Cotswolds

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JUNE 2017

200,000 DELIVERED MONTHLY IN GLOUCESTERSHIRE

for local people

COTSWOLDS DON’T FORGET FATHER’S DAY – SUNDAY 18th JUNE 2017

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

EEditorial ditorial & PProduction roduction LLois ois K Kingscott ingscott eeditorial@thelocalanswer.co.uk ditorial@thelocalanswer.co.uk

H Helen elen K Kingscott ingscott H Helen elen R Robinson obinson production@thelocalanswer.co.uk production@thelocalanswer.co.uk

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 rrob@thelocalanswer.co.uk ob@thelocalanswer.co.uk

SSport port R Roger oger JJackson ackson ssport@thelocalanswer.co.uk port@thelocalanswer.co.uk

Accounts Accounts K Kerry erry FFell ell aaccounts@thelocalanswer.co.uk ccounts@thelocalanswer.co.uk

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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Welcome Welcome ttoo JJune une ... ...

We’ve got not one, but three recipes for you this month as we prepare for Father’s Day. Treat your dad and have a go at making our fantastic fudge – milk chocolate, dark chocolate and a very tasty white chocolate and cranberry.

You could even experiment with other flavours, too!

Young readers please recruit the help of an adult for the cooking process.

‘Pick Your Own’ season returns to Primrose Vale and it’s a fantastic way to entertain the children and encourage them to eat healthily. Take advantage of the two vouchers inside for discounts on fruit and vegetables.

Patesians Sports & Social Club have once again donated a fantastic Hospitality Package for two people to attend the Cheltenham Cricket Festival in July. For more details including how to enter our competition, see page 21.

After the popularity of our Rugby World Cup 2015 and UEFA Euro 2016 fixtures lists, we’ve put together a feature for The British & Irish Lions Tour 2017. See inside for a brief write-up and match dates.

IInside nside tthis his m month onth .... ..

Cocktail TTime Cocktail ime 4 Delicious D ish 5 Delicious Dish Holidays & TTravel ravel 9 Holidays Word SSearch earch 1 0 Word 10 Style & FFashion ashion 1 3 Style 13 What’s O n 1 4 What’s On 14 The B ritish & IIrish rish LLions ions TTour our 2 017 1 7 The British 2017 17 TLA SSport port 1 8-19 TLA 18-19 Distributors R equired 2 0 Distributors Required 20 Wild FFood ood FForaging oraging 2 1 Wild 21 Homes & G ardens 2 3 Homes Gardens 23 SSave ave the the Planet Planet 25 25 Sudoku 26 Sudoku 26 In tthe he G arden 27 In Garden 27 Interior D esign 29 Interior Design 29 Quick Crossword Crossword 30 Quick 30 Gadgets & G izmos 33 Gadgets Gizmos 33 Index , CCompetitions, ompetitions, SSolutions olutions 34 Index, 34

CCompetition ompetition o on np page age 2 21 1 Page 3

C Cocktail ocktail Time Time with with Lois Lois Kingscott Kingscott

‘North Cotswold CAMRA’ Pub of the Year 2017 (Runner Up) g

Casual Dining – excellent food ser ved all day Passionate about well kept ales

Famous Inn located on the Fosse Way (A429)

9 beautiful en-suite bedrooms & two holiday cottages

Mai Mai TTai ai If you’re looking for a cocktail to whisk you away to a tropical paradise, the Mai Tai is the drink for you.

This cocktail was supposedly invented in 1944 at Trader Vic’s restaurant in Oakland, California. He created the drink one afternoon for friends who were visiting from Tahiti. Carrie Guild – one of Vic’s guests – tasted the cocktail and exclaimed “Maita’i roa ae”, which is translated literally as “very good” or figuratively as “out of this world! The best!”

Don the Beachcomber – Trader Vic’s rival – claimed creation of the cocktail in 1933 at his then-new bar named after himself (later a famous restaurant) in Hollywood. His recipe is more complicated than that of Vic’s and has a very different taste.

Ingredients: 50ml dark rum; 15ml orange curacao; Ingredients: 10ml fresh lime juice; 60ml almond syrup; ice; wedge of lime and a chunk of pineapple to garnish.

Method: Method: 1 Put the ice in a cocktail shaker and add rum, orange curacao, lime juice and almond syrup.

2 Shake well and strain the drink into a tall glass with fresh ice.

3 Garnish with a wedge of lime and a chunk of pineapple.

P PLEASE LEASE D DRINK RINK R RESPONSIBLY ESPONSIBLY Why Why not not have have a M Mocktail? ocktail?

For a non-alcoholic alternative, mix 90ml orange juice, 25ml lime juice, 1 teaspoon fine sugar, 1 tablespoon almond syrup and 10ml grenadine. Strain over ice and garnish with lime and pineapple.

Page 4

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

Father’s D Father’s Day ay FFudge udge Prepare do the the P repare tthe he iingredients, ngredients, let let mum mum do bag, box orr w wrap or a ccooking, ooking, tthen hen b ag, b ox o rap ffor rreal eal ttreat reat for for dad! dad!

IMPORTANT WARNING: Due to the high temperatures involved and potential splashing of mixture, we strongly recommend children are kept away from the cooking process.

White White CChocolate hocolate & Cranberry Cranberry Fudge Fudge 1 k g c a s te r s u g a r ; 4 5 0 m l d o u b l e cream; 60g butter; 60g liquid glucose (most supermarkets sell it in the cake making aisle); 210g white chocolate; 50g dried cranberries.

M ethod: Method: 1 Add the sugar, cream, butter and glucose to a large heavy-based p a n . B r i n g to t h e b o i l o r u p t o a temperature of 118°C .

2 Once the fudge mix has reached the correct temperature, take off the heat and add the chocolate and cranberries.

3 Mix well then transfer to a greaseproof-lined tray (23cm x 33cm). Bang the tray a couple of times on a flat surface to level the fudge and remove any air bubbles.

4 When almost cool, score the fudge with a large knife to whatever size you like, then leave to cool before cutting it completely.

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M Milk ilk CChocolate hocolate FFudge udge 7 5 0 g c a s te r s u g a r ; 2 5 0 g l i q u i d glucose; 315g double cream; 375g milk chocolate, roughly chopped; 75g butter.

Method: Method: 1 As before, combine the sugar, glucose and double cream and heat until it reaches 118°C .

2 Remove from the heat and mix in the chocolate and butter, stirring as they melt until fully incorporated a n d t h e m i x t u re i s s m o o t h a n d even.

3 Transfer to your greaseproof-lined tin(s). I used a 17cm x 27cm and an 18cm x 18cm. Leave to cool then cut to whatever size you like.

D Dark ark CChocolate hocolate FFudge udge 200g dark chocolate; 210ml double cream; 340g caster sugar; 170ml liquid glucose; 60g butter.

Method: Method: 1 As before, combine the sugar, glucose and double cream and heat until it reaches 118°C .

2 A d d t h e b u t te r a n d r e t u r n t o t h e boil, checking it reaches 118°C again.

3 Remove from the heat and stir in the chocolate until it is completely mixed in.

4 Transfer to your greaseproof-lined tin (I used the 17cm x 27cm tin for this recipe). Leave to cool before cutting up.

Useful Equipment: Useful Equipment: Sugar thermometer. If you don’t have one, you need to bring the mixture to the soft ball stage, which will take around 10 -15 minutes. Test by dropping a bit of the mixture into cold water and see if it forms a ball.

SSew‘n ew ‘n SSew ew F Fabrics abrics & H Haberdashery aberdashery

in stock stock • A large large range range of of fabrics fabrics in Evening and and bridal bridal fabric fabric available available • Evening All types types of of dressmaking, dressmaking, specialist specialist cotton • All eece aand nd ffelt elt for quilting quilting and and patchwork, patchwork, fun fun fur, fur, flfleece for •W re sstockists tockists ffor or aallll m ajor ppattern attern ddesign esign ccompanies ompanies Wee aare major oven nname ame • SSelection election ooff hhaberdashery, aberdashery, ccross-stitch, ross-stitch, ttapestry, apestry, w woven llabels, abels, eembroidery, mbroidery, w addings, ppolystyrene olystyrene sshapes hapes aand nd m uch m ore! waddings, much more!

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los, GGL7 L7 11QX QX VVisit isit uuss aatt 8 AAshcroft shcroft RRoad, oad, CCirencester, irencester,, GGlos,

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F FIND IND U US S

Off the Off the A46 A46 Shurdington Shurdington R Road, o ad, 5 50 0 yyards ards from from tthe he A A46/A417 46/A417 jjunction, unction, ttowards owards C Cheltenham. heltenham.

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S Short hort of of time? time? All All crops crops aavailable vailable rready ea d y p icked! picked!

Shurdington Shurdington Road, Road, Bentham, Bentham, C Cheltenham, heltenham, G Gloucestershire loucestershire GL51 GL51 4UA 4UA For For more more information information vvisit isit w www.primrosevale.com ww.primrosevale.com

reat reat ttaste aste off ssummer ummer at at PPrimrose rimrose Vale Vale

TThe he ‘Pick ‘Pick YYour our Own’ Own’ sseason eason ggets ets well well under under w way ay iinn June June aand nd PPrimrose rimrose Vale Vale has has aann aabundance bundance ooff delicious delicious bberries, erries, ccurrants urrants aand nd bbeans eans ffor or aallll tthe he ffamily amily ttoo eenjoy njoy collecting collecting – a ffantastic antastic w way ay to to entertain entertain tthe he cchildren hildren aand nd encourage encourage them them ttoo eat eat hhealthily. ealthily. You’ll You’ll probably probably end end up up doing doing m most ost ooff tthe he ppicking icking yourself, yourself, but but tasting tasting ffruit ruit aand nd veg veg fresh fresh from from tthe he fields fields is is a delightful delightful aand nd ppositive ositive eexperience xperience for for everyone. everyone.

Primrose Primrose VVale ale Farm Farm Shop Shop & PYO PYO has has been been ddeveloped eveloped oover ver tthe he years years bbyy owners owners CCharlotte harlotte and and PPaul aul Keene Keene to to bbecome ecome aw wonderful onderful source source of of llocally ocally ggrown rown or or rreared eared pproduce roduce – kkeeping eeping food fo o d miles miles ttoo a m minimum inimum aand nd supporting supporting nnearby earby farmers farmers ssimultaneously. imultaneously.

There There is is a llarge arge sselection election ooff ddelicious elicious ffood ood all all yyear ear rround. ound.

TThere’s here’s also also a great great vvariety ariety of of ccrops rops ffor or yyou ou to to gather. gather. TThe he m most ost popular popular ffruits ruits with with ccustomers ustomers at at this this ttime ime of of yyear ear are are sstrawberries trawberries aand nd rraspberries aspberries prominent prominent ttowards owards the the end end of of the the month. month. YYou ou ddon’t on’t hhave ave ttoo ddamage amage yyour our back back iinn the the pprocess rocess ooff ppicking icking tthem hem – rraspberry aspberry bbushes ushes are are tall tall aand nd tthe he sstrawberries trawberries are are nnow ow grown grown on on rraised aised platforms, platforms, ssoo there’s there’s no no sslugs, lugs, bugs bugs oorr mud mud either! either!

TToo tthe he side side ooff the the sshop hop a recreational recreational aarea rea hhas as bbeen een created created for for ccustomers ustomers to to uuse se dduring uring oopening pening hours. hours. W Whether hether you you need need a ssit it down down or or yyour our children children want want ttoo uuse se the the sandpit, sandpit , rride ide tthe he vintage vintage tractor, tractor, play play on on tthe he sswings wings aand nd slides slides or or see see tthe he rrabbits, abbits, you you aare re encouraged encouraged ttoo use use tthe he facilities. facilities. In In fact, fact, Charlotte Charlotte and and PPaul aul are are m more ore than than hhappy appy ffor or you you ttoo take take your your llittle ittle oones nes to to use use tthe he pplay lay area, area, eeven ven iiff you’re you’re nnot ot ppicking icking oorr vvisiting isiting tthe he sshop hop sspecifically. pecifically.

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produce nd tto o ccheck h e ck FFor or up-to-date up-to-date p roduce iinformation nformation aand what’s please w hat’s rready eady ffor or picking pi c k in g p lease call call or or visit: visit:

01452 01452 863359 863359

So So why why not not let let tthe he kids kids enjoy enjoy tthe he fresh fresh air air and and gget et some some exercise exercise while while you you relax relax with with a cuppa cu p p a and, and, perhaps, perhaps, a slice slice ooff cake cake from from ‘The ‘The Potting Potting Shed’ Shed’ – oopen pen from from 10am-4pm 10am-4pm ddaily aily tthroughout hroughout tthe he ssummer ummer ppicking icking season! season!

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SStrawberries trawberries G ooseberries Gooseberries B road B eans Broad Beans B lackcurrants Blackcurrants T ayberries Tayberries L oganberries Loganberries B lackberries Blackberries R edcurrants Redcurrants W hitecurrants Whitecurrants R aspberries Raspberries SSweetcorn weetcorn R unner Beans Beans Runner F rench Beans Beans French

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Neil Diamond 2 days from £215pp At the Barclaycard Arena, Birmingham on 13th October 2017 See Neil Diamond in an unforgettable 50th Anniversary concert at Birmingham’s famously iconic Barclaycard Arena.

TTour our highlights highlights A seated ticket for the Neil Diamond concert at The Barclaycard Arena, Birmingham (face value £65). Ticket upgrades available One night’s bed and buffet breakfast hotel accommodation based on a twin room with private facilities in the Midlands Return hotel to venue coach transfers Visit to Stratford-upon-Avon Coach travel from the local area Escorted by a friendly tour manager For full itinerary or to book visit

www.newmarketholidays.co.uk/laa18938 These holidays are organised and operated by Newmarket Air Holidays Ltd. ABTA V7812. ATOL protected 2325. Subject to availability. Single supplements apply. Standard phone charges.

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Holidays H olidays & T Travel ravel w with ith A Al lH Hidden idden

W Watchet atchet w weekend eekend We’ve previously advocated the joys of escaping down the M5 for a quick break . But you needn’t go all the way to Devon or Cornwall to enjoy a refreshing break , as we discovered recently with a spontaneous night away in Watchet’s Exmoor hinterland.

EEnjoy njoy a n nostalgic ostalgic ssteam team ttrain rain rride ide A f te r o u r S a t u r d a y m o r n i n g s t a r t from Cheltenham, it was just over an hour to Bridgwater where we headed cross-country across the gently rising Quantocks to Watchet .

Parking in the Mineral Yard car park , we admired the impressive mural before walking out of town along the Washford trail. The route follows the well-surfaced course of the disused mineral railway that once brought iron ore to Watchet harbour. As you walk (or cycle), you’re never far from the restored West Somerset Railway and its whistling steam engines pulling coffee and cream carriages.

We picnicked on the trail, but if you fancy pub food, you’ll reach the wellreviewed Washford Inn and White The Local Answer

H o r s e I n n a f te r a b o u t 5 0 m i n u t e s .

From Washford, you can either walk back to Watchet or catch the steam train for a short , nostalgic reminder of rail travel’s bygone age.

IIdyllic dyllic W Wood ood A Advent dvent FFarm arm From Watchet station, it ’s a short stroll to the esplanade to say ‘Hi’ to Yankee Jack , admire the yachts and c h e c k o u t t h e g i f t s h o p s b e fo re heading to your accommodation. Of TripAdvisor ’s to p t h re e recommendations, we chose Wood Advent Farm (57 reviews, all fivestar) – a five-mile drive into Exmoor National Park . John and Diane’s working farm, a warm welcome, and delicious tea and cake on arrival is idyllically located down some long, very narrow lanes. We could have eaten there, but opted for the 20 minute walk to enjoy a good dinner at The Valiant Soldier in nearby Roadwater (if it’s dark , take torches).

Next morning, after a great night’s sleep and Diane’s excellent breakfast, we could have (with prior arrangement) done some clay

shooting. As it was, we meandered through the lanes to Watchet and over the Quantocks. If time allows, a stop beside East Quantoxhead’s duck pond and a walk to the fossil-rich beach is rewarding. Alternatively, you could spend the day exploring Exmoor before heading back to Gloucestershire.

A gorgeous gorgeous ccorner orner o off SSouth outh W West est EEngland ngland Either way, you’ll enjoy a weekend in a gorgeous corner of South West England. We loved it so much that we’ve already booked to return!

To advertise call 01242 510500

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Style S tyle & F Fashion ashion with w ith Val Val Starr Starr

SSummer ummer h has as aarrived! rrived!

Winter is well behind us and thoughts c a n n ow t u r n to a l l t h e w o n d e r f u l events we might be lucky enough to attend this summer. The main concern is, of course, what to wear.

W Weddings eddings Weddings are often planned months, if not years, in advance, and the average cost for the event is said to be upwards of £20,000 – certainly a very expensive day where you want everything to be fabulous and, of course, memorable.

T h e b r i d a l g ow n i s t h e m a i n fo c u s and the choice can be overwhelming – s p e c i a l i s t d e s i g n e r s, b o u t i q u e s, a n d n ow m a n y h i g h s t r e e t s h o p s a r e getting in on this lucrative market. The high street has really come up trumps fo r t h o s e o n a m o r e r e s t r i c te d budget – the choice is very impressive and reasonably priced. Many dresses can easily be used again after the big day, and there is usually something for everyone, including good bridesmaid selections.

High end dresses are tailored to your s p e c i f i c re q u i re m e n t s a n d v e r y personal. Always visit and get to know the designer and boutique so you are confident with the person to whom you are entrusting your big day.

O n l y y o u c a n c h o o s e yo u r p e r f e c t bridal ensemble, but do bear in mind the frothy princess look might be what

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you think you want , but in twenty years time when you fondly look back at the pictures from your special day, wo u l d yo u s t i l l c h o o s e t h i s l o o k ? I think we can all agree on one thing – K a te M i d d l e to n g o t i t j u s t r i g h t w i t h h e r c l a s s i c g ow n , a n d i t w i l l n e v e r really date. Our present Queen’s gown made all those years ago is also still a classic.

Grooms must not in any way be overlooked – it is their big day as well.

They must be confident in their choice and not be forced to wear an outfit that doesn’t suit them. Of course, this is not to say anything goes, but again when dressed well, people feel good.

Bridal shoes must be comfortable, as you will be wearing them for several hours. Try wearing them for an hour or so around the house a few times before the wedding to break them in.

This goes for the groom also – pinched feet mean a pinched face!

Races Races A day at the races has now become a fashion statement, often eclipsing the real stars of the show – the horses!

Fashionable race goers get lots of press coverage and the ladies really do go all out . Royal Ascot have certainly tightened their dress rules over the last two years, as this highlight of the social season was beginning to resemble a hen night or stag do! So be aware – if you are lucky enough to go to the Royal Enclosure, the dress code must be adhered to.

Ladies must wear formal daywear with dresses of ‘modest’ length (just a b o ve t h e k n e e o r l o n g e r ) , a n d dresses and tops must have straps of one inch or wider. Trouser suits are welcome but should be of matching material and colour. Midriffs must be covered – no six packs on show here!

Fascinators are no longer permitted but this is a hard rule to ‘police’. I have certainly seen versions of fascinators that cover the crown and are more like hats.

Hats can make or break our lovely outfits, and on ladies day they can be quite outrageous. Those of us who are i n v e s t i n g i n t h i s i m p o r t a n t i te m c a n s p e n d a fo r t u n e o n a d e s i g n e r h a t , and milliners are becoming more popular, as clients want a bespoke hat.

A t o n e t i m e Lo n d o n h a d t h e m o n o p o l y – n ow b e s p o k e m i l l i n e r s such as Willow and Lace in our corner of the world can certainly compete, and very often they out-do our well known designers. Better still, they ’re sold at a fraction of the price!

For the men attending the Royal Enclosure, black or grey morning dress is required, including a waistcoat and tie, black or grey top hat , and plain black shoes. Bow ties and cravats are not permitted. All in all, it ’s quite a minefield to enter the Royal Enclosure.

These rules are more relaxed in other areas of the Royal Ascot meeting, and other racing venues.

Garden Garden p parties arties Garden parties are generally not as formal as Royal Ascot, depending on w h i c h o n e yo u a re l u c k y e n o u g h to attend. It is always worth checking the dress code in advance, as that way you can relax and enjoy the party!

Have a great summer season and, importantly, have fun with whatever clothes you choose.

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Page 13

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1155 MAY MAY – 15 15 JJUNE UNE DAVIDIA DELIGHTS Batsford is home to what’s widely regarded as one of the biggest, oldest and best Davidia Trees in the country. Marvel at thousands of white handkerchief-like bracts as the tree takes centre stage in the arboretum. 9am. Batsford Arboretum, Moreton-in-Marsh GL56 9QB. 01386 701441.

2255 MAY MAY – 5 JUNE JUNE GIFFORDS CIRCUS AT DAYLESFORD ‘Any Port in a Storm’ – the 2017 Baroque inspired Giffords Circus show. Another great international team including a Cuban troupe, a Hungarian Csikos rider, a Ukrainian flyer, household favourite Tweedy and the fabulous Giffords Circus band. For details visit giffordscircus.com.

Daylesford Organic Farm, Daylesford near Kingham, GL56 0YG. 01242 572573.

2277 MAY MAY – 3 JUNE JUNE THE BUNNY BOO SHOW A brand new live performance by local production company Noodle telling the story of Bunny Boo’ss 13th birthday. As the preparations for his big party are underway, an unexpected twist causes an issue in Bunny Boo’s celebrations. 01453 891900. WWT Slimbridge, Bowditch, Slimbridge GL2 7BT. wwt.org.uk/wetlandcentres/slimbridge 2277 MAY MAY – 4 JUNE JUNE LEMUR WEEK

As Lemurs are now one of the most threatened groups of mammals on the planet, we are hosting a week of fun activities and keeper talks to help raise awareness and funds for Lemur Conservation in Madagascar. Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens, Bradwell Grove, Burford, OX18 4JP. 01993 823006.

THE WILDLIFE ART SOCIETY Around 300 paintings, drawings, original prints, photographs and sculpture by professional and part-time members of this active organisation will be on display, the majority for sale. Free access to this

Page 14

exhibition without visiting the museum.

12 noon. Wallsworth Hall, Sandhurst, Gloucester GL2 9PA . 01452 731422.

SPRING TO LIFE AT SLIMBRIDGE A celebration of the spring season and all things new at Slimbridge! Leaves are unfolding, birds are singing, butterflies are coming out and new life is appearing across our wetlands. 9.30am. Included in normal admission. 01453 891900. WWT Slimbridge, Bowditch GL2 7BT. 3300 MAY MAY – 2 JJUNE UN E LIFE UP HIGH If you’ve walked across our Tree Top Walkway you’ll know that not all woodland creatures live on the ground... many make their home in the tree tops, amongst the leaves and branches. Join us in the Learning Centre to discover some of the animals and plants that live high above us, and make finger prints of the creatures you find. 11am-4pm. Free after admission. Westonbirt Arboretum, Westonbirt, Tetbury GL8 8QS. 3311 MAY MAY – 3 JJUNE UN E THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS From the peaceful pleasures of Ratty’s beloved river bank to the fearful frights and wicked weasels of the Wild Wood, join Mole and Ratty on their marvellous adventures, along with gruff old Badger and magnificent Mr. Toad. For times and prices visit everymantheatre.org.uk. The Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham, GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573.

2 JUNE JUNE CHELTENHAM CONNECTIONS – THE WOLVES An upbeat acoustic duo that create an extremely full sound from just acoustic guitar, violin and percussion. £6. 11.15am.

0844 576 2210. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, Cheltenham, GL50 1QA .

THE JIVE ACES This swinging sextet have performed for the Queen, as well as working with Van Morrison and John Travolta. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX. www.rosestheatre.org. 01684 295074.

GORILLAS, ELEPHANTS AND BADGERS Ian has been studying and working to conserve gorillas, elephants and other species for more than 40 years. From his base in Stroud, he chairs the Ape Alliance, works closely with the Born Free

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Foundation on elephant and wildlife trade issues, and set up the UN Great Apes Survival Partnership. 7.30pm. £6 (concessions £4). 01453 760900. Stroud Subscription Rooms, George Street, Stroud GL5 1AE. 33-11 -11 JUNE JUNE AUTOTRAIN WEEKENDS Over the weekends of 3-4 and 10 -11 June we will be replacing our normal diesel railcar service on the red timetable with a steam-worked autotrain using locomotive No. 1450 and auto-coach No. W238, named ‘Chaffinch’. There will be no extra charge to travel on the autotrain but space is very limited, so be on the platform in good time! www.gwsr.com. 01242 621405.

4 JUNE JUNE THE QUO EXPERIENCE A band with an impressively experienced line-up including Shaun Michaels (as Francis Rossi) and Dave Crawte (as Rick Parfitt), who have both featured in quality Quo tribute acts in the past. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX. www.rosestheatre.org. 01684 295074.

ORCHESTRA OF THE SWAN An afternoon of sublime English orchestral music for strings featuring one of the country’s top soloists, Dave Le Page, playing Classic FM’s Hall of Fame favourite ‘The Lark Ascending’. 3pm. £14. (concessions £12, under 18s £5). 01453 760900. Stroud Subscription Rooms, George Street, Stroud GL5 1AE. 6 JUNE JUNE JACKIE

Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, First Lady Jackie Kennedy, known for her extraordinary dignity and poise, fights through grief and trauma to regain her faith, console her children, and define her husband’s historic legacy.

7.45pm. £8 (£7). The Bacon Theatre, Shelburne Road, Cheltenham, GL51 6HE. 01242 258002.

The Local Answer

Unique Birthday Parties at The Bird & Deer Park

Give Give your your child hild a magical maggical birthday irthday party party in our our beautiful beautiful gypsy ypsy caravan! caravan!

y g p yp y , Deer Park at Prinknash. The Gypsy Caravan has been a hot favourite for children’s part a twist. The caravan is nestled in a secluded magical part of the park , where miniature donkeys bray, peacocks display and fallow deer graze. This has to be the most wonderful place to host your child’s party, either catered or self-catered – your choice! It is ideal for up to 12 children with 4 adults included, and prices start from £120.

Visitor V isitor CCentre entre The lovely new Oak framed Visitor Centre, complete with a gift shop and offering a range of beverages, has become a destination in itself. Its large balconies are a great place to enjoy a hot drink whilst looking out over the stunning views.

For more information on visits or party bookings call 01452 812727.

O Open pen 7 days days a week week 10am-5pm 10am-5pm • 01452 01452 812727 812727 • www.thebirdpark.com www.thebirdpark.com The T he Bird Bird and and Deer Deer Park, Park, Prinknash, Prinknash, Cranham, Cranham, Gloucester Gloucester GL4 GL4 8EX 8EX

6-11 JUNE CHELTENHAM SCIENCE FESTIVAL A six-day extravaganza celebrating science and the arts. Hear from leading experts and entertainers and get hands-on in a series of interactive zones. 10am. Visit www.cheltenhamfestivals.com/science.

01242 850270. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, Cheltenham, GL50 1QA. 7 JUNE RSC LIVE: ANTHONY & CLEOPATRA Mark Antony has reached the heights of power and neglects his empire for a life of decadent seduction with his mistress, Cleopatra, Queen of Egypt. Torn between love and duty, Antony’s military brilliance deserts him, and his passion leads the lovers to their tragic end. 7pm. £16.50 (£14.50, students £12.50). The Bacon Theatre, Shelburne Road, Cheltenham, GL51 6HE. 01242 258002.

10 JUNE SAMARITANS TWELFTH CHELTENHAM CRAFT BEER & CIDER FESTIVAL Celebrate the 300th Anniversary of Cheltenham becoming a spa town.

Featuring English Civil War battle reenactments from The Sealed Knot. 40 craft keg beers, craft ciders, Pimms bar, food stalls, live music and children’s activities.

12 noon until 11pm. Tickets £10 (£8 in advance) – available from Favourite Beers

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(105 Hewlett Road, Cheltenham) or Eventbrite. Old Patesians Club, Leckhampton, Cheltenham GL53 9LG. EMI MCDADE AT BLACKFRIARS PRIORY Best of British nominee, 19 year old Gloucester singer/songwriter Emi McDade launches new single ‘Sweet Return’.

Support from Joe Dolman, IsaacO and Russ Poole. Doors: 7.30pm. Tickets: £4 advance, £5 on the door. www.emimcdade.com WILDFLOWER & ORCHID WALK Join our reserve manager for a magical behind-the-scenes walk looking for the wetland’s finest wildflowers and orchids.

For various times and prices visit wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/slimbridge 01453 891900. WWT Slimbridge, Bowditch, Slimbridge GL2 7BT. NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE: PETER PAN All children, except one, grow up… When Peter Pan loses his shadow, headstrong Wendy helps him to reattach it. In return, she is invited to Neverland, where Tinker Bell, Tiger Lily and Captain Hook await.

2pm. £16.50 (£14.50, students £12.50).

The Bacon Theatre, Shelburne Road, Cheltenham, GL51 6HE. 01242 258002.

10-11 JUNE HIDDEN GARDENS & SCULPTURE OF RODBOROUGH A visual extravaganza, with gardeners throwing open their gates to welcome

To advertise call 01242 510500

garden enthusiasts and art lovers from all over the county. Homemade cakes, tea and soup on sale, with numerous stalls selling local produce and plants. 11am5pm. £5 per adult (children free). Tickets available from Stroud Valleys Project Shop, The Prince Albert or The Old Endowed School, GL5 3NF. Parking at Stroud RFC, GL5 3HS. rodboroughrealgardens.com.

11 JUNE BISHOPS CLEEVE STREET FAIR From 12 noon. Parades, entertainment , stalls, funfair, rescue services display and dog show (entry forms from Folly’s Vets, Badham’s Chemist and George Lewis Footwear). Purchase programmes (includes raffle ticket) from shops along Church Road and on the day. Money raised will be donated to SARA (Severn Area Rescue Association), the Tewkesbury/Cheltenham RNLI and Bishops Cleeve Christmas Lights.

WALK A MILE IN MY SHOES A fantastic family fun day and carer awareness event with information, free music and children’s entertainment. Craft booths, face painting, food stalls and refreshments from the tea tent and licensed bar. Swap shoes and join in the sponsored walk to raise funds for local carers. Registration £10 (includes t-shirt and goodie bag). 11am. Pittville Pump Rooms, Cheltenham, GL52 3JE.

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1155 JUNE JUNE ROYAL PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA Glinka’s overture to his operatic masterpiece, Ruslan and Ludmila, is full of upbeat exuberance and warm lyricism, making it the perfect opener to this exciting final concert of the Series.

7.30pm. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA . To book visit: cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk. 0844 576 2210.

1166 JUNE JUNE FAIRY & WIZARD WORLD Fairy & Wizard World returns to the Bird Park! Of course dressing up is all part of the fun to set the scene for the face painters who will work their magic!

Children can create their own special make belief home for wizards and faries in the activities tent, followed by lunch in the Gypsy Caravan. 11.30am. £13.50. The Bird and Deer Park , Prinknash, Cranham, Gloucester GL4 8EX. 01452 812727.

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM Several stories intertwine as Titania, Puck and Bottom present their famous play ‘Pyramus And Thisbe’. Caught in a thrilling web of mistaken identity and confusion, the lovers find their way to a joyous and unforgettable reconciliation. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX. www.rosestheatre.org. 01684 295074.

BAT WALK Come along and learn more about Woodchester Mansion’s Greater and Lesser Horseshoe Bats. Enjoy a talk from a member of the Gloucestershire Bat Group, watch the bats live on CCTV in the Bat Observatory and see the bats leave the building at dusk. We will provide bat detectors to help you locate these fascinating creatures. 8pm. £7. 01453 86154. For more details visit: www.woodchestermansion.org.uk 1177 JUNE JUNE THE UKELELE FESTIVAL 2017

Featuring some of the most awesome ukulele acts in the world, together with workshops, stalls, busks, jams, raffles and more. Why not come along and share the ukulele love? 9.00am. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA . To book visit: www.ukulelefestival.co.uk

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1188 JUNE JUNE FATHER’S DAY AT BATSFORD

Visit Batsford and make Father’s Day even more special this year. Free entry to the arboretum for all Dads (on production of a valid child, of course!). The perfect excuse to treat them to a summer walk followed by a slap up home-baked lunch or afternoon tea in the sunshine. 10am.

Batsford Arboretum, Moreton-in-Marsh GL56 9QB. 01386 701441.

FATHER’S DAY CELEBRATIONS We’re celebrating Father’s Day with a hog roast and some den building fun for dads that come along with their kids. No need to book but numbers may be limited on the day. 11.30am. Puzzlewood, Perrygrove Road, Coleford, GL16 8QB. 01594 833187. www.puzzlewood.net.

CHELTENHAM PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA – AN ENGLISH FANTASY This concert showcases some of the most beautiful English music ever written, full of lush melodies and gorgeous pastoral themes. 3pm £12. Pittville Pump Room, East Approach Drive, Cheltenham, GL52 3JE. FATHER’S DAY AT BERKLEY CCA ASTLE

Enjoy a special Father’s Day Medieval Archery Show and find out how men made their living as an archer. Dads can try their hand at archery and other family members can have a go too! Dads get free entry (with a full paying child) and free lunch (with a full priced main course purchased). Berkeley Castle, GL13 9BQ. 01453 810303. www.berkeley-castle.com LYDBROOK BAND An entertaining afternoon with popular music and solos, all ably directed by the band’s principal conductor Ian Holmes.

3pm. £10 (concessions £8, under 16s £5).

01453 760900. Stroud Subscription Rooms, George Street, Stroud GL5 1AE. 2200 JUNE JUNE LION A five year old Indian boy gets lost on the streets of Calcutta, thousands of miles

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from home and family. He survives many challenges before being adopted by a couple in Australia. Twenty five years later, armed with only a handful of memories, his unwavering determination and a revolutionary technology known as Google Earth, he sets out to find his lost family and finally return to his first home.

7.45pm. £8 (£7). The Bacon Theatre, Shelburne Road, Cheltenham, GL51 6HE. 01242 258002.

2211 JUNE JUNE SUNRISE SWIM Be ready to swim when the sun rises on the longest day of the year at 4.45am.

Normal early morning entrance charges apply and the swim session will run until 9am. Donations for Winston’s Wish gratefully received. The lido cafe will be open from 4.45am so that you can enjoy some food and drink following your swim.

Sandford Parks Lido, Keynsham Road, Cheltenham GL53 7PU. MIDSUMMER FAMILY PORTRAIT EVENING A rare chance to have your family photographed in private, with the Garden and its stunning features as backdrop.

5pm. 01452 813 204. Painswick Rococo Garden, GL6 6TH. rococogarden.org.uk 2222 JUNE JUNE NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE: SALOMÉ An occupied desert nation. A radical from the wilderness on hunger strike. A girl whose mysterious dance will change the course of the world. This charged retelling turns the infamous biblical tale on its head, placing the girl we call Salomé at the centre of a revolution. 7pm. £16.50 (£14.50, students £12.50). The Bacon Theatre, Shelburne Road, Cheltenham, GL51 6HE. 01242 258002.

22-23 22-23 JUNE JUNE FOOD SAFARI SINGLES EVENT At Foodworks Cookery School. Fun, relaxed social evening where you can meet new, like minded friends over a safari supper and a glass of wine. £58pp (limited spaces). Please check website for more details www.foodworkscookeryschool.co.uk 01242 870538 23 23 JUNE JUNE LAKESIDE PRIMARY SCHOOL SUMMER FAIR 3.30–6pm. Visit our Pirate themed Summer Fair with activities for all: bouncy castle, crafts, BBQ, entertainment, cakes, raffle and much more. Follow us on Facebook.

Visit: www.lakesidechelt.co.uk/PTA .

CHELTENHAM INTERNATIONAL TANGO FESTIVAL As part of the Festival we will be offering two workshops for complete beginners to Argentine Tango and an inspiring talk on how to interpret the music of tango. For more information and to book , please visit: http://citf.dance

The Local Answer

v THE BRITISH & IRISH LIONS TOUR 2017 LIONS LOOKING TO BECOME LEGENDS If there’s one thing more exciting than a British and Irish Lions tour to New Zealand then it’s a British and Irish Lions tour to New Zealand that we can actually win.

Not since 1971 and the heady days of Willie John McBride, JPR Williams and Barry John have the Lions won in New Zealand.

T h o s e t h re e p l a y e r s , a n d m a n y o t h e r s b e s i d e s , h a ve g o n e d ow n i n L i o n s h i s t o r y a n d n ow S a m Warburton and his merry men have a very real opportunity over the next month or so to become legends of the game in their own right.

Merry men they will be if they win, but there won’t be much time for frivolity for the staff and players on this trip. In an age when cash is king, this tour is almost a welcome throwback to yesteryear with high intensity back-to-back matches against the provincial teams, as well as the three-Test series.

It ’s a proper full-blown trip with 10 mouth-watering matches starting with a tour game against New Zealand Provincial Barbarians on Saturday 3rd June and ending with the Third Test against the All Blacks on Saturday 8th July.

If the Lions are to claim a series win, head coach Warren Gatland will need every one of his 41-strong squad – including Gloucester favourites Ross Moriarty and Clermont-bound Greig Laidlaw – to perform to the peak of their powers. Even then it is by no means certain they will succeed. Since 1971 the Lions have toured four times and managed only two wins in 14 games.

It ’s hardly a record to set the pulses racing, so what’s different this time? After all, New Zealand have home advantage and are the World Cup holders. It may be clutching at straws but there is a suspicion, and it is only a suspicion, that the All Blacks are not as strong as they were two years ago.

There is also a belief among some Lions supporters that this could be the tour that England stars, such as second-row trio Maro Itoje, George Kruis and Courtney Lawes, make the final step from being very good players to becoming great players.

If that is the case – and from England’s viewpoint let’s hope so – nearly 50 years of heartache could be about to end for the Lions. Enjoy the ride!

MATCH M ATCH D DATES, ATES, O OPPONENTS PPONENTS & V VENUES ENUES A Allll k kick ick o off ff at at 8 8.35am .35am B BST ST S Saturday aturday 3 3rd rd JJune une

NZ Provincial Barbarians

S Saturday aturday 117th 7th JJune une

Maori All Blacks

Saturday S aturday 11st st JJuly uly

NEW ZEALAND

Toll Stadium, Whangarei Wednesday Wednesday 7th 7th June June

Rotorua International Stadium Tuesday T uesday 2 20th 0th JJune une

Westpac Stadium, Wellington Saturday S aturday 8th 8th July July

Eden Park, Auckland S Saturday aturday 10th 10th June June

FMG Stadium, Hamilton Saturday S aturday 2 24th 4th JJune une

Eden Park Auckla and

AMI Stadium, Christchurch T Tuesday uesday 113th 3th June June

Eden Park, Auckland T Tuesday uesday 2 27th 7th JJune une

Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin

Westpac Stadium, Wellington

Blues

Crusaders

Highlanders

Chiefs

NEW ZEALAND

NEW ZEALAND Hurricanes

All matches will be shown live on Sky Sports, Sky Sports HD and Sky Go. If you don d t have ccess at home, why not check with venues near you, as many across the county will open their doors specifically for the rugby around 8am – what a great way to start the day!

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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

H How ow A Abbley bbley ttransformed ransformed CCirencester irencester Town Town Steve Abbley could run for fun as a footballer and he has not stood still since hanging up his boots almost 20 years ago.

The former Cheltenham Town right winger, who spent four years with the club in the 1980s, has been chairman of Cirencester Town since 1996, transforming the club both on and off the pitch.

A new ground with much improved facilities, a higher level of football and a stronger community base are all boxes that have been successfully ticked, and there is more to come with the club recently starting work on a new 4G pitch that will only increase their links with schools and clubs in the area.

A skilful footballer, who could run and cross a ball, he was similarly successful as a player, enjoying great times not only with Cheltenham but also with Wycombe Wanderers and Gloucester City.

Abbley, now 60, and as passionate about football today as he was

w h e n h e f i r st p u l l e d o n a p a i r of boots back in the 1960s, is one of the more intelligent men involved in the beautiful game.

As a young professional at Swindon Town trying to make his way in the sport , he soon realised that he couldn’t rely on football alone if he wanted to get on in life.

So while other players may have spent their spare time kicking their

A Ahead head o off tthe he FField ield

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Emily Field is one of the new breed of runners who is thriving in the go ahead junior set-up at Bourton Roadrunners.

The youth section was originally established by club stalwart Norman Lane, who handed o v e r t h e r e i n s to Richard Bufton and C h r i s H a r t l e y f i ve years ago.

Richard has high hopes for under-15 runner Field. The Chipping Campden Emily Field, right, School pupil, who l i ve s i n M o r e to n with fellow Bourton Roadrunner in-Marsh, has been Gabby Jones at the club for the past three years and has, says Richard, “ g o t b e t te r a n d b e t t e r a n d s t r o n g e r and stronger”.

PLUS: Q&A , ‘My Sporting Life’ with Richard Bufton.

Luke Campbell’s greatest disappointment has spurred him on to great things in another sporting field.

Two years ago, Luke, then 16, was released from Forest Green Rovers’ football academy.

As a result , the Cirencester College pupil joined Cirencester Athletics Club and s t a r te d running on Tuesday nights.

Not long after, Luke discovered t r i at h l o n s – s p r i n t t r i at h l o n s to b e p re c i s e – and since then h i s c a re e r h a s Luke Campbell taken off.

S o m u c h s o t h at h e w i l l b e competing for the Great Britain under20 team in the European Sprint Triathlon Championships in Dusseldorf at the end of June.

Steve Abbley

h e e l s i n p u b s a n d b e t t i n g s h o p s, Abbley was b u sy st u d y i n g accountancy.

It was to stand him in good stead because today he owns and runs Quick Move Properties, a business in Wootton Bassett that buys, sells and renovates properties. Although he s t i l l f i n d s t i m e to c a l l i n to t h e football club every morning on his way to work .

Liverpool-born Abbley has spent much of his life living in and around the South West and he is proud of what has been achieved at Cirencester Town.

“We’ve put the club on the Southern League football map,” he said. “Everybody who comes to Cirencester for the first time is blown away by our facilities – the 3G indoor pitch and the clubhouse, which looks as good now as it did when it was built 15 years ago.

We’ve punched well above our weight.”

Full story online.

And if that goes well he is targeting a place in the under-20 world championships in September.

SStow’s tow’s M Mrr R Rugby ugby Former Stow-on-the-Wold rugby player Ian Roberts has spent much of his life at the club.

An under-16 coach and also a trustee of the club, he says one of his b i g g e s t a c h i e ve m e n t s i n t h e g a m e was winning the Cheltenham and District Combination Senior Cup with the club in 1990.

He believes the way to get more youngsters involved in the sport is to “try and convince them it is better to play sport than watch it on TV and tell them the special friendships that sport can bring.”

Read his Q&A , ‘My School Sports Report’ online.

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

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Liza Darroch and Rupert Chesmore

RReady, eady, ssteady, teady, go go for for Cirencester Cirencester 10K 10K Organisers of this year ’s Cirencester 10K on Wednesday 14th June – known as the ‘summer sizzler ’ – are hoping that as many as 500 runners will line up at the start.

It is the third year the race will have been held in the beautiful surroundings of Cirencester Park after it was previously staged in Westonbirt Arboretum.

Cirencester Athletics Club publicity officer Liza Darroch, who expects to be on a water station for the event, said: “It’s run in lovely parkland including up a n av e n u e l i n e d w i t h m a j e s t i c h o r s e c h es n u t s. I t i s v i r t u a l l y a l l o n tarmac but is traffic free.

“To have a road race with zero traffic is almost unheard of. You don’t hear a car, let alone see one.

“There are a few tiny off-road sections but the event still counts as a road race.”

As an evening run, the main event gets under way at 7.30pm, 45 minutes after a 3K race designed for juniors but open to all ages, including accompanying parents.

The fact that the event is held just seven days before the longest day of

the year means that even in a typically uninspiring English summer, conditions are likely to be on the warm side for the runners.

N o t fo r n o t h i n g i s i t k n ow n a s t h e ‘summer sizzler.’

“The last two years we’ve had gloriously warm balmy evenings, which are great for everyone except the runners,” chuckled Liza. “It’s not a course for PBs, it’s one to enjoy.”

Runners Runners m must ust ttackle ackle ‘Big ‘Big B Bertha’ ertha’ ttwice wice The event consists of two laps through Cirencester Park , which means runners must tackle the steep climb known as ‘Big Bertha’ twice. “ T h e f i n i s h l i n e i s j u s t a f te r B i g B e r t h a , ” s a i d L i z a . “ R u n n e r s h av e a sprint to the finish line in front of the polo stand.”

T h e re w e r e 2 7 1 f i n i s h e r s a t l a s t year ’s race and while Liza says the aim is to attract 500 runners to this year’s event, she is realistic enough to know that 400 going to the start line would be a good number.

The club run a very successful Autumn 10K , which has been going

for years and years, and Liza said of the June date: “We need to get it established and that can take time. It doesn’t just happen overnight.”

Last year’s race was won by Stroud’s Jack Turner in a time of 34 minutes and 21 seconds, and he was followed home by Cirencester ’s Adrian Williams, who was also first V40.

The organisers hope that about 100 youngsters aged from five to 16 will take part in the 3K on the 14th June.

Liza, meanwhile, admits that 10K races are not for her. Not that the 69 year-old has turned her back on running, far from it.

“I like long distances,” she said. “I like ultra marathons.”

N e ve r t h e l e s s, L i z a h a s g o t to g o some way to match the exploits of her partner Rupert Chesmore.

She said of the 59 -year-old: “He does even sillier things. He’s planning to do 100 miles of the Offa’s Dyke, although that still leaves him well behind Richard Hurdle who ran the whole of Offa’s Dyke, which is something like 185 miles – it took a mere 72 hours!”

Full story online.

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

Shipton Golf S hipton G olf C Course ourse

D Distributors istributors Required Required For a few hours each month in:

Cirencester • Fairford Quenington • Stow-on-the-Wold Stratton • Willersey Each round is made up T h e Loc The Loca al l 2200,000 00,000 of 150 -400 copies per AN A NSW S W ER E R fforor llocal oca l ppeople month. The rate of pay is 6 e o p le 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 CCOTSW OTSWOLDS OLDS completed within four days between the hours of 7am and 9pm.

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

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1 JULY CANTORES CHAMBER CHOIR Song of Songs directed by John Holloway, organist John Wright. Saturday 1st July at Cirencester Parish Church. 7.30pm. Glorious music from the Renaissance and 20th Century reflecting the imagery of nature and creation by de Padilla, Guererro, Victoria, Walton, Sanders, Hadley, Holloway. Tickets £15 available from Cirencester, Cheltenham and Gloucester Tourist Information Centres, 01242 603988, www.cantores.net or on the door.

13-15 JULY A MUSICAL JOURNEY Spend a summer’s evening with Promenade Productions and Young Promenaders in aid of Sue Ryder Hospice.

7.30pm. Bacon Theatre, Cheltenham.

Tickets £10 (Thur & Fri) or £12 (Sat). 01242 224144. promenadeproductions.co.uk.

21-30 JULY THE 47TH GUITING MUSIC FESTIVAL This year’s Festival in Guiting Power will be from the 21st to 30th July. The exciting programme includes eleven concerts featuring the best in classical, jazz and contemporary blues. Internationally renowned artists will bring a wonderful variety of music to the heart of the Cotswolds. Tickets available on www.guitingfestival.org

Gloucestershire, GL13 9BQ. 01453 810303. www.berkeley-castle.com 28 JUNE HOWLERS AT THE HALL Howlers returns with a mighty bang with another cracking line up including Paul Tonkinson, Ivo Graham and Andrew Watts!

Over 18s only. £13.50. 8.30pm.

Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, Cheltenham, GL50 1QA. To book visit: cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk. 0844 576 2210.

29 JUNE RULE THE WORLD Just like the real deal, Rule The World will be performing as a three piece. Over the years they have received rave reviews from many people including Denise Van Outen, Jason Orange’s mum and Gary Barlow himself, who tweeted the band to say he thought they were brilliant. £21.50.

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

30 JUNE – 1 JULY AS YOU LIKE IT The Handlebards Ladies tour the country by bike and perform Shakespeare outdoors. Witty, intelligent and fit, this is one of our highlights of the year. 6.30pm.

To book visit: www.handlebards.com.

Painswick Rococo Garden, GL6 6TH.

“A “A 9 hole hole pay pay & play play course course in in the the Heart Heart of of the the Cotswolds” Cotswolds” No N o need need to to book book – Open Open every every day day from from 7am 7am until until dusk dusk ● ● ● ●

Family Family run run course course offering offering affordable affordable golf golf for for all all Coffee Coffee shop shop and and terrace terrace SSmall mall stock stock of of ‘everyday’ ‘everyday’ golfing golfing equipment equipment and and clothing clothing and advice advice PGA PGA Professionals Professionals available available for fo or lessons lessons and

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24 JUNE WILD WESTONBIRT If you’re aged 14-18 and want to learn more about bushcraft and survival, Wild Westonbirt is for you! Wild Westonbirt is a youth club with a difference, where you’ll participate in a range of traditional forest and survival skills, including den building, fire lighting, star gazing, wildlife watching and woodland crafts. Sign up to be a part of Wild Westonbirt – it’s free! All you need to do is book a place – call 0300 067 4854 or email karen.price@forestry.gsi.gov.uk 24-25 JUNE DAY OUT WITH THOMAS The ideal all day family activity. Once you have bought your ticket, entrance to all attractions is free! Ride with Thomas and behind other steam and diesel engines, including Daisy, on the frequent trains between Cheltenham Race Course, Winchcombe and Toddington. Gates open at 9am and trains will run every 45 minutes throughout the day. www.gwsr.com. 01242 621405.

25 JUNE BERKELEY HUNT AGRICULTURAL SHOW ON THE MEADOW Watch Medieval Falconry Displays on our Lower Lawns, meet our falconer and his wonderful birds of prey. Berkeley Castle,

O One ne ccomplimentary omplimentary hot hot d drink rink a after fter alid until until y your our rround ound w with ith tthis his v voucher! oucher! VValid 3 30/6/17 0/6/17

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The Local Answer

PATESIANS P ATESIANS CLUB CLUB H HOSPITALITY OSPITALITY

Ad day ay o out ut a att tthe he Cricket Cricket FFestival estival

W Wild ild F Food ood F Foraging oraging w with ith S Steven teven H Hawley awley

Great food and a very warm welcome!

Thyme Thyme tto oe explore xplore WIN A HOSPITALITY PACKAGE FOR TWO PEOPLE! Patesians Sports & Social Club have kindly donated a Hospitality Package for two people – worth £150 – to enjoy a day’s food and entertainment in the club’s marquee at the Cheltenham Cricket Festival on Tuesday 11th July 2017.

The Old Patesians was one of the first local clubs to take a tent at the Festival, and that too has developed over the years from small beginnings. This year ’s event runs from M o n d ay 3 r d t o S u n d ay 1 6 t h J u l y a n d a l l m e m b e r s a n d guests are welcome, whether to watch the cricket with a drink and/or snack , or to indulge in the popular corporate hospitality package. There are still some spaces left on certain days – call Di Kingscott on 01242 519569.

The Hospitality Package prize consists of ground entrance tickets, morning coffee and biscuits, four course lunch with bottle of wine, reserved spectator seats, afternoon tea with f r e s h l y m a d e s a n d w i c h e s a n d c a k e s, a n d a p ay b a r i s available all day.

To enter the draw, send your name, address and phone number to: ‘Cricket ’, The Local Answer, Unit I, Churchill Industrial Estate, Churchill Road, Leckhampton, Cheltenham GL53 7EG. Alternatively, you can email details to competitions@thelocalanswer.co.uk – please state ‘Cricket’ in the subject line. Closing date: Sunday 11th June 2017.

The Local Answer

The whole point of foraging, at least in my opinion, isn’t simply to cut down on the cost of your monthly food bill.

The time and effort required to get a full and varied diet from foraging is extensive and wouldn’t leave a lot of room in your life for other pursuits. I feel that the point of foraging is to teach yourself to notice more while out in the country.

So often in this fast paced, instant gratification lifestyle w e h a ve b u i l t fo r o u r s e l v e s , we ove r l o o k a n d t a k e fo r granted certain things that were once viewed as an important lifeline for our ancestors. When walking off your Sunday lunch, how often do you look up and notice the seasons’ effects on hedgerows and undergrowth? Perhaps you prefer to gaze downward noticing nothing more than the same well trodden path that you saw last weekend?

A Allow llow y yourself ourself the the time time to to appreciate appreciate y your our ssurroundings urroundings There is so much that nature has to offer us and yet we have forgotten how to appreciate these gifts – many of them we needn’t even ingest to appreciate. Wild thyme, f o u n d i n s a n d y s o i l s o r ro c k y o u t c ro p s , i s t h e p e r f e c t example of allowing yourself the time to appreciate your s u r ro u n d i n g s . P i n c h a l i t t l e s p r i g o f f t h e p l a n t , r u b between your fingers and spend the rest of the walk enjoying a periodic sniff. It will only take a second, but when you inhale that herby fragrance, empty your mind of all your distractions and just enjoy the moment.

Our fast paced lifestyle isn’t a bad thing, mind you.

Business is booming for humanity ... but every so often, before we completely alienate ourselves from this world, w e n e e d t o a p p re c i a t e t h a t ev e r y t h i n g w e n e e d h a s always been here. Thyme for you to get out there and start rediscovering your planet!

If If yyou’re ou’re not not 100% 100% sure sure that that w what hat you’re you’re ppicking icking iiss safe safe for for human consumption, consumption, don’t don’t pick pick it. it. If If you’re you’re prone prone to to food food human allergies, or or pregnant, pregnant, always always seek seek medical medical advice advice bbefore efore allergies, consuming anything anything fforaged oraged in in the the w ild. consuming wild.

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The Local Answer

Save S ave t the he P Planet lanet with w ith A Annabel nnabel L Laughton aughton

On On your your bbike! ike!

When was the last time you got out on two wheels? If it was a while ago, June is the perfect month to get back in the saddle – the weather is a bit drier,, and National bike week 2017 (10th to 18th June) has events around the country.

Cycling is a brilliant way to get a ro u n d f o r s h o r t j o u r n e y s a n d commuting to work . A report by Sustrans (sustrans.org.uk) shows that i n t h e U K , t h re e o u t o f f i v e s h o r t journeys (under 5 miles) are made by car. If this was reduced to one in five, carbon emissions would be reduced by 7 . 7 m i l l i o n to n n e s . A n d m a k i n g those short journeys by bike really adds up to measurable improvements in health, and finances – every driver would save around £280 a year if they reduced that three in five to one in five short journeys by car.

Buy Buy a second-hand second-hand bike bike from from a ass llittle ittle a ass £ £30 30 So, if you haven’t got a bike but would like to try cycling again, what are your options? Well, you could buy a second-hand bike from as little as £30 from a bike refurbishment project The Local Answer

such as Reclaim Cycles in Cheltenham first Saturday of every month (vision21.org.uk) or Gloucestershire (vision21.org.uk).

Bike Project in central Gloucester 13 to 24-year-olds in Stroud could (gloucestershirebikeproject.co.uk). check out the Access Bike Project (cscic.org) for an open bike workshop Borrow Borrow a b bike ike ffor or ffree ree as well as second-hand bike sales. If Or, you could try borrowing a bike you feel a little unconfident cycling on Travel fast roads at first , there is a brilliant fo r f re e – Think (thinktravel.info/bike-loan-scheme) series of cycle maps for Tewkesbury, will lend you a bike and accessories Cheltenham and Cirencester, which for free for eight weeks so you can try grades roads according to how busy cycling first . It ’s a great way to get they are, and shows bike parking. b a c k i n , a n d f i g u r e o u t w h a t yo u ’ l l D o w n l o a d f ro m a copy need. If you want to go for new, many cyclecheltenham.org.uk or pick up a employers are signed up to the Cycle copy from a Tourist Information To Work scheme – you could buy a Centre. new commuting bike and accessories tax-free and spread the cost over a U Use se yyour our kknowledge nowledge tto o year or more, saving you around 30%. s support u p p o r t n new e w c cyclists y c l i s t s And, if you have a bike languishing If you’re reading this and thinking “I in a shed or garage, why not wipe it down and get it back on the road? You already do all this” – great! Have you can get a cheap maintenance service thought about using your knowledge at the projects mentioned above, or to support new cyclists? You could you could learn the skills to keep your volunteer at the organisations bike roadworthy yourself. There are mentioned above to teach workshops lots of bike maintenance courses or refurbish bikes, lobby for better around – many bike shops offer paid- cycling facilities at work , or join a for courses, or try the Gloucestershire group campaigning for better Bike Project , or the Regeneration provision for cyclists. Or if you have an Repair Cafe in Cheltenham on the old bike you won’t use, donate it!

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

W Watering atering iiss iimportant mportant d during uring tthe he warmer warmer m months onths The weather should now be milder and m o re s e t t l e d ( p e r h a p s ! ) s o yo u c a n transplant courgettes, marrows, p u m p k i n s a n d s q u a s h e s t h a t h a ve b e e n s ow n i n s i d e to yo u r g a rd e n . I f you haven’t got any, sow directly into a prepared piece of ground. Outdoor tomato plants can be put out now as well.

water butt to help conserve the water from your tap. Butts are available now which are very slim and will fit in small spaces.

R Roses oses ffit it iin n jjust ust a about bout e every very sspace pace

Invest Invest in in a watering watering system system At this time of year watering can be a problem, particularly if the weather is warm and windy – it has been extremely dry in the last few weeks.

After writing this we are guaranteed to have monsoon rain for the next month – you will know who to blame!

P o t s a n d w i n d o w b ox e s d e f i n i t e l y need watering daily. Why not buy one of the automatic watering kits the garden centres sell? Pop it on an outdoor tap and it can water a quantity o f h a n g i n g b a s k e t s , p o t s, e t c . ev e r y day, thus taking the drudgery out of it all. It is expensive to plant up these The Local Answer

displays, so to invest in a watering system makes good sense.

A n y n e w l y p l a n te d s h r u b o r perennial will need watering in the first few weeks to keep it healthy until the roots grow. Don’t spray water on e ve r y d ay – u s e a c a n a n d g i v e t h e s u r ro u n d i n g g r o u n d a g o o d s o a k i n g once a week . If the ground is dry, use a whole can to each plant. Water in the early morning or mid-evening, not in the heat of the day. Look at your downpipes from the guttering and see if there is any way you can fit in a

June is a lovely month in the garden, with my favourite plant, the rose, at its best. Roses will fit in just about every space. The David Austin ‘English Roses’ are bred to have the scent and colour o f t h e o l d ro s e s, a n d t h e s h r u b o n e s are ideal to place as a small climber if your space is limited. They also have t h e a d d e d b o n u s o f f l owe r s s t a r t i n g from low down, so you don’t get the bare stems.

I f yo u h ave a l a r g e g a rd e n w i t h a mature tree, you could try growing one of the prolific ramblers like ‘Kiftsgate’ or ‘Rambling Rector’, which work best being allowed to romp up a big tree and do their thing with no pruning. At the end of the month, give your roses their second feed of granular rose food.

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Interior Interior Design Design with w ith Maddie Maddie Simpson Simpson

Let’s Let’s g go o tto o tthe he sseaside easide Being back in Devon has given me a lot of inspiration for this piece. How b e t te r t o b r i g h te n u p y o u r h o m e than with a bit of seaside-loving?

You know that feeling when you go to the beach and have a sense of calm, that overwhelming relaxation that causes us all to love the beach so much? This can be easily brought into your home. Why not try painting your bathroom blue, lining the window sill with wooden windmills a n d h a n g i n g b l u e s t r i p y s h ow e r curtains to brighten up your morning routine.

G Give ive tthe he a air ir tthat hat ‘‘beachy’ beachy’ a aroma roma One of the best things about being by the sea is the smell. Yes, you can get that occasional waft of seaweed but one of my all-time favourite scents when I come home is walking along the pier and smel ling candyfloss and doughnuts. An easy

The Local Answer

way to transfer this into your home thoroughly and allow to dry is by using room diffusers, which are • Preheat the hot glue gun. inexpensive and easy to find online.

Working from the inside of the If you’re unable to access the mirror frame, apply the glue in internet, supermarkets usually stock small sections and press shells a range of room diffusers. One of my into the hot glue (BE CAREFUL) personal favourite scents is the sea • Cover the entire frame in shells, salt smell, because it gives using the smaller shells first and the air that ‘beachy ’ the big shells last so that aroma. application is easier As always, I’d like to give you a little DIY task to keep • CLEAN: Glue guns can leave strings of glue behind. To remove the cost down but also these, gently sweep them off give one of your rooms a using a stiff paint brush. Use a seaside appeal... razor edge to remove glue from Seashell Seashell M Mirror irror mirror surface, then generally Materials needed: clean the mirror so it looks • Framed mirror beautiful • Hot glue gun and glue • Leave the mirror to dry and hang sticks wherever you like. This gives your • Seashells – get down to home that beachy, seaside feel, the beach (or eBay) which is desirable and • Stiff paintbrush fashionable.

• Straight razor When I was younger, I made a mirror • Window cleaner very similar to this and I still use it • Cloth or paper towel today. It’s a cute little addition to the Method: house and it’s fun to make on those rainy days – the days you’re longing • If shells were collected from the beach, rinse for the beach!

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Quick Crossword ACROSS 1 5 7 8 9 12 15 19 21 22 23 24

DOWN

Most agile Peel Uncouth Walked Go by (of time) Aspiring actress River of ice Grills Wired message Salute Went on horseback Hearing membranes

1 2 3 4 5 6 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

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W h y n ot u s e t his s pa ce t o a dve rt is e yo u r bu s i n e ss ?

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© Lovatts Puzzles

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Designers D esigners aand nd m makers akers of of quality quality furniture furniture and and bespoke bespoke joinery joinery

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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.

Save S ave 2 0% 20% VAT* V AT*

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. *If you need to make changes to your bathroom due to disability or a medical condition, we are able to supply your bathroom VAT free, saving you 20%. Please ask for details.

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

w www.lifestylebathrooms.net ww.lifestylebathrooms.net e

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

Say Say h hello ello tto o ssummer! ummer! cosy night in, this mini cooler will be sure to come in handy.

E ve r y o n e k n ow s t h a t i t i s a n u n s p o k e n r u l e fo r B r i t s to immediately invest their energy into two things when summer comes; g et t i n g a t a n a n d g et t i n g o u t t h e BBQ. It’s not truly a British summer unless you see the determined look of a man in a ‘Kiss the chef ’ apron focusing his intensity on how cooked the sausages should be, or arguing w i t h a r e l a t i ve a b o u t how much coal goes in the grill. To properly enjoy this tradition, here are some tools of the trade to help make for the perfect summer.

Roberts R Roberts Revival evival Mini Mini Dab Dab Radio R adio D Dove ove G Grey rey

O Outback utback 3 B Burner urner G Gas as B BBQ BQ If you’re serious about your BBQi n g s k i l l s, t h i s p ro d u c t w i l l n o t only look great in your garden, but it will also take some of the pressure off. No doubt you’ll be the e n v y o f yo u r n e i g h b o u r s w i t h t h i s g a s B B Q s e t fo r £ 1 9 9 . 0 0 , w h i c h i s easily manoeuvrable and great for cooking outdoors.

It comes with all the trimmings, including three high performance burners, a roasting lid, temperature gauge, warming rack and side shelves. It can cook for 12 people, which is good news if you’re hosting a lot of guests, and can even cook up

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to 24 burgers at a time – so no one can complain about being left hungry! The Outback 3 Burner comes in black or silver, and has a 10 year limited warranty.

To really enjoy your summer, you’ll want to chill out to some good m u s i c , a n d yo u c a n d o s o i n s t y l e .

The Roberts Revival Mini Dab R a d i o n ot o n l y h a s a c l a ss i c re t ro l o o k , it ’s also g ot practicality; lightweight and compact, it can re s t o n yo u r w i n d ow s i l l o r chill out in the garden. It also offers the choice of normal or rechargeable batteries, a built-in battery charger, LCD is i Po d display, and compatible.

W i t h 2 0 p re - s e t s t a t i o n s, there’s plenty of choice to find people’s favourite tunes, or if you just want some down-time to yourself, it includes a headphone s o c k e t fo r yo u r ow n l i s te n i n g pleasure. At £105.00, this funky radio w i l l h e l p w i t h yo u r s u m m e r t i m e relaxation.

H Husky usky P Prosecco rosecco 4 46 6 LLitre itre D Drinks rinks CCooler ooler Grilled food and cold drinks make for a great summer combo, and the £119.99 Husky Prosecco 46 Litre Drinks Cooler will make sure you always have refreshingly cold beverages in supply. It has plenty of space to h o l d yo u r r e f r e s h m e n t s , w i t h two shelves and room for up to 10 wine bottles, or 40 cans. It also has a temperature range of 6-15°C, to adjust to your needs.

Whether you’re sharing a few beers over a BBQ, or enjoying your favourite wine during a

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IIndex ndex o of fA Advertisers dvertisers FFOOD OOD & D DRINK RINK Primrose Vale The Inn at Fossebridge

Sew ‘n Sew Fabrics & Haberdashery 5 6-7 4

W WHAT’S HAT’S O ON N CCLUBS LUBS & SSPORTS PORTS Shipton Golf Course EEVENTS VENTS & A ATTRACTIONS TTRACTIONS Patesians Club – Cricket Festival Split Second Productions The Bird & Deer Park

20 21 22 15

H HEALTH EALTH & B BEAUTY EAUTY The Haven

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P PROPERTY ROPERTY Norton Park Regency Court Park

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R RETAIL ETAIL Assured Mobility

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H HOMES OMES & G GARDENS ARDENS BATHROOMS BATHROOMS Lifestyle Bathrooms Severn Vale Bathrooms B UILDING SSERVICES ERVICES BUILDING GlosBuild Marshalls Driveways Property Creations R. Richards & Son Resindrives.co.uk Severn & Wye Scaffolding Ltd FFURNISHING URNISHING & A PPLIANCES APPLIANCES Bella’ss Interiors Chiselworks Just Fabrics G ARDEN SSERVICES ERVICES GARDEN Winley & Kerton Ltd

32 26 24 23 23 23 36 23 28 30 31 26

H HEATING EATING & PPLUMBING LUMBING Mark Benson BS Ltd Sarsen Energy KKITCHENS ITCHENS Hatherley Worktops & Kitchens PPAINTING AINTING & D DECORATING ECORATING Pink Lady W INDOWS & D OORS WINDOWS DOORS Albany Windows Firmfix Doors & Windows

28 28 28 28 2 35

P PROFESSIONAL ROFESSIONAL SSERVICES ERVICES CCARE ARE SSERVICES ERVICES The Orders of St John IINTRODUCTION NTRODUCTION A GENCIES AGENCIES Caroline Crowther SKIP HIRE HIRE & RECYCLING RECYCLING SKIP Stevens Recycling

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01242 01242 5 10500 510500

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PUZZLE PUZZLE SOLUTIONS SOLUTIONS N W S L F R J B N I M Q B E A Y M P V S P Q G L

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R V A E B C C W A G O B V U C E S N G L W L K R

B U N E G O M W E R B T V T O R M B R L N C O Z

S N C L G C T R D I M X E T K Z P N W A S K O K

E U R S D K E E G O G K Q K M L G Z A M R X C Z

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C N P C S L B M S Z Z N O F V Q K S Y A E Y N A

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CCOMPETITION OMPETITION 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 FFOR OR N NEXT EXT IISSUE SSUE – Friday Friday 9 9th th JJune une 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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