Forest of Dean

The Local

ANSWER

NOVEMBER 2017

200,000 DELIVERED MONTHLY IN GLOUCESTERSHIRE

for local people

FOREST OF DEAN ‘LEST WE FORGET’ – WEAR YOUR POPPY WITH PRIDE!

The The Lo Local c al

AN ANSWER SWER

Dean FForest orest ooff D ean – 222,000 2,000 ccopies opies Gloucester G loucester – 446,000 6,000 ccopies opies G loucestershire SSouth outh – 441,000 Gloucestershire 1,000 ccopies opies G loucestershire N orth – 220,000 0,000 ccopies opies Gloucestershire North CCheltenham heltenham – 443,000 3,000 ccopies opies CCotswolds otswolds – 228,000 8,000 ccopies opies M anaging D irector Managing Director D Dave ave K Kingscott ingscott ddave@thelocalanswer.co.uk ave@thelocalanswer.co.uk

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

Helen H elen K Kingscott ingscott H Helen elen R Robinson obinson

Welcome Welcome ttoo N November ovember ......

As the cold weather sets in and the days get shorter, it’s i m p o r t a n t to re m e m b e r o u r g a rd e n f r i e n d s . C a ro l i n e Shelley has some great advice on how to help our g a rd e n w i l d l i fe b a t t l e t h e w i n te r m o n t h s i n ‘ W i l d l i f e Matters’. And don’t forget to check bonfires for hedgehogs before you light them this month!

Gloucestershire is really getting into the festive spirit and there are lots of family friendly Christmas events happening throughout this month and next . From theatre productions and concerts to markets and Christmas fairs, there’s plenty to fill your diary! Check out our What’s On section for more details.

We have a couple of great competitions this month, including your chance to win tickets to Burley Fields Lakes’ Bonfire and Firework Display. Details are inside, but be quick – you don’t have long to enter!

production@thelocalanswer.co.uk production@thelocalanswer.co.uk

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

K Kevin evin V Vaughan-Spruce aughan-Spruce services@thelocalanswer.co.uk services@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 rob@thelocalanswer.co.uk rob@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 Road, Road, GL53 LLeckhampton, eckhampton, Cheltenham, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire Gloucestershire G L53 7EG 7EG

T Telephone elephone 0 01242 1242 5 510500 10500 thelocalanswer thelocalanswer

Delicious Dish D elicious Dish Holidays H olidays & TTravel ravel Parenting Guardianship Parenting & Guardianship Wildlife Matters atters Wildlife M Medical Health Medical Health What’s On n What’s O Distributors Required equired Distributors R Homes Gardens ardens Homes & G In Garden In the the Garden Interior Design esign Interior D Word earch Word SSearch Quick Crossword Quick Crossword Gadgets Gizmos Gadgets & G izmos Money Matters atters Money M Sudoku Sudoku Save the Planet Planet Save the TLA Sport TLA Sport Index, Index , Competitions, Competitions, SSolutions olutions

5 7 9 11 11 13 13 14 14 15 15 20 20 21 21 23 23 26 26 28 28 29 29 30 30 30 30 31 31 32-33 32-33 34 34

CCompetitions ompetitions o on np pages ages 1 15 5&1 16 6

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The T h e Local Local

AN ANSWER SWER

DOUBLE UP

B BO OOK NOW!

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

Local Businesses Businesses* – CCall Local FOREST FOREST O OFF D DEAN EAN EEDITION DITION – 22,000 22,000 M MAGAZINES AGAZINES EEVERY VERY M MONTH! ONTH! 3 month month ccommitment ommitment EEIGHTH IGHTH PAGE PAGE

6 month month ccommitment ommitment 1 12 2 month month ccommitment ommitment EIGHTH EIGHTH PAGE PAGE

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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.

F U S I O N R E S TA U R A N T

BOOK BOOK NOW NOW FOR FOR CHRISTMAS! CHRISTMAS!

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

L Lunch: unch: 2 ccourse ourse ££15 15 – 3 ccourse ourse ££20 20 D Dinner: inner: 2 ccourse ourse ££20 20 – 3 ccourse ourse ££25 25

WITH WITH ANY ANY MEAL MEAL ON ON SUNDAY SUNDAY OR OR MONDAY MONDAY

✁

FREE FREE G GLASS LASS OF OF WINE WINE

**Offer Offer applies applies to to days days shown shown above above during during November November 2017.

2017.

175ml 175m l g glass. lass. P Pre-orders re-orders w welcome. elcome. T This his aadvert 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

TWO’S UP TUESDAYS FOOD OR 1 on OR 1 2 FFOR 2 FFOR & DRINK Selected lines only – please ask for 2-4-1 menu T&Cs Apply

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

Pork fillet stir fry

A tasty tasty o oriental riental sstir tir ffry ry p packed acked with with lots lots of of flavour flavour – sserves erves 4 Ingredients:

3

powder mixed with extra oil); 1 x 350g pork tenderloin fillet; 2 shallots, peeled and thinly sliced; 1 tbsp runny honey; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp light brown soft sugar; 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced or use lazy garlic; 2cm piece fresh root ginger,, peeled and cut into thin sticks or use lazy ginger; 1-2 small red chillies, deseeded and thinly sliced; 2 x 200g bags curly leaf kale.

Method: Method: 1 Preheat the oven to 200°C (fan 180°C/gas 6). In a small bowl, mix together the sunflower oil with the five spice paste (or powder) then rub it all over the pork .

2 Put the shallots and 300ml of water into the bottom of a roasting tin. Place the pork on a rack set over the tin and roast in the oven for 35 minutes. Most of the water will have evaporated after this time, so pour another 200ml of hot water into the tin.

4

5

6

7

j p the tip of a knife. Transfer the pork to a warmed plate, cover with foil and leave to rest for 10 minutes.

To make the sauce, put the roasting tin over a low heat and stir in the rice vinegar and sugar. Bring to the boil, stirring all the time and scraping any sticky juices from the base of the tin, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, until slightly reduced.

Meanwhile, heat the sesame oil in a very large wok or deep frying pan over a high heat. Add the garlic, chilli and ginger and stir-fry for 1 minute.

Add the kale and 2-3 tablespoons of water and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the kale has wilted or longer if you like it more tender.

Carve the pork into 12 rounds and serve on top of the kale, with the shallot sauce drizzled over.

and Enjoy Enjoy good good coffee coffee and delicious food food in in a beautifully beautifully delicious cconverted onverted old old vine vine house house at at T he N ursery at at Miserden.

Miserden.

The Nursery Open all all year year round, round, Open to Sunday.

Sunday.

Tuesday to Tuesday

FFor or more more details, details, visit visit w ww.miserdennursery.co.uk www.miserdennursery.co.uk

The Nursery at Miserden SStroud, troud, Gloucestershire Gloucestershire GL6 GL6 7JA 7JA

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From From November November 25, 25, The The Nursery Nurser y at at Miserden Miserden will will be be selling selling beautiful beautiful C hristmas trees, trees, handcrafted handcrafted wreaths wreaths and and seasonal seasonal pot pot plants plants Christmas To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 5

Planning Planning the the perfect perfect escorted escorted tour tour

H Holiday oliday inspiration inspiration from from Norad Norad Travel’s Travel’s award-winning award-winning expert, expert, Joe Joe Teixeira Teixeira For some, escorted holidays conjure up images of cramped coaches or being herded around at a fast pace, but that couldn’t be further from the truth.

Some 21st Century coaches have more leg room than you’d get on a train or plane. Many have reclining seats, air-conditioning, wifi, even seatb a c k T Vs a n d itineraries are planned to allow plenty of free time.

The range of destinations has moved on too. Experience Europe’s treasures and far flung destinations w i t h o u t t h e h e a d a c h e o f o rg a n i s i n g t h e t r i p yourself. And, as they are escorted by professional destination experts, don’t be surprised if you find yourself at the front of the queues for popular tourist sites or introduced to hidden gems that you’d never find alone.

and relax straight away. Or forgo long coach journeys and take the Eurostar to the continent l i ke o n Tra v e l s p h e re ’ s popular Monet’s Garden & Chateaux of the Loire tour.

Independent Independent and and iinfluential nfluential for for over over 35 35 years years

Norad Travel is completely independent and fully bonded with ABTA and ATOL. This means we will always recommend holidays based on your specific requirements, aided of course by our own in-depth knowledge and experience.

If you’d like help in selecting your perfect getaway, please call one of our team on 01452 260188.

Keep Keep your your feet feet on on the the g ground round with with n no-fly o-fly escorted escorted ttours ours

Avoid airports. Let getting there be half the fun!

Local departure points or home pick-ups offered by some operators mean that you can kick back

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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

FREE FREE PARKING PARKING

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P PRICES RICES BASED BASED ON ON 2 ADULTS ADULTS SHARING. SHARING. RETURN RETURN FLIGHTS FLIGHTS AND AND TRANSFERS TRANSFERS INCLUDED. INCLUDED. ALL ALL PRICES PRICES ARE ARE SUBJECT SUBJECT TO TO CHANGE CHANGE AND AND AVAILABILITY. AVAILABILITY. ALL ALL DETAILS DETAILS ARE ARE C CORRECT ORRECT AT AT TIME TIME OF OF PUBLICATION. PUBLICATION. FOR FOR FULL FULL TERMS TERMS AND AND CONDITIONS CONDITIONS PLEASE PLEASE REFER REFER TO TO THE THE TRAVELSPHERE TRAVELSPHERE BROCHURE. BROCHURE.

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

Ferry-free Ferry-free A Anglesey nglesey For many of us, Anglesey means the end of a long drive up the M6 and along the North Wales coast before heading across the island to the Holyhead ferry. Actually, a long weekend in Anglesey, combined with gentle d r i ve s t h ro u g h Snowdonia, makes a great weekend break in its own right.

Break Break y your our jjourney ourney in in Shropshire Shropshire Leave working-week cares behind on Friday, brave Gloucester ’s ring road and you’re soon in Shropshire for an overnight stay. We love The Farm at Snead, complete with friendly corgis and a warm welcome from Sandra and Alan. Or Timberstone near Clee Hill, that we’ve also visited. Both are perfect for breaking your journey to North Wales.

Next morning keep heading towards the ‘Misty Mountains’, m a y b e d i ve r t i n g to L a k e V y r n w y w i t h i t s i m p re s s i v e d a m a n d sculpture trail. Then potter along near-deserted minor roads towards B a l a a n d yo u r f i r s t v i ew s o f Snowdon. An hour or so later, after The Local Answer

n av i g a t i n g F f e s t i n i o g , c ro s s i n g t h e LLanberis Pass and the fast-flowing Menai Straits, you’re on Anglesey.

There’s plenty of good accommodation here, not least Lavinia and Neal’s (dog friendly) Castellor B&B overlooking the beach at Cemaes Bay. Nothing’s too much trouble for the couple; the B&B is stunning and their Welsh breakfasts a re d e l i c i o u s b e f o re yo u g o exploring.

Halen Halen Môn Môn ssea ea ssalt alt a and nd daredevil daredevil w windsurfers indsurfers It ’s easy to circumnavigate A n g l e s e y i n a d ay – w i t h l o t s o f stops. Listen to Tom Russell’s mournful ‘Isaac Lewis’ on the rocky coast at Moelfre or admire Telford’s and Stephenson’s impressive bridges over the Menai Straits. Visit the fascinating Halen Môn sea salt works (the guided tour is more entertaining than you’d ever imagine) at Brynsiencyn, or the nearby Transport Museum. Then head up the south west coast to watch daredevil windsurfers and kite-surfers brave massive waves at Rhosneigr.

Hungry after all that activity? There

are plenty of good places to eat on Anglesey, ranging from The Tavern o n t h e B a y a t R e d W h a r f B ay a n d Rozis Tandoori (Amlwch) to newly refurbished Gwesty Gadlys Hotel at Cemaes Bay. Oh yes, Y Wygyr Fish and Chips at Cemaes is unmissable – but go early because its popularity can mean long queues.

Suddenly it’s Monday and time to d r i v e h o m e t h r o u g h S n o wd o n i a , maybe enjoying some organic food at the Ludlow Food Centre to round off a wonderful weekend. Oh, was there a ferry terminal somewhere on Anglesey? Missed that!

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 7

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

Morning ssickness Morning ickness o orr something m ore sserious? erious? something more Recent news coverage has once again brought the plight of Princess Kat h e r i n e s u f fe r i n g f ro m Hyperemesis Gravidarum to our a t te n t i o n . H G i s a c h r o n i c a f f l i c t i o n that affects only 1% of all pregnant wo m e n a n d c a n b e s e ve r e l y debilitating, even life threatening. So many people misunderstand HG and d o n o t k n o w h ow to s u p p o r t mothers who are suffering, so let ’s look at HG in detail.

Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnancy ( N V P ) i s c a u s e d by f l u c t u a t i n g hormones and, contrary to the name, can occur at any time of day, but usually in the first twelve weeks before easing off as hormones level out . NVP is moderate in frequency and usually allows for normal eating and drinking throughout the day, w i t h i r re g u l a r b o u t s o f vo m i t i n g , usually triggered by gag reflex in response to outside stimuli.

SSevere evere and and a almost lmost ccontinuous ontinuous v vomiting omiting H G o n t h e ot h e r h a n d i s n ot a b l y d i f f e r e n t , w i t h s e ve r e a n d a l m o s t continuous vomiting; mum will find it near impossible to keep anything down, becoming dangerously dehydrated very quickly and necessitating in trips to the hospital for IV drip therapy.

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Princess Katherine has twice suffered with HG, hence her cancelling engagements early on in t h e p re g n a n c y a n d t r i g g e r i n g t h e early release of what is ostensibly, highly private information. There is certainly an aspect of loss of control whilst suffering with HG and loving kindness, endless patience and encouragement will go a long way.

S o h ow c a n y o u s u p p o r t a l ov e d one with HG? There are things you can do to help, although nothing will a l l ev i a t e h e r s y m p to m s o r h e r suffering. Practically you can help with life; cleaning the house, taking care of the other children (yes it can occur in second or third pregnancies and HG mums like the Princess can also choose to become pregnant knowing their HG risk – brave souls that they are), cooking for the family a n d e n s u r i n g s h e i s k e pt comfortable at all times.

P r e p a re fo o d s t h a t s h e can tolerate and have them ready for her for when h u n g e r s t r i k e s – o f te n nowhere near a mealtime, y e t t h a t h u n g e r w i n d ow

may be the only opportunity to eat for the whole day. Ensure water is always available and offer mineral water and iced water as options to ensure hydration is maintained as much as possible.

FFriends riends a and nd ffamily amily ccan an b be eag great reat ssupport upport The main prescription for mum is f o r re s t , re s t a n d m o r e r e s t , s o ensuring comfort is a must . Noise, lights, movement and smells can all trigger bouts of nausea, so be led by m u m a s to w h a t s h e n e e d s a n d w h e n . B a s i c a l l y y o u n e e d to b e available, patient and ready to offer whatever assistance she needs, whenever she needs it.

Depression can be a big part of the journey as mum will inevitably feel o ve r w h e l m e d a t t h e t h o u g h t o f 9 months of nausea, so keeping mindful, staying present and taking each day as it comes can be vital aspects of living through the drama.

Friends and extended family can be a great help in supporting the whole family whist mum is out of action and you may find ‘the village’ truly does come together to raise a child!

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 9

CCharnwood harnwood H House ouse NURSING HOME

Charnwood House Nursing Home specialises in caring for elderly people, younger people with a physical disability and people with dementia. Warm and friendly atmosphere.

Highest standards of nursing care provided.

Owned and managed by Wotton Rise Nursing Home Ltd ● Residents always treated with dignity and respect ● Registered nurses on duty 24 hours a day providing personal and nursing care ● Freshly prepared home cooked food from a menu of residents’ choice ● Activity programme to include regular external entertainers ● Attractive patio and garden for residents ● Close to shops ● Wheelchair access throughout the home ●

Contact Diana or Marina Martinez for more details

Tel: 01452 523478 01452 451249 email: wottonrisenursinghome@hotmail.co.uk 49 Barnwood Road, Gloucester GL2 0SD

Wildlife W ildlife M Matters atters with with Caroline Caroline Shelley Shelley

Wildlife Wildlife ssaviours aviours rrequired! equired!

T h e c l o c k s h av e c h a n g e d , t h e temperatures are falling and the days are short . Winter is on the approach and the colder weather, particularly if we have some severe cold snaps, means the wildlife in your garden now starts a fight to survive the most challenging months of the year. They need any help you can give them and many of the things that will help are easy to do and will cost you nothing.

Provide Provide iimportant mportant ccover over for for birds birds aand nd iinsects nsects At this time of year as flowers die back it is tempting to give the garden a good tidy by clearing away the dead or dying plants. By holding off though you can provide important cover for birds and insects over the winter.

Foliage in the garden border provides a habitat for insects where they can pass the cold months. Hollowstemmed plants, for example, are especially good for insects to crawl into. Larger bushes or hedges provide s h e l te r fo r b i r d s, s o r e s i s t t r i m m i n g hedges too.

If you have deciduous trees in your garden then it is worth creating a pile of leaves in a corner that should be l e f t u n d i s t u r b e d . T h i s w i l l p r ov i d e somewhere to hibernate for a range of creatures. Equally, a woodpile or a

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p i l e o f b r i c ks s e r ve t h e same purpose. Toads and most frogs will pass winter out of water and such an area makes an ideal spot.

If you have a pond, try to keep a small part ice-free to allow wildlife to come and go, and to also provide drinking water. Do not smash the ice as this sends shockwaves through the water. Instead, stand a pan of hot water on the ice to gently melt a small area. It is also important to clear the pond of fallen leaves at this time of year.

O u r g a rd e n b i rd s n e e d much help over the winter months. The cold means food is scarce and they use u p m u c h e n e rg y j u s t keeping warm. A wren can lose up to 10% of its body weight on a cold night . Wrens keep warm by roosting communally, often in empty nest boxes, so leave any nest boxes up.

Feeding garden birds is also incredibly beneficial and you can buy food such as seed mixes and peanuts online, in garden centres and in s u p e r m a r k e t s . I t m i g h t b e wo r t h

considering buying in bulk if you get a lot of birds coming to your garden, as this can work out cheaper.

H Help elp o our ur g garden arden w wildlife ildlife b battle attle tthe he w winter inter m months onths Fatty foods such as fat balls or bird cakes are particularly beneficial in the cold. You can even make your own by m i x i n g l a rd w i t h s e e d s o r d r i e d mealworms. Just remember to regularly wash and disinfect your bird feeders, as this prevents the spread of diseases. It is important to provide water for birds too. Pop a small ball on the surface during very cold weather to prevent it completely freezing over.

Taking a few of the above steps can really help our garden wildlife battle t h ro u g h t h e w i n t e r m o n t h s . T h i s means they are then ready to breed w h e n s p r i n g a r r i ve s a n d t h i s k e e p s population numbers healthy. Spring ... now there’s a nice thought!

Note: It’s Bonfire Night this month.

Don’t forget to check bonfires for hedgehogs!

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 11

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

D Dealing ealing w with ith D Dementia ementia Dementia is fast becoming one of the most prominent diseases of the a g e i n g p o p u l at i o n , p a r t i cu l a r l y i n wealthier we s te r n countries.

Dementia itself is a broad umbrella term for a range of progressive neurological disorders. Obviously as we g e t o l d e r o u r m i n d a n d b o d y starts to slow down, however there are certain symptoms to be aware of that are not just ‘old age’, and if they become regular and consistent then it is best to seek medical advice.

Memory M emory p problems roblems Problems with memory, and in particular the short term memory, means new information is hard to retain. Someone with Dementia may get lost in familiar places, struggle to put correct names to items and people, forget how to use items correctly, and in the advanced stages forget how to complete basic tasks such as eating and washing.

CCognitive ognitive a ability bility can Pe o p l e with Dementia experience confusion and difficulty orienting in time and place – for example, waking up in the middle of the night to get ready for work , despite being retired. Being unable to sustain concentration and having appropriate reasoning can also be a problem when accessing daily tasks s u c h a s s h o p p i n g a n d g et t i n g dressed.

CCommunication ommunication

character and have feelings of anxiety and depression.

All of these symptoms can combine to make the person stop e n g a g i n g i n s o c i a l a c t i v i t i es a n d become withdrawn as their social confidence will be affected. When y o u s t a r t n o t i c i n g s y m p to m s i n someone you love it can be a very scary and difficult thing to accept , but the earlier a diagnosis is made, the more that can be done to slow t h e sy m p t o m s d o w n a n d g i v e y o u maximum time together.

D e m e n t i a s u f f e re r s m a y h av e d i f f i c u l t y f i n d i n g t h e r i g h t wo rd s, repeat themselves and in the more advanced stages stop initiating conversations. Reading and writing becomes a challenge and this can be Care are h has as g greatly reatly iimproved mproved of particular concern when signing C over o ver tthe he y years ears important paperwork that they may not be able to read but sign anyway.

T h e m o s t we l l k n o w n f o r m o f People with Dementia may Dementia is Alzheimer ’s Disease, experience mood swings, act out of followed by Vascular Dementia, The Local Answer

Frontotemporal Dementia, Dementia with Lewy Bodies and Young Onset Dementia. The differences mainly lie in which areas of the brain that are affected and how gradual or quickly the symptoms appear. There can often be a combination of the types, but a specialist will explain in detail.

Care for people with Dementia has greatly improved over the years and n ow t h e re a re m a n y s p e c i a l i s t homes and training for care staff. It is a terrifying disease for the person with it and heartbreaking for loved ones to watch their husband, wife, mother, father, grandparent or friend disappear infront of their eyes. So make sure you contact local support groups for help and advice.

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 13

What’s On The Local Answer Event Listings are compiled and presented in good faith with the kind support of many contributors.

We recommend you use the contact details provided to check event information updates prior to planning your visit.

31 OCTOBER – 4 NOVEMBER THE KITE RUNNER It’s a beautiful afternoon in Kabul and the skies are full of the excitement and joy of a kite flying tournament. But neither Hassan nor Amir can foresee the terrible incident which will shatter their lives forever. For times and prices visit everymantheatre.org.uk. The Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham, GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573.

3 NOVEMBER CONCERT FOR KITTY An evening with Cheltenham Youth and Chamber Choirs featuring Jazz Rouge.

Raffle, cakes and drinks on the night.

Tickets £5 – call Rachel on 07809 377313.

In aid of Cotswold Kitty Walks the Way (find us on Facebook). 6pm. St Paul’s Church, St Paul’s Road, Cheltenham GL50 4EZ. MONEY FOR NOTHING A tribute to one of the world’s premier rock bands, Dire Straits. The abundant energy, the excellence and musicality of their performance makes them a must-see for any rock enthusiast. 7.30pm. £17.50.

The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002.

4 NOVEMBER CHELTENHAM GENERAL HOSPITAL LEAGUE OF FRIENDS AUTUMN FAYRE Crafts, gifts, cakes, jams, tombola bottle stall, raffles, Christmas Hamper, refreshments and more. Come along and start your Christmas Shopping! 9.30am to 12 noon. Admission only 50p. St. Philip and St. James Church, Up Hatherley, Cheltenham, GL51 6HX.

BONFIRE NIGHT A roaring bonfire lighting up our beautiful Hillside meadow, an awe-inspiring fireworks display and a fire performer to keep you entertained all evening. Hog Roast, retro popcorn and candy floss stalls, a fantastic selection of Hillside craft beers, plenty of wines and soft-drinks. 6pm. £12 per car. Hillside Brewery, Holly Bush Farm, Ross Road, GL17 0NG. 01452 830222.

4-5 NOVEMBER ORCHARD STREET FOOD & CRAFT MARKET Delicious, locally sourced food and drink, artisan arts and crafts, jewellery, home wear, plants and seasonal goods. Come along, enjoy great food and drink and live music from an eclectic range of busking acts. Full details at gloucesterquays.co.uk 5 NOVEMBER BONFIRE CRAFT A special family craft session all about bonfires! Your budding young artists can use our selection of art materials and some exciting new techniques to create great artwork for your home! Be prepared to get a little messy in this session. No need to pre-book. 11am. £3. The Wilson, Clarence Street, Cheltenham, GL50 3JT. CREEDS CROSS: THE CELTIC JOURNEY Bringing together the most talented of musicians in a musical masterpiece, Creed’s Cross, bring to life some of the greatest ever classics. A unique blend of storytelling, emotion evoking melodies and fast paced toe tapping music. 7.30pm. £21.50. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA. 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk

6 NOVEMBER MACMILLAN CANCER SUPPORT Caroline Waldegrave OBE Cooking Demonstration and light lunch. At Royal Agricultural University, Cirencester.

Information from lindaklemme@gmail.com or telephone: 01666 575436. Sponsorship

by Butler Sherborn, Cirencester.

6-11 NOVEMBER HOW THE OTHER HALF LOVES As Bob and Fiona clumsily try to cover up their affair, their spouses’ intervention only adds to the confusion. William and Mary Featherstone become hopelessly stuck in the middle, with no idea as to how they’ve become involved. For times and prices visit everymantheatre.org.uk. The Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham, GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573.

7 NOVEMBER GILMORE & ROBERTS The contemporary folk/acoustic duo combine award-winning songwriting with their trademark harmonies to create a powerful wall of sound. 01684 295074. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX. For details visit www.rosestheatre.org.

8 NOVEMBER THE HUNTING OF THE SNARK The impossible voyage of an improbable crew to hunt an imaginary creature is brought magically to life in this sparkling musical comedy adventure. A brand new, highly original, ultra-modern adaptation inspired by Lewis Carroll’s much loved classic poem. 4.30pm. £16. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA. 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk

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‘‘LEST LEST WE WE FORGET’ FORGET’ – WEAR WEAR

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D Distributors istributors WIN TICKETS! courtesy of Showcase Required Required To join our waiting list for the Forest of Dean

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Each round is made up of 150 -400 copies per FOREST FOREST OF OF DEAN DEAN 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 old, flexible, reliable and sufficiently physically fit to perform the duties. ‘‘LEST LES ST W WEE FORGET’ FORGET’ – WEAR WEAR YOUR YOUR POPPY POPPY WITH WITH PRIDE! PRID

For details email Julia – distribution@thelocalanswer.co.uk 110-11 0 -11 NOVEMBER NOVEMBER WUTHERING HEIGHTS After Mr Earnshaw’s death, Heathcliff is bullied and humiliated by Catherine’ss brother Hindley and wrongly believing that his love for Catherine is not reciprocated, leaves Wuthering Heights, only to return years later to exact a terrible revenge. For details visit everymantheatre.org.uk. The Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham, GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573.

111-18 1-18 NOVEMBER NOVEMBER CHARLTON KINGS ANNUAL TOY SALE Every day except Sunday. Open 9.15am– 4.30pm at Charlton Kings Baptist Church in aid of ACORNS Children’s Hospice. Please come and support us. If you have toys to donate or include in sale call 01242 522559.

1122 NOVEMBER NOVEMBER HIS WAY: THE STORY OF FRANK SINATRA Award winning singer Robert Habermann comes to Stroud to tell the unexpurgated story about Ol’ Blue Eyes’ career, performing many of Sinatra’ss wonderful songs including ‘Come Fly With Me’ and ‘My Way’. For details visit www.subscriptionrooms.org.uk.

01453 760900. Stroud Subscription Rooms, George Street, GL5 1AE. 1144 NOVEMBER NOVEMBER MUGENKYYO TAIKO DRUMMERS Experience the power of thundering rhythms on huge taiko drums, mysterious

The Local Answer

Continue the magic of the festive season with a visit to Aladdin – a ‘rags to riches’ tale, packed with adventure and some original twists and turns along the way.

Aladdin is a poor lad who lives with his mum, Widow Twankey and his layabout brother in old Peking. Things start to look-up when a supposedly long-lost ‘uncle’ turns up and persuades Aladdin to help him find a magic oil lamp hidden in a spooky cave. Abanazar attempts to double-cross Aladdin who finds himself trapped in the cave. Who will come to his rescue? Will he ever see the beautiful princess again?

With a large cast of singers and dancers, lavish costumes, colourful scenery and lots of audience participation, this is a pantomime not to be missed!

Tickets cost £10-£15 and may be booked online at www.promenadeproductions.co.uk or by calling Showcase on 01242 224144.

To enter our draw to win a family ticket (up to 4 adults) for the performance on Thursday 18th January 2018 (7pm), send your name, address and telephone number to ‘Aladdin’, The Local Answer, Unit I Churchill Industrial Estate, Churchill Road, Leckhampton, Cheltenham, GL53 7EG. Alternatively, enter via email by sending your details stating ‘Aladdin’ to competitions@thelocalanswer.co.uk. Closing date: Thursday 30th November 2017.

masked choreography, synchronisation timed to perfection, post-apocalyptic martial imagery and infectious humour – all in a spellbinding display of sheer energy.

For details visit www.rosestheatre.org.

01684 295074. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX. 1166 NOVEMBER NOVEMBER BOWIE EXPERIENCE An unforgettable journey of sound and vision through Bowie’s golden years from ‘Space Oddity’ through to ‘Let’s Dance’.

7.30pm. £26. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA . 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk 116-24 6-24 NOVEMBER NOVEMBER GLOUCESTER QUAYS VICTORIAN MARKET

The perfect opportunity to get some early festive shopping done and really get into the Christmas spirit! Plenty of arts and crafts, hot food and drinks and even an ice rink to keep visitors entertained!

Gloucester Quays, St. Ann Way, GL1 5SH.

To advertise call 01242 510500

01452 338933. For more information visit www.thecityofgloucester.co.uk.

17 17 NOVEMBER NOVEMBER GHOST TRAIN A Rock-tastic, hilarious, musical concert with a tongue in cheek story, spellbinding cast, guitar gods and sexy vampettes!

Including tracks from Queen, AC/DC, Meat Loaf, Bon Jovi and many more. For times and prices visit www.rosestheatre.org.

01684 295074. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX. 17 NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 17 THE REVOLUTIONARIES Established in the ‘hotbed’ of the North East music scene, The Revolutionaires are influenced by ’50s, R’n’B and swing and will be pumping out hot rhythm & blues in a hard hitting style. For times and prices visit. www.subscriptionrooms.org.uk.

01453 760900. Stroud Subscription Rooms, George Street, GL5 1AE. 18 NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 18 AN EVENING OF BURLESQUE Hundred Watt Club presents a dazzling evening of vintage inspired burlesque and cabaret with sublime showgirls and ridiculous comedy! Over 18s only. 8pm, Gloucester Guildhall, 23 Eastgate Street, GL1 1NS. Tickets £15 plus booking fee. Box office: 01452 503050 or search ‘Hundred Watt Club’ at seetickets.com

Page 15

AT BURLEY FIELDS LAKES, LECKHAMPTON LANE, CHELTENHAM

FANTASTIC NEW BIGGER SPLIT SHOW

Saturday 11th November 2017

PROFESSIONALLY FIRED BY SANDLINGS FIREWORKS

HAMPTON

LANE

TICKETS (Adults & Children) £5.00 in advance £7.00 on the night

DON’T MISS OUT – TICKETS ARE STRICTLY LIMITED Tickets on sale at: Burley Fields Lakes Farm Shop, Sardar’s Café (Warden Hill) and Bargain Booze (Bath Road) TICKET LINES: Steve 07831 734683 Pam 07769 700067 or 01242 861333 STRICTLY NO ALCOHOL, FIREWORKS OR SPARKLERS TO BE BROUGHT IN*

WIN WIN FIVE FIVE TICKETS! TICKETS!

LAST ADMISSION 8.15PM

*BURLEY FIELDS MANAGEMENT RESERVES THE RIGHT TO REFUSE ADMISSION

KIDNAPPERS LANE

NORWOOD ARM S

SHURDINGTON ROAD

ROAD

• DISCO ROADSHOW • PIG ROAST • • SMALL FUN FAIR • BURGERS • • CHIPS • LICENSED BAR •

LAKES

FARM LANE

Gates Open and Bonfire Lit at 5.30pm Kids Show at 7.00pm Grand Finale at 8.30pm

THE CRIPP

EARLIER TIMES FOR YOUNG CHILDREN!

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SHURDINGTON ROAD

The The Local Loc al

ANSWER ANSWER

is proud to support Burley Lakes Fireworks Night

You and your family or friends could enjoy the Burley Fields Lakes’ Fireworks Night for free by entering our draw. Spaces are limited, so we recommend purchasing your tickets as soon as possible (see above for details) – if you’re lucky enough to win our competition you’ll receive a full refund on a maximum of five tickets.

To enter the draw simply send your name, address and telephone number to: Burley Fireworks, The Local Answer, Unit I, Churchill Industrial Estate, Churchill Road, Leckhampton, Cheltenham GL53 7EG. Alternatively, email your details to competitions@thelocalanswer.co.uk – please state ‘Burley Fireworks’ in the subject line. Closing date: Monday 6th November 2017.

18 NOVEMBER THE ROSES CHRISTMAS MARKET Join us for a festive shopping experience to remember. We have again carefully selected a variety of stallholders that together create a one-stop destination for all of your Christmas shopping needs.

9.30am. Free entry. www.rosestheatre.org.

01684 295074. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX. 18-19 NOVEMBER MONTPELLIER QUILTERS EXHIBITION Charity Quilt Raffle in aid of the Stroud Women’s Refuge and The Albanian Women’s Sewing Project. Saturday 10am to 5pm.

Sunday 10am to 4pm. Entry £2 – children free. Refreshments, trade tables, sales table. The Reddings Community Centre, North Road West, Chetenham, GL51 6RF. 18 & 25 NOVEMBER MUSIC FOR ADVENT Cirencester Parish Church: Sat 18th Nov, 7.30pm. St Mary’s Church, Prestbury: Sat 25th Nov, 7pm. Cantores Chamber Choir presents a varied programme of sacred music from medieval times to the 21st Century. Including works by Praetorius, Byrd,Purcell, John Tavener, Jan Sandstrom and Ola Gjeilo. Tickets (£15; concs £12; u16s free) from: www.cantores.net, TICs in Cirencester and Cheltenham, from Lorna on 01242 603988 and on the door.

22-23 NOVEMBER A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM Inventive, bold and original.... the versatile troop explore a physical, visual, and passionate take on the bard, making the title worthy of the word ‘Dream’. For details visit www.subscriptionrooms.org.uk.

01453 760900. Stroud Subscription Rooms, George Street, GL5 1AE. 24 NOVEMBER WELCOME BACK DELTA WBD live performances capture the spark of good old fashioned rock and roll, with an energy and spirit of a hardcore performance, all washed down with whisky and memorable onstage antics.

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11pm. Free entry until 11pm. Cafe Rene, 31 Southgate Street, Gloucester, GL1 1TP. 01452 309340.

25 NOVEMBER LAKESIDE PRIMARY SCHOOL CHRISTMAS FAIR Visit our Christmas Fair with activities for all: bouncy castle, crafts, BBQ, cakes, raffle and more. Visit: www.lakesidechelt.co.uk/PTA or find us on Facebook.

CHELTENHAM CHORAL SOCIETY Presents Requiem Durufle, Requiem Rutter.

Conductor Ian Higginson, Organist tba, Soloists from Keble College Oxford.

7.30pm. Tickets £10 from The Wilson or on the door. Under 13s free. Francis Close Hall Chapel, University of Gloucestershire.

25 NOVEMBER – 23 DECEMBER 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. Christmas gifts for children from Santa. Advance bookings only. Adults £11.50, children £13. From 11am (park closes 6pm). Full details at thebirdpark.com.

The Bird and Deer Park, Prinknash, Cranham, GL4 8EX. 01452 812727 26 NOVEMBER CHRISTMAS SHOPPING FAIR AT CHELTENHAM COLLEGE Sponsored by Savills and supporting Maggie’s. Sunday 26th November, 10am4pm. Tickets £5pp (under 16s free).

Purchase your ticket in advance for a free glass of ‘Fizz’. Call 01242 265694 to book.

28 NOVEMBER ROYAL MARINES CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR 2017 During this popular annual event, the Royal Marines Band will perform Christmas music, military marches, big band hits and popular showstoppers – to name but a few. 7.30pm. Various prices. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA. 0844 576 2210. cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk

29 NOVEMBER – 8 DECEMEBER A CHRISTMAS CAROL A magical and enchanting re-telling of Charles Dickens’ classic tale, ‘A Christmas Carol’. This charming, family-friendly production promises to fill you up to the brim with Christmas spirit. For full details please visit www.berkeley-castle.com.

01453 810303. The Great Hall, Berkeley Castle, Berkeley GL13 9BQ. THROUGHOUT DECEMBER TAURUS CRAFTS: CHRISTMAS MARKETS 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. 8-30 DECEMBER SPECTACLE OF LIGHT Explore the new illuminated trail around our stunning 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. For more details visit sudeleycastle.co.uk. 01242 602308.

Sudeley Castle, Winchcombe, GL54 5JD. 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. £10-£15.

For details and tickets call Showcase on 01242 224144 or visit promenadeproductions.co.uk

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Page 17

WinterWonderland

CHRISTMAS EVENT

Weekends from 25th November & daily from 15th December 2017 NOW OPEN 11am-6pm. Ticket price includes a visit to meet Santa, a gift, the Christmas Fairy, illuminations, face painting, craft marquee and entry to the park.

The Bird & Deer Park has been hosting Christmas since 2008 and has been cited by the Huffington Post in 2014 for the “beautiful lights”, and in the Sunday Telegraph in 2011 for being “amongst the top 10 attractions to visit in Rural England”.

The Park’s new Visitor Centre is lovely at any time, but with the wonderful views of the illuminations from the balconies it has become a must of the Cotswolds as a Christmas treat. As you walk around the Park the sounds of birds, rushing water and glistening lights are really enchanting. The famous Wendy House can also be found illuminated by the main lake. And now onto the exciting bit... Santa!

*On event days the Bird Park is closed to general vi *Professional photographs are not included in the entry price. Photograp

Book online at www.thebirdpark.com or call 01452 812727 • Th

d at The Bird Park Santa can be found in all his glory in the hand crafted ash sleigh behind the stunning reindeer sculpture made of horseshoes created by Tom Hill. This Grotto is beautiful with its many trees, twinkling lights and of course a gift for the children. A professional photographer* is on hand to capture all the family on your special day out.

Of course we must not forget the famous three – Rudolph, Prancer and Comet – our resident Reindeer who are fed at 4pm in their enclosure. The Christmas Fairy will be found in the twinkling Gypsy Caravan with a special something for the children, and cards for Santa that have been made in the Craft Marquee can be given to her for safe delivery.

Our face painters are on hand to put those finishing touches to the outfit.

Snacks, drinks and gifts available for purchase.

Free parking and for disability needs please call prior to booking on 01452 812727.

ADVANC BOOKIN E G ONLY S

sitors. Tickets are non-refundable or exchangeable. phs are not permitted in the Grotto. Group booking available on request.

he Bird & Deer Park, Prinknash, Cranham, Gloucester GL4 8EX

Homes & Gardens Promote your business in 22,000 magazines Call now!

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Page 20

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

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

Tidy Tidy now now for for an an easy easy sspring pring November is a good month to take a long hard look at your garden. We are all guilty of hanging on to shrubs, perennials or trees that really are either not good doers, or are too big, ugly, etc. If you are having trouble deciding what to get rid of, call in the p r o fe s s i o n a l s t o g i v e y o u s o m e advice. It is better to start the process in the winter months than waiting until spring when everyone is rushed off their feet!

G Give ive b bulbs ul bs a h headstart eadstart Now is also a good time to plant lily bulbs, as they have a headstart o n t h e s p r i n g p l a n te d o n e s . T h e y n e e d t o b e p l a n te d i n g o o d , r i c h , well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter dug in, and most of them like to be planted deep (about 15cm). If you have pots of lilies that have been in about three years, they w i l l n e e d to b e r e p o t te d – u s u a l l y they start to sulk when they are not h a p py ! – o r d i s p o s e d o f a n d f re s h ones put in their place. Make sure The Local Answer

mulch of composted farmyard manure and look out on something neat and tidy during the grey days.

At least that is what I intend to do when I have the time!

EEvergreen vergreen leaves leaves w will ill n not ot easily e asily d decompose ecompose

you use a deep enough pot to give them a fighting chance!

There are two schools of thought o n t i d y i n g b o rd e r s fo r w i n t e r : yo u can either leave the dying foliage and stems of perennials over winter to help insects survive, or alternatively you only leave the architecturally pleasing seedheads and get rid of the rest, as the slugs also like rotting foliage in which to spend their winter. You are either inclined one way or the other and I have to say that I like to take away most of the old stems, apply a good

Clear and compost fallen leaves from the lawn – you can leave them on the borders as long as they are not covering evergreens like heathers, as the worms will pull t h e m d ow n i n t o t h e s o i l ov e r t h e w i n te r a n d b y s p r i n g t h e y w i l l b e gone! Evergreen leaves like holly or l a u re l a r e s o m e t h i n g e l s e a n d w i l l not easily decompose – remove these from the borders. You can put t h e m o n t h e l a w n a n d r u n o ve r them with the mower to help in the decomposition. The deciduous leaves can be put into large bin bags with a few holes in – half fill a bag and tie the top, then stack somewhere out of the way and use in the borders the following autumn.

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 21

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www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

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

Create Create yyour our oown wn copper aand nd w o od copper wood plant sstand tand plant The interior trend for house plants is not going away any time soon. In fact , House Beautiful has said the t re n d i s h e r e t o s t a y f o r 2 0 1 8 a n d beyond, and I for one think there is nothing better than a bit of greenery in the home; not only is it good for the air quality, but plants add wo n d e r f u l f i n i s h i n g to u c h e s i n a n y room.

Houseplants look fantastic grouped together in different heights. A really easy way to achieve this look in your own home is to create this simple do-it-yourself copper and wood plant stand. For this DIY stand you will need the following: • 15mm dowel rods • Six (15mm wide) copper tee pieces • All surface adhesive glue • Plant and plant pot

The pictured plant stand is 6 0 0 m m fo r t h e l e g s ( x 4 ) plus 100mm for top. The great thing about this DIY is that you can make the plant stand whatever height you would like, although the t a l l e r t h e p l a n t st a n d t h e less stable it could be, so yo u m ay n e e d to u s e a t h i c k e r d ow e l i n g r o d a n d make sure you can get the copper tee pieces to fit before you purchase.

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overnight to allow the glue to stick and for things to become a little more secure. Don’t worry if you have a little bit of glue around the edges, this can al l be tidied up or wil l dry clear.

Once you have all the leg pieces cut out, you are ready to assemble. Put t h e l a rg e r d owe l l e n g t h i n to t h e copper tee piece, followed by the smaller piece on top and use a little SStep tep FFour our a l l - p u r p o s e a d h e s i v e t o m a k e s u re things are held together and a little Add a super cool plant and pot. Style it up. Make more! more secure.

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Step Step O One ne Cut a dowel rod to the height you’d like your plant stand to be – spend t i m e a t t h e b e g i n n i n g wo r k i n g o u t the measurements before cutting.

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Create your centrepiece for your plant pot to sit on. You need to do s o m e c a l c u l a t i o n s b a s e d o n yo u r plant pot diameter and include how much of a border you’d like around yo u r p l a n t p o t ; a g a i n s p e n d s o m e t i m e g e t t i n g t h i s r i g h t b e fo r e y o u commit to cutting the dowel rod.

Once the measurements have b e e n d e c i d e d , c u t a ro d f o r t h e diameter that will hold two copper tee pieces, followed by four dowel pieces that will be attached to the legs you’ve already created. Stick the pieces all together and let it dry

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WORD WORD SEARCH SEARCH M H Z Z Q Z T W J W Q S E U H D X V R H W G H Q

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ACROSS 1 Male voice 5 Out of harm’s way 7 Shaving cut 8 Flying around (planet) 9 Pacify 12 New experience 15 More verdant 19 Numb 21 Supplied funds for 22 Mellow 23 Dip into drink 24 Surgeons’ workplaces

DOWN 1 Expel from country 2 Vexed 3 Atmosphere layer 4 Plant seed part 5 Resolve 6 Nervously 10 Foundation 11 Atop 12 Neither 13 Ballot 14 Indecent 15 Hooked (fish) with pole 16 Venture forth 17 Evoke 18 Positive electrodes 19 Evade 20 Confess

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 ?

For details please call

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ANSWER 510500

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

www.abbeybusinessequipment.com

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

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

TTech ech ttrekking rekking across across tthe he uuniverse niverse If you’re looking for advanced d e s i g n s o n t h e te c h m a r k e t , t h e f o l l ow i n g p ro d u c t s m i g h t j u s t t a k e your fancy. From flying speakers to coding robots, some of these contraptions really know how to s t a n d o u t . M o d e r n i s e yo u r household with these advanced gadgets that wouldn’t look out of place in a sci-fi movie.

Levitate Levitate 2 2.0 .0 A t £ 7 9 . 9 9 , t h e F l y i n g B l u e to o t h speaker looks like something straight out of the Star Trek Enterprise. If you want a speaker t h at i s n ot o n l y f u n c t i o n a l b u t a l s o visually impressive, then this sleek model will tick all the right boxes.

Its hands-free call function, good sound quality and blue LED lights are only some of the model’s impressive features, which add to its ultramodern, high-tech appearance.

I t s p owe r s o f l e v i t a t i o n a r e a l l d ow n to w i re l e ss c h a r g i n g , a s t h e speaker floats above its base, keeping it full of battery as it plays your tunes of choice. The Levitate 2.0 also has a 5-Watt Output to give clear sound definition and even The Local Answer

includes magnetic features that will allow the portable device to stick as well as levitate. Basically, it’s cool, efficient and something to show off to guests.

MiP MiP Coder Coder If you’re looking for something equally high-tech but on the cuter side, then the MiP Coder is the wheel-deal (pardon the te r r i b l e p u n ) . T h i s t wo w h e e l e d l i t t l e ro b o t w i l l follow your commands, sing, dance, play and more.

Thanks to the robot ’s BeaconSense, it can move a b o u t o n i t s ow n without bumping into any walls or furniture. It also has a feature called GestureSense, which allows it to react to hand g e s t u re s s u c h a s c l a p p i n g , a n d sound detection.

Although technically for children, the MiP Coder is also an awesome gadget for adults to put to the test.

Educational for kids learning about coding, this robot isn’t s i m p l y a te c h y t o y b u t a n i n fo r m a t i v e technological gizmo.

App available on Android and iOS with a USB rechargeable battery, this little guy costs £79.99.

It doesn’t hurt to a d d t h at h e i s also quite adorable, and the ideal

robot companion for any space captain.

V Vuzix uzix iiWear Wear V Video ideo H Headphones eadphones Virtual reality used to be a sci-fi trope, but with new developments in technology in recent years, it has now become almost exclusively accessible. Combining audio and v i s u a l e n te r t a i n m e n t , t h e V u z i x iWear Headphones is a great l i g h t we i g h t m o d e l fo r g a m e r s wanting the full interactive experience. At £299, you can take interactive gaming to new heights, whether it ’s via Blu-ray,, PCs, A n d ro i d , i P h o n e o r t a b l e t s . T h i s model’s light design also makes it comfy to wear for hours without it getting heavy, and is suited for both 2D and 3D formats.

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Page 29

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

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

Pressure Pressure tto ob buy uy As most of the shops, online and on the High Street, gear up for their busiest time of the year, Money Matters has decided to have a bit of a rant over the ways in which those clever marketing chaps persuade us to part with our money. Don’t let me stop you doing your Christmas shopping or remembering your loved ones’ birthdays, but please don’t fall for some of the gimmicks that are used to persuade us to part with our cash.

I’m going to be generous and throw in wedding anniversaries and the odd Easter Egg as allowable. But let’s start with an ‘old faithful’ – Valentine’s Day. Why on earth do you need to be told to let the love of your life know that they’re still your number one by buying gifts that have been increased in price specifically for the occasion? Do it on a random date and save yourself a small fortune! You’d have enough left to repeat the exercise and get double the benefit!

IIt’s t’s llike ike m money oney g going oing u up p iin n ssmoke moke Valentine’s Day has been a ‘celebration’ for many years, but last week’s offering of Halloween is a more recent phenomenon. It ’s been imported from the United States and involves us paying out for pumpkins, scary costumes and countless treats. What are we celebrating anyway? It ’s just like money going up in smoke.

Next week that happens literally – Bonfire Night .

‘Celebrating’ a failed bomb plot of 400 years ago by setting off fireworks is hardly a politically correct activity if you ask me, but nobody lighting the blue touch paper is celebrating Guy Fawkes. They’re doing it because of the social pressure to be seen to be setting fire to their money. Can you believe that?!

A ttrick rick tto o get get y you ou tto o sspend pend m more ore tthan han y you ou n need eed tto o L a te r t h i s m o n t h , t h e A m e r i c a n s a r e a t i t a g a i n .

Exporting the idea of ‘Black Friday’. Not content with t h i s b e i n g t h e b u s i e s t o n l i n e d ay o f p r e - C h r i s t m a s shopping, we are now pressured into spending far too much money too early in the process, just to get the ‘best bargains’! It ’s a trick to get you to spend more than you need to.

Sadly the power of TV and online advertising drives us into joining in or being deemed a poor parent or partner. Call me Bah Humbug if you will, but I’ve let Halloween pass unmarked and won’t be involved on 5th November or Black Friday. And I’ve a whole weekend on the 23rd and 24th December to find myself a few Christmas bargains!

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

Reduce Reduce yyour our ccarbon arbon ffootprint ootprint There are many ways in which we can reduce our carbon footprint and t h u s t h e n e g a t i ve i m p a c t o n o u r p l a n e t . Fr o m c h a n g i n g o u r d i e t , t o being tech-savvy with energy saving devices, we can all play our part in h e l p i n g t h e e n v i ro n m e n t , r e d u c i n g the amount of carbon dioxide in our atmosphere, and reducing global warming.

Vegetarian diets are economically friendly and can also reduce the risk of several diseases. If less meat is produced, greenhouse gas emissions from the industry will decrease, less land will be required for rearing and instead can be used as natural woodland.

TTravel ravel m more ore o on n ffoot oot

when shared between more people, must be farmed elsewhere for their and try to fly shorter distances. optimum condition, and rising sea SSave ave energy energy and and money money levels threaten coasts being eroded, land being lost, and even towns and Closer to home, make sure your cities being destroyed by the water. house is insulated and you choose These shifting weather patterns also energy saving devices, which could threaten wildlife, who must adapt save you money while helping save quickly by migrating at short notice, our environment! Don’t heat or cool during unusual seasons and for long your house when nobody is home, periods of time, and then may find and try to eat locally produced (or that a food source which they once even home grown) groceries if possible. This means that energy is depended on is now no longer not wasted in transporting them blooming at the time at which they worldwide when they could’ve been need it.

If we all make a difference to our bought only a few streets away.

Reselling items prevents the own emissions, we subconsciously components being lost when they help the planet tackle one of the are finally disposed of, and recycling biggest crises of our time. them means that less resources are required to be taken from the earth when they are already perfectly usable, which helps combat issues such a s d e f o r e s t a t i o n fo r t h e need of paper.

C h o o s i n g t o l o we r y o u r c a r b o n footprint can lead to a healthier lifestyle in other ways too, as the prime example is, when possible, to choose to travel more by foot and less by car. Travelling on foot p r ev e n t s e m i ss i o n s o f c a r b o n monoxide, soot and other gases f r o m ve h i c l e s . T h i s a l s o d i re c t l y decreases air pollution, making it much cleaner to breathe in. It is also Why hy sshould hould I h help? elp? best to avoid air travel for a similar W reason, as this produces 12% of all Unpredictable weather travel-based CO2 emissions – if you conditions and changing have to, fly economy, as the temperatures mean that emissions are much less damaging once indigenous crops The Local Answer

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S Sport port with w ith R Roger oger JJackson acks son

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

TThe he N Nelmes elmes n name ame g goes oes b back ack yyears ears and and years years T h e N e l m es n a m e h a s b e e n synonymous with Lydney Rugby Club almost from the day the club were formed in 1888.

Nick Nelmes, the ball playing hooker who could run and pass almost as well as any three-quarter in the 80s, 90s and early noughties, is probably the best known of the lot having played close on 500 games for the club in a 20 -year career that didn’t reach its conclusion until 2005. “ T h e N e l m es n a m e g o es b a c k almost to the inception of the club nearly 130 years ago,” Nick , now 51, said with pride. “There’s a team photo in the clubhouse from our golden jubilee season in the 30s which features my grandfather Albert . And I think there was a N e l m e s w h o c a pt a i n e d t h e c l u b i n the early part of the 20th century.”

There certainly was and Nick’s dad Dave, who has been involved with the club for more than half a century himself, can shed more light on his involvement.

“His name was Jim and he was

Nick, Alex and Dave Nelmes

captain in the 1909/10 season,” said Dave. “I think he was my grandfather’ss brother.”

That was pretty much the first record of a Nelmes playing for Lydney but since then the family and the club have had closer links than a scrum-half has with his no. 10.

“My dad must have played about 150 games for Lydney before the Second World War,” said Dave. “And all his brothers – Syd, Maurice and Frank – played a bit too.”

Albert, who sadly lost his life when he was working on the construction

onto the scene after being given a more than helpful leg-up by the Pony Racing Authority which was set up in 2007, three years after pony racing started.

Eyes Eyes o on n tthe he ffuture uture Newent Rugby Club have taken on allcomers in recent years and never ever taken a backward step.

T h e s e d ay s t h ey a r e m o re t h a n holding their own in South West One West and the club are in very capable hands with captain Ross Webb and his merry band of men.

Now the junior section of the club, under the progressive chairmanship of Andrew Barr, are looking to ensure t h a t t h e f u t u re o f t h e c l u b i s j u s t a s bright as the present.

One One jump jump ahead… ahead…

“It took me 17 years and 114 days to become an overnight success.”

Those were the words of the genius t h a t i s L i o n e l M e s s i s h o r t l y a f te r h e had announced himself to an u n s u s p e c t i n g fo o t b a l l i n g w o r l d i n a Barcelona shirt 13 years ago.

They are words that could be

of the new Severn Bridge in 1962, was a flanker and a pretty good one too. His son was an outside fly-half and played in all the junior age group teams at Lydney right up to Colts level before going on to play senior rugby for Yorkley and Bream.

Dave returned to Lydney once the young Nick started to get involved in the youth section at Regentsholme and has remained involved ever since. “I’ve been on the committee for more than 50 years,” he said.

“I’ve been treasurer, match secretary, first-team manager.”

And he gets plenty of support from his good lady, Valerie, as well.

“Mum is head of the ladies’ committee,” laughed Nick , who is himself the club secretary. “She does a lot of the organising and cooks the players’ meals.”

And one of the up and coming players enjoying the matchday food is young Alex, Nick’s 17-year-old son, who is showing considerable promise as a fly-half.

Full story online

LLydney’s ydney’s sister sister power power

Pony racing takes place all over the country Picture: nigelkirbyphotography

a t t a c h e d to m a n y a s p o r t s m a n o r woman’s career of course and that is certainly the case for many of the jockeys who will be centre stage at at the N o ve m b e r M e et i n g Cheltenham Racecourse.

M u c h o f t h e wo r k t h a t g o e s i n to m a k i n g a to p s p o r t s m a n o r wo m a n goes unseen and that is definitely true in the sport of racing.

These days a good number of the jockeys from these shores have burst

Duncan, Biddle and Lewis sound like they could be a firm of solicitors but they are in fact three very good reasons why Lydney Hockey Club’s 1st XI could make it into the national league this season.

The team are very much a family affair, with three sets of sisters primed for important roles if the club are to get out of Premier Division One of the West Clubs Women’s League.

The sister power is made up of three Duncans – Lisa, Meghan and Kelly; t wo B i d d l e s – A m y a n d E m m a ; a n d two Lewis’ – Grace and Jo. For full versions of all these stories and more, visit www.thelocalanswer.co.uk

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Mushet and Coalway United Football Club

A cclub lub w with ith rreason eason tto o ccheer heer W h i l e t h e w o r r y l i n e s o n P re m i e r League football bosses like Roy Hodgson, Slaven Bilic and Paul C l e m e n t s e e m to g e t l o n g e r by t h e day, Ian Wilce must be wondering what all the fuss and drama is about.

That ’s because the Mushet and Coalway United boss has taken to football management rather like the League’s North Gloucestershire p r e s i d e n t C l i v e W i l k e s to o k to refereeing back in the day.

Wilce is in his third season as the club’s manager and in that time has wo n t wo p ro m o t i o n s . T h row i n a couple of cup successes as well and it’s easy to see why the smiles have returned to the Forest of Dean club.

They are now competing in the P re m i e r D i v i s i o n o f t h e N o r t h Gloucestershire League and have m a d e a n i m p re ss i ve s t a r t to t h e campaign.

Ian Wilce will be the first to admit that it is no one-man show of course and he receives plenty of support from his brother Andy, who doubles up as the club’s secretary, and reserve team boss Jason Daw, who is also club treasurer.

“As well as the two promotions, we won the County Minor Cup North in 2015/16 – that was some achievement – and last season we won the George Sandoe Cup,” said Andy.

While clearly on an upward curve,

the club still have some way to go to match the achievements of years gone by. At the start of the millennium the club were in Division Two of the Northern Senior League – Daw was first-team manager in those days – where they spent four years.

“Those four years were a bit of a struggle,” admitted 44-year-old Andy, who has been involved with the club since he was 18. “When we went down we had a pretty bad 10 years before things started to turn round for us.”

““We We need need to to establish establish o ourselves urselves iin n tthis his d division” ivision” Andy has been involved in the game fo r l o n g e n o u g h n o t t o g e t c a r r i e d away by the club’s current success.

“I don’t think we’ll win the Premier Division this season,” he said. “If we can finish in the top four or five that will be a good effort . We need to e s t a b l i s h o u r s e l ve s i n t h i s d i v i s i o n .

Obviously, we’d like to get back into the Northern Senior League but we don’t want to do things too quickly.”

Andy knows what he’s talking about, of course. After leaving what was then Laker ’s School in the early 1990s, he h a s b e e n i n vo l ve d w i t h t h e fo o t b a l l club ever since, just like Daw who was c l u b s e c re t a r y b e fo re A n d y a n d , l i k e Andy, joined when the club formed a reserve team.

Andy was a creative midfielder who could also play up front and on the wing before his playing career was cut short by a series of knee injuries.

He has been the club’s secretary for the past 20 years or so and works closely with his brother, who is two years older than him and was a defensive midfielder in yesteryear.

Ian spent much of his career playing alongside Andy but also had spells as a player with Staunton and Corse, Milkwall, Broadwell and Coleford before cutting his managerial teeth at Coleford for a couple of seasons.

He returned to Mushet and Coalway a s p l a ye r / m a n a g e r o f t h e r e s e r ve team before taking on the club’s flagship team.

Daw and the Wilce brothers are the driving force behind the club and are likely to remain so for many years to come, with the Daw name now being carried forward by 17-year-old Jack , who has broken into the first team on the left side of midfield or up front.

T h e l i k e s o f yo u n g J a c k a r e ve r y m u c h t h e f u t u r e o f a c l u b t h a t h av e been in existence for the best part of 50 years. It’s a future that looks pretty s e c u r e to o a s t h e y h a v e a v e r y l o n g lease on Coalway recreation ground, which is the place they call home.

“We’re a typical grassroots football club,” said Andy, with some pride.

Full story online.

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CCOMPETITION OMPETITION W WINNERS INNERS Thank you to all who took part in our October 2017 competition and congratulations to the winner!

Bacon Theatre – Mrs J Robinson of Lydney.

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R E B M E V O N P H Z F Y M C Z D C X C Q B T D

Y L M F H V E L A E L S F R J N K K E T V W E E

K Y T Q M V W K R E H P E O R Z G L A C G H S S

S T H G I L N Q K L F L Z R T L L U J K I D T W

T R E A S O N S L V O O Q Z A A R K E A K E A B

O N P H H L A R E E W T I Y R L T C J F V H N R

M M J F M Q S Z R B R J H P U V F Q P P E Q T R

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 FFOR OR N NEXT EXT ISSUE ISSUE – F Friday riday 1 10th 0th N November ovember 2 2017 017

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