessness, and can lead to an increase in headaches or migraines. Cocoa butter, which is a main ingredient in chocolate, and particularly in dark chocolate, is rich in natural antioxidants, which are good for helping to prevent

premature aging and for protecting Chocolate is high in calories and saturated fat, which leads to weight cells from damage. gain and increases the risk of heart High in calories and disease. Even if the chocolate is low saturated fat in fat and calories, it will still contain Dark chocolate also contains small oils that can cause a build-up of fat traces of minerals such as iron, that puts pressure on the heart. More studies need to be conducted potassium and magnesium that lower cholesterol and blood on the effects of cocoa on pressure. However, the amount of cardiovascular health, as, so far, vitamins, minerals and nutrients in many have been inconclusive. Dark chocolate with at least 70% chocolate is so low that it is not all cocoa, is better than milk chocolate that beneficial. as it contains more pure cocoa and less fat and added sugar.

Chocolate is fine in moderation as a treat Overall, it seems that an occasional small amount of chocolate may be of benefit to the body, but be mindful that eating too much in one sitting is not good for you. Like everything in life, balance is best, so chocolate is fine in moderation as a treat. A good idea is to eat it after a meal so that you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t consume too much, or with fresh fruit and nuts as part of a balanced diet. The Local Answer

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Redefining Care Residential, Nursing and Dementia Care Home in the Heart of the Cotswolds In the beautiful village of Fairford, Hyperion House has been a focal part of the community for over 300 years, the last 25 of which has been a home for the elderly and for those dealing with dementia. Now the owners are delighted to announce a programme to upgrade Hyperion House. Mrs Tanya Shukla, the owner, says “We are so pleased to be able to begin the upgrade. It is part of our commitment to our residents, their families and our fantastic staff” The day room has undergone a transformation that is of huge benefit to our residents. The dual aspect room is bright and airy, with separate television and activity areas. Apart from the functional aspects of space and physical needs, one of the main criteria was to create a warm, inviting home from home that all of our residents would enjoy and feel comfortable in. It is a big family and it is important to try and meet everyone’s expectations and needs. Our newly opened Family Liaison Room gives our residents and their families a private room to discuss any issues or just spend time together. Our day room is now complete and we would be delighted to welcome you to visit and see how Hyperion House is redefining care. We would also be thrilled to discuss our future plans to extend the home to a grand purpose built building further enhancing its magnificent character.

Style & Fashion with Carolyn Nicholls

How to find your best fit when those bellbottoms sneak back into fashion they will look great on you. For now bootcut or flare is your best style, although skinny jeans with flats are great too. An easy fit on the hip will work well for most body shapes. High waists do work as leg lengtheners and are great for fashion conscious teens, but for the more mature – think Simon Cowell!

Jeans have been a part of wardrobe basics for men and women for many years. We work in them, play in them, party in them – they have in many ways become the most important item in our wardrobe. That probably explains the everincreasing options now available and, if you are like me, the piles of new shades and styles that face you in the shops today are pretty daunting.

fit across to super skinny has me heading to the changing room piled high with alternatives – or more likely giving up and buying a tshirt instead! The truth is that jeans hug the figure and they highlight hips, waists, thighs, calves From comfort fit and ankles, bumps and to super skinny bulges too. So in an Long gone are the days when effort to make the task jeans were simply straight or of buying jeans that suit bootcut. The full range from comfort you easier for all, I have put together a few tips to help you find your best fit. Balance, balance, balance – your body shape dictates the fit and leg width so make sure you know yours. For those who are plus sized remember that ease is important for you and to choose your jeans fabric carefully – darker colours are best and stick to straight or narrow leg (but not too tight). Go for flat fronted styles, taking care that the pockets don’t bulge. If you are curvy then steer clear of tapered styles and choose low rise flare or trouser styles instead.

Leg cuffs are shortening The wider the leg the shorter your legs will look. Men shorter than 5’6” and women shorter than 5’3” will look their best in slim-fit or straight cuts, which will make their legs look longer. Avoid wide fitting flares and beware – leg cuffs are shortening too. On the other hand, the taller you are the more width you can add, so The Local Answer

The darker the colour, the smarter they look And if you think jeans cannot look smart then think again. The darker the colour, the smarter they look, so where the occasion allows you’ll find dark indigo straight and wellfitting jeans can easily look as good as smart trousers or chinos. Faded and torn jeans on the other hand are best left for less formal occasions. Finally, why not add a bit of your own personality to your jeans style. This is where faded and torn styles come into play and, if you like sparkles, go for it!

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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. 1-5 MARCH MATTHEW BOURNE’S SLEEPING BEAUTY

New Adventures have revived this new classic in the repertoire to give audiences one more chance to see the final piece in the trio of Tchaikovsky masterpieces. With sumptuous sets and costumes, evocative lighting and masterly storytelling you will be transported in time from the halcyon days of the late Edwardian era through to the modern day. In a world full of magic, fairies, vampires, love and romance, all brought to life by our uniquely talented dancers – will Princess Aurora ever find her true love again? 7.30pm (2.30pm matinees Wednesday and Saturday). 0844 871 3012. For more details visit atgtickets.com/venues/bristol-hippodrome. The Bristol Hippodrome, St Augustine’s Parade, BS1 4UZ. 1-31 MARCH DAFFODIL & EARLY MAGNOLIA MONTH March is the perfect time to see the host of golden daffodils in all their spring glory! Wander through swathes of yellow and enjoy the spring sunshine from beneath the glorious tree canopy. Batsford’s 73 species of Magnolia will also start to bloom, filling the Arboretum with clouds of pink and white. Please call for an

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update on 01386 701441 or visit www.batsarb.co.uk. Batsford Arboretum, Batsford, near Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire, GL56 9AD. 3 MARCH WELLS VIRTUOSI: A SPRING SERENADE

Brilliant young musicians from one of Europe’s foremost specialist music schools. Wells Cathedral School’s renowned ‘Virtuosi’ bring their world-leading music to Cheltenham in aid of the Mayor of Cheltenham’s Charities – Cotswold Riding for the Disabled and Maggies. Works by Elgar, Finzi, Holst, Suk and Dvorak. 7.30pm. £10. Pittville Pump Room, Cheltenham, GL52 3JE. Box Office open Monday-Saturday 10am-5.30pm. 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk. 6 MARCH MOTHERING SUNDAY AT BATSFORD Treat Mum to a day out at Batsford on Mother’s Day – mums get free entry to the Arboretum (when accompanied by a paying child!). Why not take the whole family and enjoy lunch or afternoon tea in the Garden Terrace Café to make her feel even more special? For details visit www.batsarb.co.uk. Batsford Arboretum, Batsford, near Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire, GL56 9AD.

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MOTHER’S DAY LUNCH AT SLIMBRIDGE Enjoy the beautiful sights of our flamingo flock as you celebrate Mother’s Day with your family in the Water’s Edge Cafe. Book a table for our delicious two-course Mother’s Day Lunch which is £12.99 (or £6.95 a child). To book a table call 01453 891223. WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire. GL2 7BT. 7-12 MARCH HAIRSPRAY THE MUSICAL It’s Baltimore, 1962 where Tracy Turnblad, a big girl with big hair and an even bigger heart, is on a mission to follow her dreams and dance her way onto national TV. Tracy’s audition makes her a local star and soon she is using her new-found fame to fight for equality, bagging local heartthrob Link Larkin along the way! Let your hair down and book now! 7.30pm (2.30pm matinees Wednesday and Saturday). 0844 871 3012. For more details visit atgtickets.com/venues/bristolhippodrome. The Bristol Hippodrome, St Augustine’s Parade, BS1 4UZ. 10 MARCH AS YOU LIKE IT Shakespeare’s glorious comedy of love and change is broadcast from the National Theatre. With her father the Duke, in exile, Rosalind and her cousin leave their lives in the court and journey into the Forest of Arden. Released from convention, Rosalind experiences the liberating rush of transformation. 7pm. £16.50 (£14.50). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. www.bacontheatre.co.uk.

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12 MARCH CANTORES CHAMBER CHOIR – IF MUSIC BE THE FOOD OF LOVE Conducted by John Holloway with David Whitehead (organ). A feast of music spanning five centuries, a menu to satisfy the most discerning of palates! 7.30pm. All Hallows, South Cerney. Advance tickets from Cirencester TIC, Lorna Eayrs 01242 603988 or www.cantores.net – £12, £10 concessions, u16s FOC or £15 on the door. CRANE SPECIAL BIRD WATCH MORNING Go in search of the Common cranes on the Slimbridge reserve with one of the wardens. This time of year is fantastic for watching these striking birds and admiring their dancing and displays. Warm clothing and boots or wellies needed. 8-10.30am. £15.95 includes tea/coffee and a bacon roll. Please book in advance by calling 01453 891223 or emailing events.slimbridge@wwt.org.uk. WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire. GL2 7BT. 13 MARCH THE HOLLIES No support act is needed as The Hollies perform their classics – ‘The Air That I Breathe’, ‘Carrie Anne’, ‘He Ain’t Heavy He’s My Brother’ and many more hits in a brilliant two-hour Hollies celebration. 7.30pm. 0844 871 3012. For more details

visit atgtickets.com/venues/bristolhippodrome. The Bristol Hippodrome, St Augustine’s Parade, BS1 4UZ. 15-18 MARCH RACE WEEK AT THE BREWERY

As thousands flock to the races in March, The Brewery will be playing host to a cracking Irish party, complete with live music and world class Irish dancing. Grab a burger and a Guiness and enjoy some unmissable live toe-tapping tunes! Party starts from 5pm each evening. thebrewerycheltenham.co.uk. 16 MARCH GROW YOUR OWN VEG... AND HAVE FUN! Known for her involvement with BBC 2’s Gardeners’ World and BBC Radio 4’s

Shipton Golf Course

Gardeners’ Question Time, Pippa Greenwood hosts an interesting talk on successfully growing great tasting, superfresh vegetables at home. 3-5pm. Tickets cost £15 per person. To book call 01386 701441. For details visit www.batsarb.co.uk. Batsford Arboretum, near Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire, GL56 9AD. 19 MARCH CANTORES CHAMBER CHOIR – IF MUSIC BE THE FOOD OF LOVE Conducted by John Holloway with David Whitehead (organ). A feast of music spanning five centuries, a menu to satisfy the most discerning of palates! 7.30pm. St John Baptist Church, Cirencester. Advance tickets from Cirencester TIC, Lorna Eayrs 01242 603988 or www.cantores.net – £12, £10 concessions, u16s FOC or £15 on the door. VINTAGE & CRAFT FAIR GLOUCESTER Over 40 stalls of vintage and handmade fashions, homewares and everything in between plus some antiques and collectables. Live vintage-inspired entertainment all day. Vintage beauty, tearoom, classic cars plus lots more. A great day out event for everyone. 10am–4pm. £1 entry, kids free. Blackfriars Priory, Ladybellgate Street, Gloucester, GL1 2HN.

Shipton Golf Course, Nr Frogmill, Shipton, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL54 4HT

NEW FOR 2016!

Stuart Archibald Golf Academy Golf development programmes to suit “A Open 9 HOLE PAY & PLAY COURSE IN all ages and abilities every day THE HEART OF THE COTSWOLDS” from 7am NO NEED TOuntil BOOKdusk – Open every day from 7am until dusk www.shiptongolf.co.uk

‘Shiptongolf’

For spectacular spring walks, breath-taking views, fabulous food and a wonderful selection of gifts and gardening goodies and plants, Batsford is a perfect day out for all the family – dog friendly too!

shiptongolf@tiscali.co.uk

Tel: 01242 890237

✉

☎

07803 016993 elaineboyer559@gmail.com

Visit www.batsarb.co.uk for details on our forthcoming events

Batsford Arboretum & Garden Centre

Batsford, Moreton-in-Marsh GL56 9AD T: 01386 701441 E: arboretum@batsfordfoundation.co.uk

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19 MARCH HANGMEN Following a sell-out run at London’s Royal Court Theatre, Martin McDonagh returns to the West End with Matthew Dunster’s award-winning production of his deeply funny new play Hangmen, starring David Morrissey, Andy Nyman and Johnny Flynn and broadcast live to cinemas by National Theatre Live. 7pm. £16.50 (£14.50, students £12.50). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. www.bacontheatre.co.uk. 25 MARCH – 10 APRIL THE GIANT DUCK HUNT

Spot them all and receive a yummy treat on your return. While you are on the hunt keep an eye out for ducklings, handfeed some geese and go to hear an otter talk. 9.30am – 5pm. Price included in normal admission. 01453 891223. events.slimbridge@wwt.org.uk. WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire. GL2 7BT. THE BIG BATSFORD CHICKEN HUNT!

You may have heard of an Easter Egg hunt, now find the chickens that laid them! They’re all hiding in the Arboretum – simply mark their locations on the map provided to win a prize! The chicken hunt costs £2.50 per child, plus Arboretum admission fee (children must be accompanied by an adult). No need to book, just turn up and enjoy! Visit www.batsarb.co.uk for details. Batsford Arboretum, Batsford, near Moreton-inMarsh, Gloucestershire, GL56 9AD.

A group of giant ducks will be landing at Slimbridge this Easter holidays, can your family spot them all? Pick up an activity sheet on arrival then set off on a fun hunt which will take you all round the grounds.

25 MARCH – 7 MAY MAMMA MIA Join the ultimate feel-good party at Mamma Mia!, the world’s sunniest and most exhilarating smash-hit musical! Set on a Greek island paradise, a story of love, friendship and identity is cleverly told through the timeless songs of ABBA. atgtickets.com/venues/bristol-hippodrome. 0844 871 3012. The Bristol Hippodrome, St Augustine’s Parade, BS1 4UZ. 4 APRIL BIG HERO 6

An action-packed comedy-adventure about the special bond that develops between Baymax, a plus-sized inflatable robot, and prodigy Hiro Hamada. Join Art Playground in the theatre foyer for super hero craft activities from 1pm. Film starts at 2pm. Tickets £7. The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. www.bacontheatre.co.uk.

Be a this year and volunteer in your Cotswolds Community!

★

Feel like making a diﬀerence in your area this year? Do you have skills that can help others? Do you like cooking basic meals? Can you drive? Are you good at making friends?

Call us today on 01608 652019 or email info@cotswoldfriends.org

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Easter at The Bird

Mad Hatter’s Tea Party

The Bird Park’s Mad Hatter’s Tea Party on the 26th and 27th of March has become a must do event for Easter and this year is no exception with face painters at hand and a beautifully themed marquee ready to host a very unusual tea party. For those that would like to make a mask to wear for lunch, visit the craft tent first and we will help you make it – what more can you ask for? The birds and deer are all quite used to seeing Alice and her friends around the park on these event days so be sure to look out for them and take some photos! The ticket price includes all of the above and entry to the park. There will be additional hot food available for adults to purchase. Places are limited so either call us on 01452 812727 or book online.The Mad Hatter’s Marquee can also be hired for children’s birthday parties for up to 25 children.

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

d & Deer Park What’s on at the Visitor Centre The Bird Park’s new Visitor Centre has been a real hit since it opened in 2015. With the beautiful balconies looking over the reindeer enclosure, where else would you like to enjoy a cappuccino and a tasty treat with family and friends? It’s comfortable with a relaxed atmosphere and there is a lovely gift shop for you to browse at your leisure. On the 27th March there will be artists and sculptures inside the park giving tips and helping children and adults get back into art (this is all included in the admission price).

Gypsy Caravan

The Bird Park also has the charming Gypsy Caravan that can be hired for both children’s and adult birthday parties for a maximum of 12 children and 4 adults.

It is a beautiful place to spend a special family day or gathering with a difference – or perhaps hire it for a really special Mothers Day! Catering can be included in the hire price for all events booked in advance. For more details visit www.thebirdpark.com.

Winter opening: 10am-4pm daily • 01452 812727 • www.thebirdpark.com

An irresistibly funny and unforgettable musical! The first ever UK tour of the worldwide smash hit musical MAMMA MIA! premieres at The Bristol Hippodrome from 25th March to 7th May 2016. Join the ultimate feel-good party at the world’s sunniest and most exhilarating smash-hit musical! MAMMA MIA! is Judy Craymer’s ingenious vision of staging the storytelling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs with an enchanting tale of family and friendship unfolding on a Greek island paradise. To date, it has been seen by more than 60 million Whatever age you are, you can’t help much-loved music and a feel-good people in 49 productions in 16 but have the time of your life at story. We’re looking forward to MAMMA MIA! welcoming new audiences, as well different languages. as those who would love to see it A celebration of again, to come and join us for the much-loved music party.” With music and lyrics by Benny A feel-good hit Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, Steve Jones, Marketing Manager of MAMMA MIA! is written by Catherine Johnson, directed by Phyllida Lloyd The Bristol Hippodrome said: “We are and choreographed by Anthony Van thrilled to be welcoming MAMMA Laast. The production is designed by MIA! back to The Bristol Hippodrome, Mark Thompson, with lighting design having been visited by the by Howard Harrison, sound design by International Tour in 2007. The show Andrew Bruce and Bobby Aitken, was a feel-good hit with audiences and musical supervision, additional and we’re hugely proud to be the material and arrangements by inaugural venue on MAMMA MIA’s exciting new UK tour.” Martin Koch. Creator and Producer Judy Craymer Tickets start from just £15 with A story of love, friendship said: “It’s fabulous that the first ever concessions for some performances. UK tour of MAMMA MIA! will debut For more details or to buy tickets visit and identity in Bristol. It’s an exciting new journey www.atgtickets.com/bristol or call Set on a Greek island paradise, a for the show with its celebration of 0844 871 3012. story of love, friendship and identity is cleverly told through the timeless songs of ABBA. Sophie’s quest to discover the father she’s never known brings her mother face to face with three men from her distant romantic past on the eve of a wedding they’ll never forget. This irresistibly funny show has been thrilling audiences all around the world and now the party continues at The Bristol Hippodrome, so there’s never been a better time to see this unforgettable musical. The Local Answer

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Homes & Gardens PAVING SPECIALISTS

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Page 22

✧ Low maintenance gardens ✧ Paving ✧ Driveways ✧ Water features ✧ Planting ✧ Decking and timber structures

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The Local Answer

In The Garden with Julia Smith

The greatest pleasures in being a gardener! Spring is definitely in the air! It is amazing how quickly everything starts to grow now, especially if we have a few sunny, mild days. Now is the time to prune your bush-roses (hybrid teas and floribundas) if you haven’t done so already. Cut off all the spindly twigs and anything dead, damaged or diseased. Cut to an outward facing bud leaving about 2.5cm of last year’s growth on weaker stems and a bit more on stronger stems. Shrub roses don’t need such drastic pruning and with these, if they are looking a bit congested, cut out about one third of the thickest oldest branches

at the base with a pruning saw, thus encouraging new shoots to emerge. Take about 10cm off the top of the remaining stems to finish. friend – after all that is one of the Pot extras up and greatest give to a friend pleasures in being a gardener! Now is also a good time to divide Agapanthus rarely need dividing – Hostas if they are getting too big. Dig probably only every five years or so them up and slice them into when they start flowering, less than sections, making sure each has some before. If this is the case with yours shoots at the top. Replant them, divide them now, cutting through enriching the soil with some congested clumps with a sharp compost and bonemeal and, if you spade and replanting in nice freehave too many bits to plant in your draining soil. They will take a year to garden, pot them up and give to a recover properly so don’t panic if they don’t flower in the first season. The autumn sown sweet peas that you have sown in pots can now be planted into their final flowering position. Make sure the soil has plenty of organic material dug into it, erect a wigwam of canes and they will put on a wonderful show and provide plenty of cut flowers for the house.

Let in light and air into the centre of the plant Evergreen grasses such as Festuca glauca or Cortaderia selloana (pampas grass) are pruned annually in early spring. Smaller grasses are lightly pruned to remove dead leaf tips (a pair of scissors does this very easily), whilst the big pampas grasses need very thick gloves and possibly hedge trimmers to cut them down hard to the base. Rake out dead material from the base to let in light and air into the centre of the plant. The Local Answer

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Page 23

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The Local Answer

Interior Design with Caron Burrows

Turning a rental property into your home There are many options available to help you add your individual stamp to your rental property. Remember to keep the landlord on your side and make sure you are clear about any restraints in place regarding changes you can or cannot make. Agree a budget between you and your partner or housemates – how much you spend will depend on how long you are intending to stay. With these points in place you are ready to enjoy the process of turning your rental property into your home.

Look at the whole property as one space Replace all door handles, light switches, bathroom fittings and handles on kitchen cupboards. This allows you to introduce your own style, but all items can be easily switched back when you leave.

obvious functional use, plus they look great in any setting. Wall hung and free standing signs with phrases such as “Home Sweet Home” will give an instant feeling of safety and comfort.

flexible to take with you to a future home. Bookcases can be a perfect combination of storage and decoration. A huge amount of personality can be added with furniture – try purchasing cheaply Flooring from charity shops or online auction If the flooring is not to your taste or sites and personalise with a can of chosen colour palette, this can be paint. easily addressed with various rugs added to each room. The same colour Soft furnishings and plants choice throughout will help with Whatever your colour preferences you uniformity. will find a huge amount of soft furnishings to suit. Patterned and Furniture Choose furniture that can be moved colourful cushions, curtains, blinds around and reconfigured to fit into and throws are a great way to stamp another home. For example, a simple your personality onto your new sofa and an armchair will retain home. Shower curtains are a quick flexibility. Several small occasional and easy way to transform a tables are also an alternative to one bathroom, while plants and flowers large coffee table and are more are a great way to liven up any space.

Replace lighting Even the most beautifully styled room will not look its best with inadequate lighting, so check the light bulbs are correct for the room size and needs. A statement shade can add a personal touch, and lamps – floor standing and table – provide atmosphere and can be taken with you at the end of your rental agreement.

Walls Wall stickers can be added and removed with no fuss – they are available in a huge range of designs and colours, which allows for some creativity throughout the house. Removable wallpaper is also available in a wide range of designs, catering to any style and can add all the drama, fun and elegance you desire. It doesn’t leave any mess and can be re-used. If your landlord is happy with nails in the walls, add a picture wall and large pieces of wall art. Mirrors are always a winner with The Local Answer

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The Local Answer

Save the Planet with Caroline Bennett

Eliminate apple miles without a garden An apple from New Zealand can clock up 12,000 miles before it reaches the supermarket. Even British apples can go up and down the M6 a few times en route to the fruit bowl. You might have fantasised about owning your own orchard one day – pruning in the winter, checking the blossom in spring, eating apples straight from the tree. To most of us that sounds like a pipe dream. The average British garden size is shrinking rapidly and there are over two million UK households without a garden at all.

Community run orchards Before you pack your bags and move to a country with more space, consider joining a Community Orchard. There are over 80 community orchards or fruitshare initiatives happening right here in Gloucestershire. Some connect people who have space with those who can actually eat all the fruit. Others are orchards in public spaces,

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which are entirely community run. Some are informal, others have membership schemes and volunteering rates in exchange for shares of the harvest.

Lots of events across the county It’s not just apples. Plums, cherries, pears, quinces and nuts are some of the trees being taken care of by members of the community. There are city orchards and country orchards so there’s something for everyone. To find out more visit www.gloucestershireorchardtrust.org.uk. On this excellent website you can see a list of orchards, events across Gloucestershire and a host of other information. Events run by community orchard groups include wassailing (drinking cider and singing to promote the health of the trees), pruning workshops, juicing days and apple harvest celebrations. Here are some apple facts to get

your juices going: • Gloucestershire has a great history of apple growing with 185 apple varieties native to the county alone. • One large apple tree can produce a quarter of a tonne of fruit. • Apples can be stored for several months in dark, cool consistent conditions. • 10kg of apples will produce five litres of juice. How about them apples? Why not join in with the fruit revolution? Caroline is a member of the Gloucestershire Environmental Education Partnership (GEEP), a group of organisations aiming to help educate people in the county about the environment. For more information see www.geep.org.uk.

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Page 27

RND Renovat ions

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Gadgets & Gizmos with Dan Wood

A must-have for coffee lovers Bosch Tassimo TAS4011

The machine is quiet compared to others I’ve had, looks great and is easy to clean and maintain. The only regular requirement is to top up the rear water tank, but other than this, just throw away the spent pod and you are good to go again! I strongly recommend the Bosch Tassimo to anyone who loves reveal the sugar content. Backed by great coffee that seeks the coffee the NHS and Government, this is an shop taste at home. app with no motive other than to allow quick and easy access to true Anker 9.6A/48W 4 port sugar content, all at the touch of a USB charger button on your smart phone. Results The Anker 9.6A/48W 4 port show in sugar cube form so you USB charger with PowerIQ aren’t left working out how much 20 technology is a cracking bit grams are any more! of kit for the travelling techie. This cool looking charger will detect the connected devices, determine the fastest possible charging speed and charge up to four devices simultaneously at full speed – including tablets. This is permitted due to the higher than average power output for an in-car charger. Amazon.co.uk confirms that Anker have the highest average review rating of a charging brand and, from experience, customer service is unrivalled. TAS4011 costs on average £50. By Prices vary, currently £8.99 on adding a pod of your choice – be it Amazon.co.uk. americano or caramel cappuccino – you simply hit the go button and Sugar Smart app wait for the perfect coffee. Pods Finally, for those sugar aware parents come in packs of 16 usually, costing and weight watchers, the Sugar roughly £5 a time depending where Smart app for Android and iOS is proving a big hit. Scan the item and you buy from. The rise of the coffee shop over recent years sees most of us stopping by for an americano and croissant or a latte with lunch, but depending where you go you can find yourself spending a fair bit on this simple beverage. A coffee lover myself, I bought the Bosch Tassimo TAS4011 to use at home. Sceptical at first, this stylish and relatively inexpensive machine means I get great coffee every time at the touch of just one button. The

The Local Answer

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The Local Answer

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

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Your local family business

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Quick Crossword 1

1 7 8 10 12 14 16 17 20 23 24 25

ACROSS Arctic (region) Exonerated Leg bone Improve efficiency of Proximity Ewe's young Dock Clearly expressed Trees retaining foliage Rescued More slender Giant monsters

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DOWN 1 Benefactor 2 Line of rotation 3 Gifted 4 Weaving machines 5 Evasion 6 Verb modifier 9 Make amends 11 Medical support worker 13 Gender 15 Tribal groups 16 Nauseated 18 Barters 19 Spy, secret ... 21 Optic organs 22 Performed in opera

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Worktop Refits ■ Door Replacements ■ Kitchen Upgrades ■ Full Kitchens ■ Electrical ■ Plumbing ■ Gas ■ Tiling ■ Stud Walls/Plastering www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

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Money Matters with Roger Downes of Andorran

Gloucestershire’s Plumbing, Heating and Renewable Technologies experts specialising in:

Oil and Gas Boiler Installations Oil and Gas Boiler Repairs Central Heating installations Gas Work & Maintenance Ground & Air Source Heat Pumps Solar Thermal Panels Underfloor Heating Power Flushing

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Call the office on 01242 821144 Chris England on 07771 803458 Simon Teague on 07787 102807 or email info@threepiecejoinery.com See our photo gallery at www.threepiecejoinery.com The Local Answer

Putting a value on money I've just returned from a week’s break in the sunshine – well deserved some might say. I think so anyway! I booked through an agent, whose service was poor, although they actually made all the bookings safely so it worked in the end. But they made me answer so many questions about what I wanted to spend that it set me thinking about the value of money and more particularly how it is perceived by different people. The only week available to me was half term, so it was already nearly twice as expensive to fly and stay anywhere. I knew that by flying with a so-called low cost carrier I would be charged for everything from a tissue to blow my nose to the bags I wanted to take on the plane. But even that turned into a fascinating conversation at the airport and on the plane. Perfectly happy to pay half term prices (do they have a choice with the new rules of missing school time?), parents were refusing their children a drink because it was too expensive. Hello! You’ve just booked a family holiday, got the kids up at an ungodly hour to get the 6.15am flight and ordered 200 cigarettes from duty free. Yet when the poor child is thirsty, it’s no go.

We may have our priorities all wrong We seem to pay out on the bigger items in our budget without spending more than what seems to be cursory time on decision making, whereas when it comes to spending a few pennies, it’s as if the bank has called in the overdraft. I think we may have our priorities all wrong. I might concede that people take their time over house buying, which is obviously the number one expense. But then again I don’t think that applies universally. But what about the car, which for most is the number two cost? How many did you test drive or have mechanically checked before you bought it? And then you have the cheek to complain when it breaks down within the first few months. And how much do you spend on looking after it once you’ve bought it? The same applies to holidays. They cost a fortune, even in weeks other than half term, but we still don’t do it properly because we think it’s too expensive to make sure that little Johnny or Josephine has the best time and therefore you get value for money. Value isn’t just for you; it’s for all those around you too. Look after the pennies I hear some of you quote. If it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing properly would be my robust response. Enjoy your time when you manage to get away this year and make sure you do the holiday justice.

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Page 33

Index of Advertisers FOOD & DRINK

PROPERTY

Corner Cupboard So Thai The Cheeseworks

6 7 6

WHAT’S ON CLUBS & SPORTS Shipton Golf Course EVENTS & ATTRACTIONS Batsford Arboretum The Bird & Deer Park The Bristol Hippodrome WWT Slimbridge

15 15 18-19 20-21 14

HEALTH & BEAUTY Cheltenham CBT Cirencester Dental Practice The Haven

10 8 10

INFORMATION Cotswold Riding for the Disabled 5

Park Home Life

RETAIL Assured Mobility Green Light Hydroponic

12 16

HOMES & GARDENS BATHROOMS Cotswold Bathroom Solutions Lifestyle Bathrooms Severn Vale Bathrooms BUILDING SERVICES B.E Rudman Glos Build Home Care Roofing & Building Marshalls Driveways R. Richards & Son RND Renovations CARPENTRY 2H Carpentry & Joinery

31 24 31 22 2 24 22 28 28 24

Three Piece Joinery CLEANING SERVICES Barden Clean Ecoclean FURNISHING & APPLIANCES Bella’s Interiors HEATING & PLUMBING Black & White Plumbing Pete T Plumbing Seasoned Hardwood Logs GARDENING SERVICES DW Tree Services CS Landscaping Handylink Mark Clifford Landscapes KITCHENS Cotswold Kitchen Solutions Hatherley Worktops WINDOWS & DOORS Albany Windows

33 24 26 24 22 33 28 22 22 28 22

Clearway Doors & Windows

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CARE SERVICES Barnwood Trust Cotswold Friends Diva Care Lifelink MOTOR SERVICES Warners Cars PET SERVICES Felines & Friends SKIP HIRE & RECYCLING Stevens Recycling

35 17 11 10 4 15 34

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B R X C D D H R A E G D P Y L I V T S E I B A B

J U D Z U N I Z U U T Y X Q A Y L Q S W Y K R D

J C L Y S N C H I C K X K I M M G L S N X F Q Q

L E L B G O S E L O P D A T B R D U E G E L S I

F F J W S J A B T P V G R N O P C B J W G S U H

P S D R T B D A S Z X H E W B R Q O F N E M T K

N B T W Y Y Q S K N Z E S Y T D Y A I S B U A I

V R U W I Y P M W B R Z H E J S Q N A R K X B C

P U D D L E S G F G S M I C K S A O E E G Y D V

B U T T E R F L Y I T P A R R E M L V W C S P K

A Y B O C P S Q O B Z E H C L A L G O O I U R K

T C G J A N U R I L M U S C W A M B E H W U V V

T I Z O L N L E V O E G B F E E N T S S J U Z A

H R Q S I P I K P S L J V A L I H B E B L R R A

E W F S L S D M C S V D A C A O W S S L T T P I

L N Z J M J O H C O P L B R Z J W I S O N V J Z

E X I Q O S F H R M K U O T B I M E R O C F L Z

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

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

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