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DECEMBER 2018
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Wellcome to December D ... We have finally reached the last month of 20 018 – how the ye ear has flown by. y. December can only mean m one thing, it’s Christmas time! We have a jam-packed season nal issue this month to get you into th he holiday spirit, including our Fruity Christmas Pies recip pe, festive stories in our Entertainment section and mucch more. If yo ou’re lucky enough to have time off over the festive e period then check out our What’s On section s for loads of o events to keep the whole family occupied occuupied over the holidays. Alternatively, y, if you don’t fancy venturing out in the cold, why not snuggle on the sofa with our Christm mas themed Word Search and a tasty hot chocolate?! As we w get close to the New Year, we would like to thank all of our cover competition winners from 2018. Keep your eyes peeled across our social media platforms for the announcement of our 2019 winners. Finally, y, we would like to wish a very Merry Christmas to all of our readers and customers from the whole team at a The Local Answer!
Inside this month ...
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Word Search Delicious Dish Pet Care Motoring TLA Sport What’s On Quick Crossword Gadgets & Gizmos TLA Entertainment Homes & Gardens Sudoku In the Garden Interior Design Money Matters Index , Competitions, Solutions
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WOR RD D SEAR RC CH Y E A J V H C N S C T G C Y A S M S U T H C L R
R E P Y X O S I A X M A R E W U M S Y J N O Z V
C X N H A K V L Z T R G W K K A Q T Y V M O U T
L N L M I U H S E R I G G R S L O O X Q R K M T
M B H R I P N I O I J V I U M C M C U B I I T R
H I Y Z L H E T C P G X I T S A U K W S I E L P
P C B O F L C Z J M Z H T T Y T X I J N M A S L
Z N D L V E F A M I L Y E D Y N F N G P O I R Z
T U L E M Z F U F K J R I O A A G G G C R J P L
R O S D J D F K I U U Y E K T S Q D D B S R S N
E L K N I W T D U N E X F G N E J P D A E K R L
A S U S E J L E I D R I E X N G L S P S M H O A
Z N L E K X D Q M K C E N K E A A T E X N L X N
J G G P D B F U H F R B A B Y X M N S Z O P H R
R Y O E J S V O Z T I Z M V B P T E O I K F K D
J Y I R L B X N S D S Y W X K S P B R P M M Y W
M N O Q T C A A S V G N O C K L J F K R N F A H
W E P L D E M X I A I Z N U E H V D J G E L I U
H G Q M L T X M X T Z Q S S N O A P T G P Q L S
C K P C S B A U B L E S N W I L U W T E N Y Y O
T K K I H Y T E U U Y I V L F L Q Q N D V W A P
A V R G Y H K S M K T P N S O Y D R G W P M T C
X H E C W D X M R E C Y O O O Y G U K U K Q H G
C N W K K X R E E D N I E R Y F Z C Y R X N G W
Christmas ANGEL BABY BAUBLES CARROT CHIMNEY CHRISTMAS TREE COAL COOKIE ELVES
FAMILY HOLLY JESUS MANGER MISTLETOE NATIVITY PRESENTS REINDEER RUDOLPH
SANTA CLAUS SLEIGH STOCKING SNOWMAN TINSEL TURKEY TWINKLE
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Delicious Dish with Helen Kingscott
Fruity Christmas pies All the flavours of Christmas – almonds, cranberries, orange and pear – in a little pie. Ingredients (serves 8): For the pastry: 350g plain flour; 85g ground almonds; 140g caster sugar; 225g butter,r, cubed; 1 egg, beaten for brushing over the pastry. y. For the filling: 400g cranberries, fresh or frozen; 50g caster sugar; 25g cornflour; 325g orange curd; 450g ripe pears, peeled, cored and chopped. Method: 1 Put the flour,r, almonds and sugar into a food processor,r, add the cubed butter and mix until it looks like breadcrumbs. 2 Add up to five tablespoons of cold water until the mixture forms a dough. Wrap and chill for half an hour. 3 Tip the cranberries into a pan and addd the sugar and cornflour, stirring well. Fold in the orange o curd then cook for a few minutes to thicken. Add A the chopped pears and cook for a few more minutes. If you’ve used frozen cranberries, c you mayy need to add a little more cornflour.
4 Leave the mixturre to cool and heat the oven to 190°C (fan 170°C/gas mark 5). 5 Roll out the paastry and use to line eight 10cm individual tart tin ns. Fill with the cooled mixture. 6 Roll out the rest of the pastry and make four lids. Use whatever shaped cutters you like to stamp out the shapes from the middle. 7 Cover four of youur pies with lids and pop the cut out shapes onto a baaking tray. y. Brush the pies and shapes with your beaten n egg and sprinkle with sugar. 8 Bake the shapess for 10 minutes and the pies for 1820 minutes until nicely golden. golden 9 Sprinkle more sugar over the pastry, then pop the shapes onto youur open pies and serve with custard, cream or ice creaam.
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Pet Car re e
with Oliver Wilkinson of Dr ra agon Vet Centre
Festive dangers for pets As I was enjoying a quick lunchtime walk with the dogs recently, I received an urgent call from the clinic – a dog had just eaten a decent quantity of chocolate cake and the owner was rightly concerned about whether it might cause a problem. problem A medically medically-induced induced vomit later and the chocolate was out of its system before any harm was done. Now that Christmas is approaching, cases of ‘chocolate toxicity’ increase along with all those naughty Christmas treats.
Rich, fatty leftovers from Christmas dinner Most people are aware that chocolate is bad for dogs – even a relatively small amount of rich dark chocolate can make a small dog very sick. But chocolate is not the only evil. Other foods that dogs don’t always tolerate include dried fruit such as grapes and raisins (so avoid the Christmas pudding and mince-pies) which for some dogs can cause quite serious kidney problems. Then there is all those rich, rich fatty leftovers from Christmas dinner, dinner which are often tipped into the dog’s bowl, triggering stomach upsets or pancreatitis in susceptible dogs. Some festive plants can also be quite toxic; poinsettias, holly and mistletoe are all potentially poisonous and even small amounts, if ingested, can cause gastrointestinal problems. Mistletoe berries are particularly lethal. However,r, one of the nastiest toxins we see in winter is anti-freeze. It is supposedly quite sweet and cats are particularly prone to licking it up from driveways. It causes devastating kidney damage and is one of the saddest and most frustrating toxicities to treat. If you do spill any make sure you clean it up thoroughly.
A Christmas tree is like an indoor climbing frame to a kitten If you have young cats this Christmas you can expect them to have great fun with your Christmas tree. A Christmas tree is like an indoor climbing frame to a kitten and they love playing with the decorations, but tinsel, string and ribbons are all too common causes of intestinal blockages, so be wary if they are playing with them. The colder weather often exacerbates arthritis and hampers the mobility of older pets. Fortunately, there is plenty that can be done for a stiff old dog or cat, so if your pet is particularly affected this winter talk to your vet about treatment options. Ultimately, Christmas should be a time of fun for you and your pets, but one final thought – will you be one of the supposed two in three pet owners who spend the same amount, or more, on presents for your pets as your partner?! I’m hoping my wife isn’t. Page
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Motor riing with Luke Edwa wards
A good old-fash hioned boo ok I recently got back into reading; things had got a bit hectic and I required some time out. I then found the bookworm in myself and started devouring words at a huge rate of knots. Having a good book to read is such a huge winter comfort, like a hot water bottle in bed, and it’s something you can take with you on your daily travels.
63,000 miles on a Triumph Tiger 100 I just finished a re re-read reaad of the paperback version of Ted d Simon’s book ‘Jupiter’s Travels’. In n the late 1970s, Ted rode 63,000 miles m on a Triumph Tiger 100, over the e space of four years, through fifty-four countries, in a journey that took him around the world. He enccountered breakdowns, prison (after being mistaken for a spy), war,r, revolutions, disaster and a Californian commune.
way with words and know ws how to purvey his deeper emotions, anxiety, y, feelings and draw the reader in. I have just ordered the follow f up ‘Dreaming of Jupiter’ where Ted retraced his journey in 2001 at the age of 69. I am also lo ooking at purchasing ‘Lone Rider’ by b Elspeth Beard. ‘A Biker’s Life: Misadven ntures on (and off) Two Wheels’, is the new book by Henry Cole, the Cotswolds C based motorcycle and d travel presenter about his colourrful life as presenter, a biker and will no douubt be a riveting read. He has a fantastic writing style and is a journalist through and through. I recently picked up the paperback p of Michael Palin’s ‘Sahara’, which got me hooked again on Palin’s travel writing; his books featuure some stunning exhibition standaard colour photos by Basil Pao. ‘Blo owing the Bloody Doors Off: And Othe er Lessons in Life’ by Michael Caine, should have some interesting baackground f from th actor the t who h sta t rred d in i a Christmas classic for all motoring fans, ‘The Italian Job’.
Revealing the side of o Kimi that few have ever known
It was Ted’s journey that inspired Charley Boorman and d Ewan McGregor to undertake th heir ‘Long Way Round’ adventure and d it’s truly one of the best travel boo oks I have ever read. Ted Simon has a superb The Local Answer
For fans of Formula One, the t recently published book ‘TThe Unknown Kimi Raikkonen’ by Kari Hotakainen is ve ery revealing. This is an autthorised portrait of Räikköne en, somewhat an enigma, and writer Hotakainen gets to reveal the side of Kimi th hat few beyond his close fam mily and friends have ever know wn. If you are into the legen nds of Formula One, a rece ent favourite read of mine was w the paperback version of ‘James Hunt – The Biograph hy’ by Gerald Donaldson; a fun f
comprehensive work, in which Donaldson spoke to the ke ey people in Hunt’s life, really bringin ng out the character behind the man. I had the pleasure of meeting Freddie Hunt at Goodwood Festival a couple of years ago; he was a true gentlem man too. Whatever you are up to t at this festive time of year, year be it relaxing with a good book, eating far too many mince pies or plan nning the year ahead, have a warm w and comfortable Christmas and a best wishes to you all for 2019.
James Hunt, Murray Walker and Nigel M Mansell
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Spor ort t with R Ro oger Jackson
WA W ANT TO SHARE YOUR SPORTING STORY ON OUR WEBSITE? Please email full details to sport@thelocalanswer.co.uk
Top ref Ma axwell-Keys ma aking rapid pro ogress As mentors go for up-and d-coming rugby referees you can do a lot worse than Chris White, White and a Craig Maxwell-Keys knows he has been lucky enough to learn from one of the very best. Not that you can really consider Maxwell-Keys an up-and-coming referee these days – he’s well established on the Premiership circuit, regularly takes charge of European Challenge Cup games and was recently given his first international. The 28-year-old has made a big impact since turning professional four yyears ago g and credits White, who is the RFU’s national referee academy manager, r, for much of his development. White and Maxwell-Keys have worked very well together for a good number of years now – including on White’s ’s referee scholarship scheme at the University of Gloucestershire – so much so that Birmingham-born Maxwell-Keys has recently bought an apartment in
Boxing clever If someone said that Cheltenham North have been boxing clever this season they’d be right. That’s because once Damien Dinwiddy took over as captain there was a Damien Dinwiddy noticeable upturn in the club’s fortunes, and their improved run of o results included an eye-catching 411-0 win at ppreviouslyy unbeaten Gloucestershire One leaders Cirencester. Those in the know will be aware that Dinwiddy is a former boxer,r, a welterweight who fought in some 60 bouts including a handful of professional ones. He no longer boxes – he retired seven years ago at the age of 22 – and is now in his second spell with the
Craig Maxwell-Keyys
Cheltenham just a lo ong Danny Cipriani touch-finder fro om White’s ’s home. And although he he’ss new to this area he’s something of an older head when it comes to referee eing despite his relatively tender yearrs. “I started when I was 16 so I feel quite old now, w,” he laughed. “It feels that way because when you have a double-barrel surname you y tend to stick in people’s ’s minds!” When you consider that t White, who officiated in three World W Cups, North after playing for Smiths for several seasons. This h is his h secondd season back b k andd he h said of his new role as skippper: “James Hartland is the normal capptain but he’s dislocated his shoulder and will be out for a while. They asked me m if I’d do it and I said ‘yes’.”
Playing his part James Layton-Hill has been coaching football for much of his life. So now, even though he is recovering from ankle surgery, he reemains very much involved in the beauutiful game. He is hoping to start playing again before the end of the current campaign but for now the 27-year-old – he will be 28 on Christmas Day – is coaching Tewkesbury Town on Wednesday evenings, as well as helping Phil Millington to manage their flagship team, who play in Cheltenham League Division One, on Saturday afternoons.
was still refereeing we ell into his 40s, it’s ’s clear that Maxwell--Keys can go a veryy, very long way in the game. very, game So how did he get into refereeing? “It happened by accid dent,” he said. “I was injured and I was w watching rugby instead of playin ng it. But I was an awful spectator, r, I got g too wound up, too agitated.” Fortunately, y, there was w an escape route for Maxwell-Ke eys while he recovered from a broken wrist sustained playing rugb by – it was the second time he had d broken the wrist, the first when he was playing beach football with hiss brother Paul, three years his juniorr, r, on a family holiday in Spain. That escape route was a referees’ course that was being run by his local rugby club, Lichfield. Maxwell-Keys enjoyed the referees’ course – no surprise there! – and although he returned from injury to play a handful of games he soon realised that it was refereeing that really got the juices flowing. Full story online.
An impressive CV Tim Clink is one of those sportsmen who has an impressive CV in not just one sport, but two. The just-turned 52-year-old was a very good rugby player back in the day – he played nearly all of his club rugby at Cheltenham – and he has made just as big an impact in the sport of golf and is currently chairman of Lilley Brook. He will also become president of the Gloucestershire Golf Union in 2020 so the Cheltenham businessman and married father-of-two may have his juggling skills tested if he is to keep all the h proverbial b l balls b ll in the h air over the h next couple of years or so. Mind you, he’s had pleenty of practice over the years because he had to juggle his full-on rugby and golf commitments when hee was growing up, not to mention his education! e For full versions of all these stories and more, visit www.thelocalanswer.co.uk
Above is a selection from local sporting stories available online ...
Chris Cooley has done so much to maake the Cheltenham Crickket Festival and the Chelteenham National Hunt Festivaal what they are today
Chris Coley stiill a major player Chris Coley hass been a major player on the sporting g scene in Gloucestershire for many decades. Brimful with h ideas, energy and personality, y, his marketing skills helped shape iconic sp porting events such as the Cheltenham m National Hunt Festival and the Chelte enham Cricket Festival into the majorr attractions that they are today. y. And it’s not ju ust off the field that he has had a major impact because he was a more th han decent sportsman back in the dayy. y. He also owns a string of racehorses and has had a good number of sports books published over the years. So it comess as something of a surprise to learn that someone who has achieved so much was once described as a “soporific hedgehog”. And it wasn n’t just anybody who used those wo ords about him, it was one of the maajor institutions in this country – The Tiimes newspaper – who described him thus t in a golden era for the print industtry when people relied on the written word for much of their news and curre ent affairs. It’s a story that former Cheltenham College pupil Coley, y, now 73, is happy to tell. “It was in the days when there used to be a Public Schools’ Cricket Week every year at a Lord’s,” he said. “Ch lt h “Cheltenham C ll College were playing l i Haileybury College in a two-day game and The Times reported on it as though it were a county match. “I opened the batting and made 30odd. It took me a long, long time, it was slow, slow, slow, which is why I was described as a ‘soporific hedgehog’ by, y, I think, E M Wellings.”
Coley is lauughing when he tells the story – the second s day of the game was rained off – but don’t for one minute be under the mistaken impression that t he was an average sportsman, faar from it. Born in So olihull jjust weeks before the end of the Second World War,r, he inherited his dad Jerry’s natural talent for sport. “He was a good golfer and played off scratch,” said Coley. y. “He was an assistant golf pro before we moved to Gloucestershire in 1951.” So what was it that brought dad, mum Betty and their boys Chris and Ian to this part of the world? “The Highwayman pub between Birdlip and Cirencester,” said Coley. “When my parents bought it there was one tiny little room, it was a tiny cottage.” It didn’t stay like that for too long, however. “They turned it into the first ever steakhouse in this country, y,” continued Coley. “The steaks were served on a platter and the customer chose the cut that he or she would like. It was in the days before Berni Inns and it absolutely took off, mega.” Watching his parents grow their business – literally in front of his very eyes – obviously had a profound impact on Coley in later life, even th though h his hi early l years as a boarder b d att St Chad’s School in Prestatyn, North Wales, meant he was away from home for lengthy periods. Fortunately for the cricket-loving Coley, y, the Cheltenham Cricket Festival took place during the school holidays, and he was a regular at the Cheltenham College ground whenever
the Glouucestershire heroes of yesteryearr such as Jack Crapp, George Emmett and Tom Graveney were in town. And it soon got even better for Coley becaause at the age of 13 his parents d decided to send him to Cheltenham m College. g “I was ve ery lucky, y,” he said, “I was a day boy and a used to catch the bus from The Highwayman H to school.” And the sports-mad Coley flourished at what continues to be one of the top schools in the country. “I played cricket, rugby and hockey, y,” he said. “I was in the 1st team for two or three ye ears in each sport and was captain of cricket. “I was in the hockey 1st XI for three years and d I was pretty flexible because I played right-half one year, centre-forw ward another and goalk keeper ano other!” And that wasn’t all. “I was also captain of boxing,” he added. “I’d have been about 12 stoneish in thosse days so I’d have been a light heavyyweight or a cruiserweight.” Howeverr,r, his boxing career came to a sudden aand painful end. “I had m my nose broken by a guy from Radley,” he recalled, “that put me off for life! Funnily enough I met the guy ag gain when we were much older at the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. “He wass working as a courier for H Horse R ing Rac i Abroad Ab d which hi h was one of my businesses.” But while boxing was no longer of interest to o the teenaged Coley, y, life certainly was, w and as he grew older he was one of the few people to play cricket, rugby r and football for Cheltenham m. Full story online.
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Wha at t’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. 14 NOVEMBER – 12 DECEMBER FREE ROBERT RT GOLDSMITH EXHIBITION AT CHAPEL ARTS AT
Renowned watercolour artist Robert Goldsmith reveals the breadth of his portfolio in a showcase of evocative local scenes and portraits. Also on display is a large collection of handmade artists’ books. Coffee shop available. Wednesday-Saturday, y, 10am-4pm. www.thechapelarts.com 15 NOVEMBER – 23 DECEMBER CLAUS’ CHRISTMAS CABIN Bring your family to visit Father Christmas in his beautiful wooden cabin nestled amongst snowy trees. Spend time colouring with Elves and enjoy a range of food and drink in Orchard Square. Full details at www.thecityofgloucester.co.uk 30 NOVEMBER – 13 JANUARY ALADDIN Don’tt miss the all new, Don new w, bigger-and-better bigger and better production written and directed by legendary Blue Peter presenter and actor Peter Duncan. Polish your lamp and book a magic carpet ride to the Everyman Theatre for the highlight of the season – Aladdin, the pantomime where wishes do come true! For times and prices visit
www.everymantheatre.org.uk The Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham, GL50 1HQ. 01242 5722573. 1 DECEMBER GAS AS GREEN YOUTH CENTRE CHRISTM TMAS MAS FAIR Christmas Fair,r, Saturday 1st Decembber 12pm till 3pm at Gas Green Youth Centre, Baker Street, Cheltenham. Entrance 20p addults, children free. Craft stalls, refreshmennts, tombola, games cakes, and Father Christmas C will be there. Contact Elaine 01242 237883 CIRENCESTER SPA PARKLES ADVENT FESTIVA VAL & MARKET Cirencester Town Council is proud to host some great festive events for 2018, kicking off with the Advent Festival and Market. We are delighted d li ht d to t announce that th t Nell N ll Gifford Giff d from the Cotswolds’ very own Gifforrds Circus will be switching on the lights this year,r, and there will be lots to enjoy during the day from 11am to 7pm including the Advent Market, an Arts and Crafts Market, M street food and drink, Santa (at the Fleece Hotel), fair rides, live stage performaances and fireworks. For full details pleasee visit cirencester.gov.uk/christmas-in-cirencester Cirencester Market Place, GL7 2NZ. 1-2 DECEMBER FESTIVE WINTER WEEKEND Celebrate the start of the festive seeason for our final open weekend of 2018. Drop in and join us for a glass of mulledd wine or spiced berry cordial, enjoy familyfriendly craft activities, have a go at old fashioned parlour games, warm your vocal chords with carols, or follow an enchanted winter trail around the secret garden. Free entry. Museum in the Park, Stratford Park, Stroud, GL5 4AF. museuminthepark.org.uk
WINTER WEEKENDER Take a break from Christmas shopping with free entertainment in the heart of the city centre with a live music stage featuring brass bands, choirs and seasonal party music for all ages on the Saturday. It will be followed by big screen Sunday featuring classic Christmas movies, along with festive food and drink , all under cover so you can enjoy free Christmas entertainment, whatever the weather. For full details please visit www.thecityofgloucester.co.uk King’s Square, Gloucesterr,, GL1 1AD. 1-24 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS ON THE FARM Father Christmas will be here between 10am and 3pm on selected dates. Special children’s tickets are available for these days, which include Farm Park entrance, a special time slot to see Father Christmas and their own choice of present from the Toy Room. Children, toddlers and young adults with a Father Christmas booking will also be invited into the elves workshop to make a Christmas eve box. Full details at www.cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk Cotswold Farm Park , Guiting Powerr,, near Cheltenham, GL54 5UG. 1 DECEMBER – 5 JANUARY DICK WHITTINGTON Once again produced by The Roses’ team, with Ben Crocker at the helm, this year’s panto sees Dick embark upon the adventure of a lifetime as he seeks his fortune on the streets of London! For full details including times and prices please visit www.rosestheatre.org. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesburyy,, GL20 5NX.
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1 DECEMBER – 6 JANUARY THE BIG BATSFORD ELF HUNT! Santa’s helpers have gone missing and they are all hiding in the Arboretum; find them to win a prize! £2.50 per child, plus Arboretum admission fee (children must be accompanied by an adult). The Elf Hunt is most suitable for children aged 8 and under, however children of all ages are welcome to take part! Batsford Arboretum and Garden Centre, Batsford, Moreton-inMarsh, GL56 9QB. www.batsarb.co.uk 2 DECEMBER CIRENCESTER BAPTIST CHURCH CONCERT Concert with Phoenix Recorder Orchestra, on the full range of recorders, joined by Stroud Choral Youth Choir and The Minpins. Including works by Corelli, Keler and Praetorius. 5pm. £10 on the door, free for 18 years and under. Interval refreshments. Cirencester Baptist Church, Chesterton Lane, Cirencester, Gloucestershire GL7 1YE 3 & 9 DECEMBER THE NUTRCRACKER ROYAL OPERA HOUSE LIVE BALLET Tchaikovsky’s much-loved music is matched to a magical adventure on Christmas Eve for Clara and her Nutcracker doll. Their journey to the Land of Sweets brings with it some of the most familiar of all ballet moments, such as the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Waltz of the Flowers. For times and prices please visit coriniummuseum.org
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Corinium Museum, Park Street, Cirencester, GL7 2BX. 3 DECEMBER – 4 JANUARY TETBURY CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL AND MEMORY TREE For the second year in a row Tetbury Town Council has hosted this fabulous festival – come and see a festive array of beautifully decorated trees supplied and decorated by local organisations, schools and clubs all in the beautiful setting of St Saviour’s Church. You also have the opportunity to leave your memories of loved ones, friends and family on our Christmas Memory Tree. For full details please visit tetbury.gov.uk 4 DECEMBER WINCHCOMBE CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL The Christmas trees will be sparkling as Winchcombe’s shopkeepers, pubs, cafeowners, stallholders and local people get into the festive spirit of Christmas. The town is lit up with over 70 real Christmas trees, and street entertainers, Morris dancers, choirs, bands and community groups all add to the merriment. A chance to ‘shop early’ for Christmas and choose from some unusual gifts. winchcombe.co.uk A CHILD’S CHRISTMAS, POEMS AND TIGER EGGS Ballet Cymru presents a timeless interpretation of Dylan Thomas’ classic ‘A Child’s Christmas In Wales’ with music by Mason Neely and Wales’ own icon, Cerys Matthews. Step into
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the imagination of a genius and follow us on a journey through snow, cats and melancholy. 7.30pm. £17 (£12.50 u18). The Cotswold Playhouse, Parliament Street, Stroud, GL5 1LW. cotswoldplayhouse.co.uk 5 DECEMBER GFWI CHRISTMAS CONCERT WITH ONLY MEN ALOUD Gloucestershire Federation of WI are delighted to welcome back Only Men Aloud to perform at their Christmas Concert. The concert will also feature the GFWI Choir and a young Gloucestershire soloist. 7.15pm. £16. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, Cheltenham GL50 1QA. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk 5, 6 & 8 DECEMBER IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE In December the Players will take up residence at St Laurence Church for three nights only in a joint production of the Christmas classic. Turning a film into a show is not easy but this goes one step further. This is a live radio play! It features a group of radio actors putting on a play in the 1940s. The story is the classic that everyone knows. The setting is a radio studio but surrounded with Christmas Trees in the Church and performed during the annual Christmas Tree Festival. 7.30pm. £10. The Cotswold Playhouse, Parliament Street, Stroud, GL5 1LW. cotswoldplayhouse.co.uk
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Quick Cr Qu ro osswor ord d ACROSS 1 Privileeged class 7 Formeer soldiers 8 Ediblee organs 10 Horseracing track 12 Entitling 14 Moved through water 16 Tasks 17 Scrapss 20 Pop in nstrumentalists 23 Finnish steam bath 24 Highlyy charged 25 River-mouth land
DOWN 1 Develop 2 Rupture 3 Measure (out) 4 Furnishing scheme 5 Diminishing 6 Admiration 9 Large spoon 11 Partly cooked 13 Gesture of assent 15 Radiates 16 Sharply serrated 18 Musical composition 19 Taunts 21 Curved-bill bird 22 Auction
© Lovatts Puzzles
Don’t look until you’’vve finished! Solutions on ‘Index of Advertisers’ page. 5-10 DECEMBER ARTISAN CHRISTMAS SHOPPING EVENT AND WORKSHOPS AT CHAPEL ARTS ‘Watch This Space’ is bringing artisan-made jewellery, ceramics, glass and textiles, plus some very special workshops, to Chapel Arts from 5th to 10th December. Coffee Shop available. Event open daily between 10am and 5pm. More details online at www.thechapelarts.com 5 DECEMBER – 13 JANUARY JUST SO Five of Rudyard Kipling’s tales weave together into a wondrous tale of personal courage, individuality and friendship. Set to an eclectic, upbeat score; Kipling’s Just So Stories are woven with wit and imagination into a song-filled journey through the jungle. For full details including times and prices, please visit barntheatre.org.uk. The Barn Theatre, 5 Beeches Road, Cirencester GL7 1BN. 6-9 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL Come and see the beautifully decorated Christmas Trees at Hucclecote Methodist Church. Following the theme ‘The 12 Days of Christmas’, decorations have been handmade by the Church Family. Refreshments served. All are welcome. 2-6pm. 6-22 DECEMBER THE SNOW QUEEN Blackfriars Priory will be transformed into a
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magical winter wonderland, with an immersive theatre show for all the family. Join brave Gerda on a daring mission to rescue her dearest friend Kay who has been stolen by the Snow Queen. Families will cross frozen lands meeting reindeer, princesses and princes, magical creatures, robbers and thieves, on their way to the Snow Queen’s icy kingdom. £12 (£8 conc. Full details at www.gloucesterguildhall.co.uk Blackfriars Priory, Via Sacra, Ladybellegate Street, Gloucester GL1 2HN. 7 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS MAGICAL MYSTERY NIGHT Starting from 6pm, the Christmas parade and light switch on, with special guest Tristan Gemmill, will be followed by late night shopping around the town, market stalls in Church Street, Santa’s Grotto, food, drink, festive music and much more. For full details please visit tetbury.gov.uk 8 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS CAROLS ON THE HOUR & CHRISTMAS MARKET Take a break from the hustle and bustle of this busy season to come and enjoy Christmas Carols in your glorious Cathedral. The bite-sized bursts of festive praise are sung on the hour by Choirs of the Cathedral, with each service lasting just 30 minutes. You will find mince pies, mulled wine and festive refreshments in both the Chapter House and our fantastic coffee shop, The
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Monk’s Kitchen. For full details please visit www.gloucestercathedral.org.uk. Gloucester Cathedral, College Green, GL1 2LX. 8-9 DECEMBER THE BIG BATSFORD ELF HUNT! Santa and his Elf are returning to their magical grotto at Batsford Arboretum this Christmas! Come and visit them from 24pm on Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th December. £5 per child – each child visiting Santa will receive a gift. Batsford Arboretum and Garden Centre, Batsford, Moreton-in-Marsh, GL56 9QB. www.batsarb.co.uk TEWKESBURY TOWN BAND Come in out of the cold and enjoy a great family Christmas concert with a selection of new and classic festive tunes and a few sing-a-long items too. Finish off the year with some festive fun. For full details including times and prices please visit www.rosestheatre.org. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX. 8-30 DECEMBER SUDELEY CASTLE SPECTACLE OF LIGHT Experience the night-time magic of Sudeley through this beautiful new illuminated trail. Discover some of the amazing characters from Alice in Wonderland and marvel at the glorious Field of Poppies, Meteors, Moroccan Lanterns and much more! Full details at sudeleycastle.co.uk Sudeley Castle, Winchcombe, GL54 5JD.
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9 DECEMBER THE CHUNK KYY NEEDLE Chunky Arm Knit Workshop. Sunday 9th Decemberr,, 1-3pm at Hobbycraft Gloucester. No experience needed. Suitable age 10 upward. Select your own acrylic wool colour. Make a beautiful blanket just in time for the holiday season. Book now: thechunkyneedle.com/workshops/gloucester GLOUCESTERSHIRE MUSIC CHRISTMAS CONCERT Join four of our music groups for a celebration of Christmas music: Gloucestershire Youth Orchestra, Colwell Arts Orchestra, Gloucestershire Youth Strings and Gloucestershire Intermediate String Ensemble. Special guests: Oriel Singers. 7.30pm. £12. Pittville Pump Room, East Approach Drive, Cheltenham GL52 3JE. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk 11 DECEMBER CHELLTTENHAM CHORAL SOCIETY – TTA APESTRY OF CHRISTMAS MUSIC Cheltenham Choral Society return to get you into the Christmas spirit. They will entertain you with festive music old and new. Audience participation welcome with an array of favourite Carols! Joining them will be guest performers including choirs from two local schools who are sure to charm you! 7.30pm. £10. Pittville Pump Room, East Approach Drive, Cheltenham GL52 3JE. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk 13 DECEMBER EVENTTM MASTER CHRISTMAS A ATT THE RACES
Warwick CV34 6HN. warwick.thejockeyclub.co.uk. 14 DECEMBER CHRISTM TMAS ON THE SQUARE A festive evening to celebra rate the Cheeltenham West community. y. There will be a lighht switch on, Christmas market, food and drink, and Santa will make an appearance. Thee event is organised by the Community Activvities Team, who aim to bring the local com mmunity together to enjoy the festivities togeether,r, but ppeople p from all communities aree welcome. 4.30-6pm. Coronation Squuare, Cheltenham, GL51 7SE. cheltenhamccat.co.uk 14-15 DECEMBER A CHRISTMAS CAROL Join the children of Acting Out! as thhey present the retelling of Charles Dickeens’ classic novel. Ebenezer Scrooge is a mean, miserable, bitter old man with no frriends. With the help of some ghosts sent tto him by his deceased business partner Jaccob Marley, y, Scrooge visits his past, preseent and future. Because of this Ebenezer learns to love Christmas and the people all arround him. 7.30pm. From £5.50. Full details at kingstheatregloucester.co.uk. The Kinngs Th t Kings Theatre, Ki Barton B t Street, St t GL1 1Q QX QX. 14-16 DECEMBER CHRISTM TMAS MARKET AT AT THE BREW WERY R QUARTER
Join in the festive fun at Warwick Racecourse – can there be a better place for your Christmas get together? Prices from £10. Opens 10.15, first race 12.15, last race 3.35. Tickets: 03445 793 013. Warwick Racecourse, Hampton Street,
Enjoy a festive market at The Brew wery Quarter with an array of arts, craftss, personalised gifts, handmade itemss and – of course – mulled wine! Plus meet Ralph the Elf,f, posing for photos on the hoour each day between 12 and 4pm.
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15-28 DECEMBER THE HAT ATTER IN WINTERLAND Far away from the mad comfort of Wonderland, this December the Hatter finds himself stranded in Winterland! Hysterical, silly and a little bit frightened, he must discover how he got there in order to find his way back home for the Christmas tea party… and all before the Jabberwocky’s’s curse freezes him in Winterland forever. For times and prices visit www.cheltplayhouse.org.uk Cheltenham Playhouse, 47-53 Bath Road, Cheltenham, GL53 7HG. 01242 522852. 16 DECEMBER NAT ATIVITY TY SERVICE 10.30am. An action-packed church service telling the Christmas story for all the family. At Cambray Baptist Church, Cambray Place, Cheltenham GL50 1JS (near John Lewis). CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT 6.30pm. A lovely atmospheric service with carols and candlelight – followed by mulled wine and mince pies. At Cambray Baptist Church, Cambray Place, Cheltenham GL50 1JS (near John Lewis). CHELTENHAM BACH CHOIR – A CHRISTMAS CRA RACKER This year’s’s concert features f two marvellous ll guests joining the choir for the perfect start to your Christmas festivities. The hugely popular Flowers Band will raise the roof with their blend of classical and popular festive offerings, and the young y Beauregard Singers are a sheer delight. The choir will sing some beautiful Christmas music and there will be the opporrtunity for everyone to join in their favourite carols. 6.30pm. £20. Pittville Pumpp Room, East Approach Drive, Cheltenham GL52 G 3JE. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk 19 DECEMBER HOLLY LY AT AT CHRISTMAS B dd Holly Buddy H ll andd the th Cricketers C i k t once again herald in the Yuletide festivities with Holly at Christmas! Holly’s’s hits, contempporary classics and Christmas crackers aree all wrapped up in a fast, furious and funny feast of entertainment. 7.30pm. £118-£25. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tew wkesbury, y, GL20 5NX. www.rosestheatre.org
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20 DECEMBER STORIES WITH SANTTA A Santa visits the Corinium Museum to tell a short story from the North Pole in a magical setting and present the children with a seasonal gift at the end. A special occasion for families or playgroups with young children. For times and prices please visit coriniummuseum.org Corinium Museum, Park Street, Cirencesterr,, GL7 2BX. MADDY PRIOR & THE CARNIVVA AL BAND: CAROLS & CCA APERS Following the popular 25th anniversary Christmas tourr,, renowned folk singer Maddy Prior joins up once again with the Carnival Band during the Festive Season for their unique celebratory show Carols & Capers. 7.30pm. £24.50. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, Cheltenham GL50 1QA . www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk 21 DECEMBER THA ATT’LL BE THE DA AYY – THE CHRISTTM MAS SHOW 2018 Topped with lashings of Christmas spirit, get ready to party as That’ll Be The Day returns with its Brand New Christmas Show! The UK’s most popular Rock ‘N’ Roll variety show celebrates the festive season with all your favourite Christmas classics from the 50s, 60s and 70s, plus plenty of hilarious comedy! 7.30pm. From £25.50. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA . www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk
21-24 DECEMBER SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWA WARFS A That’s Entertainment Productions reeturn with a brilliant star cast, including ITV’s hilarious Britain’s’s Got Talent finalistt Drew Cameron as Muddles, a villainous Wicked W Queen, a handsome Prince and thee beautiful Snow White, plus the funniest and cutest Seven Dwarves, and a very v clever Magic Mirror. For times and prices please visit www.subscriptionrooms.org.uk. Stroud Subscription p Rooms,, George g Street,, GL5 1AE. 01453 760900. 24 DECEMBER CRIB SERVICE 4.30pm. Capture the excitement off Christmas Eve and bring your children to hear the Christmas story – for the young y and young at heart! At Cambray Baaptist Church, Cambray Place, Cheltenham m GL50 1JS (near John Lewis) 31 DECEMBER NEW YEAR’S EVE RACING AT AT WA WARW WICK
7,000 like-minded racegoers warm ming up for the big night out. Live music, great g racing and a fantastic atmosphere is an absolute certainty. Prices from £100. Opens 10.15, first race 12.15, last race 3.35. Tickets: 03445 793 013. Warwick Racecourse, Hampton Street, Warw wick CV34 6HN. warwick.thejockeyclub.co.uk. 12 JANUARY CLASSIC CHASE DAY AY AT AT WA WARW RWICK
If there is one day to head to Warrwick Racecourse then this is the one. With W a focus on the most thrilling race wee stage all year,r, you can also enjoy free heritage talks with some of the stars of yesteryear plus an exhibition of interesting arrtefacts from Warwick’s racing past. Ticketss: 03445 793 013. Warwick Racecourse, Ham mpton Street, Warwick CV34 6HN. warwick.thejockeyclub.co.uk.
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Gadgets & Gizmos Ga with La au ur ra a Nicklin
Have yourself a very v techy Christmas It’s that time of year again, when you find yourself stocking the fridge with far too much food, trying to find a bargain in the Christmas sales, and generally becoming buried alive underneath mountains of wrapping paper. How did it get to December so quickly?! Whilst it certainly won’t be a stress-free month – not for the adults, anyway – hopefully, y, these festive-themed gizmos will go a little way to making the winter blues slightly more bearable!
for a lie-in! Thankfully, thee Lumie Bodyclock is here to sort you out and ensure that you are fully prepared and ahead of schedule. Both a daylight lamp and alarm clock, the Lumie Bodyclock won’t deafen d you with an intolerable alarm thhat makes you want to hit it with a hammer. It lets you come to naturally, by gradually glowing brighter and brighterr into a 30 30minute sunrise. Instead of groggily waking up in pitch black, youu’ll be able Numark Party Mix DJ to wake up more refresheed, as the Controller Bodyclock helps regulate your y sleep If you find yourself taking on the role cycle. It has even been proven to of host or hostess for this year’s annual improve your mood and productivity, y, so Christmas Party, then you need to you won’t turn into the Grincch! make sure you’ve got all the trimmings for a fun-filled evening. What better way to get a party started than with the Numark Party Mix DJ Controller. A great gadget for the amatuer DJ, the Party Mix Controller comes with a dual setup, p, includingg jjogg wheels,, performance pads and outputs to speakers and headphones. It also includes a built-in synchronised light show, w, making you feel like a real DJ letting loose in the clubs! The Party Mix will project multi-coloured LEDOther features includedd in this powered lights that transport you out of your living room and onto the gadget are a snooze option, alarm beep and dimmer feature. The T Lumie dancefloor. Remember, whoever’s in charge of Bodyclock also works to help you fall music, is in charge of the party. You asleep, as it has a 30 minuute sunset w down. also get a free download of Virtual DJ setting that will help you wind Limited Edition, which will let you Although, after a day of cooking experiment with blending your music! Christmas Dinner,r, eating, drinking, h the h Queen’s ’ speech, h more Available from Menkind.co.uk at watching eating and drinking, followed by £79.99. charades and the inevitable family Lumie Bodyclock arguments, we’re not sure you’ll need It’s Christmas Day, y, the in-laws are on to worry about dozing off. Available their way, y, you’ve still got to prep the from John Lewis at £56.99. food, make sure the turkey is defrosted, set the table, get the kids dressed, and Sous Vide Wand have the Michael Buble CD on loop... You’re the chef and the the kitchen is needless to say, y, you won’t have time your kingdom! No one dare enter The Local Answer
whilst you’re in the zonee; roasting those potatoes, boiling the veg, glazing the turkey – it’s all about precision and skill. So if youu’re feeling the heat, don’t get out of thhe kitchen, but wave the magic g wand – the Sous Vide Wand from Lakeland. This easy to use kitchen gadget g will let you feel like a professional chef. Simply clip the wand onto a deep pan of water, turn the dial to the right temperature and set a timee, and wait for the magic beep that tells you to put your vacuum packed food in. Unlike your regular pots, this onne doesn’t need to be watched; the steel wand warms the water to the optimum temperature and regulates it, so the food won’t be overcooked, and you can get on with your other tasks. The h timer i can be b set up too 59 hours and 59 minutes, and the w wand also comes with some recipes tto try out. Give your home-cooked meals some va va voom with this suave contraption, available from LLakeland at £99.99.
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Entert ta ainment with Tom Hadfield – entert ta ainment@thelocalanswer r..co.uk
Sudeley Castle’s Spe ectacle of Light Sudeley Castle will once agaain play host to the Spectacle of Lig ght this festive period, period and the annual event is set to be more spectacular and immersive than ever before. Nic Beeby, y, producer of the Spectacle of Light, has been designing the event for three years now and thinks this year will be their best yet. He said: “This is our third year at Sudeley Castle and we’ve gone from strength to strength each year. It’s a very festive event without being over Christmassy and it’s proving to be increasingly popular. “We try to plan a new route each year so it’s going to be quite different compared to last year.” The running theme through this year’s Spectacle of Light is Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, and visitors will be encouraged to follow the White Rabbit and keep an eye out for the Queen of Hearts and other characters.
The Spectacle of Light illuminaates Sudeley Castle and the surroundingg grounds
Alongside the thousands of lights illuminating the grounds there’ll be all sorts of different installattions dotted around the trail, as Nic exxplains. He said: “We’re working with local light artists to create new installations. One is called ‘At the Going Down of the Sun’, which commem morates the end of WW1. “We’ve also got a wish hing tree, so people write their wishess on a shard
Film Review – Claudie Francis
of a recycled CD and then hang them in the branches of the tree to sparkle and hopefully come true! true!” Sudeley Castle waas built in the 15th century and is i one of the county’s most po opular tourist attractions. It has played host to t a number of monarchs througho out its almost 1,000-year long histtory, y, and nowadays is both a touurist attraction and home to Laady Elizabeth Ashcombe and her faamily. y. Nic continued: “Sudeley is a perfect place to hold the event as it is beautifully elegant and so full of history. The castle is th he centrepiece off the h Spectacle, l and d there’s h ’ a mile l off trail around it to explore all its different parts. “I look forward to the Spectacle of Light because it’s what I love doing. Ever since I moved into the area I’ve wanted to create an event like this and Sudeley is the perfect location.” Full story online.
Book Review – Aloÿse of Daylesford Book Club
Bohemian Rhapsody
The Sixteen Trees of the Somme by Lars Mytting
I was not unique in my eagerness to see ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ when it came out in cinemas. It’s been one of the most talked about films of the year and once you’ve seen it you can understand why. y. The film takes us on a journey from Queen’s birth performing at student gigs, through to huge success, sellout international tours and all the bumps in between. It seems almost more of a love letter to the band and its charismatic lead singer than it does a dramatic intrusion into their private lives. Brian May, y, the band’s lead guitarist, has said of the film that Freddie “would have loved it” The shining light of this film has to be Rami Malek. The final scenes take place at the world famous Live Aid concertt in i 1985. 1985 Malek M l k performs with the essence that this could be Mercury’s last show and to say that I left the cinema with an extremely tear soaked face speaks for itself. Picture: 20th Century Fox Full review online.
Edvarrd is brought up by his grand dfather on a remote farm in Norway. N y. Following his grand dfather’s death in 1991, Edvarrd decides to delve into the mystery m of the death of his paren nts in France where, as a small boy, y, Edvard went missing for fo our days. Inte ertwined with this is the story of Einar, Edvard’s great uncle e, a skilled cabinet maker who was estranged from his family. y. The chapters The h t sett in i France F are poignant and deeply moving. It is appro opriate that the paperback edition has been released as we remember the end of o hostilities in 1918. To begin b with, the book moves slowly buut take heed – everyy little piece of information fits into the e jigsaw puzzle and you y will find that as the momentum gaathers you will not be able to put this book down. Full review online.
Above is a selection from local entertainment stories available online ...
ART • EVENTS • EXPERIENCES • FILM • LIFESTYLE LITERA ATTURE • MUSIC • REVIEWS • THEA ATTRE • TV
Roving Crows hostt Christmas Celebration The award-winning folk band Roving Crows have had a busy 2018 and don’tt seem to be slowing down any don time soon. The band are currently on a tour that will take them around the UK and over to France, where they’re set to play various venues in Normandy, y, an area with strong links to the Celtic roots that the band celebrates. Lead singer and guitarist Paul O’Neill explains the origins of Roving Crows, and how far they’ve come in their time together. He said: “We’re a four-piece Celtic fusion band and we’ve been together for about nine yyears now. “We started out in Cheltenham gigging locally, y, and now we’ve toured and done fesstivals in places like Ireland, France and Australia.” The band are well known on the folk music scene fo or their contemporary twists on tradittional Celtic songs, and Paul says theirr unique style is what makes them stand out.
Roving Crows have been playing together for nine years
He said: id “W “We take k old ld Celtic l i songs and modern nise them, with electric guitars, six string bass, Caitlin on the fiddle, and pe ercussion rather than your standard drum kit. “Then we also a write our own songs, which are still Celtic in nature but with modern rhythms and beats.” The Gloucestershire based band will
be taking their unique sound to the Watson Hall H in Tewkesbury for a Christmas Celebration show on Saturday 2 22nd December. Paul saaid: “We do a gig in Tewkesburry around this time of year every yeaar and it’s always great, everyone d dances and gets involved. “We’ll be e playing our own original songs with a few covers thrown in, stuff like The Pogues’ ‘Fairytale of New York’. We’ve got support from a local band d called Thrown Together who are great too.” There’s b barely time to relax over the holidays b before Paul and the rest of the band aare back on the road again. He contin nued: “We’re gigging all the time, but w we get really busy again in March whe en St Patrick’s Day is coming up, and also with Cheltenham Race Week. “Then w we’ll be doing all the usual festivals in n the summer and playing right up un ntil Christmas again!” Full story o online.
Carolss by Steam Trainn returns to Winchcombe The Gloucesterrshire Warwickshire Steam Railway will once again be hosting a special night in aid of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution. The Carols byy Steam Train event takes place on Saturday 8th December and d will involve – you guessed it – Christmas Carols and a magnificent ste eam train. John Page, one of the event organisers at Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam S Railway, has been helping ruun the event for over a decade and explains the plan for the night. He said: “We e’ve been running this event for longer than I can remember,r, at least 10 years now. “The train departs Toddington station at 7pm m and then takes the passengers to Winchcombe, where the carol service will begin at the station. “After the service, the train will
Last year raiseed money for Winston’s ’s Wish
continue to Cheltenham Racecourse and then he ead back to Toddington, arriving i i at about b h lf past nine.” half i ” The Carols by Steam Train event runs annually, and alternates charities every year, between the RNLI and Winston’s Wish. Faith Harvey, y, from the RNLI Cheltenham and Tewkesbury fundraising branch says the event always proves to be a great night.
She saaid: “It’s It s such a fun evening and it’s always popular. We had about 200 2 people last time and there’s a really lovely atmosphere on the train. t “The Cheltenham Junior Silver Band will w be performing for us at Winchco ombe station, and there’ll be mince pies, mulled wine and Father Christmas C might even make an appe earance on the train!” John added: “Christmas really will be the icing on the railway’s cake this year. We re-opened the line to Broadway on Good Friday 2018 and since then h n the number of people travelling o on our trains has broken all records. “Yet the rrailway is run by volunteers – including aall of the Christmas trains. It’s extraorrdinary and, as a volunteer, I’m thrilled d that the railway is bringing so much jo oy to so many people.” Full story o online.
For full articles and more stories visit www w..thelocalanswerr..co.uk
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Page 20
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The Local Answer
R R S
R Richards & Son Ltd FA F AMIL LY Y BUSINESS
ROO OOFING & F FA ASC SCIA BO BOA OARD SPE PECIALIS ST TS TS Servviing Gloucestershire and beyyo ond ◆ New Roofs ◆ New Builds ◆ Slate, Chimney and Tile R Re epair ◆ New V Va alleys ◆ Felt and Battening ◆ Lead W Wo ork ◆ Leak R Re epairs ◆ Fibreglass Roofing ◆ Felt Roofing
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Sudoku Fill the grids so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 to 9.
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Page 22
✆ sales@grassscape.co.uk sales@grassscape.co.uk www.GrassScape.co.uk w ww.GrassScape.co.uk Manor Farm • Stoke Road • Cheltenham • GL52 7RY
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The Local Answer
CHELLT TENHAM TREE SER RV VICES LT LTD PR RO OFESSIONAL INSURED TREE SURGEONS You won’t haavve too many laughs Visual Tree Assessment (V..TTT..A.) Yo Assessments can be undertaken on with this “ffuungi” around… just one tree or on all trees on the site. They are carried out from ground level and will cover the trees:
• Common and Latin name • Height, Spread and trunk diameter at breast height (DBH) • Health condition including signs of disease • Structural form • Dysfunction • Safety • Location plan • Recommended action, if required • Guide price for the action/s
Why Have a Visual Tree Assessment?
If you’d likkee to learn more about our tree and hedge services, please call us on
01242 581541
and one of our friendly members of staffff will be able to advise you on the work you require. Registered address: 7 Loweswater Close, Cheltenham, GL51 3BA enquiries@chelt-trees.com
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It is important to haavve your tree checked regularly to ensure it is growing healthily and isn’t posing a risk to you and those around. As experienced tree surgeons, here at Cheltenham T Trree Services Ltd, our team will provide you with a tree risk assessment that will ensure your tree is healthyy,, inside and out, and that no overhanging branches are going to cause damage to your property or people around.
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The Local Answer
In The G Ga ard ar den with Julia Smith
Finish planting before the coldest weath h arrives her i Deck the halls with boughs of holly! Yes, we are finally at the Christmas countdown and hopefully it will be a lovely crisp, bright month with plenty of sun. There is even time to do some planting still before the coldest weather of the season arrives in January and February. y. If it is suitable and not too waterlogged gg or frozen, container grown deciduous trees and shrubs can still be planted.
Colour, r, fragrance and food for birds in winter Or, if you want to add interest to your garden in winter, how about adding a winter flowering shrub such as Mahonia, Daphne bholua, Hamamelis (witch hazel) or Sarcococca (Christmas box)? These provide fragrance and colour,r, as well as being an important food source for the birds in winter. winter
Mahonia (left) and Hamamelis
An RHS desk diary always hits the button for organising one e’s life, or how about the wonderful jakoti Japanese hand shears thaat are just the job for tidying yourr topiary? Perhaps a novelty duck watering Plant shallots on the can, which I spotted on n a trawl shortest day of the e year through the internet the other day – It is traditional to plant shallots on every garden needs one! the shortest day of the ye ear. Shallot bulbs are planted so that just GettingPersonal.co.uk the little tip is visible above the soil, with a distance between of 15cm, in rows 20 0cm apart. Keep them moist but don’t overwater them. Be efore they put their roots down you may have to replant them, as the birds will sometimes pull them out (whether they think it is a worm Those of you with grape vines will coming out or what I don’t know!) need to do your annual pruning Gift ideas for the soon. Grapes fruit on one e year old gardener in your life wood, and pruning before Christmas whilst the plant is still fullyy dormant I couldn’t let the December issue will stop too much ‘bleedin ng’ of the go without giving you some gift sap which will weaken the e vine. Try ideas for the gardener in your life! The Local Answer
to grow with a permanen nt vertical framework of branches an nd then at this time each year cut the horizontal branches of the curren nt year’s growth back to two buds. buds
To advertise call 0122 510500
Page 25
RS TD Rain Ra in Wa Wate terr Sy Syysstem ems
lists in d alll
Roof Repairs, Roof Repairs, Chimneys Chimneys, s, Slates Slates and and Tiles Tiles
RS Cladding Ltd offer home owners qualitty uPVC fascias, soffits, guttering, dow wnpipes and cladding in a choice of colours c (white, rosewood, oak or blaack). They’re virtually mainte tenance ce -free and will neve ver ne need to be reeppaaiin intteed. Allll our products are guara guuaarraanntteee eeedd foorr 1100 year yeeaarrss for peace of mind.
RUBBER FLAT ROOFING
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Page 2
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The Local Answer
inter terior ior neeeds
Tue-Sat: 10am-3pm Sun: CLOSED
We would ld lilike to wish allll of of our customers a very ry Merr rry Christmas and a Ha Happy New Ye Ne Year ◆ Curtains
Frrseoneal
pe design t n i eriorrvice se
& fa fabric C ome enjoy a and ◆ Tracks & poles of cofffffee cup e mince p and ◆ Interior shutters ie! ◆ Perfe fect fi fit blind blind ◆ Bay window w trea treatments ents ◆ Lighting ◆ Wa Wallpaper ◆ Mirrors
Tel: 01452 522 422 Te
enquiries@interiorneeds.co.uk
Come in and have a bro rowse and join us for a cup up of of tea or cof offee and a mince pie
●
● Sandersons Sandersons ● Rom Romo m ● Zoffany ● Prestigious ● Caasadeco ● Bill Beaumont ● Ian Mankin M ● Luxaflex ● James Brindley ● Silent Gliss ● Velux ● Blendworth Ha dy ● V la Nova ● Harlequin H
• 20% offff Fabric on M.T.M. orders • 20% offff Blinds • 20% offff Shutters • 20% offff Lighting & Mirrors • 20% offff Tracks & Poles • 10% offff Wallpaper
HRISTMAS
Opening Hours: Saturday 22nd, 10am-3pm then Closed until Wednesday 2nd January 2019 Normal Hours: Monday Showroom closed (open by appointment only)
Tues-Sat 10am-3pm Sunday Closed
Sale starts 1sst December 2018 until 31st January 2019 2
Eastern Avenue, Gloucester GL4 3BU (Next to The Weavers Shop, opposite SMYTHS)
www.interiorneeds.co.uk
Inter riior Design with Gill Greenwell
Winter warmers Whether Wh th the th latest l t t on-trend t d term t i is Danish Hygge or Japanese Ikigai, we can be sure that cosy and warm interiors will never go out of style. With the seasons changing and winter on its way, it’s a good time to take a new look at your home and refresh your style for the colder months. Small changes can make a big difference, and they don’t have to break the bank – here are some quick and easy ways to embrace the changing seasons with an autumn/winter make-over.
Embrace the new autumnal hues A new rich colour palette is emerging this season, and the key colours to look out for are jewel tones of amber,r, mustard, teal and emerald green. These can look stunning when paired with velvet for a sofa or an occasional chair. You don’t have to spend a lot to change your look – you can just add a new lampshade, a seasonal vase of flowers or a signature accessory. y.
Get cosyy and add texture When creating a cosy retreeat in the colder months, try styling your sofa with cushions made of sumptuous fabrics like wool, luxe velvet, faux fur,r, or you could even use tarrtan for a Scottish feel. It’s always goood to have
plenty of soft, warm throws and Create a welcoming blankets to hand for wheen guests ambiance arrive – a common occurrence in the Don’t forget to relook at youur lighting. holiday period! Layering with different Use soft lights and dimm mers for a textures is the way to go. warm, welcoming atm mosphere. Scented candles come into their own Gather around the firre There’s nothing like a crackliing fire for in the winter months – I can’t get too many of them in my home at a this time making people feel comforrtable and of the year. Not only do they bring a snugg in the winter. If yyou haven’t unique warm glow into the house, house but already installed a woodd burning the seasonal scents create memories stove, now’s the time to do it. Many of year after year. Always invest in a good the new stoves on the markket are gas quality candle with a lovely scent of powered, but it’s amazing how similar sandalwood, cinnamon, or pine. p I buy to a real fire they look andd they are the same winter scentedd candles energy efficient too. every year and the minute my daughters walk in the hoouse they know they’re home.
Add a new trend Last but not least, why not n add a surprise item for that speccial touch? Home interior trends are inncreasingly linking with fashion and thhis season th trend the t d is i for f allll things thi with animal w prints. I have been temppted by a leopard print cushion I saw recently in an interiors store in London.. Now all you need to do is snuggle down with that Netflix boox set you have been promising yourself, light your new scented candle and make yourself a nice cup of steaaming hot chocolate – bliss! The Local Answer
To advertise call 0122 510500
Page 2
ST TA ART THE NEW YEAR WITH A NEW KITCHEN book your appointment now ffo or installation January
kit F c r Vi hen om sit t ou mak he U r s eo K’ ho ve s # wr r e 1 oo xp m er 2019 no ts. w
Beffo ore
Est. 1999
• F FROM R SIMPLE DO OOR REPLACEMENTS TO COMPLETE FITTED KITCHEN NS • FULLY LY INSTA TALLED BY LOCAL PROFESSIONALS S IN JUST A FEW DAY AYS • CHOOSE FROM A LARGE SELECTION OF DOORS, WORKTOPS AND APPLIANCES • UP TO 50% LESS THAN A NEW FULLY LY FITTED KITCHEN
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CALL US NOW FOR A FREE EST TIMATE:
014 453 299 344 4 VISIT T OUR SHOWROOM: 18 High Street, Stoneh house, GL10 2NA
9.7/10 See e what our customers rs have e to say
Creating beautiffu ul homes in the Cotswolds
Curtains • Blinds • Carpets • Upholsterryy • Shutters • Paint 15 Isbourne W Waaayy, Broadway R Ro oad, Winchcombe, Cheltenham, Gloucesterrsshire GL54 5NS T: 01242 604 543 E: info@rapportinteriorrss.com www.rapportinteriors.com T: The Local Answer
To advertise call 0122 510500
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The Local Answer
PAINTING & PA DECOR RA AT A TING
Fe m a l e Plumber
BRIIA AN MITTEN
Kerr rry y Bak ke er
For all your painting and decorating needs, including f loor and wall tiling, contact Brian ...
rofessional qualified plumber Fully insured No job too small
07951 397210 01242 462480
Mobile:
07880 258158
brianmitten64@gmail.com
20 YEARS’ EX XP PERIENCE
kerry@thefemaleplumber.co.uk
Matt Grimshaw Carpentry Ltd
All aspects of kitchen fitting undertaken G
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01242 604423/07792 088822
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The Local Answer
Money Ma at tters with Roger Downes of Andorr ran ra
Keeping pace with inflation Last month, for the first time in many years, wages rose at a faster rate than the increase in retail prices. It made me wonder jjust how ppeople p have coped p with the adverse disparity in these figures over such a long period of time. It’s been that way since the credit crisis of 2008-09. Interest rates have been a key contributor. They have remained at record low levels throughout that period and, despite two small increases this year,r, are still at a very low level today. With the major monthly outgoing in most households being the mortgage repayment, people have been able to ignore the disparity as it doesn’t apply to their main item of expenditure. But if interest rates are going to keep on rising, will we be able to cope with outgoings if wages don’t keep pace? Unemployment numbers have been at record lows too and the conventional wisdom is that when they drop, pay levels and inflation generally will rise. But that doesn’t appear to t have h b been th case in the i the th last l t few f years. In I fact, f t perversely, last month’s increase in wage rate inflation was accompanied by an increase in unemployment too. Maybe the rules that used to operate for these measures have simply been overtaken by more modern economics. It can’t make planning an economic strategy very easy if you can’t rely on key trends of the past.
All our household spending plans are now based on both partners working The most obvious impact on wage rates stagnating is a squeeze on standards of living. We’ve been used to seeing increases in standards year on year,r, decade on decade as the concept of dual income couples has become the norm rather th than th the th exception, ti andd allll off our household h h ld spending plans are all now based on both partners working. Technology has played its part too. As the development of communication devices reaches a rate at which they move from luxury items for those with money to burn, through the must-have item of the early part of the century, to today when they are almost an implant on the human body, y, it is no wonder that monthly spending has a new key item that we have to fund out of income that is stagnating. And, of course, it’s not just a device for you, there’s the kids to buy for too. It doesn’t matter what’s happening to parents’ pay, little Johnny or Jenny can’t be seen without one. There is no solution of course. course Cost Costs ts will inevitably continue to rise. We need to invest in a culture in which wages and living standards can keep pacce or maybe even get ahead. Thanks to all who have read my ram mblings this year. Have a great Christmas and I’ll be back in 2019.
To advertise call 0122 510500
Page 33
Index of Adver rt tisers WHAT AT’S ON CLUBS & SPORTS Sherdons Golf Centre Shipton Golf Course EVENTS & ATTRACTIONS Burley Fields Lakes Farm Shop Warwick Raccourse
36 15 16 13
PROPERTY & STORAGE Park Home Life
8
RETAIL Vinyl Records Wanted
5
HOMES & GARDENS BATHROOMS Severn Vale Bathrooms 22 & 35 BUILDING SERVICES C&G Paving 20 Cheltenham Town Roofing 24 Home Care Roofing & Building 20
JHD Roofing & Buiding Marshalls Driveways Pave-Drive R. Richards & Sons RS Cladding & Roofing Ltd S.J. Lewis & Sons CARPENTRY R Matt Grimshaw CLEANING Ovenbusters FURNISHING & APPLIANCES Dream Doors Gloucester Carpet Outlet Interior Needs Rapport Interiors GARDEN SERVICES Acorn Gardening Services Cheltenham Town Landscaping Cheltenham Tree Services Grass Scape
22 20 21 21 26 24 33 24 30 27 28 31 24 26 23 22
HEATING & PLUMBING KB Female Plumber PAINTING & DECORAT ATING Brian Mitten TV & AERIAL 1st Choice Aerials WINDOWS, DOORS & CONSERVA VATORIES Albany Windows Clearway Doors & Window ws Inceil Just Doors & Handles
33
PET SERVICES Dragon Vets Tewkesbury
6
33
SKIP HIRE & RECYCLING Stevens Recycling
34
5
SOLICITORS Sherbornes Solictitors Ltd
8
2 32 31 33
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CARE SERVICES Building Circles MOTOR SERVICES V Hub
15 8
The Loc al
ANSWER To advertise call:
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COMPETITION RULES 1 Prizes are as stated and no cash or prize alternative will be offered. 2 Employees of The Local Answer and a 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 notifieed by telephone after the closing date has passed. 5 The Editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be enteredd into. 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 thhe full responsibility of the prize donor(s). 9 By enterinng 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 competittion you agree to have your details passed to a third party. 11 One entry per household.
BOOKING DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE – Wednesday 5th December 2018
STEVE
ATTE ENTION! Let us liighten your load!
Do omestic and Ind dustrial Skips Ham Villa Road, Charlton Kings, Cheltenham GL52 6NB
01242 522647/529397 stevensrecycling584@gmail.com
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