Cotswolds

The Local

ANSWER

DECEMBER 2017

200,000 DELIVERED MONTHLY IN GLOUCESTERSHIRE

for local people

COTSWOLDS MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL!

Traditional, Compassionate Residential, Nursing and Dementia Care Home in the Heart of the Cotswolds

Hyperion House Nursing Home extending in the New Year!

In the beautiful village of Fairford, Hyperion House has been a focal part of the community for over 300 years. Over the last 25 years we have been providing compassionate care and support to the elderly and their families.

Since the beginning of 2017 the home has undergone a complete transformation of management and we are now very proud of our “Good” CQC rating, which we feel is a credit to our dedicated team.

In a climate of constant change and uncertainty, Hyperion will be proudly committed to providing traditional care in a family orientated environment. We are a small, cosy family run care home which endeavours to reassure and support our residents and their families throughout the challenges of care.

We continue to further improve our facilities and have exciting plans for a 31 bed extension. We will always remain true to our roots of providing “traditional compassionate care”.

Hyperion House Nursing Home is a small, family run care home with nursing and dementia care.

• Local Authority Placements available • Stimulating social activities • Picturesque market town setting • Excellent freshly home cooked food • Traditional compassionate care • Do visit us

Diva Care Ltd | Hyperion House Nursing Home | London Street | Fairford Gloucestershire | GL7 4AH | Telephone: 01285 712 349 | www.divacare.co.uk

The The Lo Local c al

AN ANSWER SWER CCotswolds otswolds – 228,000 8,000 ccopies opies CCheltenham heltenham – 443,000 3,000 ccopies opies G loucestershire N orth – 220,000 0,000 ccopies opies Gloucestershire North G loucestershire SSouth outh – 441,000 1,000 ccopies opies Gloucestershire G loucester – 446,000 6,000 ccopies opies Gloucester FForest orest ooff D ean – 222,000 2,000 ccopies opies Dean

Managing Director M anaging D irector D Dave ave K Kingscott ingscott ddave@thelocalanswer.co.uk ave@thelocalanswer.co.uk

EEditorial ditorial & M Marketing arketing LLois ois K Kingscott ingscott editorial@thelocalanswer.co.uk editorial@thelocalanswer.co.uk

Helen H elen K Kingscott ingscott G Gemma emma D Drew rew entertainment@thelocalanswer.co.uk entertainment@thelocalanswer.co.uk

SSport port

Welcome Welcome ttoo D December ecember ......

The countdown has begun and Santa will be here before we know it! We’ve got some great features this month to help get you ready for Christmas including Julia Smith’s ideas for dressing your house with garden gifts, Jade Wilce’s interior Christmas decoration trends and Laura Nicklin’s recommendations for the best gadgets to gift your loved ones this year!

As always, we’ve got a great selection of events for the festive period to help you with your last-minute Christmas shopping, as well as plenty of entertainment for the whole family including pantomimes, Christmas markets and the ever-popular Winter Wonderland at The Bird and Deer Park .

However you decide to celebrate, The Local Answer team would like to wish you all a wonderful Christmas and a safe and happy New Year! See you in 2018!

R Roger oger JJackson ackson sport@thelocalanswer.co.uk sport@thelocalanswer.co.uk

Production Production Kevin evin V Vaughan-Spruce aughan-Spruce K services@thelocalanswer.co.uk services@thelocalanswer.co.uk

H Helen elen R Robinson obinson

IInside nside tthis his month month ... ... ish Delicious D elicious D Dish

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Parenting Guardianship Parenting & Guardianship

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Medical Health Medical Health

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Distribution D istribution JJulia ulia B Ball all – 001242 1242 5541075 41075 distribution@thelocalanswer.co.uk distribution@thelocalanswer.co.uk

R Robert obert K Kingscott ingscott rob@thelocalanswer.co.uk rob@thelocalanswer.co.uk

Accounts Accounts

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Gadgets Gizmos izmos Gadgets & G

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Save the Planet Planet Save the

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K Kerry erry TThorne horne

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aaccounts@thelocalanswer.co.uk ccounts@thelocalanswer.co.uk

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Unit Unit I,I, CChurchill hurchill IIndustrial ndustrial EEstate, state, Churchill Churchill RRoad, oad, GL53 LLeckhampton, eckhampton, Cheltenham, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire Gloucestershire G L53 7EG 7EG

T Telephone elephone 0 01242 1242 5 510500 10500 thelocalanswer thelocalanswer

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Prime Prime cut cut – llocal ocal butcher’s butcher’s shop vvoted oted b est iin n tthe he south! south! shop best Cirencester and Cotswolds company Jesse Smith has been awarded the accolade of ‘Butcher ’s Shop of the Year 2017’ for the south of England.

Members of the Jesse Smith team were presented with their trophy at an awards ceremony hosted by Meat Trades Journal on 6th November in County Hall, Westminster. The event is considered the most important in the butchery industry calendar when it comes to accolades.

IInnovative nnovative n new ew Farm Farm Shop Shop T h i s i s t h e l a te s t i n a s t r i n g o f awards the company has won this year since opening its innovative new Farm Shop and Café on Cirencester’s L o ve L a n e I n d u s t r i a l E s t a t e. J e s s e Smith was recognised as the o u t s t a n d i n g c a n d i d a te fo r b o t h t h e quality of produce and service – which they’ve been proud to deliver for over 200 years now – and their i n v e s t m e n t o f t i m e a n d m o n e y to engage with and inspire customers, t h e re by h e l p i n g to s u p p o r t t h e industry’s future.

‘‘Honoured Honoured a and nd ssurprised’ urprised’ O w n e r a n d D i r e c to r D a v i d H a we s said: “The Butcher’s Shop of the Year awards are extremely prestigious and we are both honoured and surprised to win in our category. ”Judged by the industry ’s top professionals, shops regularly have to enter and demonstrate their progress for many years before even reaching the finals. It’s a real testament to the hard work of all of our staff.”

Established in 1808, Jesse Smith has clearly stood the test of time as an independent business constantly satisfying the needs of its customers In more recent times it is possibly their ability to understand and adapt to changes in the public’s attitude that keeps them at the fore today, along with a willingness to diversify their high quality service to shine. as necessary to offer more customer Well done to all at Jesse Smith!

78668 78668 78668 786686 FARM SHOP • BUTCHERY • CAFÉ

Now taking Christmas Orders

78668 7866878 78668 78668 19 Love Lane • Cirencester • GL7 1YG • 01285 653 352 • www.jessesmith.co.uk Visit our other Stores at: Black Jack St, Cirencester • Tetbury • Northleach • Burford

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The Local Answer

D Delicious elicious D Dish ish with w ith Helen Helen Kingscott Kingscott

M Mincemeat incemeat O Oat at CCookies ookies TThis his recipe recipe m makes akes 10 10 cookies, cookies, but but you you could could make make double double or or ttriple riple tthe he q quantity uantity aand nd w wrap rap tthem hem u up p aass a CChristmas hristmas g gift. ift.

Ingredients: Ingredients: 100g soft butter; 50g plain flour; 100g porridge oats; 2-3 tbsp mincemeat; 1 tbsp demerara sugar; ½ tsp mixed ground spice.

Method: Method: 1 Preheat the oven to 190°C (fan 170°C/gas 5).

2 Using an electric hand whisk , beat the butter, sugar and flour until combined, then stir in the oats and mincemeat.

3 Bring the dough together with your hands; take walnut sized pieces and roll into balls.

4 Arrange the balls, spaced apart, on oiled baking trays. Press the top of each ball very slightly to flatten it . Mix the demerara sugar with the mixed ground spice and sprinkle on top of the cookies.

5 Bake for 18 minutes or until golden. Cool on the trays for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely..

6 Store in an airtight tin.

The Old Re ctory Re staurraant

Cole sbour ne , Che lte nh am GL53 9N P 01242 870120

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to all!

• Big Big selection selection of of Norway Norway Spruce, Spruce, Blue Blue Spruce, Spruce, Fraser Fraser Fir Fir & Non-Needle Non-Needle Drop Drop Nordmann Nordmann Fir Fir Trees Trees • Hand-crafted Hand-crafted Wreaths Wreaths • Holly Holly & Mistletoe Mistletoe • Tree Tree Stands Stands • Seasonal Seasonal Pot Pot Plants Plants • Tree Wrapping rapping Service Service Tree W • Reservation Reservation System System (choose (choose early, early, collect collect later) later)

Open throughout Decemeber & New Year

Private Dining Room

27th 2 7th November November – Christmas Christmas Wreath Wreath Workshop Workshop 9th 10th Weekend 9 th aand nd 1 0th December December – Festive Festive W eekend Please P lease check check website website for for further further details details and and opening opening times times

tree then then Select your your tree Select enjoy delicious delicious come and and enjoy come and seasonal seasonal food food coffee and coffee in The The Garden Garden Café, Café, in now open open in in one one of of our our now historic glasshouses. glasshouses. historic

Tel: T el: 0 01285 1285 8 821638 21638 w www.miserdennursery.co.uk ww.miserdennursery.co.uk EEmail: mail: iinfo@miserdennursery.co.uk nfo@miserdennursery.co.uk M Miserden, iserden, S Stroud, troud, G Gloucestershire loucestershire G GL6 L6 7 7JA JA The Local Answer

Book now!

Ideal venue for all special 0ccasions and family/friends get-together – no hire cost!

Marquee for up to 50 guests

With beautiful decorative carving buffet

Celebrate Christmas Festivites with us – just a few places left!

Boxing Day Lunch 3 course multi choice menu £29.50 New Years Eve Buffet £28 A wide selection of meats, fish, salad & dessert table www.theoldrectoryrestaurant.co.uk

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 5

D Distributors istributors Required Required For a few hours each month in the following specific areas: Chipping Campden • Cirencester Fairford • Quenington South Cerney • Stow-on-the-Wold Tetbury • Willersey If you don’t live in or close to the above areas, but would like to join our waiting list for when an opportunity arises near your home, please get in touch.

Each round is made up of 150 -400 copies per month. The rate of pay is 6 pence/copy. Depending on property types, our current team of people average between 100 -150 copies/hour (equivalent to £6-£9/hour).

Magazines are delivered to Distributors’ homes towards the end of each month and we expect deliveries to be completed within four days between the hours of 7am and 9pm.

You must be 13+ years of age, flexible, reliable and sufficiently physically fit to perform the duties.

The T h e Loc Lo c al al

AN A NS SW WE ER R

DECEMBER DECEMBER 2017 2017

200,000 2 00,000 DELIVERED D ELIVERED M MONTHLY ONTHLY IN IN GLOUCESTERSHIRE GLOUCESTERSHIRE

ffor o r local loca l people pe o p le

COTSWOLDS COTSW OLDS M MERRY ERRY C CHRISTMAS HRISTMAS A AND ND A H HAPPY APPY N NEW EW Y YEAR EAR T TO OA ALL! LL!

For details email Julia – distribution@thelocalanswer.co.uk Page 6

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The Local Answer

Parenting P arenting & G Guardianship uardianship with w ith R Roberta oberta Smart Smart

TThe he jjoy oy o off sstorytelling torytelling Merry Yule to you all! It is that kids, the very act of sitting in a circle wondrous time of year when we to listen to each other is deeply gather together around the fire, drink bonding. mugs of steaming cocoa and tell Family Family Night Night stories all night... isn’t it?

We all know how valuable bedtime R Revisiting evisiting TTradition radition stories are to our little ones, but why The tradition of telling stories goes stop when they get older? Why not back as far as we can imagine, and introduce Story Night into your family was once the way all families taught routine, maybe on a Sunday for an their children, passing down myths hour before bed, or as a way of and legends, folklore and knowledge celebrating the week that’s passed on in the form that was then passed a Friday night. from generation to generation in an When it comes to visiting the oral tradition. Over time, details were grandparents, bring story time into added or left out, changing the focus, the mix and urge elders to share the result , and indeed the lesson in stories of ‘the olden days’ and be the story, as times changed and willing to take the long way around – messages developed. answering questions and going off at These days as we rely more and tangents as you go. Prepare some more on watching TV or movies, or delicious snacks, grab your blanket even separating into our own spaces and a pillow and settle in for an on hand held digital devices, I want evening spent learning about each to urge you to use this festive season other or sharing your favourite poet to bring the family back together and or author. For the natural performer share the joy of storytelling. Whether there is always the fun of ‘doing the you choose your favourite books, or voices’ and ‘acting out the actions’, tell stories of your childhood to your which kids can’t get enough of.

The Local Answer

U Unique nique P Perspective erspective We all have a tale to tell and a unique perspective to share. You do not need to be educated or privileged to have a story to share and if you happen to have led a life of adventure, travelling o r m e e t i n g i n te re s t i n g p e o p l e t h r o u g h yo u r w o r k , t h e n a n a d u l t e ve n i n g o f s t o r y t e l l i n g a r o u n d t h e dinner table can be time well spent.

Who doesn’t enjoy orating over a fine wine and a good stilton?

Story time can be a great way to share the Christmas Celebration too, from reading Christmas tales, to singing Carols together, gifting books or, better still, journals and pens to encourage the writing of new stories.

Encouraging little ones to make up and tell their own stories is such fun; l e t t h e m u s e p i c t u re b o o ks a s prompts or maybe a favourite toy to speak through. You will gain so much from the experience of this age old r i t u a l a n d , w h o k n ow s, i t m a y j u s t m a k e t h i s C h r i s t m a s, t h e b e s t Christmas ever!

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 7

M Medical edical H Health ealth w with ith H Holly olly Hannigan Hannigan

Hangover H angover SSOS OS It’s a well known fact that the festive period is a time for over indulgence of both food and alcohol. Many people turn up to work bleary eyed, nauseous, in pain, with vague recollections of the previous night at the work Christmas party. We all know that binge drinking is not healthy – our bodies making this clear in the form of a hangover.

The biological facts are that after drinking excessive amounts of alcohol, your body is suffering from a Vitamin B deficiency and dehydration. You may also recognise the nausea, s e n s i t i v i t y to s o u n d a n d l i g h t , a n d a headache, which all stem from your body producing a load of stimulants to counteract the amount of depressants you put into your body in the form of alcohol.

Now do not be fooled – I myself love to indulge in a cheeky vino, especially over the festive period. So here are a few helpful hangover hacks, many of which I have tried and tested.

Eat Eat a g good ood m meal eal

and alcohol stays longer in the stomach, so isn’t released into the bloodstream as quickly.. This also applies the morning after,, but try eating low sugar carbs such as toast or crackers to help settle the stomach. Eggs are full of great amino acids, or a smoothie packed with fresh fruit and vegetables should sort you out.

yo u t h e g o o d b u z z . A n y fo r m o f exercise will do, just remember to get t h e b l o o d p u m p i n g , b u t n ot p u s h yourself too hard.

W Water ater

Ibuprofen Ibuprofen

No you don’t have to stick to it all n i g h t l o n g ( a l t h o u g h t h at w i l l a l s o eradicate the hangover ever being a problem). Simply alternate each alcoholic beverage with a glass of water and then make sure you drink a large glass of water before bed.

Coconut water is great as it contains five electrolytes per serving, great for re-balancing your body.

LLight ight aand nd fflat lat S t i c k to p a l e d r i n k s w i t h o u t t h e bubbles for less of a hangover.

EExercise xercise

The one everyone hates, but it works Lining your stomach with food before by getting your body to metabolise drinking will help, as the mix of food faster and the endorphin rush will give The Local Answer

Put a glass of water and Ibuprofen tablets (Paracetamol and Aspirin should be avoided as they can irritate the liver even more) next to your bed.

S e t yo u r a l a r m o n e h o u r b e fo r e yo u need to get up, take the tablets then go back to sleep, so that you give yourself a head start upon waking.

Avoid Avoid ttoo oo m much uch ccaffeine affeine As much as you may crave your morning fix, caffeine is a diuretic and will increase your dehydration, so balance any you have with water.

So know your limits, stay safe, but most importantly drink and be merry over the festive period.

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 9

OPEN EVERY DAY FOR OPEN EVERY DAY FOR SHOWROOM SHOWROOM VIEWINGS VIEWINGS We We c can an supply supply a

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The T h e Local Local

AN ANSWER SWER

DOUBLE UP

BO B OOK NOW!

for Independent Independent A FFANTASTIC ANTASTIC D DEAL EAL for Call 0 01242 1242 5 510500 10500 ttoday! oday!

Local Local Businesses Businesses* – Call CCOTSWOLDS OTSWOLDS EEDITION DITION – 228,000 8,000 M MAGAZINES AGAZINES EEVERY VERY M MONTH! ONTH! 3 month month ccommitment ommitment EEIGHTH IGHTH PAGE PAGE

6 month month ccommitment ommitment 12 12 month month ccommitment ommitment EIGHTH EIGHTH PAGE PAGE

EEIGHTH IGHTH P PAGE AGE

ONLY £70+VAT/month

ONLY £65+VAT/month

ONLY £60+VAT/month

Usual Price £115+VAT/month

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Usual Price £95+VAT/month

Q QUARTER UARTER P PAGE AGE

QUARTER QUARTER P PAGE AGE

Q QUARTER UARTER P PAGE AGE

ONLY £115+VAT/month

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HALF HALF PAGE PAGE

HALF HALF P PAGE AGE

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ONLY £190+VAT/month

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Usual Price £280+VAT/month

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FULL FULL P PAGE AGE

FFULL ULL PAGE PAGE

FULL FULL P PAGE AGE

ONLY £280+VAT/month

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Usual Price £470+VAT/month

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Usual Price £375+VAT/month

*Terms and conditions: Offer available on bookings secured by 8th December 2017 by qualifying independent companies based in Gloucestershire within the Cotswold District Council boundary.

Minimum three month booking. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer or discount structure. Payment of first insertion via debit/credit card at point of booking, subsequent payments via Direct Debit – customer bank account details to be provided at point of booking. Artwork will be created free of charge from text, images and instructions supplied.

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The Local Answer

W What’s hat’s O On n TThe he LLocal ocal A Answer nswer EEvent vent Listings Listings are are ccompiled ompiled and and presented preesented in in good good faith faith with with the the kind kind support support of of many many contributors. contributors.

We We re recommend ecommend yyou ou uuse se tthe he ccontact ontact ddetails etails pprovided rovided to to check check event event information information uupdates pdates pprior rior ttoo pplanning lanning yyour our vvisit. isit.

2244 NOVEMBER NOVEMBER – 7 JJANUARY ANUARY DICK WHITTINGTON AND HIS CCA AT Join Dick and his cat as he travels from Gloucester to London to make his fortune and runs into the usual cast of Everyman favourites along the way. For times and prices visit everymantheatre.org.uk. The Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham, GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573.

2255 NOVEMBER NOVEMBER – 22 22 D ECEMBER DECEMBER CHRISTMAS AT COTSWOLD FARM PARK It’s the most magical time of the year!

Enrol yourself in Elf Academy, visit Father Christmas in his grotto and say hello to the animals of the nativity story. For more details visit www.cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk 01451 850307. Cotswold Farm Park , Guiting Power, GL54 5UG. 25 DECEMBER 25 NOVEMBER NOVEMBER – 23 23 D ECEMBER WINTER WONDERLAND AT PRINKNASH BIRD & DEER PARK

Come and see our resident reindeer, Rudolf,, Prancer and Comet, and look out over the stunning valley of magical Christmas lighting from the new Visitor Centre balconies. Christmas gifts for children from Santa. Advance bookings only. Adults £11.50, children £13. From 11am (park closes 6pm). For full details

visit www.thebirdpark.com. The Bird and Deer Park , Prinknash, Cranham, Gloucester, GL4 8EX. 01452 812727 2277 NOVEMBER NOVEMBER – 2 JJANUARY ANUARY GLOUCESTER QUAYS ENCHANTED CHRISTMAS MARKET & WINTER ICE RINK This year’s Enchanted market will feature decorated stalls, a traditional Ferris Wheel, real ale tavern and roast chestnuts carts, with street entertainers, family activities, live choirs and brass bands – all in a waterside location. St Ann Way, Gloucester GL1 5SH. 01452 338933. www.gloucesterquayschristmas.co.uk 29 DECEMBER 29 NOVEMBER NOVEMBER – 8 D ECEMBER A CHRISTMAS CAROL A magical and enchanting re-telling of Charles Dickens’ classic tale. A charming, family-friendly production that will fill you up to the brim with Christmas spirit. For full details please visit www.berkeleycastle.com. 01453 810303. The Great Hall, Berkeley Castle, Berkeley GL13 9BQ. DECEMBER 3300 NOVEMBER NOVEMBER – 23 23 D ECEMBER THE TALES OF HANS CHRISTIAN ANDERSEN A selection of fairy tales from the world’s best-known storyteller. A hour-long show suitable for 3-7 year olds and their families. Simple, gentle storytelling with professional actor/musicians. For detail visit everymantheatre.org.uk. The Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham, GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573.

TTHROUGHOUT HROUGHOUT DECEMBER DECEMBER TAURUS CRAFTS: CHRISTMAS MARKETS Over the first three weekends in December, the onsite makers and creative businesses will be joined by over 30

independent traders and a lot of locallygrown fresh cut Christmas Trees to create the area’s largest choice of gifts not available on the high street. Come along and support our local talent and the visiting traders at our market. For more details visit www.tauruscrafts.co.uk. Taurus Crafts, Lydney, GL15 6BU. CHRISTMAS WITH SANTA AND LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD

Decorate and write your letter to Santa, then dress up as Little Red Riding Hood or the Woodcutter and go off into our magical woods to find him. Look out for the cheeky elves on the way and don’t forgot to tell Santa how good you have been! Booking is advised. For more details visit www.puzzlewood.net. Puzzlewood, Perrygrove Road, Coleford, GL16 8QB. 1 DECEMBER DECEMBER THE SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS Get in the Christmas spirit (literally...) with a tempting selection of brandy and festive liqueurs, all washed down with lashings of mulled wine and nibbles. The perfect excuse to start the Christmas celebrations early this year! Over 18s only. £20. 7.45pm.

The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX. www.rosestheatre.org.

Our Readers – Your Audience Advertise Advertise your your event event to to 85,000+ 85,000+ people people in in the the Cotswold Cotswold District!

District! £20+VAT

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A AN NS SW WE ER R

D DECEMBER ECEMBER 2 2017 017

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D DELIVERED ELIVERED MONTHLY MONTHLY IN GLOUCESTERSHI IN GLO OUCESTERSHIRE RE

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Plus Plus £25 £25++VAT VAT to 3cm to iinclude nclude a 3 cm iimage mage with with your your text text

To list your event in our What s On section, email editorial@thelocalanswer.co.uk The Local Answer

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COTSWOL COTS WOLDS DS

MERRY CHRISTMA MERRY CHRISTMAS AND AND A HAPPY HAPPY NEW NEW YEAR YEAR TO TO ALL! ALL!

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1 DECEMBER DECEMBER – 5 JJANUARY ANUARY THE BIG BATSFORD ELF HUNT

Santa’s helpers have gone missing and they are all hiding in the Arboretum; find them to win a prize! Most suitable for children aged 8 and under, however children of all ages are welcome to take part! No need to book , just turn up and enjoy! £2.50 per child, plus Arboretum entry fee (children must be accompanied by an adult). 01386 701441 Batsford Arboretum, Moreton-in-Marsh, GL56 9QB. 2 DECEMBER DECEMBER CHARLTON KINGS CHORAL SOCIETY 7.30pm. Venue: Pittville Pump Room Cheltenham, Glos GL52 5JE. The First Nowell (A Nativity Play by R Vaughan Williams). Buxtehude Das neugeborne Kindelein. Corelli Christmas Concerto.

Soloists Helen Wright, Melvin Brown, readers from St. Edward’s school and the Regency Sinfonia. Conductor John Wright.

Tickets: 0844 576 2210 (£15, concessions £10) or Cheltenham Town Hall Box Office.

THE JOY OF CHRISTMAS 2017 A festive treat of seasonal music and readings from school and adult choirs.

7.30pm. £14. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA . 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk 66-12 -12 DECEMBER DECEMBER THE GARDENS GALLERY Opposite the bandstand at the top of Montpellier Gardens, Cheltenham. An exciting exhibition of works by two Cheltenham artists: watercolours by Ryk Heuff and collages by David Pugh. Free admission – 10am–5pm daily.

66-23 -23 DECEMBER DECEMBER A GLOUCESTERSHIRE MIDWINTER A lighthearted revue dealing with all things wintry, past and present, in Gloucestershire. From Holst’s ‘In the Bleak Midwinter’ to the story of ‘Oxbode Lane’.

Featuring song, drama and poetic humour.

For details visit everymantheatre.org.uk.

The Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham, GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573.

8 DECEMBER DECEMBER LIVE MUSIC AT THE TITHE BARN Jazz, RnB and acoustic blues, featuring Cheltenham born Sadie Roach and respected Blues musician, Michael Roach.

Tickets from Vinyl Vault, Cambray Place, Cheltenham or at The Tithe Barn. £12 in advance or £15 on door.

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BOLSHOI LIVE: THE NUTCRACKER Soon joined by her other toys that have also come to life, Marie and her prince embark on a dreamy unforgettable adventure. A holiday tradition for the whole family, The Nutcracker sweeps the Bolshoi stage for two hours of magic and enchantment. £15. 7pm. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX. www.rosestheatre.org.

88-24 -24 DECEMBER DECEMBER SANTA SPECIALS AT DEAN FOREST RAILWAY Father Christmas comes to your seat with an age related present for every child - no queues for a Grotto here! On board entertainment and something for the adults too! £13. For more information visit www.deanforestrailway.co.uk. Dean Forest Railway, Forest Road, Lydney GL15 4ET. 88-30 -30 DECEMBER DECEMBER SPECTACLE OF LIGHT

Explore the new illuminated trail around Sudeley Castle’s grounds, marvelling at the majestic trees and romantic ruins all lit under the stars. Enjoy wonderful music as you discover each new secret of this magical environment. A wonderful outdoor event for all ages. For details visit sudeleycastle.co.uk. 01242 602308.

Sudeley Castle, Winchcombe, GL54 5JD. 9 DECEMBER DECEMBER FOUR-LEGGED FESTIVE FUN Celebrate with your four-legged friend as the Cotswolds Dogs & Cats Home present an enchanted candlelit Christmas Concert.

Hosted by the Charity’s Patron Lisa Maxwell and her friends from stage and screen.

7pm. St Mary’s Church, Painswick. £7.50 (children £4.50). Tickets: www.cdch.org.uk THE BOHEMIANS The internationally renowned Queen Tribute band take you on a high energy roller coaster ride of a concert, featuring the back catalogue of one of the world’s most popular and iconic rock acts of all time. 01453 760900. Stroud Subscription Rooms, George Street, GL5 1AE. For details visit www.subscriptionrooms.org.uk.

99-10 -10 DECEMBER DECEMBER TEWKESBURY TOWN BAND Come in out of the cold and enjoy a great family Christmas concert with a selection of new and classic festive tunes and a few sing-a-long items too. Our ever popular Town Band is busy throughout the year with concerts, parades and festivals in the town and beyond. Finish off the year with some festive fun. For times and

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prices visit www.rosestheatre.org. 01684 295074. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX. SANTA’S GROTTO AT BATSFORD Bring the children to meet Santa and his Elf in his magical grotto at Batsford! Come and visit them from 2.30 -4.30pm on Saturday 9th Dec and 2-4.30pm on Sunday 10th Dec. 01386 701441 Batsford Arboretum, Moreton-in-Marsh, GL56 9QB. 9, 9, 10 10 & 16 16 D DECEMBER ECEMBER NARNIA AFTERNOON TEA

Step into this extraordinary world through the doors of an oak wardrobe and find yourself in an enchanted Kingdom, with snow underfoot, glistening fir trees and magical creatures. Be greeted by Mr Tumnus before capturing a moment with the Ice Queen. 12 noon. £19.50. Tickets available directly Hype Agency – 0117 971 0320 or info@hypeagency.co.uk.

Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA . www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk 9-10 DECEMBER 9 -10 & 116-23 6-23 D ECEMBER CHRISTMAS GROTTO AT LABELS

Santa will be making a visit to Labels once again this year, supported by Ross on Wye Rotary Club. Our grotto will be surrounded by a winter wonderland, which will be found by following footprints and our special signage from the welcome desk.

On the way you will find competitions and interesting facts! £5 per child to include a gift. 01989 769000. Labels Shopping Centre, Ross Park , Ross-on-Wye, HR9 7QJ. 99-21 -21 DECEMBER DECEMBER SANTA RAILCAR SPECIAL Travel from Toddington station by an early 1960s diesel rail car with Santa and his young elves. Complementary mince pies, hot and cold drinks, biscuits and fruit, and a goody bag for children. £14. For more details visit gwsr.com. The Railway Station, Toddington GL54 5DT. 01242 621405.

The Local Answer

1100 DECEMBER DECEMBER GLOUCESTERSHIRE MUSIC CHRISTMAS CONCERT

Gloucestershire Music present’s their annual Christmas concert featuring three community and youth music groups. A festival programme to be performed by the Colwell Arts Orchestra, Gloucestershire Youth Orchestra and Gloucestershire County Youth Choir. 6pm. £12. Pittville Pump Room, East Approach Drive, Cheltenham GL52 3JE. 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk WE THREE KINGS OF ROCK AND ROLL

A welcome return for the 2-hour uplifting Rock ‘n’ Roll Christmas Show three tributes to Rock ‘n’ Roll Icons Billy Fury, Buddy Holly and Elvis. All your Christmas favorites in true Rock ‘n’ Roll Style from ‘Jingle Bell Rock’ to ‘White Christmas’! For details visit www.subscriptionrooms.org.uk.

01453 760900. Stroud Subscription Rooms, George Street, GL5 1AE. 1111 DECEMBER DECEMBER STEELEYE SPAN Folk rock pioneers Steeleye Span are touring with a new live show, with Maddy Prior – the voice of the band – leading a line-up featuring faces old and new. Their

2017 performance will see them perform new gems alongside classics that have made them one of the most successful British Folk Rock bands ever. £24. 7.30pm.

The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX. www.rosestheatre.org.

1133 DECEMBER DECEMBER NASH ENSEMBLE 2017 Acclaimed for its adventurous programming and virtuoso performances, the Ensemble has won many accolades including two Royal Philharmonic Society awards “for the breadth of its taste and its immaculate performance of a wide range of music.”

7.30pm. From £20 (under 26 £5). Pittville Pump Room, East Approach Drive, Cheltenham GL52 3JE. 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk ADULT CRAFT WORKSHOP PATCHWORK CHRISTMAS DECORATION A fun morning of festive stitching making a 3D patchwork Christmas decoration. You will need to bring a sewing kit, a selection of Christmas fabric and thread to match. We will provide full tuition, reusable pattern, unlimited hot drinks and mince pies. 10am. Members £20, nonmembers £25. Museum of Gloucester, Brunswick Road, GL1 1HP. 1144 DECEMBER DECEMBER SLEEPING BEAUTY A classic fairytale set to Tchaikovsky’s magnificent score, stunning choreography, beautiful costumes all combine to portray the struggle between good and evil with Vienna Festival Ballet. For times and prices visit www.subscriptionrooms.org.uk. 01453 760900. Stroud Subscription Rooms, George Street, GL5 1AE. 16 16 DECEMBER DECEMBER LIVE EWE SCANNING For the first time in the Farm Park’s long history, we’ll be scanning some of our pregnant ewes live in front of visitors in the IAE Animal Barn to find out how many lambs they’re carrying. Make sure you’re here for a front row seat! 01451 850307.

Cotswold Farm Park , Guiting Power, GL54 5UG. www.cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk

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0 08457 8457 9 909090 09090 o orr jjo@samaritans.org o@samaritans.org The Local Answer

16-22 16-22 DECEMBER DECEMBER SANTA’S COMING TO SLIMBRIDGE Join us for breakfast or afternoon tea with the elves and visit Santa in his magical grotto. Ice a gingerbread man, build an elf den, toast marshmallows, get creative making arts and crafts – and don’t forget to send a letter to the North Pole at our post office! 01453 891223. WWT Slimbridge, Bowditch, GL2 7BT. www.wwt.org.uk 1177 DECEMBER DECEMBER CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT The Church is beautifully decorated for this special event which combines the message of Christmas with carols old and new. Seasonal refreshments follow. There are no charges and booking is unnecessary but early arrival is advisable. 6.30pm.

Cambray Baptist Church, Cambray Place, Cheltenham, GL50 1JS. www.cambray.org Registered Charity number: 1156858 A CHRISTMAS CONCERT Berkeley Castle are delighted that the choir have agreed to return for this incredibly popular event. A great way to get you in the mood for Christmas! For full details please visit www.berkeleycastle.com. 01453 810303. The Great Hall, Berkeley Castle, Berkeley GL13 9BQ. 1199 DECEMBER DECEMBER THAT’LL BE THE DAY

Topped with lashings of Christmas spirit, get ready to party! The UK’s most popular Rock ‘n’ Roll variety show celebrates the festive season with all your favourite Christmas classics from the 50s, 60s and 70s, plus plenty of hilarious comedy!

7.30pm. From £25.50. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA . 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk

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1199 DECEMBER DECEMBER CARA DILLON CHRISTMAS CONCERT

20-21 20 -21 DECEMBER DECEMBER ROCK UP & BOUNCE Indoor inflatable play day sessions at Pates Grammar School. With various time slots available and ages 4-13 welcome. Book your place today and call 07774 416639 or email dale@cheltenhambouncycastles.co.uk to receive your code.

20 -22 DECEMBER DECEMBER 20-22 GRANDMA CLAUS – WAITING FOR SANTA It’s been years since Santa has visited his Grandma. It’s Christmas Eve and all she really wants this year is to see him... With a plan up her sleeve, a bit of help from her silly friend Twinkle Toes and a touch of magic, you never know what might happen around Grandma’s house! 01453 891223. WWT Slimbridge, Bowditch, GL2 7BT. www.wwt.org.uk 21 DECEMBER DECEMBER 21 ENGLISH NATIONAL OPERA A one-off Christmas evening performance which is set to be a magical experience.

The confirmed festive programme will include Vaughan William’s O Little Town of Bethlehem, Handels’s Messiah Excerpts, Anderson’s A Christmas Festival and Sleigh Ride with an encore of We Wish You a Merry Christmas. 7.30pm. From £17.

Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, Cheltenham GL50 1QA . 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk

GUILDHALL COMMUNITY CHOIR An evening of carols, festive music and words with one of the three choirs led by Monika Murrel. Preceded by festive snacks, mince pies and mulled wine. Part of the proceeds to help the homeless.

7pm. £8 (in advance). Nature in Art, Sandhurst Lane, Twigworth, GL2 9PA .

01452 731422. www.natureinart.org.uk 2200 DECEMBER DECEMBER BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

A magical and memorable festive experience. Having recorded her highly anticipated Christmas album ‘Upon A Winter’s Night’, Cara and her band will be performing classic Carols, Celtic Hymns and other Christmas songs to celebrate and share in the Christmas Spirit. 7.30pm. £23. Pittville Pump Room, East Approach Drive, Cheltenham GL52 3JE. 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk CHRISTMAS CRAFT Ages 3-10 years and adults. Create festive decorations and extra-special gifts in these themed drop-in craft workshops for a range of ages and skills. Build that Christmas cheer by getting out the glitter!

Drop in and get crafty – no need to prebook. The Wilson, Clarence Street, Cheltenham, GL50 3JT. 0844 576 2210.

Follow the fantastical journey of Belle – a bright, beautiful and independent young woman who is taken prisoner by a beast in his castle. Despite her fears, she befriends the castle’s enchanted staff and learns to look beyond the Beast’s hideous exterior and realise the kind heart and soul of the true Prince within. 3pm (film starts at 4pm). £6 (family of 4 £20 – to include a treat from Santa). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002.

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22 22 DECEMBER DECEMBER THE SNOWMAN AND CARNIVAL OF THE ANIMALS

Give the whole family a magical Christmas treat as The Snowman is shown on the big screen while the Mozart Symphony Orchestra provides a live soundtrack. SaintSaëns’ Carnival of the Animals will be performed with lots of extras and fun surprises including poetry by Ogden Nash and others, terrible Christmas jokes from the conductor’ss podium and wonderful cartoon animations projected onto a screen above the orchestra. 1.30pm. From £11. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, Cheltenham GL50 1QA . 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk FATHER CHRISTMAS AND PETER AND THE WOLF

Raymond Brigg’s Father Christmas is brought to life this Christmas on the big

KKeep eep up up ttoo ddate ate on on social social media! media!

screen with live orchestral accompaniment from the Mozart Symphony Orchestra and actors providing the dialogue and sound effects. Prokofiev’s chilling tale of one small boy’s bravery against a wild wolf has thrilled generations of children and is the ideal way to introduce young people to orchestral music. The perfect Christmas treat! 4.30pm. From £11. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, Cheltenham GL50 1QA . 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk 22-24 DECEMBER DECEMBER 22-24 ROBIN HOOD PANTOMIME Join That’s Entertainment Productions in association with the Subscription Rooms for their first ever resident pantomime!

Robin Hood sees the wicked Sheriff ruling over the people and collecting taxes to pay for his own evil plans to take the English crown. We need a hero – but will Robin Hood win the heart of Maid Marian, rescue the babes, and win the day? For details visit www.subscriptionrooms.org.uk.

01453 760900. Stroud Subscription Rooms, George Street, GL5 1AE. 2233 DECEMBER DECEMBER HANDEL - MESSIAH

The Cheltenham Bach Choir and Regency Sinfonia present this Christmas favourite at 7:30pm in the Cheltenham Town Hall. For details see www.cheltbachchoir.com.

Tickets £10 -20 from the Town Hall box office, website, or call 0844 576 2210.

26 26 DECEMBER DECEMBER BOXING DAY AT BATSFORD Burn off your Christmas dinner with a walk around the Arboretum! If you’ve had a

hectic build up to the big day, why not join us for a magical winter walk through the Arboretum on Boxing Day with family or friends, with a free glass of warming mulled wine (while stocks last!). We’re open from 10am-3pm. 01386 701441 Batsford Arboretum, Moreton-in-Marsh, GL56 9QB. 3-4 JANUARY JANUARY 3-4 DRACULA (OR A PAIN IN THE NECK) Rain or Shine proudly present a new adaptation of Bram Stoker’s famous Gothic fantasy... with a twist! A play you can really sink your teeth into! For times and prices visit everymantheatre.org.uk. The Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham, GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573.

6 & 2266 JANUARY JANUARY MUSIC AT STOW JAZZ Brubecks Play Brubeck. Saturday 6 Jan, 7:30pm, £20. BLUES Paul Jones & Dave Kelly, Friday 26 Jan, 7:30pm, £25, St Edward’s Church, Stow-on-the-Wold, GL54 1AB. Free parking in Stow square after 6pm. Tickets: www.WeGotTickets.com More info at www.musicatstow.co.uk 7 JANUARY JANUARY CHELTENHAM BRIDE AND GROOM SHOW Everything you’ll need to know to prepare your special day, all under one roof at the Cheltenham Town Hall. There will be two bridal fashion shows at 12 noon and 2pm and over 70 exhibitors from venues to wedding gowns. 11am. Free admission.

Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, Cheltenham GL50 1QA . 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk 18-21 JANUARY JANUARY 18-21 ALADDIN Continue the magic of the festive season with a visit to Aladdin – a ‘rags to riches’ tale, packed with adventure and original twists and turns along the way. With a large cast of singers and dancers, lavish costumes, colourful scenery and lots of audience participation, this pantomime is not to be missed! £10 -£15. For details and tickets call Showcase on 01242 224144 or visit promenadeproductions.co.uk

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WANT W ANT TTO O SSHARE HARE Y YOUR OUR SSPORTING PORTING SSTORY TORY O ON NO OUR UR W WEBSITE? EBSITE? Please Please e email mail ffull ull d details etails tto o ssport@thelocalanswer.co.uk port@thelocalanswer.co.uk

W Will ill rretains etains h hands-on ands-on rrole ole a att CCirencester irencester Will McCarthy has moved ‘upstairs’ at Cirencester Rugby Club.

And no, the Gloucester Premier club have not built a second tier on their clubhouse at The Whiteway.

It’s just that McCarthy has taken on the role of non-playing club captain a f te r b e i n g 1 s t X V c a p t a i n fo r t h e previous two years.

“I injured myself pretty badly at the end of last season,” explained the 30 year-old. “I ruptured ankle ligaments reaching for the try-line.”

So did he score?

“No,” he laughed. “Alex Buchalik did in the next phase. It was a game against Wells and we needed to win if we were to stay up in Western Counties North, but we lost by three points.”

McCarthy will need to have an operation on his damaged ankle, but had already been considering his

Will McCarthy in his playing days

playing future before the injury.

“I’d been playing senior rugby for 14 years,” said the former back row.

“I knew the recovery was going to take a long time and that wouldn’t have been fair on the rest of the team, so I decided to stop playing.

Born B orn tto o rrun un a and nd rrun un Rob Forbes is a pretty good long distance runner. So good, in fact, that if he wins a race – he likes ultra marathons – or sets a course record it doesn’t seem to raise too many eyebrows.

But when he does something out of the ordinary then it’s certainly worth shouting about , and that ’s just what the 35-year-old Cirencester AC runner managed in the Cotswold Way Century a couple of months ago.

It was a performance that moved Cirencester AC’s excellent publicity officer Liza Darroch, a lady not given to hyperbole, to say: “His run of 17 hours 34 minutes to complete 100 m i l es of t h e Cotswold Way was of a stunning national standard a n d to o k a l m o s t t wo w h o l e h o u r s o f f t h e p re v i o u s record. This was o n l y o n e of h i s great runs this Rob Forbes year.”

“I will still be very involved with the club. I like the club, I like Deacs (Cirencester director of rugby Andy Deacon) and I wish the 1st team all the best.”

McCarthy will still watch his old team-mates play of course – the new 1st XV captain is second row James Renowden – but his new role means he can also watch the 2nd XV when they are at home.

The Whiteway is very much home for Cirencester born and bred McCarthy who started playing for the club at the age of “five or six”.

He’ss been with them pretty much ever since, although he did have a spell away.

“When I was 19 I went to live in Ireland,” he said. “My girlfriend Nicola, who is now my wife, is Irish and I lived in Ireland for three or four years.”

Full story online.

“My mum was listed for the World Equestrian Games in 1993. When she was six months’ pregnant with me she was st i l l competing internationally,” laughed Pippa, “so I was riding when I was in the womb.”

Mum is Pammy Hutton who runs the Talland School of Equitation with her husband Brian.

Pippa Hutton

Taking Taking a break break By the time this story appears in print, d re ss a g e r i d e r P i p p a H u t to n w i l l b e several weeks into a round the world trip that will take her away from Talland School of Equitation in Ampney Knowle for as long as a year.

After living and breathing horses for the first 24 years of her life, Pippa has taken a break from all things e q u e s t r i a n a n d t a k e n t i m e o u t to explore other things.

“I’m going everywhere,” she said.

“Italy, India, South America. I fancied doing something different , I’ve been involved with horses all my life.”

She certainly has… even before she was born.

A rrugby ugby v veteran… eteran…

By the age of nearly 68 most people h av e re t i re d , g i v i n g t h e m t i m e to relax, put their feet up and read The Local Answer in print or online.

Steve Yiend is almost 68, has retired and enjoys reading The Local Answer, but there is one big difference b e t w e e n h i m a n d p re t t y m u c h a l l other 67-year-olds… he is still playing rugby.

And the grandfather of two, who is w e l l k n ow n i n r u g b y c i rc l e s a r o u n d the county, is turning out week in, week out for Cheltenham Civil Service 2nds and is mixing it with friends and foe alike, some of whom are close on 50 years his junior.

For full versions of all these stories and more, visit www.thelocalanswer.co.uk

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You’ve all heard of the film ‘Three Men and a Baby’… well, how about Three Men and a Football Club?

While the former was a huge box office hit 30 years ago this year, the l a t te r r e f e r s t o a f o o t b a l l c l u b m u c h closer to home.

T h e c l u b i n q u e s t i o n a re Andoversford and the ‘three men’ at the club are Phil Hendy, Matt Brown and Richard Cerrone.

They are the driving forces behind the Cheltenham League club which were given an excellent platform in the early noughties by former chairman Kevin Mansell, who these days lives in Devon.

And while ‘Three Men and a Baby ’ was considered one of the best comedy films in the 1980s; Hendy, Brown and Cerrone are deadly serious about their aims for Andoversford.

“We are really ambitious and our goal is to get into the Northern Senior League,” said Hendy, who is club chairman and joint first-team manager with Brown.

We We feel feel w we’ve e’ve got got enough enough good good players players tto ow win in D Division ivision O One ne “To do that we have to win Division One of the Cheltenham League and we feel we’ve got enough good players to do that. Most of our players could play at a higher level.

“At the very least we want to finish second because occasionally the team finishing runners-up get promoted as well. And if we don’t win promotion this season we’ll go all out to win promotion next season.”

Ask Hendy who the key players are for Andoversford and he’ll name three.

“Ryan Cleal is a very good central midfielder,” he said. “Striker Sonnie Burrows has played at a much higher level with Cheltenham Saracens and Cheltenham Civil Service, and Luke Lonergan is a good centre-back . He’s also our captain.”

A n d H e n d y i s a l s o d e l i g h te d t h a t Jamie Ellison, who has also been with

Andoversford’ss first-team squad who won the Division Two title last season

Andoversford for many years, scored his 200th goal for the club recently.

If Andoversford’s 1st XI fail to win p r o m o t i o n t h i s t i m e a ro u n d , i t certainly won’t be through a lack of effort on the part of Hendy, Brown – who still plays as a holding midfielder – and Cerrone, who is the club’s secretary and 3rd XI manager.

They’ve put in plenty of work off the pitch to try to ensure that the dream becomes a reality, and this season the 1st XI are playing their home matches a t K i n g G e o rg e V p l ay i n g f i e l d s i n Hester ’s Way, Cheltenham, although the 2nds and 3rds continue to play in Andoversford. “ T h e 1 s t s p l ay o n t h e p i tc h t h a t S t Mark’s used to have,” said Hendy, “and we’re looking to redevelop the changing facilities. We made the m o ve b e c a u s e o f t h e p i tc h a t Andoversford.

“It’s on a slope and very narrow and even though we won Division Two last season we found it didn’t really suit our style of football. We did better away from home on better pitches.

“The long-term aim is to try to find

some land and be based in Andoversford, but for now we’re putting everything in place to try and win promotion, although we know it’s going to be tough.”

It certainly is with teams like Cheltenham Civil Service around but Hendy, who was 3rd XI manager for three seasons and took over as chairman from Brown – who was also in sole charge of the 1st XI last term – is upbeat.

We We know know iit’s t’s ssomething omething that that w we e ccan an a achieve chieve “We’ve come close before,” he said.

“We finished third in Division One once so we know it’s something that we can achieve.”

And if they do go up, don’t be surprised if the little village just five miles outside Cheltenham gets out the red carpet for Andoversford’s three main men, just like Hollywood’s high and mighty did for the stars of ‘Three Men and a Baby’ all those years ago.

Messrs Hendy, Brown and Cerrone can decide between themselves who is Tom Selleck!

FFor or ffull ull aarticles rticles & m more ore sstories: tories: w www.thelocalanswer.co.uk ww.thelocalanswer.co.uk

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ASCIA BOARD TS S ROOFING & F ROOFING FASCIA BOARD SPECIALISTS SPECIALIST Serving Gloucestershire and beyond ◆ New New R Roofs oofs ◆ New New Builds Builds ◆ S Slate, late, C Chimney himney a and nd T Tile ile R Repair epair ◆ New New Valleys Valleys ◆ F Felt elt and and Battening Battening ◆ L Lead ead Work Work ◆ L Leak eak R Repairs epairs ◆F Fibreglass ibreglass Roofing Roofing ◆ F Felt elt R Roofing oofing

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IIn nT The he Garden Garden with w ith JJulia ulia Smith Smith

Dress Dress yyour our h house ouse w ith g arden g with garden gifts ifts Poinsettias are on sale everywhere t h i s m o n t h . T h ey o r i g i n a te f r o m Mexico and like warm, dry, draughtfree conditions. They are better b o u g h t f ro m s o m e w h e re i n d o o r s like a garden centre, as standing on a cold market stall outside will do them no good at all. They are very difficult to bring through to next Christmas and need strange conditions such as being kept in the dark for a time and brought into the light for another spell. I believe life i s t o o s h o r t , s o I wo u l d s a y e n j oy them now and send them to the big compost heap in the sky in the new year!

Hang Hang h home-made ome-made w wreaths reaths iin np prominent rominent p places laces It is all too easy to forget the garden at this busy time of year, but it can be dressed up for the festive season by putting outdoor fairy l i g h t s i n t re e s, w h i c h c a n b e s e e n from the house, and hanging homeThe Local Answer

made wreaths in prominent places.

Don’t forget the birds either by tying up a tasty fat ball or seed feeder.

A Add dd h height eight tto o fflowering lowering d displays isplays Dress the house with stems from the garden – use the bare twisted branches of corkscrew hazel or willow for a vase. Use the red or yellow stems of Cornus ( d o g w o o d ) o r S a l i x ( w i l l ow ) , which can be used inside or a l te r n a t i ve l y p u s h e d i n to p o t s outside, to add height to flowering d i s p l ay s . T h e R H S d o t h i s i n t h e i r gardens and it looks very effective.

The long rope like stems of clematis can be used to fashion a front door wreath, and you can use florists w i re t o a d d a n y s p r i g s o f h o l l y o r other things like dried Hydrangea heads, cones, etc. Add a tartan bow and there you have it!

Now, Christmas trees.

I h a v e t o s ay t h a t n ot h i n g c a n t a k e t h e place of a real tree in my o p i n i o n . S o m e of the more expensive ‘ d ro p re s i s t a n t ’ t re e s, such as the Korean fir, don’t have the real Christmassy smell! The Fraser fir tree (Abies Fraser) has the right smell and doesn’t shed its needles, but you do have to pay a premium compared to the old traditional Norway spruce. Whatever tree you buy, if it has a cut end it wil l need

watering every day. Saw off the bottom few inches when you get it home as you would with cut flowers and put the base in a container of water.

H a p py C h r i s t m a s gardening to you all!

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D esigners and and m akers of of qquality uality furniture Designers makers furniture aand nd bbespoke espoke jjoinery oinery

Freestanding Furniture Freestanding Furniture • Fitted Fitted Furniture Furniture Doors Gates Windows Bespoke D oors & G ates • W indows • B espoke JJoinery oinery

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U Unit nit 114C, 4C, C Cirencester irencester Business Business Estate, Estate, Love Love Lane, Lanne, Cirencester Cirencester GL7 GL7 1YG 1Y G

iinfo@chiselworks.co.uk nfo@chiselworks.co.uk ~ www.chiselworks.co.uk www.chiselworks.co.uk Page 22

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BellBlinds Bella’s a’s IInterio nterrs ioors rs Blinds & Shutttteers Where Where q quality uality and and customer customer ssatisfaction atisfaction count count ALL A LL T TYPES YPES OF OF B BLINDS LINDS MADE MADE TO TO M MEASURE EASURE • ROLLER ROLLER • VERTICAL VERTICA AL • P PLEATED LEATED • S SHUTTERS HUTTERS •V VENETIAN ENETIAN • W WOODSLAT OODSL AT • C CANOPIES ANOPIES • R ROMAN OMAN •P PINOLEUM INOLEUM • A AWNINGS WNINGS • C CURTAINS URTAINS

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Landlords’ Gas Safety Certificates Landlords’ G as S afety C ertificates Central Heating Central H eating • Bathrooms Bathrooms Boiler Replacements, Servicing Repairs Boiler R eplacements, S ervicing & R epairs Underfloor Heating Flushing Underfloor H eating • Power Po w e r F lushing

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mike@bellasinteriors.co.uk www.bellasinteriors.co.uk Unit 1, Lansdown Ind Est, Cheltenham GL51 8PL

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tt:: 0 01242 124 2 8 870519 70 5 1 9 m:: 0 m 07803 7 803 6 696981 96 9 8 1 iinfo@mcnsolutions.co.uk nfo@mcnsolutions.co.uk

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HATHERLEY ATHERLEY WORKTOPS WORKTOPS LLTD TD HW YH our local worktop and kitchen specialists I

Covering the Cotswolds and all surrounding areas

G Granite ranite I C Composite omposite I Q Quartzstone uartzstone I W Wood ood I C Corian orian I W Worktop orktop R Refits efits

Cheltenham Cheltenham based based Q Quartz uartz & Granite Granite FFactory actory with with Display Display Area Area Tel: T el: 01242 01242 5 523398 23398 | 0 01452 1452 2 290458 90458 | 0 07970 7970 1 190965 90965

www.hatherleyworktops.co.uk w ww.hatherleyworktops.co.uk 1 18, 8, 1 19 9&2 20 0 Malmesbury Malmesbury R Road oad | Kingsditch Kingsditch Trading Trading E Estate state | C Cheltenham heltenham G GL51 L51 9 9PL PL

am-1pm & 2 -5pm M onday-Thursday Opening O pening H Hours: ours: 9 9am-1pm 2-5pm Monday-Thursday 9am-2pm 9am-1pm Saturday 9am-2pm Friday Friday 9 am-1pm S aturday The Local Answer

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QUALITY Q UALITY KITCHEN K ITCHEN FACELIFTS F ACELIFTS

F For or a b beautiful eautiful new new k kitchen itchen ... ... jjust ust change c hange the the d doors oors

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**18 18 H High igh S Street, treet, Stonehouse, Stonehouse, G Gloucestershire loucestershire GL10 GL10 2NA 2NA

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Interior Interior Design Design w with ith JJade ade W Wilce ilce

Christmas Christmas ddecorating ecorating ttrends rends you should should embrace embrace tthis his yyear ear you Whilst decorating in traditional red, green, silver and gold will always be a firm favourite at Christmas, every year sees new and emerging festive trends that influence how we get our homes ready for the season.

and metallic elements, it can make nature sing! You will also spot in a lot of shops this year the Nisse.

These are tiny barn elves with long hair and pointed hats and they make up lots of festive folklore stories in Scandi countries. It seems we have t a k e n t h e s e l i t t l e e l v e s i n to o u r festivities too.

Ad different ifferent ttree ree This is the one you will be seeing a lot of! This year sees us stepping away from the traditional tree and being a bit quirky yet considered with our Christmas trees. People are sticking with the festive tradition of a tree but using it in ways that work for the home and space you have – the tree is still the centrepiece, but there comes more creativity with it.

For those that are short on space, use a Christmas tree wall hanging t a p e s t r y a n d s o r t y o u r p re ss i e s underneath in crates decorated with holly, ivy and baubles, or if you want to still have a tree, treat yourself to a pre-lit wall hanging half tree and pile

Ak kitsch itsch CChristmas hristmas

the presents underneath. A favourite way has to be grouping bottle brush trees together in multi colours, full of glitter, in unusual places like side t a b l e s, s i d e b o a rd s o r a s a centrepiece on your Christmas dining table.

A SScandinavian candinavian CChristmas hristmas The British have really embraced our Scandinavian cousins and their traditions – just think how hygge has become part of our vocabulary.

Traditionally, Scandinavian countries celebrate on Christmas Eve and I’m n o t s u r e we w i l l b e a d o p t i n g t h a t , but we are using a lot more wood, texture and natural elements to our Christmas décor schemes now.

Collect pine cones and bring them i n to t h e h o m e o r t a k e yo u r gardening gloves with you on a cold, crisp walk and snip off some ivy or snowberries and add style in vases.

Adding natural elements to a Christmas scheme makes it feel very Scandinavian! Paired with clean white, our love of traditional colours The Local Answer

Tinsel is back in a big way this year.

For some, I appreciate that it never went away, but over the top tree decoration is back! Not keen on t i n s e l ? H ow a b o u t a c a c t u s , pineapple, unicorn, llama or a velvet re i n d e e r w i t h g l i t t e r y a n t l e r s ? T h i s year, bright and multi-coloured ornaments alongside pom-pom garlands, glittery baubles and tinsel t r e e s a re b r i n g i n g t h e k i t s c h Christmas décor scheme together!

Whatever your Christmas décor style, it really doesn’t matter! Just make sure you have a great time decorating your homes and enjoying the festivities with family and loved ones. See you all in the New Year!

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Page 25

Gadgets G adgets & G Gizmos izmos with with Laura Laura N Nicklin icklin

SSanta’s anta’s ssack ack of of gadgets gadgets As another year comes to an end and the Christmas decorations start appearing in the shops, you’ll be in need of some inventive gift ideas (this means no more socks). This December, try out some of the latest g a d g e t s t h a t wo u l d f i t p e r f e c t l y under your Christmas tree and also add some flare to your home.

P Popcorn opcorn M Maker aker As the TV schedules become filled up with Christmas movies from ‘What A Wonderful Life’ to ‘Love, Actually ’, what better way to enjoy being a couch potato than with some homemade popcorn? ’Tis the season to stay indoors and get comfy, so you might as well treat yourself. Warm yourself up with the perfect movie snack thanks to this £29.99 850 -watt hot air blower. With no oil needed, it’s not only good comfort food, but also guilt-free.

A Attache ttache R Record ecord Player Player Whether or not you love or hate C h r i s t m a s s o n g s , by m i d November they’ll be blasting out of all the radio stations, so you might as well get used to them.

However, if you’d rather enjoy s o m e t h i n g t h a t s h o w s yo u r appreciation for vinyl and creates t h a t fe e l i n g o f n o s t a l g i a i n your home, the Attache Record Player fits the bill.

N ot only is it aesthetically-pleasing, but at £89.99 this record p l a ye r i s t h e p e r f e c t combination of classic vinyl and modern technology. It’s even got a splash of red to give it that festive feeling!

The portable turntable comes with a s n a z z y v i n t a g e - s t y l e wo o d e n b r i e fc a s e to m a k e yo u l o o k m o re dapper as you carry it about. Inside is the perfectly protected vinyl player, complete with built-in twin speakers.

With its stylish exterior and super-cool interior, this product won’t bore you like a broken record, but will let yo u e n j o y t h e f e s t i v i t i e s w h i l e yo u s i p o n s o m e mulled wine.

A handy gadget to have at home, this drinks dispenser is leak-proof, free-standing and revolving, making it ideal for your own personal bar. If you want to be the host with the most, then this gizmo will give that little extra style when it comes to dishing out the drinks to your merry party.

FFour our B Bottle ottle B Bar ar Optic Optic D Drinks rinks D Dispenser ispenser As an added bonus, its cute retro style will make a nice kitchen addition whilst also having that oldfashioned classic cinema vibe.

Depending on whether you want to give it away as a Christmas present or keep it as a present for yourself (no one needs to know), the handy little gadget is an affordable gift that does what it says on the tin. It also comes with a removable dish.

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Comfort food? Check . Music?

Check . Now all that ’s needed is a helping hand to d i s h o u t t h e d r i n ks t o y o u r guests come Christmas Day – and if you’re the one d o i n g t h e h o s t i n g , yo u ’ l l probably be the one most in need of a drink . At £29.99, the Four Bottle Bar Optic Drinks Dispenser – try saying that five times fast – will help get things really merry.

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Page 27

Specialists Specialists in in bathroom bathroom safety safety

We can help you with any bathroom makeover, large or small, but have particular expertise when designing rooms for customers with mobility issues.

Before B efore

A After fter With 30+ years of experience in the bathroom industry, and only offering well known brands, we can help you to achieve the bathroom you have always wanted. We work with friendly, polite bathroom fitters who are able to produce a high standard of finish. We offer the full bathroom service and can supply everything you will need to complete the job, including tiles, wallboards and accessories.

S Save ave 2 20% 0%

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07496 0 057281 57281 or 0 014 14 453 53 8 884167 84167 Contact Rex on 07496 for a free home visit to discuss your needs

rex@lifestylebathrooms.net

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Save S ave t the he P Planet lanet with w ith L Lily ily C Curle urle

Our O ur plastic plastic p planet lanet A s m u c h a s we m ay n o t l i k e i t , plastic takes a central role in all of o u r l i ve s . U s e d i n fo o d p a c k a g i n g , b a g s, to y s a n d ev e n c l o t h e s, t h e material is at the forefront of manmade materials. However, it also has a dark side: it’s incredibly difficult to decompose and takes up large amounts of room in landfill sites, and its creation does harm to the environment by releasing CO2.

What’s W hat’s tthe he iissue? ssue?

W h e n i n l a n d f i l l , t h e r e a re m a n y m i c r o o rg a n i s m s t h a t c a n s p e e d u p the breakdown of plastic, however this process releases harmful methane into the air that contributes to the greenhouse gas effect. This is a l s o t h e c a s e w h e n p l a s t i c s a re incinerated to prevent them taking u p ro o m i n l a n d f i l l . N e ve r t h e l e s s, p l a s t i c s a r e ev e n m o r e h a r m f u l when not disposed of correctly, such as being dumped into the ocean f r o m c a r g o s h i p s t o p re ve n t i t remaining on land.

The effects of this upon wildlife can be devastating, as animals such as sea turtles frequently mistake plastic b a g s fo r j e l l y f i s h , i n g e s t i n g t h e m , clogging their throats and ultimately killing them. This is also the case for

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animals that do not permanently live in the sea: seabirds were found to have an average of thirty pieces of p l a s t i c i n t h e i r s to m a c h s , w h i c h cause ulcers and infections.

B e c a u s e p l a s t i c p ro d u c t s d o n o t decompose quickly, they can release harmful chemicals into the land and sea around them. It is estimated that it would take a plastic cup fifty years to decompose, and a plastic drink bottle around 400 years. Some researchers believe that by 2050 there may be more plastic than fish in the oceans for these reasons.

H How ow ccan an I h help? elp?

The simplest way to lower the amount of plastic created and disposed of is to recycle as much as you can. This means that more does not have to be created, as it can be m e l t e d a n d t h e n r e f o r m e d i n to a d i f f e re n t p r o d u c t w i t h a d i f fe r e n t use.

Making little swaps in your daily l i fe can also h av e huge environmental benefits: buy a metal water bottle and reuse it (or at least re c yc l e a l l t h e p l a s t i c o n e s yo u d o use), avoid using plastic straws, including at restaurants, and use canvas bags instead of plastic ones when going to the supermarket, as b a g s f o r l i fe a re j u s t a s b a d a s t h e conventional plastic ones. Reuse tupperware, such as plastic takeaway boxes, instead of throwing them away, and try to buy food in cardboard boxes instead of plastic ones. Altogether, you’ll save money and you’ll help the environment.

No doubt you’ll be buying presents fo r l o ve d o n e s t h i s C h r i s t m a s, s o please do your best to recycle as much packaging and waste as possible, and avoid gimmick gifts that will only end up in landfill.

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WORD WORD SEARCH SEARCH H G W D C J E U S Q E S P M O W R P B G X I A Q

O Z N C U E T Z H K E Y C G T D Y E G T B V D E

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Winter W inter BOOTS CHILLY COAT COLD CUDDLE FIREPLACE FREEZING FROST GLOVES

HAT HIBERNATE HOT CHOCOLATE ICE SKATING JACKET JUMPER PENGUIN POLAR BEAR SCARF

SHOVEL SKIING SLED SNOW TOBOGGAN WHITE WINTER

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Waa nt to W t o hear h e a r mo m o re fro f ro m fr ca l Answe A n swer er ?

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SSend end yyour our nname ame aand nd eemail mail aaddress ddress ttoo llois@thelocalanswer.co.uk ois@thelocalanswer.co.uk aand nd we’ll we’ll aadd dd yyou ou to to oour ur mailing mailing llist! ist!

Don’t Don’t llook ook u until ntil yyou’ve ou’ve finished! finished! SSolutions olutions oonn ‘‘Index Index ooff AAdvertisers’ dvertisers’ ppage. age.

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The Local Answer

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© Lovatts Puzzles

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Page 32

ACROSS DOWN 1 Arctic (region) 1 Benefactor 7 Exonerated 2 Line of rotation 8 Leg bone 3 Gifted 10 Improve efficiency of 4 Weaving machines 12 Proximity 5 Evasion 14 Ewe’s young 6 Verb modifier 16 Dock 9 Make amends 11 Medical support 17 Clearly expressed worker 20 Trees retaining foliage 13 Gender 23 Rescued 15 Tribal groups 24 More slender 16 Nauseated 25 Giant monsters 18 Barters 19 Spy, secret ...

21 Optic organs 22 Performed in opera

01242

ANSWER 510500

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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.

Money Money M Matters atters with with Roger Roger D Downes ownes o of fA Andorran ndorr ran

IInterest nterest R Rates ates Well we can’t say we weren’t warned, can we? The Bank of England raised base rate from its all time low of 0.25% to 0.5% in November – the first rise since July 2007 – in a move that had been widely predicted for many months.

It set Money Matters thinking back to July 2007 and what was happening in the world the last time we saw such an event.

Quite a lot was going on actually. Smoking was banned in public places in England for the first time. Apple had just launched its iPhone – yes that was only ten years ago a n d I wo n d e r h ow m a n y t r i l l i o n s o f d o l l a r s h a ve b e e n banked by Apple since, and how much tax they paid on those dollars of course. Venus Williams and Roger Federer both appeared in their respective Wimbledon finals as they did this year – OK , so some things never change!

Enough of reminiscing. What does the change in base rate mean for the man in the street and those of us trying to run a business? Easy I hear you say – more expensive to borrow but better return on our savings. You would think so, wouldn’t you? But that relies on our banks playing fair by everyone and that’s where the problems start.

P Passing assing o on n tthe he ffull ull ccost ost o off tthe he rrise ise tto o aanyone nyone tthat hat w was as b borrowing orrowing money money

Don’t look until you’ve finished!

Solutions on ‘Index of Advertisers’ page.

THE SOLUTION FOR YOUR NEW BATHROOM ...

Your local family business

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Within 24 hours of the Bank of England’s announcement, every single bank in the country had announced that it was passing on the full cost of the rise to anyone that was borrowing money. Immediately (actually some of them o n l y i m p l e m e n te d i t w i t h e f fe c t f r o m t h e s t a r t o f December) our mortgages and bank overdrafts became more expensive. It shouldn’t hurt too much unless this rise is the first of many and this becomes a trend, in which case borrowing will become more expensive to the extent that many younger borrowers will never have seen rates at the levels they could become.

The immediate issue, however, is for savers. As quick as t h e b a n k s w e r e t o c h a r g e u s m o r e f o r o u r b o r ro w i n g s , they have been noticeably slow in passing the benefit on to savers. In fact at the time of writing this article, none o f t h e m h a d . W h a t e ve r “ b u s i n e ss c a s e ” t h e y m a y p u t forward for not doing so, their behaviour is outrageous, yet not surprising. Those of us who can remember back to the events of July 2007 will know that they did the same thing then.

For those of you who are borrowing – keep an eye on what happens over the next few months of Bank of England meetings, which take place on the first Thursday of every month, and keep your borrowing agreements under regular review. For those of you with savings, live in hope that one day the banks will see fit to play fair.

To all of you, a very Merry Christmas!

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IIndex ndex o of fA Advertisers dvertisers FFOOD OOD & D DRINK RINK

BUILDING BUILDING SSERVICES ERVICES 20 Jesse Smith Farm Shop 4 Marshalls Driveways 20 The Garden Cafe at Miserden 5 Property Creations 20 The Old Rectory 5 R. Richards & Son Resindrives.co.uk 36 W WHAT’S HAT’S O ON N GARDEN SERVICES SERVICES GARDEN CCLUBS LUBS & SSPORTS PORTS Shipton Golf Course 15 Oaksview Tree & Garden 20 FURNISHING & A PPLIANCES FURNISHING APPLIANCES EEVENTS VENTS & A ATTRACTIONS TTRACTIONS B e l l a ’ s I n t e r i o r s 23 Burley Field Lakes Farm Shop 16 Chiselworks 22 P PROPERTY ROPERTY Dream Doors 24 Bovis Homes 11 Gloucester Carpet Outlet 26 Norton Park 10 H HANDYMAN ANDYMAN SSERVICES ERVICES Handy Hero for Hire 17 H HOMES OMES & G GARDENS ARDENS BATHROOMS B ATHROOMS HEATING HEATING & PPLUMBING LUMBING Lifestyle Bathrooms 28 Inceil 32 Severn Vale Bathrooms 33 MCN Plumbing & Heating 23

Sarsen Energy Seasoned Hardwood Logs KKITCHENS ITCHENS Dream Doors Hatherley Worktops W INDOWS & D OORS WINDOWS DOORS Albany Windows

20 INTRODUCTION INTRODUCTION AGENCIES AGENCIES 17 23 Caroline Crowther SKIP SKIP HIRE HIRE & RECYCLING RECYCLING 34 24 Stevens Recycling 23

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P PROFESSIONAL ROFESSIONAL SSERVICES ERVICES CCARE ARE SSERVICES ERVICES Barnwood Trust 35 Diva Care 2 Samaritans 15 The Orders of St John 8 & 12 EDUCATION EDUCATION & TTRAINING RAINING Dean Close Services 6

To advertise advertise To telephone: telephone:

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CCOMPETITION OMPETITION WINNERS W INNERS

S

O Z N C U E T Z H K E Y C G T D Y E G T B V D E

T G Z I L J I O O G X U S A X M T T A U O K N A

C J G D Z H H V V G X D L E R A F L B W O B Y O

H G D Q E E W P E X B B E Z N F S N N Y T W A G

O U X L F B E K L W D F D R W Y D N H B S J I M

C C N S D P A R I M L G E H S K E Y V B U J K K

O O T F R O S T F G J B G N I I K S D S X Q I G

L T U A H S U Q I X I K O L S Y Q A X T Q H C R

A M B D E E O O C H T D W S E E K O K Q B Z A Z

T J Y J Z V M H P Z Z B R F G V S M T O Z Q H B

E A Z A P O I T X Z K K U R F D X D V X U C X E

I C O C Q L U F W N J I N T T X K J T J A F L D

R C C C L G W W S A I F W C E H O Q K P W H A T

A Q E Y F S O I V E U F L B C K X Z J O V J E U

E S O S X P L C N B N K P J Q Y C W D F T E L Y

B N J C K S W Q O T Q J E X B P P A O R Z N S H

R G A C H A P G D S E E H M N B T Z J F A B A Z

A J B C S E T S K Q D R O X N A G G O B O T H S

L Z P C N R Y I J G X L H B C C G C B I N W N U

O O F G S W L X N H X O D N C V X F Q K H O R N

P O U J S I V L C G M N J O B J S M A Q W W U C

T I F I R E P L A C E H L R Y T J G C R X J Y O

N Y X G I H N N J U S D L F U H Y J U M P E R G

COMPETITION COMPETITION R RULES ULES

1 Prizes are as stated and no cash or prize alternative will be offered. 2 Employees of The Local Answer and Thank you to all who took part their families or households are not eligible to enter. in our November 2017 3 The first correct entry drawn at random after the closing date will win the prize as stated. 4 The competition and winner will be notified by telephone after the closing congratulations to the winner! date has passed. 5 The Editor’s decision is final and Burley Field Fireworks – John no correspondence will be entered into. 6 Entrants Baldwyn of Moreton-in-Marsh. 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 BOOKING D DEADLINE EADLINE FOR FOR NEXT NEXT ISSUE ISSUE – F Friday riday 8 8th th D December ecember 2 2017 017

STEVE

ATTENTION A TTENTION! Let us lighten your load!

Domestic and Industrial Skips Ham Villa Road, Charlton Kings, Cheltenham GL52 6NB

01242 522647/529397 stevensrecycling584@gmail.com

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