The Local
ANSWER
DECEMBER 2017
200,000 DELIVERED MONTHLY IN GLOUCESTERSHIRE
for local people
FOREST OF DEAN MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL!
The The Lo Local c al
AN ANSWER SWER FForest orest ooff D ean – 222,000 2,000 ccopies opies Dean G loucester – 446,000 6,000 ccopies opies Gloucester G loucestershire SSouth outh – 441,000 1,000 ccopies opies Gloucestershire Gloucestershire N orth – 220,000 0,000 ccopies opies Gloucestershire North Cheltenham – 43,000 43,000 ccopies opies Cheltenham Cotswolds – 228,000 8,000 ccopies opies Cotswolds
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 R Roger oger JJackson ackson
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!
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D Distributors istributors Required Required T h e Loc Lo c al al To join our waiting The AN A NS SW WE ER R list for the Forest of Dean If you’d 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.
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
FOREST OF FOREST OF DEAN DEAN MERRY CHRISTMAS MERRY CHRISTMAS AND AND A HAPPY HAPPY NEW NEW YEAR YEAR TO TO ALL! ALL!
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D Delicious elicious D Dish ish with w ith Helen Helen Kingscott Kingscott
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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.
Burley Burley FFields ields Lakes Lakes Farm Farm Shop Shop Leckhampton Leckhampton Lane Lane • Cheltenham Cheltenham • GL51 GL51 4XT 4XT • 01242 01242 861333 861333 / 07914 07914 940557 940557
GGET ET READY READY FOR FOR CCHRISTMAS HRISTMAS
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PPLACE LACE YYOUR OUR ORDER ORDER NOW! N FFREE REE PPack ack ooff Sausagemeat Sausagemeat with w ith orders orders over over £50 £50 on o n presentation presentation of of this this advert advert
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OPEN OPEN D DAILY AILY 10am 10am till till late late for fo r
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FRESH CUT NORWAY SPRUCE FROM JUST £10
FFANTASTIC ANTASTIC VALUE! VALUE! N Non-needle on-needle drop drop
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• Big Big selection selection of of Norway Norway Blue SSpruce, pruce, B lue Spruce, Spruce, Fraser Fraser FFir ir & Non-Needle Non-Needle Drop Drop Nordmann N ordmann Fir Fir Trees Trees Wreaths Hand-crafted •H and-crafted Wreaths • Holly Holly & Mistletoe Mistletoe • Tree Tree SStands tands • Seasonal Seasonal Pot Pot Plants Plants Tree Wrapping •T ree W rapping Service Service • Reservation Reservation System System ((choose choose early, early, collect collect later) later)
27th November November – Christmas Christmas Wreath Wreath Workshop Workshop 27th 9 th aand nd 1 0th December December – Festive Festive W eekend 9th 10th Weekend P lease check check website website for fo or further further details details and and opening opening times times Please
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01285 821638 821638 w ww.miserdennursery.co.uk Tel: T el: 01285 www.miserdennursery.co.uk Email: info@miserdennursery.co.uk info@miserdennursery.co.uk Email: M iserden, Stroud, Stroud, G loucestershire G L6 7JA 7JA Miserden, Gloucestershire GL6
BOOK BOOK NOW NOW FOR FOR CHRISTMAS! CHRISTMAS!
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AT T H E O L D B E L L - TWO B BA A R S , L O U N G E & R E S TAU TA U R A N T
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*Offer *Offer applies applies to to days days shown shown above above during during December December 2017. 2017. 175ml 17 5ml g glass. lass. P Pre-orders re-orders w welcome. elcome. T This his a advert dvert tto ob be eh handed anded iin n tto o redeem redeem o offer. ffer. C Cannot annot b bee used used in in conjunction conjunction with with any any other other offer. offer.
O Opening pening h hours: ours: M Monday-Thursday o n d a y - Th u r s d a y 1 11am-3pm 1am-3pm & 5 5pm-Midnight p m - M i d n i g h t • FFriday r i d ay & SSaturday a t u r d ay 1 11am-1am 1 a m - 1 a m • Sunday S u n d ay 11am-5pm 11am-5pm 99aa SSouthgate o u t h g a t e SStreet, treet, G Gloucester loucester G GL1 L 1 1TG 1 T G (Above (Above Costa Costa Coffee) Coffee) Reservations Reservations 001452 1452 332993 332993 www.theoldbell-tigerseye.co.uk w w w. t h e o l d b e l l - t i g e r s eye . c o . u k
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Wildlife W ildlife M Matters atters with with Caroline Caroline Shelley Shelley
Plants ssurrounded Plants urrounded by by myth myth aand nd ttradition radition Beautiful. According to the legend Balder, who was the son of the G o d d e ss Fr i g g , h a d a premonition of his own death. Horrified by this F r i g g we n t t o a l l t h e animals and the plants of the world and made t h e m p ro m i s e t h ey wo u l d n o t h a r m h i m . She failed to secure an o at h f ro m the mistletoe however, as she could not imagine how it could possibly harm her beloved son. The God Loki was jealous of Balder and fo u n d o u t a b o u t t h e mistletoe. He fashioned an arrow from the plant and used it to secure Balder’s demise. One version of the story tells how, overcome with grief, Frigg planted the mistletoe high up TThe he ttale ale o off B Balder alder tthe he in a tree so it could harm no-one B Bright right a and nd B Beautiful eautiful again. Another version tells how the Mistletoe has been considered an Gods resurrected Balder, and Frigg important plant for thousands of was so delighted she declared the years. One tale in Norse mythology mistletoe a symbol of love. tells the tale of Balder Glossy G lossy g green reen lleaves eaves and and the Bright and
December is upon us. The year s e e m s t o h a ve f l ow n by a n d h e r e we are on the countdown to the 25th – although my children started that in January! December is a month steeped in tradition and w i l d l i fe p l ay s i t s p a r t , e s p e c i a l l y some of our plants. O n e o f t h e p l a n t s sy n o n y m o u s with Christmas has to be mistletoe, which we use to decorate our homes and, according to tradition, kiss underneath. Mistletoe is an interesting plant as it is a parasite which means it cannot survive independently. Instead, it attaches to a host tree or shrub and penetrates its branches so that it can absorb water and nutrients from that plant. Most mistletoe seeds are spread by birds that eat the berries. The seeds get stuck to the bird’s beak and are then wiped off on a new tree or can be excreted in droppings.
bright b right rred ed b berries erries
Another key plant at Christmas is of course holly. With its glossy green leaves and bright red berries it is the perfect colour combination for Christmas, but its associations with Christmas, as with mistletoe, stem way back into history. The use of holly as decoration dates back as far as Roman times when a feast was held at this time of year to honour their god of Saturn. Holly was used to decorate temples, along with other evergreens. The Local Answer
T h e D r u i d s b e l i e ve d h o l l y to b e sacred due to the fact it remained green all through winter whilst other plants died away. Today holly is considered symbolic of Jesus Christ, a s t h e t h o r n s r e p r e s e n t t h e c ro w n that Jesus was made to wear on the cross and the berries the red of his blood.
Ak key ey p part art o off o our ur modern ffestivities modern estivities S o b o t h m i s t l e t o e a n d h o l l y a re p l a n t s s u r r o u n d e d by m y t h a n d tradition that go back thousands of years. These are just a few tales a m o n g s t m a n y t h a t s u r ro u n d t h e two plants and that have led them to becoming a key part of our modern festivities. So if you pucker up under the mistletoe this year or deck the halls with boughs of holly, g i ve a t h o u g h t to t h e l o n g a n d complex history that has brought t h e s e p l a n t s i n to y o u r h o m e t h i s Christmas.
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P Planning lanning the the perfect perfect Christmas Christmas present present Holiday expert, Joe Joe Teixeira Teixeira H oliday inspiration inspiration from from Norad Norad Travel’s Travel’s award-winning award-winning expert,
Do you get into the Christmas spirit or think it’s all bah! humbug! It’s hard to avoid the festivities at this time of year; and travel is no exception. Source the perfect present at traditional German and Italian Christmas markets or head to Denmark, Prague or Riga for s o m e i n s p i ra t i o n . New York is another great choice for a Christmas shopping experience or for grabbing a bargain in the sales. Take the guesswork out of a white C hr i stmas and head nor th. Santa tr i p s in Lapland are perfect for families with activities such as reindeer safaris to keep the kids entertained, but grown-ups can have fun too with a range of snow adventures in Iceland, Sweden and Finland. Or head further north to the Svalbard archipelago f o r a n u n f o rg e t t a b l e polar bear safari. Seek out warmer climes with a family break in the Canaries or Dubai. Xmas 2017 all wrapped up? Plan for
Let N orad TTravel’s ravel’s Let Norad Joe TTeixeira eixeira and and Joe his team team ccraft raft his your perfect perfect your getaway getaway ALL T YPES ALL TYPES O FH OLIDAYS OF HOLIDAYS P op in in or or telephone telephone Pop ffor or aan n appointment appointment
a 2018 Christmas with a difference now and unveil it as a present this year.
B Bring ring in in the the New New Year Year somewhere s omewhere n new ew
Sparkle in New York, Las Vegas or Chicago as the bells chime midnight. Fiesta in Sydney or Cape Town without the winter woollies. world-class Experience entertainment on board a cruise or relax on an idyllic island in the Caribbean, Maldives or Thailand.
Whatever W hatever y your our plans, plans, I wish wish you Merry you all all a Merry Christmas C hristmas and and Happy Happy New New Year. Year.
IIndependent ndependent a and nd iinfluential nfluential ffor or over o ver 35 35 years years
Norad Travel will always recommend holidays to suit you. We are bonded with ABTA and ATOL for your peace of mind. Call our team on 01452 260188 to plan your perfect holiday.
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01452 01452 260188 260188
M Mon-Fri on-Fri 9-5.30 9-5.30 & Sat Sat 9-5 9-5
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3 Westgate Westgate Retail Retail Park, Park, Westgate House, House, Westgate The The Island, Island, Gloucester Gloucester GL1 GL1 2RU 2RU glos@noradtravelgroup.com glos@noradtravelgroup.com
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LLübeck’s übeck’s CChristmas hristmas llights ights Another year ’s end approaches and thoughts turn to last-minute seasonal destinations, including Germany ’s Christmas markets. Our favourite is Lübeck , with its seven Weihnachtsmärkte between late November and 30th December.
Fairytale Fairytale Germanic Germanic atmosphere atmosphere Whether for family fun or romantic escapes, Lübeck’s UNESCO World Heritage Site delivers a genuine fairytale atmosphere plus superb shopping and dining. Once upon a time, Ryanair flew direct to the Hanseatic port city.. Alas, no H a m b u rg more, but with Fuhlsbüttel airport only 90 minutes away, Lübeck remains easily accessible. Medieval Lübeck ’s cityscape is defined by the River Trave surrounding the city ’s heart , the bridges and ancient city gates with quintessentially Germanic red-roofs. Fro m t h e m a i n H o l s te n t o r to t h e Marienkirche and Buddenbrookhaus, history, culture and romance are ingrained in this eminently walkable destination that ’s known as ‘the Baltic’s Venice’. Even WWII bombing couldn’t obliterate every
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historical vestige, so Lübeck retains and cafés scattered around like myriad delights – including the December ’s snowflakes. Marienkirche’s poignantly fallen and Dress warmly because cold winds partially-melted bells. blow off the Baltic – another reason ein. Snow ’s a Sizzling Sizzling w wurst urst a and nd sspiced piced troeaclopsyo-suspiboilviteyr tgolüo,hw and a suitably spit-roast spit-roast h ham am romantic backdrop to the seasonal Accommodation is plentiful and lights. good. We love stylish family-run New New Y Year’s ear’s EEve ve is is a H o t e l L i n d e n h o f j u s t we s t o f highpoint highpoint Holstentor, or try the Trave-side New Year ’s Eve – Silvester – is a R a d i s s o n B l u S e n a t o r o r R i n g h o te l Jensen. Settle in, then explore on highpoint in Lübeck ’s year. All fo o t and s ample seasonal evening , the streets are deathly specialities such as sizzling quiet while Lübeckers celebrate weisswurst , spit-roasted spiced indoors. Then, just before midnight, ham in warm crusty the streets fill with people – many bread, delicious toting firework-packed rucksacks. The footbridge across the Trave at gingerbread and Beckergrube is a favourite place to m a r z i p a n g o o d i es – celebrate and the water may even L ü b e c k i s h o m e to be frozen. When the New Year this love-it-or-hate-it a r r i ve s a n d a f u r y o f f i re w o r k s i s confection! released, you’ll be glad you For more formality, ventured out and joined in. t r y S c h i f fe r g e s e l l Lübeck offers all the romance and schaft, Café Erdapfel, seasonal atmosphere you could Taste or Brauberger want; accommodation and dining zu Lübeck for are excellent; and it’s conveniently German culinary close to big-city Hamburg. But that’s authenticity. Or a for another time. For now, Lübeck multitude of inter- calls! If you’re quick , you could still national restaurants see-in 2018 there!
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SAINTBRIDGE AINTBRIDGE HOUSE OUSE NURSING NURSING & RESIDENTIAL RESIDENTIAL H HOME OME
01452 01452 300307 300307
Offering single en-suite bedrooms for up to 36 residents Tastefully decorated and homely Lovely patio and landscaped lawn area for residents to enjoy in the warmer weather ● Dedicated, caring and hardworking staffff ● Exceptional hygiene standards ● Weekly unisex hairdresser. Chiropodist, dentist, physiotherapist and optician visits arranged ● Activities Co - ordinator with an ongoing programme of events to keep residents occupied and maintain both physical and mental well being. ● ●
loucestershire G L4 4 QQ 1 189 89 P Painswick ainswick R Road, oad, G Gloucester, loucester, G Gloucestershire GL4 4QQ iinfo@saintbridge-house.co.uk nfo@saintbridge-house.co.uk w ww.saintbridge-house.co.uk www.saintbridge-house.co.uk
OPEN EVERY DAY FOR OPEN EVERY DAY FOR SHOWROOM SHOWROOM VIEWINGS VIEWINGS We We can can supply supply a
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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.
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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. St Ann Way, Gloucester GL1 5SH. 01452 338933. www.gloucesterquayschristmas.co.uk 2299 NOVEMBER NOVEMBER – 8 D DECEMBER 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’ss best-known storyteller. This hour-long show is suitable for 3-7 year olds and their families. Simple, gentle storytelling with professional actor/musicians. For details visit everymantheatre.org.uk. The Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham, GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573. TTHROUGHOUT HROUGHOUT DECEMBER DECEMBER DECEMBER AT CHAPEL ARTS The Gloucestershire Guild of Craftsmen will be taking the opportunity to spread beyond their gallery shop, when Chapel Arts, will be hosting a selling exhibition of
larger works from members of the Guild. Come and enjoy exceptional contemporary crafts in a beautiful converted chapel. With an excellent café and Christmas carols, and other live music, there will be plenty of festive treats. Along with works by Cornish artist Lar Cann and stunning works of ‘New York’ by Leslie Gerry. Free entry. www.thechapelarts.com. 01242 580077. 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 locally-grown fresh cut Christmas Trees to create the area’s largest choice of gifts not available on the high street. Details at 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.
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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. Over 18s only. £20. 7.45pm. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX. rosestheatre.org 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! 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-inMarsh, 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 6 DECEMBER DECEMBER CHELTENHAM CRICKET SOCIETY Cheltenham Cricket Society meets 1st Wednesday of each month September to
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May at the Victory Club. Speakers include Derek Randall, Pat Murphy, Mick Newell and David Frith. New members and guests welcome. Contact Malcolm Brown mb3456@blueyonder.co.uk. View www.cheltcs.councilcricketsocieties.com 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. 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. 8-24 DECEMBER DECEMBER 8-24 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. 8-30 8-30 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 more 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’ss 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 9-10 9 -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 popular Town Band is busy throughout the year with concerts, parades and festivals in the town and beyond. 01684 295074. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX. For details visit www.rosestheatre.org
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WinterWonderland 10th Anniversary
Winter Wonderland at The Bird & Deer Park has been highly acclaimed. Each family meets Santa in the grotto, every child receives a gift, and you can even meet the Christmas Fairy! Face painters, crafting and entry to the park to meet the most famous of all Christmas animals – Rudolph and Prancer – are all included in the cost. The illuminations are turned on at dusk.
The Christmas event is open every weekend from the 2nd and 3rd December and daily from the 15th to the 24th December from 11am-6pm. Advance bookings only.
For more information visit www.thebirdpark.com or call 01452 812727. The Bird and Deer Park, Prinknash, Cranham, Gloucester GL4 8EX
9-10 9 -10 DECEMBER DECEMBER SANTA’SS 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. 99,, 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. 12 noon. £19.50. Tickets available through Hype Agency – 0117 9710320 or info@hypeagency.co.uk. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA . www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk 9-10 9 -10 & 116-23 6-23 DECEMBER DECEMBER CHRISTMAS GROTTO AT LABELS
Supported by Ross on Wye Rotary Club, our grotto will be surrounded by a winter wonderland, which will be found by
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following footprints and our special signage from the welcome desk. £5 per child to include a gift. 01989 769000. Labels Shopping Centre, Ross Park , Rosson-Wye, HR9 7QJ. -21 DECEMBER 99-21 DECEMBER SANTA RAILCCA AR 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. 1100 DECEMBER DECEMBER EVERY VOICE COMMUNITY CHOIR: A WINTER WONDERLAND EveryVoice Choirs sing, are you listening? On the stage snow is glistening, a beautiful sight, you’ll be happy this night if you come to see ‘A Winter Wonderland!’ EveryVoice is a network of community based choirs for all ages and abilities, aiming to provide an informal and enjoyable outlet for local people in Gloucestershire to meet up, sing, and have fun. 7.30pm. £7.50. The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. WE THREE KINGS OF ROCK AND ROLL A welcome return for the two-hour uplifting Rock ‘n’ Roll Christmas Show three tributes to Rock ‘n’ Roll Icons Billy
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Fury, Buddy Holly and Elvis. All your Christmas favorites from ‘Jingle Bell Rock’ to ‘White Christmas’ all done in true Rock ‘n’ Roll Style! For times and prices visit www.subscriptionrooms.org.uk. 01453 760900. Stroud Subscription Rooms, George Street, GL5 1AE. GLOUCESTERSHIRE MUSIC CHRISTMAS CONCERT Gloucestershire Music present’s their annual Christmas concert featuring three community and youth music groups – 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 13 13 DECEMBER DECEMBER LITTLE BLUE MONSTER: LOST AND FOUND Once there was a boy and one day he found a penguin at his door. He didn’t know where it had come from or who it belonged to. The penguin looked sad and the boy thought it must be lost. So he decided to help it find its way home, even if that meant rowing all the way to the South Pole. A funny, charming tale of friendship brought to life with puppetry, songs and music. 10.30am. £10 (£8, family ticket £32). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002.
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13 DECEMBER ADULT CRAFT WORKSHOP PATCHWORK CHRISTMAS DECORATION A fun morning of festive stitching making a 3D patchwork Christmas decoration. 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, non-members £25. Museum of Gloucester, Brunswick Road, GL1 1HP. 14 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 DECEMBER FLOWERS BAND: FLOWERS AT CHRISTMAS Flowers Band returns to the Bacon Theatre with a feast of festive music to get you into the Christmas spirit. A brass band from Gloucestershire now in its 48th year of outstanding musical excellence, they are the number 1 band in the West of England. 7.30pm. £12 (£10). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002.
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16 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. 01451 850307. Cotswold Farm Park, Guiting Power, GL54 5UG. www.cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk 16-22 DECEMBER SANTA’S COMING TO SLIMBRIDGE Join us for breakfast or afternoon tea with the elves and visit Santa in his magical grotto. Ice your own gingerbread man, build an elf den, toast marshmallows, and get creative making arts and crafts! 01453 891223. WWT Slimbridge, Bowditch, GL2 7BT. www.wwt.org.uk 17 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. No charges. Booking is unnecessary. Early arrival is advisable. 6.30pm. Cambray Baptist Church, Cambray Place, Cheltenham, GL50 1JS. Registered Charity number: 1156858. www.cambray.org 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. 19 DECEMBER THAT’LL BE THE DAY 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 CARA DILLON CHRISTMAS CONCERT 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. 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! No need to pre-book. The Wilson, Clarence Street, Cheltenham, GL50 3JT. 0844 576 2210.
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*Terms and conditions: Offer available on bookings secured by 8th December 2017 by qualifying independent companies based in Gloucestershire within the Forest of Dean 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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19 DECEMBER GUILDHALL COMMUNITY CHOIR An evening of carols, festive music and words. 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. natureinart.org.uk 20 DECEMBER BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Belle is a bright, independent young woman who is taken prisoner by a beast. 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 4pm). £6 (family of 4 £20 – includes a treat from Santa). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. 20-21 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 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 JOHNNY COPPIN “ALL ON A WINTER’S NIGHT” One of England`s finest singer-songwriters presents a fine mix of traditional carols, new songs, humorous readings and folklore. 7.30pm. £17 (children £9). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. 22-24 DECEMBER ROBIN HOOD 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. 23 DECEMBER HANDEL – MESSIAH The Cheltenham Bach Choir and Regency Sinfonia present this Christmas favourite at
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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 DECEMBER BOXING DAY AT BATSFORD Burn off your Christmas dinner with a magical walk around the Arboretum with family or friends, with a free glass of mulled wine (while stocks last!). 10am3pm. 01386 701441. Batsford Arboretum, Moreton-in-Marsh, GL56 9QB. 6 & 26 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 18-21 JANUARY 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. A large cast of singers and dancers, lavish costumes, colourful scenery and lots of audience participation! £10-£15. For details and tickets call Showcase on 01242 224144 or visit promenadeproductions.co.uk
Shipton Golf Course, Nr Frogmill, Shipton, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL54 4HT
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Young Y oung JJoe oe iiss a ‘‘phenomenal phenomenal p player’ layer’ Chris Rawlings knows a player when he sees one and he reckons Drybrook’s Joe Tingle is very good indeed. Rawlings, who recently took over as Drybrook Rugby Club’s chairman from Paul Mason, is well qualified to voice his opinion after a stellar career that saw him play more than 700 games for the club. He still plays the odd game now even in his mid-40s and had the pleasure of playing alongside a very young Tingle towards the tail-end of his 1st XV days. That was four or five years ago when Tingle, a back row, was still very much in his teens. Now 22, he is very much a mainstay of the club’s flagship team as they look to march onwards and upwards in South West One West. “He’s a phenomenal player,” Rawlings said of Tingle. “He gets around the field like there’s no tomorrow. The amount of hits and tackles he puts in is fantastic. “He’ll make a tackle but he’s
Joe Tingle
always there at the next breakdown. I don’t know how he does it. “He was good last year but this season he has taken it to another level.” Young Tingle is a Drybrook man through and through. His dad Chris, a hooker, has played even more games for the club than Rawlings – more than 860 – and young Joe has been pulling on the green shirt that is Drybrook since the under-7s, going through all the age groups before breaking into the 1st XV.. He has known nothing but success
as Drybrook have continued to progress through the divisions, and promotion is again very much the target this season. Tingle was also in the side that played at Twickenham in the I n te r m e d i a te Cu p f i n a l i n 2 0 1 3 although that was to end in defeat to Selby. Rawlings has more reason than most to be enjoying the rise and rise of young Joe because, as well as playing alongside him, he also played in the same team as his dad, an ex-captain of the club, for many years. “Joe’s got his dad’s personality,” said Rawlings, a fly-half or centre. “If anyone was going to have a singsong on the bus it was Chris and Joe i s j u s t t h e s a m e. P u t t h e m o n t h e bus together and it’s a competition to see who can sing the loudest!” “Joe’ss a real jack the lad in the nicest possible way. He’ll sing, he’ll dance and he’s always up for a laugh. He’s a real clubman.” Full story online
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It’s been said for many years now that money talks in football and that ’s certainly not something that Ken Mason would disagree with. Mason, 57, has been treasurer of Harrow Hill Football Club for “30 -odd years”, combining the role with that of a player for a fair percentage of them. He’s put as much into ensuring the club are on an even keel financially as he did when pulling on the club’s shirt back in the days when he was a creative midfielder. These days the club run three teams – one in Northern Senior League D i v i s i o n O n e a n d t wo i n t h e N o r t h Gloucestershire League. “We’re a village club and we haven’t got an ecotricity man behind us,” Mason chuckled. “We’d like to get back into the County League but we’ll take it step by step. “It’s all about the money.”
Dale Lemon has come a long way in his short rugby career. The Cinderford forward only took up t h e s p o r t w h e n h e w e n t to C l e ev e School at the age of 11, but 10 years on the second row is one of the key components in Cinderford’s push to return to National One. He is in his third full season with the club and in director of rugby Paul Morris he has found someone who is as passionate about the game as he is. Talk to the articulate Lemon – he’s a st u d e n t at t h e of U n i ve r s i t y Gloucestershire – a n d yo u q u i c k l y realise that it ’s his burning passion for rugby t h at i s d r i v i n g him onwards and upwards in the Dale Lemon game.
We did better than England’s rugby team!” And no, those aren’t the words of an all-conquering All Black or a Welsh rugby supporter from the 1970s, they are the words of Severn Stars netball player Tracy Frankland, who also h a p p e n s to b e a b i t o f a n E n g l a n d rugby fan herself. So what was she talking about? “We went 23 games unbeaten which is five more than Eddie Jones’ England team managed when they lost to Ireland earlier this year,” laughed Tracy. “Severn Stars were unbeaten last season, winning all 16 of their Gloucestershire League Division Four games, and we were unbeaten for the last four of the previous season and the first three of this season.” For full versions of all these stories and more, visit our website: www.thelocalanswer.co.uk
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Lydney’s sswimmers Lydney’s wimmers kknow now h how ow to to m make ake a b big ig ssplash! plash! Anyone who watches Strictly Come D a n c i n g o n a S a t u r d a y ev e n i n g w i l l know that the pay-off line at the end of each show delivered by presenters Tess Daley and Claudia Winkleman is “keep dancing!” You can imagine a similar message would emanate from Lydney Swimming Club if the TV cameras ever headed to Freedom Leisure at The Dene A c a d e my b e c a u s e t h e i r p h i l o s o p hy i s very much one of “keep swimming”. The club’s vice-chairman Helen H a rd i n g t o l d T h e Lo c a l A n sw e r : “ O u r u n d e r l y i n g e t h o s i s to k e e p p e o p l e swimming. It ’s healthy exercise and provides an active lifestyle.” That’s indisputable of course. The club w e r e o n l y f o r m e d i n 2 0 0 0 b u t t h ey n ow h a ve 1 2 0 m e m b e r s a n d b o a s t around 70 swimmers from the ages of six up to 60. N o r m a n S te r r y i s t h e c h a i r m a n a n d has been involved with the club since 2 0 0 1 . H i s C V i s t y p i c a l of s o m a ny at vo l u n t a r y c l u b s u p a n d d ow n t h e county, starting as a poolside helper and committee member and then going on to be team manager and now chairman of the club. “We are an inclusive club aimed at competitive and non-competitive swimmers,” added Helen. “Our aim is
fo r a l l s w i m m e r s t o reach the best they can be and be the best they want to be. The aim is to i m p r ov e p a r t i c i p a t i o n and performance in swimming.” A c h i ev i n g t h a t a i m i s in part down to lead coach Georgina Dempster who has been a coach at the club since 2013 and in her present role since January. She is assisted by a poolside team of n i n e vo l u n te e r s a n d i s a l s o g i ve n a h e l p i n g h a n d by s o m e o f t h e senior swimmers at the club. O n e of t h o s e Lydney’s underlying ethos is to keep people swimming s e n i o r sw i m m e r s i s club captain Phoebe Sparkes, who has year has competed at regional level taken on one of the top positions even after competing at county level for the though she is only 16. past couple of years. “ B e c a u s e o u r e t h o s i s to t r y to “She’s also competed in the Three encourage youngsters to stay in Counties for Gloucestershire against swimming, we like to promote them to Herefordshire and Worcestershire and leading roles,” said Helen. is very good at all strokes. “Phoebe is an excellent role model in “Her best stroke is the breaststroke terms of the commitment she shows over 50 and 100 metres and she’s a towards the club. county under-13 champion.” “She’s a good swimmer too and will Young Orla has clearly benefitted swim whatever strokes she from the opportunities afforded to her is asked to in competitions, by a club which treats every swimmer she’s a team person through as an individual. and through. “We try to nurture our swimmers “She’s really good at rather than push them,” said Helen. encouraging everyone “We like to take into account their around her and has swum physicality and wait until they are for the club for many years. ready to be pushed.” She’s just started her swim Once swimmers show that they are teacher training as well.” ready to take the plunge into the And while Phoebe – competition arena, there are plenty of whose vice-captain is Eva opportunities for them to make waves. Marie Kear – is clearly “We compete in the Four Seasons thriving on the responsibility, League against Gloucester, Hereford, there are other youngsters Cinderford and Tewkesbury,” said who are coming through Helen, “and we also compete in four or with bags of potential as five open meets.” well. One of those is run by Lydney in “Orla Delaney is only 13 conjunction with Brockworth and but she’s a very gifted Cinderford swimming clubs, with the swimmer,” said Helen. “She next one taking place at GL1 on Sunday Lydney have 120 members and boast around 70 swimmers works very hard and this 17th December.
FFor or ffull ull aarticles rticles & m more ore sstories: tories: w www.thelocalanswer.co.uk ww.thelocalanswer.co.uk
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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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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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QUALITY Q UALITY KITCHEN K ITCHEN FACELIFTS F ACELIFTS
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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. The Local Answer
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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TTHE HE IDEAL IDEAL CHRISTMAS CHRISTMAS PRESENT! PRESENT M MAKE AKE IITT A STIHL STIHL CHRISTMAS CHRISTMAS W WITH ITH ERMIN ERMIN PLANT PLANT
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Page 26
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REASONS R EASONS TO TO B BUY UY F FROM ROM US: US:
• We We buy buy d direct irect from fro om the the manufacturers manufacturers to to save save our our customers money c ustomers money on commission, commission, so so we we can can • Our Our salesman salesman do do not not work work on ensure our getting the the right right product pro oduct at e nsure o ur customers customers are are getting at price tthe he right right p rice • Honest Honest and and expert expert advice advice you you won’t won’t find find elsewhere elsewhere seven • Open Open s even days days a week week Mon Mon – Fri Fri 9am-5pm 9am-5pm Sat Sat 10am10am4pm 11am-3pm 4 pm Sun Sun 11am-3pm • Free measuring Free m easuring and and estimating estimating service service with with no no obligation o bligation • The The largest largest selection selection of of flooring flooring in in Gloucestershire Gloucestershire • Independent Independent and and local local
Carpets Vinyls Laminates Rugs Engineered wood Luxury vinyl tiles Artificial Grass
WHERE W HERE K KNOWLEDGE NOWLEDG DGE AND AND S SERVICE ERVICE M MEET EET P PRICE RICE A AND ND Q QUALITY UALITY
QUEDGELEY C QUEDGELEY CARPETS ARPETS S 0 01452 1452 883113 883113 www.quedgeleycarpets.co.uk w ww.quedgeleycarpets.co.uk
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Quedgeley Carpets house over 60 rolls of carpett and 40 rolls of vinyl at any one time. Our huge showroom has a vast amount of samples for you to take and view in your own home. As well as carpets and vinyls, we have the largest laminate and real wood flooring showroom in the South West of Gloucestershire.
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WE W ED DON’T ON’T JJUST UST BEAT BEAT LIKE-FOR-LIKE LIKE-FOR-LIKE QUOTATIONS, QUOTATIONS, W WE EB BETTER ETTER TTHEM! HEM!
U Unit nit 1 1,, S Stanley tanley C Court, ourt, T Telford elford W Way, ay, Quedgeley, Quedgeley, Gloucester Gloucester GL2 GL2 2AE 2AE iinfo@quedgeleycarpets.co.uk nfo@quedgeleycarpets.co.uk
interior interior needs in neeeds
TTue-Sat: ue-Sat: 10am-3pm 10am-3pm Sun: CCLOSED LOSED Sun:
We We would would like like tto o wish wish a all lll of of o our ur ccustomers ustomers a vvery ery Merry Merry Christmas Christmas a and nd a Happy New New Year Year Happy ◆ Curtains Curtains ◆ Tracks Tracks ◆
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Tel: Tel: 01452 014 52 5 522 22 4 422 22
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Come in na and nd h have ave a browse browse a and nd jjoin oin us us ffor or a ccup up of of tea tea or or ccoffee offee and and a mince mince pie pie
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JANUARY SALE • JANUARY SALE • • • • • •
20% off Fabric on M.T.M. orders Blinds linds 220% 0% ooff ff B Shutters hutters 220% 0% ooff ff S Lighting Mirrors ighting & M i r ro r s 220% 0% ooff ff L Tracks Poles racks & P oles 220% 0% ooff ff T Wallpaper 110% 0% ooff ff W allpaper
CHRISTMAS HRISTMAS
Opening Opening Hours: Hours: SSaturday aturday 23rd, 23rd, 10am-3pm 10am-3pm then then Closed Closed until until Wednesday Wednesday 3rd 3rd January January
JANUARY SALE • JANUARY SALE
Normal Hours: Hours: Monday Monday Normal Showroom closed closed Showroom (open (open by by appointment appointment oonly) nly)
Tues-Sat 10am-3pm 10am-3pm Tues-Sat Sunday Closed Closed Sunday
Sale starts 1st December 2017 until 31st January 2018
Eastern Eastern A Avenue, venue, G Gloucester loucester G GL4 L4 3 3BU BU ((Next Next tto oT The he W Weavers eavers S Shop, hop, o opposite pposite S SMYTHS) MYTHS)
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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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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
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01242
ANSWER 510500
Abbey Group, Units 23/24, Neptune Business Centre, Tewkesbury Road, Cheltenham, GL51 9FB
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The Abbey Business Lounge at Gloucester Rugby’s Kingsholm Stadium sponsored by Gloucestershire’s leading business solutions provider
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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
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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
HOLIDAYS HOLIDAYS & TTRAVEL RAVEL
Burley Field Lakes Farm Shop Cafe Rene The Garden Cafe Miserden Tiger’s Eye The Grill 49
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WHAT’S W HAT’S O ON N
Norad Travel
P PROPERTY ROPERTY Bovis Homes Norton Park
RETAIL R ETAIL
Ermin Plant Hire Primrose Vale 17 Vinyl Records
CLUBS CLUBS & SSPORT PORT
Shipton Golf Course EEVENTS VENTS & A ATTRACTIONS TTRACTIONS
H HOMES OMES & G GARDENS ARDENS
BUILDING BUILDING SERVICES SERVICES
8 Marshalls Driveways R. Richards & Son
Cloudy2Clear 31 20 P PROFESSIONAL ROFESSIONAL SSERVICES ERVICES 20
URNISHING & A APPLIANCES PPLIANCES 12 FFURNISHING 24 10 Dream Doors Gloucester Carpet Outlet 22 Interior Needs 28 26 Quedgeley Carpets 27 17 HHEATING EATING & PPLUMBING LUMBING 14 Inceil 26 Log Boy 20
Promenade Productions 17 BATHROOMS BATHROOMS W WINDOWS INDOWS & D DOORS OORS The Bird & Deer Park 15 Severn Vale Bathrooms 33 & 35 Albany Windows
CARE CARE SSERVICES ERVICES
Barnwood Trust Lifelink Saintbridge House
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COMPUTER COMPUTER SSERVICES ERVICES
Abbey Group
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H HOUSE OUSE SSITTING ITTING
Rosiesits
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GRAPHIC D ESIGN GRAPHIC DESIGN
36 Chiswell Creative
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CCOMPETITION OMPETITION W WINNERS INNERS Thank you to all who took part in our November 2017 competitions and congratulations to the winners! Bacon Theatre – Alison McSeveney, Pam Cruwys and Helen Pearne. Burley Fireworks – Phil Cook .
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
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L Z P C N R Y I J G X L H B C C G C B I N W N U
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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 their families or households are not eligible to enter. 3 The first correct entry drawn at random after the closing date will win the prize as stated. 4 The winner will be notified by telephone after the closing date has passed. 5 The Editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. 6 Entrants must be over 18 years, unless
stated. 7 Proof of posting is not regarded as proof of receipt of entry. 8 The Local Answer accepts no responsibility for the provision of the prize, which remains at all times the full responsibility of the prize donor(s). 9 By entering any competition you agree to have your name published in the next issue of The Local Answer should you be drawn as a winner of the prize. 10 By entering any competition you agree to have your details passed to a third party.
BOOKING BOOKING D DEADLINE EADLINE FOR FOR NEXT NEXT ISSUE ISSUE – F Friday riday 8 8th th D December ecember 2 2017 017
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