Gloucester

The Local

ANSWER

FEBRUARY 2018

200,000 DELIVERED MONTHLY IN GLOUCESTERSHIRE

for local people

GLOUCESTER OUR DELICIOUS DISH – YOUR RECIPE FOR A ROMANTIC VALENTINE’S!

The The Lo Local c al

AN ANSWER SWER G loucester – 446,000 6,000 ccopies opies Gloucester G loucestershire SSouth outh – 441,000 1,000 ccopies opies Gloucestershire Gloucestershire N orth – 220,000 0,000 ccopies opies Gloucestershire North Forest ooff D ean – 222,000 2,000 ccopies opies Forest Dean Cheltenham – 43,000 43,000 ccopies opies Cheltenham Cotswolds – 228,000 8,000 ccopies opies Cotswolds

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

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

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

SSport port R Roger oger JJackson ackson

February’s winning cover photo: Derek Lightstone of Barnwood

W Welcome elcome ttoo FFebruary ebruary ......

This is the month of love and it’s possible that you have plenty of plans for romance up your sleeve. However, if you do need a little help, have a read of this month’s ‘Gadgets & Gizmos’ editorial for some gift inspiration or treat your loved one by making them this month’s ‘Delicious Dish’.

It’s also a good time to show yourself some love, perhaps by making sure that the health of your heart is a priority.

Holly Hannigan has some great information about this in ‘Medical Health’.

If it’s your house that’s crying out for some TLC, have a read of Jade Wilce’s ‘Interior Design’ artical for some great furniture up-cycling project ideas.

As always, there’s lots going on across the county this month so you’ll certainly be entertained, whether or not there’s someone special in your life! Check out our What’s On section for details of events near you.

Whether or not you’re a fan of Valentine’s Day, all of us at The Local Answer hope you have a lovely day!

sport@thelocalanswer.co.uk sport@thelocalanswer.co.uk

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

H Helen elen R Robinson obinson pproduction@thelocalanswer.co.uk roduction@thelocalanswer.co.uk

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

R Robert obert K Kingscott ingscott rrob@thelocalanswer.co.uk ob@thelocalanswer.co.uk

Accounts Accounts K Kerry erry TThorne horne aaccounts@thelocalanswer.co.uk ccounts@thelocalanswer.co.uk

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

T Telephone elephone 0 01242 1242 5 510500 10500 thelocalanswer thelocalanswer

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www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

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

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today and "Tried " Tried tthe he pancakes pancakes h here ere today and it it was was lovely!!! Great Great customer customer sservice ervice with with lovely!!! a cclean lean and and w welcoming elcoming a atmosphere.” tmosphere.”

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"Great atmosphere atmosphere and and a lovely lovely family family "Great feel. I 100% 100% rrecommend ecommend tthis his place, place, feel. just what what Gloucester Gloucester needed." needed." just

Our restaurant has been designed with you in mind.

With comfy seating and a bright, relaxed atmosphere, we hope you’ll find a place to relax, providing an environment where you can enjoy your time with family and friends. Above all, we hope you feel valued as our customer throughout your experience with us.

We have free wifi, baby changing and accessible friendly facilities and a private room that can be hired for meetings, parties and events.

Quote the code Y Yantos5off antos5off to gain our £ 5 off off £5 when you spend £20 or more between Monday to Thursday

Yanto's Pancake House is one of the newest additions to Gloucester's city centre, highly recommended for the unique products on offer and distinctive atmosphere. This one of a kind restaurant provides a range of pancakes, crepes and waffles with sweet and savoury toppings. Whether you're looking for somewhere to meet a friend for a coffee, grab some lunch or throw a birthday party, Yanto's has it all.

www.yantos.co.uk w ww.yantos.co.uk

FOR BOOK BOOK NOW NOW FOR VALENTINES D AY! VALENTINES DAY!

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

AT T H E O L D B E L L - TWO B BA A R S , L O U N G E & R E S TAU TA U R A N T

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175ml 175m l g glass. lass. P Pre-orders re-orders w welcome. elcome. T This his a advert dvert tto ob be eh handed anded iin n tto o redeem redeem o offer. ffer. C Cannot annot b bee used used in in conjunction conjunction with with any any other other offer. offer.

O Opening pening h hours: ours: M Monday-Thursday o n d a y - Th u r s d a y 1 11am-3pm 1am-3pm & 5 5pm-Midnight p m - M i d n i g h t • FFriday r i d ay & SSaturday a t u r d ay 1 11am-1am 1 a m - 1 a m • Sunday S u n d ay 11am-5pm 11am-5pm 99aa SSouthgate o u t h g a t e SStreet, treet, G Gloucester loucester G GL1 L 1 1TG 1 T G (Above (Above Costa Costa Coffee) Coffee) Reservations Reservations 001452 1452 332993 332993 www.theoldbell-tigerseye.co.uk w w w. t h e o l d b e l l - t i g e r s eye . c o . u k

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

Page 4

THURSDAY’S

GLOUCESTER RUGBY DEAL

25% OFF Club

OR 1 2 FFOR

EVER CHANGING BURGER MENU

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RIBEYE ONLY + PINT £10 T&Cs Apply

Don’t forget to pick up your Tiger’s Eye Loyalty Card!

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

ife g ives yyou ou llemons, emons, When W hen llife gives make dessert! dessert! make Spoil Spoil a loved loved oone ne tthis his V Valentine’s alentine’s Day Day with with these these tasty tasty treats! treats!

Lemon Lemon Posset Posset IIngredients: ngredients: 600ml double cream; 200g golden caster sugar; zest of 3 lemons, plus 75ml juice.

Method: M ethod: 1 Put the cream in a big saucepan with the sugar and gently heat, stirring, until the sugar has melted.

2 Bring to a simmer and bubble for 1 minute.

3 Turn off the heat and stir in the lemon zest and juice. Divide between your 6 chosen glasses/bowls, cool to room temperature, then carefully cover and chill for at least 3 hours, or up to 24 hours.

M Makes akes 6 p possets ossets

LLemon emon Shortbreads Shortbreads IIngredients: ngredients: 125g butter, room temperature; 180g plain flour; 1 tsp lemon zest; 2 drops of lemon extract (optional); 65g caster sugar, plus more for sprinkling on top of the shortbreads.

Method: M ethod: 1 Preheat the oven to 150°C (fan 130°C/gas mark 2).

2 Cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the lemon zest and essence if using.

3 Sift in the flour and roughly combine. Using your hands, bring the mixture together to form a dough. Wrap in cling film and put it in the fridge for 15 minutes.

4 Remove from the fridge and roll out on to a floured surface to around 3-5mm thick . Cover the disc in cling film and return to the fridge for a further 15 minutes.

5 Using a heart shaped cutter, cut out your shortbread shapes. Place on a greased and lined baking tray and, using a fork , prick holes into the shortbread.

6 Sprinkle with sugar and bake for around 12-14 minutes (don’t let them brown too much). Allow to cool for 5-10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Makes 12 M akes 1 2 7 Serve with your lemon posset. sshortbread hortbread

eauty Bespoke Bespoke B Beauty Hair Treatments Treatments & Hair

Vinyl Records

FFriendly riendly & fun fun atmosphere atmosphere

LOCAL BUYER PAYS CASH FOR YOUR YOUR U UNWANTED NWANTED R RECORDS ECORDS

BOOK B OOK N NOW! OW!

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Most LPs, EPs & singles from the 1960s/70s/80s/90s considered. Especially large or small collections of Heavy Rock, Psych & Prog Rock, Punk & 90s Britpop.

162 162 Elmleaze, Elmleaze, Longlevens, Longlevens, G GL2 L2 O OLB LB

e-mail: e -mail: w willowpitch@blueyonder.co.uk illowpitch@blueyonder.co.uk 01242 0 1242 7 702947 02947 o orr 0 07785 7785 5 515987 15987

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mandyhairsngraces@googlemail.com mandyhairsngraces@googlemail.com

hhairs-n-graces.co.uk airs-n-graces.co.uk

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The Local Answer

Education Education w with ith G Gemma emma D Drew rew

TTechnology: echnology: helpful helpful oorr hharmful? armful?

It is a sad fact that books are becoming o u t d a te d .

However, nowadays the i n te r n e t and technology provide the wealth of resources and information that books once did as they become more and more a part of people’s daily lives.

There are undeniably divided views on this though. Technology can be great for education – teachers can use it as a tool for learning. However, more and more people are dubbing technology a harmful influence as it seems we are turning into a society of robots.

On the one hand, apps such as Duolingo, used fo r learning languages, can be extremely helpful.

When learning, would you rather leaf through a huge dictionary to learn n ew w o r d s o r s i m p l y o p e n u p yo u r app and learn vocabulary in a fun, interactive way?

SSucked ucked iinto nto tthe he w world orld o off ssocial ocial m media edia a and nd g games ames Technology can also be a huge distraction though; the temptation of a phone by the side of a child trying to study may sometimes become too m u c h a n d b e fo re t h e y o r t h e i r parents know it , they ’ve become

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sucked into the world of social media and games. There have been many occasions that I’ve attempted to help m y yo u n g e r b ro t h e r w i t h h i s homework and he’s struggled to look up from his phone.

But in this day and age, some c h i l d re n j u s t g e t o n b e t te r w i t h a s c re e n . I k n ow m y b ro t h e r wo u l d s o o n e r d o s o m e t h i n g o n a s c re e n than he would using a book or pen and paper. As most young people have grown up with and are used to using screens, technology being part of their educational environment may

provide them with more motivation for learning. In turn, they may enjoy it more and possibly achieve higher academic performances.

Perhaps more significant than this though is the evidence found for the overuse of technology causing issues s u c h a s d e v e l o p m e n t a l d e l ay s, anxiety, depression, sleep issues and obesity. Too much time in front of a screen means children are also struggling to develop social skills.

SStrike trike a b balance alance Phones being used for both leisure and learning surely amounts to a h o r r i f y i n g a m o u n t o f s c re e n t i m e .

According to the BBC , the average five to sixteen-year-old can spend around six and a half hours in front of a screen every day. Should we really be adding more on to this at school?

Maybe it’s better that the child has a chance to disconnect while in a learning environment.

Like many things in life, it ’s probably best just to strike a balance.

If used in moderation, with children being taught early on that it’s healthy to have a limit, technology can be a helpful learning aid. That doesn’t mean everything has to be done with the help of a screen though.

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 7

Ad dip ip into into E Eastern astern Europe Europe w with ith N Norad orad T Travel’s ravel’s award award winning winning expert expert Joe Joe Teixeira Teixeira

The value of the pound against the Euro has had a sobering effect on demand for a few traditional holiday destinations, encouraging customers to consider alternatives.

The Caribbean is an obvious choice for its endless sunshine, turquoise waters and comprehensive resort amenities at prices similar if not less than, the cost of a European family beach holiday. But I also recommend you look closer to home: Eastern Europe is well worth considering.

L LUXURY UXURY – Elegant resort hotels such as on the Dubrovnik Riviera boast modern facilities, luxury spas and warm hospitality to rival those in Western Europe.

M MONTENEGRO ONTENEGRO – One to watch with the introduction of new direct flights from the UK. Enjoy incredible mountain scenery, charming boutique hotels and a warm welcome from its intensely proud people.

ISLAND ISLAND HOP HOP – Set sail as part of a flotilla or explore by motor cruiser and uncover charming islands with quiet

Let N orad TTravel’s ravel’s Let Norad Joe TTeixeira eixeira and and Joe his team team ccraft raft his your perfect perfect your getaway getaway ALL T YPES ALL TYPES O FH OLIDAYS OF HOLIDAYS Pop in in or or telephone telephone Pop ffor or aan n appointment appointment

01452 01452 260188 260188

Mon-Fri Mon-Fri 9-5.30 9-5.30 & Sat Sat 9-5 9-

FREE FREE PARKING PARKING

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rocky coves and quaint villages. Or combine fabulous cruise facilities and entertainment with exploring medieval cities and Renaissance architecture from Dubrovnik to Venice.

DISCOVERY D I S COV E R Y – H i ke o r b i ke a m o n g s t ancient pine-clad hills and vineyards, kayak and raft on hypnotic lakes and experience an abundance of wildlife from bears to butterflies.

CITY BREAKS REAKS – Enjoy great value without the C ITY B crowds in Tallinn and Krakow. Or spend a few days in Croatia or Montenegro and fuse city vibes with a swim in the sea.

IINDEPENDENT NDEPENDENT AND AND INFLUENTIAL INFLUENTIAL F OR OVER OVER 35 35 YEARS YEARS FOR

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

Please call our team on 01452 260188.

NOW ON

DON’T MISS OUT!!

Free Child Plac es Local Departur es Low Deposit

3 Westgate Westgate Retail Retail Park, Park, Westgate House, House, Westgate The The Island, Island, Gloucester Gloucester GL1 GL1 2RU 2RU glos@noradtravelgroup.com glos@noradtravelgroup.com

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

Vancouver V ancouver IIsland sland ffall all After last month’s Portuguese sunshine, we fly long haul to Vancouver Island, British Columbia this time. It ’s a wonderful autumn destination, just across the Georgia Strait from Vancouver, the jewel on Canada’s West Coast...

Collect your car at Victoria I n te r n a t i o n a l A i r p o r t ( t h i n k B r i s to l Airport, 1980 -size), then drive south to BC’s ever-so-British capital. Stay centrally, or west of the city at relaxing Birds of a Feather B&B on the shore of wildlife-rich Esquimalt Lagoon. Downtown is still an easy drive, as are the spectacular Butchart Gardens.

H Head ead u up p tthe he TTrans-Canada rans-Canada H Highway ighway If you’re lucky in autumn/fall, stopping at Goldstream Provincial Park as you head north on the TransCanada will reward with the s p e c t a c l e of r u n n i n g s a l m o n . T h e n c ro s s t h e M a l a h a t w i t h i t s breathtaking views. In Chemainus, Willow Street Cafe is sublime before admiring the town’s famous murals.

If you’re still hungry at seaside Parksville, the Rod & Gun Pub serves delicious Poutine – a Canadian musttry! Soon you reach chilled-out The Local Answer

Bears, B ears, ffish ish a and nd cchips hips iin n P Port ort A Alberni lberni Don’t miss Port Alberni and Tofino.

Port Alberni is an hour ’s drive west , over ‘the hump’ from Qualicum, past Cathedral Grove’s mighty first-growth t re e s . S t ay d ow n tow n , o r a t S p ro a t Lake Landing or Stirling Shores Lodge on idyllic Sproat Lake. Visit the Stamp River ’s trails, jumping salmon and foraging black bears too. Or stay in town and watch bears across the river from Victoria Quay. Then leave Bruin to his berries and feast on delicious fish and chips at Bare Bones...

Continuing we s t on the rollercoaster Pacific Rim Highway for two hours you reach Ucluelet, Long Beach and Tofino for whale Qualicum Beach, a great base for watching, amazing coastal walks, exploring. Accommodation ranges stunning West Coast art and more from small motels (try the seafood. Recommended!

L i g h t h o u s e M o te l ) t o t h e s t y l i s h You’ll Y ou’ll w want ant tto o rreturn eturn C ro w n M a n s i o n B o u t i q u e H o t e l .

When it ’s time for home, Sidney, Around town, waterfront strolls, beside Victoria airport, is great for a whale sightings, and lovely Milner last night after driving south. We Gardens will delight . Or explore loved the waterfront Sidney Pier further afield; we recommend Hotel and rustic Pier Bistro (try the driving to Campbell River, visiting the chowder). It’s unbeatable for quality maritime museum and returning via and value, and like Vancouver Island, Comox and supper at the waterfront sure to leave you planning a return visit...

Blackfin Pub.

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 9

Quick Crossword 2

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ACROSS 1 Forward 5 Clock face 7 Glowing coal 8 Two-sided contest 9 Knowledge test 10 Paint layers 11 Sound of moving leaves 13 Looks upon 14 Sailing boats 18 Showers 21 Loud noise 22 Customs 24 Snow shelter 25 Departed 26 Tibetan monk 27 Sister’s daughter 28 Early harp 29 Rattled

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

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DOWN 1 Neat 2 Allocate 3 Tennis 40/40 4 Gains possession of 5 Kitchen cabinet 6 Police college 12 Illuminated 15 Human body study 16 Sanitation 17 Rebuked 19 Pod vegetable 20 Nourish 22 Family dwellings 23 Model-plane wood

For details please call

29

The Local

© Lovatts Puzzles

Don’t look until you’ve finished! Solutions on ‘Index of Advertisers’ page.

01242

ANSWER 510500

OPEN OPEN EVERY EVERY D DAY AY F FOR OR SHOWROOM SHOWROOM VIEWINGS VIEWINGS We We c can an s supply upply a

LUXURY RY LO LODGE ODGE for

O OPEN PEN A ALL LL YYEAR EAR R ROUND OUND

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UNBELIEVABLE – BUT TRUE!

Please Please come come and and see our Show Homes today!

Page 10

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The Local Answer

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

Healthy Healthy H Hearts earts February, the month we all think of romantic notions of hearts and flowers. However, how often do we actual ly spend thinking about our physical heart and its health?

Our hearts are the most vital organ in our body, keeping blood, oxygen and nutrients constantly flowing to all of our muscles and organs. Made u p o f 3 l ay e r s , 4 c h a m b e r s a n d 4 valves, the heart is a complex , a m a z i n g o rg a n a n d s o m e t h i n g we often take for granted.

Every 3 minutes, 1 person in Britain dies from heart disease, making us one of the world’s worst countries for this condition. There are two separate heart conditions – Coronary and Heart Disease (CHD) Cardiovascular Disease (CVD).

• C H D i s t h e te r m u s e d fo r a n y condition that affects heart function • CVD refers to both coronary heart disease and diseases of the circulation, such as stroke (when a clot blocks blood supply to the brain).

Stroke is the country ’s third biggest killer, claiming 70,000 lives each year.

Unfortunately, people can have fe w o r n o sy m p t o m s o f e v e n advanced heart disease. So it is often when someone has a heart attack or stroke that they realise something is wrong, which is what happened to The Local Answer

my mum. Luckily thanks to the a m a z i n g m e d i c a l st af f a n d medical advances my mum s u r v i ve d h e r a o r t i c r u p t u re and continues to battle further heart problems everyday. However, there are risk factors you can be aware of.

R Risk isk FFactors actors • Age: over 65 are higher risk • Sex : men are higher risk • A family history of heart disease • Ethnic origin • Smoking • Alcohol • Drug abuse • High cholesterol levels • High blood pressure (hypertension) • Lack of exercise and obesity • Diabetes • Previous medical history If you have been diagnosed with a heart condition, all is not lost as there is so much that can be done with modern medical advances and technology, such as bypass surgery, transplants, pacemakers and medicines to name a few, as well as lifestyle changes you can make.

LLifestyle ifestyle cchanges hanges • Keep your blood pressure no higher than 140 over 90 Hg • Control your salt intake • Stop smoking • Drink no more than 14 units of alcohol a week • Lose weight if you are overweight • Eat a healthy diet full of plenty of fruit and vegetables of a rainbow of colours, and high fibre and unrefined carbohydrates (wholegrain cereals). Keep fatty, sugary foods to a minimum.

• 3 or 4 moderate intensity exercise sessions a week for around 30 minutes a time If you have any concerns about your heart or blood pressure, visit your local GP and take action. The earlier it is diagnosed the more that can be done. Visit www.bhf.org.uk and www.nhs.uk/Livewell/Healthyhearts for more information.

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 13

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

SA AINTBRIDGE INTBRIDGE HOUSE OUSE

12,000 MILE/ANNUAL SERVICE with MOT is from inclusive of parts, labour and VAT

N NURSING URSING & R RESIDENTIAL ESIDENTIAL H HOME OME

01452 01452 300307 300307

6,000/6 MONTHLY SERVICE with MOT is now from

Offering single en-suite bedrooms for up to 36 residents Tastefully decorated and homely Lovely patio and landscaped lawn area for residents to enjoy in the warmer weather ● Dedicated, caring and hardworking staffff ● Exceptional hygiene standards ● Weekly unisex hairdresser. Chiropodist, dentist, physiotherapist and optician visits arranged ● Activities Co - ordinator with an ongoing programme of events to keep residents occupied and maintain both physical and mental well being. ●

MOT TEST ONLY £35!

●

loucestershire G L4 4 QQ 1 189 89 P Painswick ainswick Road, Road, G Gloucester, loucester, G Gloucestershire GL4 4QQ iinfo@saintbridge-house.co.uk nfo@saintbridge-house.co.uk w ww.saintbridge-house.co.uk www.saintbridge-house.co.uk

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www.julianrogersautoservices.co.uk w ww.julianrogersautoser vices.co.uk

01452 526778 or 308006

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Page 15

CARAVANNING CARAVANNING or or T TOWING? OWING? For extra SAFETY and SECURITY – see the light...

“Fantastic idea, looks great

and stops anyone walking into the A-Frame! Can still use it when the hitch cover is on. Definitely the new ‘must have’ for caravans.”

“A brilliant concept and

is a must for caravanners if they are looking to protect their hitch and especially if pitched on hard ground.”

“A simple idea but so

HitchBright is a new, innovative piece of equipment specially designed for the caravanning and towing industry.

It’s so easy to use – simply insert the HitchBright ball in the hitch socket and lock it in place.

It acts as a warning beacon and avoids the need for an additional security ball.

It’s made from durable, brightly coloured plastic and conveniently allows a towing hitch cover to be fitted.

Uses solar power to recharge the battery, even in limited direct sun, and turns itself on after dusk.

Each HitchBright purchased is supplied with a cotton bag and rechargeable battery.

ONLY £19.99

useful, why hasn’t this been thought of before! It lights the way, saves my shins and I can’t forget to fit or remove my security ball.” + £4.95 Postage & Packaging

To T oo order rder y your ou r H HitchBright it ... ..

e ccontact@hitchbright.co.uk ontact@hitchbr ight.co.uk

t 007773 7773 1164 64 567 567 w hitchbright.co.uk hitchbr ight.co.uk

20 20 W Willow illow Road, Road, Charlton Char lton Kings, Kings, Cheltenham, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire Gloucester shire GL53 GL53 8PQ 8PQ

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

B Be eM Myy Valentine Valentine ’Tis the month of romance and sales of Milk Trays and red roses as we welcome Valentine’s Day this year.

Of course, Valentine’s Day isn’t just for couples, and if you happen to be single that’s no excuse not to want a bit of self-love. With all the handy gizmos that happen to be circling the shelves of giant stuffed teddy bears and heart-shaped sweets, you can be sure to treat yourself this year.

Unless, what you really want is a life-sized bear with an ‘I Love You’ Tshirt...

G Gourmet ourmet G Gadgetry adgetry CChocolate hocolate FFountain ountain F l o we r s m i g h t b e t h e t y p i c a l go-to gift for your girlfriend or wife on Valentine’s Day, but if you’re a guy looking f o r s o m e t h i n g to s h a re with your spouse, then this product will work a treat! With its fancy title, the Gourmet Gadgetry Chocolate Fountain creates a certain appeal of luxury, w h i c h i s h e l p e d by i t s stainless steel tiers and statement piece effect .

Available at £32.99, it ’s

both show-stopping and easy to clean, with the tiers being easy to remove and wash.

If you want to attempt to be healthy, you can always include some fruit to dip, or if you’re s i m p l y a n h o n est chocoholic, just grab a straw and go to town. For best results, you’ll need at least 900g of chocolate. After the chocolate is melted, pour it into the chocolate fountain bowl and switch the mode to ‘Heat Motor’ to get it going. After all, a bouquet of roses might look pretty, but chocolate is always practical.

SShiatsu hiatsu H Heated eated B Back ack M Massager assager As I said, Valentine’s Day isn’t just for couples, and if you d o d e c i d e t h a t yo u d e s e r ve s o m e p a m pering , this Heated B a c k M a ss a g e r i s t h e ticket. Priced at £84.99, this massager is all you need when you come home from a long day’s Lakeland Lakeland work . It’ll soothe all your a c h e s a n d p a i n s w i t h i t s r e m o te controlled heat technology, letting you choose where it needs to work .

And with its 25% extra back coverage, you can literally sit back a n d l e t i t d o a l l t h e h a rd w o r k .

Remember to enjoy some self-love a m o n g s t a l l t h e s m u g h a p py couples!

Menkind

stereotypical Valentine’s gift, but also has its practical usage. Instead of spending money on expensive chocolates which will no doubt be digested before the week’s end, this way you can spend your money on something more lasting.

T h e P re t t y P i n k S m o o t h i e a n d Milkshake Maker is an easily affordable gift at just £13.99. Primed with a double-action blade that cuts vertically and horizontally, and fit for p r o t e i n s h a k e s, s m o ot h i es a n d milkshakes, this little gem will be a great kitchen accessory for whatever mood you’re in.

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Page 17

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

CCoping oping w with ith g grief rief I write this month’s column with a heavy heart having lost an elderly neighbour who leaves many children and grandchildren in the wake of his passing, but also more recently a friend who lost her battle with Breast Cancer and leaves her 8 year old son and 3 year old daughter as well as h u s b a n d , p a r e n t s a n d r e l a t i ve s , o f course.

So I am prompted to talk about how we handle loss and grief with small children and what those around them, w h o a re a l s o g r i ev i n g , c a n d o to support them.

When ttalking When alking a about bout d death, eath, use u se simple, simple, cclear lear w words ords Tell the truth and give a child time to sit with the new information rather than bombard them with details. Be p re p a r e d t o a n s w e r v e r y d i f f i c u l t questions as well as you are able, but remember “I don’t know” is a perfectly good answer if it is true.

LListen isten a and nd ccomfort omfort W h e n t h ey d o a s k q u e s t i o n s b e honest and gentle, offering a sense of u n d e r s t a n d i n g a s to h o w t h ey fe e l and how confused they may be.

Encourage them to lead the

conversation rather than pushing them to move forward before they are ready – which is so easy for us to do.

P Put ut e emotions motions iinto nto w words ords Support small children to name their emotions, possibly using drawing or art to express their fear, anger or sadness. Teddy and Dolly may become vital as ways to communicate with the withdrawn child.

TTell ell y your our child child w what hat tto o e xpect expect Gently explain what circumstances will change – living arrangements, c a re - g i v i n g d u t i e s , eve n w h a t a funeral is and how it will be on the day. Take small steps and offer small b i t s o f i n fo r m a t i o n a s t h ey n e e d i t .

This step is vital in a child feeling in control of their world. Now is not a time for surprises and snap decisions made without their knowledge.

Help Help y your our cchild hild rremember emember the the p person erson Collecting photographs and memorabilia, and talking about their loved one’s hobbies or interests is a lovely way to keep memories alive.

Remember, smell, taste, touch and m u s i c a l l h o l d s t ro n g m e m o r i e s . A memory jar is a lovely way to jot things down and keep them safe for the future.

Respond R espond tto oe emotions motions w with ith ccomfort omfort a and nd rreassurance eassurance Soft voices, hugs, warm drinks and good food; watching TV together as well as walks in nature all offer support and soothing to all who are grieving. Reading books around the subject or even writing a story about the loved one can be a great way to allow everyone a voice at a very difficult time.

Give G ive y your our cchild hild ttime ime tto o h heal eal ffrom rom tthe he lloss oss T h e re i s n o r u s h a n d c h i l d re n w i l l o f te n f o r g e t f o r t h e l o n g e s t t i m e b e f o re r e m e m b e r i n g a n d g r i e v i n g once again. Let them know it is ok to be happy when they feel happy and s a d w h e n t h ey fe e l s a d . E s p e c i a l l y when losing someone after illness, no m a t t e r h o w p r e p a re d t h e y m i g h t have been, they will process the event only as they are able to do.

And please, remember, be gentle with you too. Families are the strangest of creatures and no two are the same. Don’t expect yourself to be a n y t h i n g o t h e r t h a n t h a t w h i c h yo u are, which is brilliant, by the way.

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

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6 JANUARY JANUARY – 11 11 FFEBRUARY EBRUARY CATHERINE HAWKRIDGE – WEATHERING

TTHROUGHOUT HROUGHOUT FEBRUARY FEBRUARY LAND, SEA & SKY

A visual exploration into the natural world focusing on wild, wind-swept and weathered subjects. This exhibition includes a series of meadow paintings using mixed media in an expressive and fluid style. Taurus Crafts, The Old Park , Lydney, GL15 6BU. 01594 844841.

3300 JANUARY JANUARY THE ART OF PAPER SCULPTURE Learn how to sculpt and manipulate paper to create a beautiful bouquet of hyacinths.

10.30am-1pm. £10. Nature in Art, Wallsworth Hall, Sandhurst, Gloucester GL2 9PA . 01452 733947.

3311 JANUARY JANUARY GRMG PRESENTS AN EVENING WITH HELEN MACDONALD Helen MacDonald is the author of “H is for Hawk”, a blow-by-blow account of how a falconer exerts her will over a Goshawk , as well as giving a remarkably raw and intimate insight into how Helen coped with the death of her father.

Gloucestershire Raptor Monitoring Group invites you to meet Helen and hear her talk about her books and other work.

7.30pm. £15. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA . 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk

Five exciting artists to open 2018 at Chapel Arts. Venice, The West Country and Scottish Coastal paintings in all their glory.

Coffee Shop available. Wednesday to Saturday 10am–4pm. www.thechapelarts.com 2 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY PLANNING THE VEGETABLE GARDEN Join Gillie, one of Hidcote’s senior gardeners, as she takes you through how to plan a successful vegetable garden with harvest throughout the year. Be prepared to leave Hidcote full of ideas and inspiration for your own vegetable garden. Booking essential. 10.30am. £30. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hidcote Hidcote Manor Garden, Hidcote Bartrim, Chipping Campden GL55 6LR. 01386 438333.

JAZZ & BLUES END OF DRY JANUARY CELEBRATION Come and celebrate the end of dry January with us. Special offers of Dry wine, Dry Gin, etc. with Jazz & Blues themed music. Free event. Everyone welcome… even dogs (kept on leads)!

Make use of our games tables, giant jenga and nintendo 64. The kitchen will be open for food. 6pm. Hillside Brewery,

Holly Bush Farm, Ross Road, near Longhope, GL17 0NG. 01452 830222.

A FEAST OF COMEDY An evening jam packed with laughs! Enjoy three comedy acts on an evening sure to entertain the masses! As always this evening comes with a two course meal, all for the special price of £15 per person.

7.30pm. Bells Hotel, Lords Hill, Coleford, GL16 8BE. 01594 832583.

KAST OFF KINKS Actual former members of the legendary band ‘The Kinks’ are back together playing great music and re-living the good times whilst keeping the songs alive that made The Kinks a household name. Expect all the hits. 7.30pm. £22. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA . 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk SAM AND THE WOMP

A British band who’s debut single was ‘Bom Bom’. It went straight up to No. 1 in the UK charts in August 2012. The band’s trademark sound comes from an innovative mix of ska and Balkan music, blended with modern dance and electronic sounds. 8pm.

For prices visit subscriptionrooms.org.uk 01453 760900. Stroud Subscription Rooms, George Street, Stroud, GL5 1AE.

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3 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY DISNEY’S FANTASIA WITH LIVE ORGAN IMPROVISATION A special treat for all the family will be when the Cathedral’s Assistant Director of Music Jonathan Hope improvises, live, to Disney’s much-loved classic, Fantasia, and brings to life the fairies, centaurs, dinosaurs and elephants that populate this old favourite. Not forgetting, of course, Mickey Mouse, as the Sorcerer’s Apprentice.

6pm. Prices at gloucestercathedral.org.uk Gloucester Cathedral, 12 College Green, GL1 2LX. 01452 768928.

BEGINNER’S PHOTOGRAPHY Starting with an illustrated introductory session looking at composition, technique and equipment, you will then head outside for a practical session of nature photography.

Suitable for users of all types of cameras and content will be tailored accordingly and to the needs of course attendees. £63 (includes tea/coffee and biscuits). 10am4pm. WWT Slimbridge, Bowditch, Slimbridge, GL2 7BT. 01453 891900.

STEPHEN K AMOS Leave your problems behind for the evening in the company of the ‘effusively charming’ Amos and who knows? Maybe the world will seem just a little bit brighter. 7pm. Over 16s only. £17.

Guildhall Theatre, Gloucester Guildhall, 23 Eastgate Street, Gloucester, GL1 1NS. 01452 503050.

THE TRUE BELIEVERS COMIC FESTIVAL Featuring over 100 tables of comics, creators, artists and more, True Believers is the event for comic lovers of all ages.

10.30am. From £5. Details at oktruebelievers.com/tickets. Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Cheltenham GL50 4SH. 01242 513014.

THE ELVIS YEARS An outstanding musical production which brings to the stage the incredible and compelling story of the King of rock and roll – Elvis Presley. 7.30pm. From £17.50.

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

3 & 1100 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY OWL EVENINGS

We start with a guided tour by torchlight, followed by a hog roast (vegetarian option available) and mulled wine. This is

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followed by a flying demonstration of small owls. Finally, we end the evening with owls free flying in their natural element. Limited places. Wear warm clothes and bring a torch. 7pm. Ages 13+ £28, ages 8-12 £20. International Centre for Birds of Prey, Boulsdon House, Newent GL18 1JJ. 01531 820286.

4 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY GLOUCESTER WILDLIFE WATCH GROUP – BUSHCRAFT & DEN BUILDING Come and enjoy a morning of den building and bushcraft using natural materials to create a woodland hideaway.

Gloucester Wildlife Watch Group is for children 7-13 years old. 1 adult per child/ group of children to keep group size to a minimum. £4. 10am-12 noon. Meet outside the Robinswood Hill cafe. Robinswood Hill Country Park , Gloucester, GL4 6SX. 6 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY GM PRESENTS – BAND NIGHT Performances by over 100 local community musicians and featuring three wind bands.

Join us for a full programme of classic repertoire and well-known melodies.

7.30pm. £8. Pittville Pump Room, East Approach Drive, Cheltenham GL52 3JE. 0844 576 2210. cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk 77-8 -8 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY MEDEA A classic tale of betrayal and revenge.

Medea helped Jason win the Golden Fleece. They married and have two sons.

Now Jason has ditched Medea for a younger woman – the daughter of the King – in a bid for power. Isolated and abandoned, Medea attacks Jason where he is most vulnerable – his lineage. She kills their children. For times and prices visit everymantheatre.org.uk. The Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham, GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573.

8 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY VOLUNTEER TASTER DAY AT LOWER WOODS Join our Lower Woods warden, Neil Lodge, and help us to manage this beautiful ancient woodland. This taster day offers the opportunity to learn how to coppice and manage an ancient woodland, under the skilled tutorage of Neil. After a taster of conservation in action, you will have the opportunity to join our regular practical conservation group at Lower Woods. 9am-3pm. Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust, Lower Woods, Wickwar, GL9 1BY. THE STORY OF THE BEACH BOYS Along with a superb musical performance by the ‘Beach Boyz Tribute Band’, lead vocalist Tommy Read will lead you through the history of America’s biggest pop band The Beach Boys. 8pm. For prices visit www.subscriptionrooms.org.uk. 01453 760900. Stroud Subscription Rooms, George Street, Stroud, GL5 1AE.

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8-17 8-17 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY QUARTET The charming tale of four ageing opera singers who reside in a magnificent retirement home in Kent. Rumour has it that the home is soon to play host to a new resident. Jean arrives and old rivalries resurface, secrets are revealed and chaos unfolds, but in true theatrical tradition – the show must go on! For times and prices visit everymantheatre.org.uk. The Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham, GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573.

9 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY THE CLASSIC ROCK SHOW: GUITAR GREATS

As testimony to the ever increasing popularity of Classic Rock music, the critically acclaimed live show brings us an amazing production, celebrating the world’s greatest guitarists. The show takes you on a musical journey through footstomping fun, culminating in a showstopping guitar duel. 7.30pm. From £25.50. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA . 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk MAX BOYCE Max Boyce has been entertaining people all over the world for more than 40 years with his ability to paint pictures in word and song. Max’s live performances need no introduction; the audience’s reactions and standing ovations speak for themselves. 7.30pm. £26.50. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX. www.rosestheatre.org.

99-17 -17 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY PACIFISTS AND PROTESTERS

A dramatic exploration of the lives and points of view of those that protested to WW1. Including a new play, ‘A Dangerous Woman’, and a dance enactment of the words of poets, pacifists and other protesters. For information and to book tickets: thegloucestertheatrecompany.co.uk

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1100 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY SALVATION ARMY CELEBRATION OF PRISON MINISTRY A programme of Christian choral music, with the Salvation Army, in the stunning setting of Gloucester Cathedral’s Nave.

7pm. £10. Gloucester Cathedral, 12 College Green, GL1 2LX. 01452 768928.

BACH AND BEYOND An evening of live music, discussion and drinks with acclaimed local violinist Alice Earll. Ever wondered about the story behind J.S.Bach’s famous Partitas and Sonatas for Solo Violin? Then come along and ask! If you would prefer to sit back and enjoy the music, then never fear, Alice will be performing some of the most beautiful and virtuosic music from the baroque era. £10 (under 10s free).

Proceeds to Kempley Village Hall Restoration. 7pm. Kempley Village Hall, Dymock , GL18 2BP. 01989 780792. www.kempleyvillagehall.org.uk BOOTLEG BLONDIE The official Debbie Harry & Blondie tribute band, the only Blondie tribute to play the legendary CBGB’s in New York City before its demise in 2006 and to have the honour to be mentioned on Blondie’s 11th album ‘Pollinator’. Debbie Harris and the boys have met the REAL Blondie and are officially endorsed by the band. 7pm. Over 14s only. Standing event. £16 advance, £17.50 on the door. Gloucester Guildhall, 23 Eastgate Street, Gloucester, GL1 1NS. 01452 503050.

BEOWULF Nine-year-old Sophie knows the story of Beowulf well. She has enjoyed sharing it many times with her mother, a professor of Old English. But Sophie is fighting monsters of her own, monsters every bit as terrifying as those that Beowulf must face. Her mother is dying, and it seems that only Sophie is brave enough to save her. Ages 7+. For times and prices visit everymantheatre.org.uk. The Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham, GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573.

110-11 0 -11 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY HOW TO DRAW A LION IN GRAPHITE PENCIL – JAMIE BOOTS Learn all about working with graphite pencil from experienced artist Jamie Boots.

Jamie will show participants that the realistic texture of skin, fur and the glassy look of an eye can be achieved in many ways. £90 members, £110 non-members.

10am-5pm. For more details visit natureinart.org.uk. 01452 731422. Nature In Art, Wallsworth Hall, Sandhurst, Gloucester GL2 9PA . 01452 733947.

110, 0, 14, 14, 1166 & 1177 FFEBRUARY EBRUARY VALENTINE’S DAY Enjoy a delicious three-course dinner with a bottle of Prosecco, coffee and chocolates

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whilst enjoying the romantic sounds of our live music. £35pp. Mercure Gloucester Bowden Hall Hotel, Bondend Lane, Gloucester GL4 8ED. 0844 815 9077.

1111 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY BBC NATIONAL ORCHESTR RA A OF WALES MATINEE Part of the 2017-18 Cheltenham Concert Series. A feast of Scandinavian fervour and colour runs through all the works on tonight’s programme, ranging from the stirring to the surprisingly playful. 3pm.

From £13.50. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA . 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk 1122 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY DON’T DRIBBLE ON THE DRAGON Tom is a toddler with a cool older brother, a secret dragon… and a dribbling problem that just won’t stop! When Tom’s endless drooling threatens to tear the brothers’ friendship apart can their dragon’s amazing magic help them put it back together again or will it only end up making things worse? 2.30pm. £9 -11. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX. www.rosestheatre.org.

112-15 2-15 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY CONIFER CAPERS We’ve many amazing trees at Westonbirt, but in the winter conifers take centre stage!

Discover all about these amazing trees and their links with humans at our half term family event. Head to the Learning Centre, where you can get involved in arty fun and crafty activities, and take our exciting discovery challenge! 11am. Free after admission. Westonbirt Arboretum, Tetbury GL8 8QS. 0300 067 4890.

1133 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY LET ME BE FRANK Enjoy an evening of conversation with Frank Bruno MBE, hosted by Jed Stone, well known comedian and entertainer.

Frank talks about his recent book and boxing career, from starting out to becoming one of Britain’s most loved sports personalities. 7.30pm. From £26.

Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA . 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk 14 14 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY TWELFTH NIGHT A tale of unrequited love – hilarious and heartbreaking. Two twins are separated in a shipwreck , and forced to fend for themselves in a strange land. Viola falls in love with Orsino, who dotes on OIivia, who falls for Viola but is idolised by Malvolio.

Enter Sebastian, who is the spitting image of his twin sister... 7pm. £17. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX. www.rosestheatre.org.

MINI MOSAICS Children’s workshop with Emma Stuart.

Learn the Roman art of mosaic making by

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creating your own mosaic tile to take home. All materials and instruction provided. Booking essential. Ages 8+.

Please enquire about younger children. £7.75 per child (£6.75 season ticket holders). 10.30am–12 noon. Park Street, Cirencester, GL7 2BX. 01285 655611.

1155 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY ROY CHUBBY BROWN Chubby doesn’t hold back from sharing his outlandish views, sailing so close to the mark , even the most seasoned of fans will be left gob-smacked! As politically incorrect as ever, this live performance is the only place to catch the flamboyant comedian! 18s and over only. 7.30pm. £22. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA . 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk LLOYD & ROSE BUCK: OUR LIFE WITH BIRDS

It’s not often you see birds on stage in a theatre and even more rare to see one flying over the audience! But ‘Our Life with Birds’ promises to give audiences a rare opportunity to meet Golden Eagles, Peregrine Falcons, hawks, owls, starlings and many more – all raised and trained with the utmost loving care by bird handlers Lloyd and Rose Buck. An interactive wildlife experience like no other! 7.30pm. £16.50. Pittville Pump Room, East Approach Drive, Cheltenham GL52 3JE. 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk CERAMICS FROM CHINA The Wilson boasts a collection of Chinese ceramics that spans more than 2000 years!

Find out more about the collection, their collector Stanley Berkeley Smith and our continuing links with China. Price includes a drink and nibbles. Booking essential.

6pm. £12. The Wilson, Clarence Street, Cheltenham GL50 3JT. 01242 237431.

1166 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY THE PONDS OF THE DEAN – AN ILLUSTR RA ATED TALK BY DAVID DEWSBURY We are aiming to carry out basic habitat surveys of the 200 known ponds around the Forest of Dean and create an inventory of our pond network. The talk will detail the methodology of the project and how we can all get involved. 7.30pm. £2 (includes tea/coffee and biscuits), children free. Catholic Church Hall, Cinder Hill, Coleford, GL16 8HN. 01594 510384. info@gloucestershirewildlifetrust.co.uk

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1166 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY THE RONNIE SCOTTS’ ALL STARS Direct from London’s world-famous jazz club and combining world-class live jazz, narration and rare archive images and footage, The Ronnie Scott’s All Stars take to the stage to celebrate The Ronnie Scott’s Soho Songbook. 7.30pm. £17-25.

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

PLANTING FOR COLOUR IN THE HERBACEOUS BORDER Join Hidcote’s assistant head gardener, Sarah, where she will reveal some of her tricks from the borders. Be filled with inspiration as you learn about how to use colour to enhance and add drama and interest to any border in your own garden. Booking essential. 10.30am. £30. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hidcote Hidcote Manor Garden, Hidcote Bartrim, Chipping Campden GL55 6LR. 01386 438333.

BRUNO MARS TRIBUTE Louie Stephens does everything from Motown to Mars! As always this event comes with a two course meal and party disco! 7.30pm. £12.50. Bells Hotel, Lords Hill, Coleford, GL16 8BE. 01594 832583.

MORGAN AND WEST: TIME TRAVELLING MAGICIANS Not content with their lot as the 19th century’s greatest magic duo, this pair

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present a conjuring spectacular to the audiences of the modern day. Join these practitioners of prestidigitation for an unforgettable evening of magic, mystery, and the unexplainable. 7.30pm. For prices visit www.subscriptionrooms.org.uk. 01453 760900. Stroud Subscription Rooms, George Street, Stroud, GL5 1AE. 16-17 16-17 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY WILDE WITHOUT THE BOY / THE BALLAD OF READING GAOL A dramatisation of De Profundis, the letter Oscar Wilde wrote in 1897 to his lover, Lord Alfred Douglas, from his cell in Reading gaol. Two years previously, Wilde had been imprisoned for acts of gross indecency with other males. A glimpse into the bruised, loving soul of one of the greatest geniuses ever to have lived. For details visit everymantheatre.org.uk. The Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham, GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573.

1177 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY THE UPBEAT BEATLES A rockin’ band with tight musicianship and powerhouse vocals! Breath taking harmonies and guitar solos all wrapped up in Scouse humour. With narrative and full multi-media presentation the audience will be left on an emotional high. 7.30pm. £20 (£18 conc). Gloucester Guildhall, 23 Eastgate Street, Gloucester, GL1 1NS. 01452 503050.

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Be a part of an incredible evening, as we pay tribute to one of the greatest bands in history. Highly respected for their incredible accuracy, performed with sensational 7 piece all live band, complete with all those perfect harmonies. 7.30pm. For prices visit www.subscriptionrooms.org.uk.

01453 760900. Stroud Subscription Rooms, George Street, Stroud, GL5 1AE. 18 18 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY THE LEGENDS OF AMERICCA AN COUNTRY Following a sell-out UK tour in 2017 and direct from Ireland, Europe’s number one country music show makes its welcome debut at The Roses for a fantastic night of toe tapping country classics. One thing’s for sure: if you like country music this is the show for you! 7.30pm. £21. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX. www.rosestheatre.org.

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Page 23

20 20 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY WEDDING SHOWCASE EVENING

Enjoy a relaxed opportunity to look around the hotel and its grounds, speak to one of our wedding team about your plans and even meet other brides and maybe swap ideas over some tasty canapes! Free entry, drink and nibbles, civil ceremony and wedding breakfast showcases, a few key suppliers, and lots of ideas! 6-8pm. No need to book. Mercure Gloucester Bowden Hall Hotel, Bondend Lane, Gloucester GL4 8ED. 0844 815 9077.

BUSCH TRIO One of the leading piano trios amongst the new generation. Winners of the 2012 Royal Overseas League Competition, the trio went on to win a string of international prizes. 7.30pm. Various prices. Pittville Pump Room, East Approach Drive, Cheltenham GL52 3JE. 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk 2233 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY WEDDING MURDER MYSTERY The year is 1937. The Rt. Hon Daphne Ramsbottom is to be married – she is head over heels in love with the dashing Mr Stanton Drew. It will be the society wedding of the year, a lot of time and effort has been devoted to making sure everything is ready, what could possibly go wrong? Fantastic murder mystery entertainment, 3-course meal and disco for just £29.95pp. Hallmark Hotel, Robinswood Hill, Gloucester GL4 6EA . 0330 028 3408.

THE CLONE ROSES The longest serving and most popular Roses Tribute playing live today. The attention to detail is second to none, with the band acquiring the same clothing and instruments, and usually playing the same set as The Roses themselves. If you’ve never seen the real deal or want to re-live the best gig you’ve been to then ‘The Clones’ will deliver the next best thing! 7.30pm. Over 14s only. Standing event. £12. Guildhall Theatre, Gloucester Guildhall, 23 Eastgate Street, Gloucester, GL1 1NS. 01452 503050.

AN EVENING OF BURLESQUE Leave your inhibitions at the door and prepare to experience the UK’s biggest burlesque extravaganza. With a bevy of beautiful burlesque stars, speciality variety artists and fabulous costumes, An Evening of Burlesque revives this classic variety artform into the 21st Century with a

Page 24

glamorous new show. Over 18s only.

7.30pm. £17-25. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX. www.rosestheatre.org.

JIVE DANCE A great atmosphere and great dance floor.

Dance the night away to top swing and jive music. 8pm. £8. Stroud Subscription Rooms, George Street, Stroud, GL5 1AE. 01453 760900. subscriptionrooms.org.uk 2244 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY AN EVENING WITH ANT MIDDLETON

Ant Middleton, adventurer, survival expert, TV presenter and ex elite forces soldier, will be sharing his experiences and exploits as a modern day explorer and expedition leader. Ant’s appetite for adventure and extremes has no limit and has led him to take on some amazing challenges both in the military and in his TV roles. 7.30pm. £24.50. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA . 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk THE SPECTRE CHELTENHAM MASTERS 2018 DARTS TOURNAMENT The Spectre Cheltenham Masters 2018 will see six of the world’s top professional darts players compete in head-to-head clashes on the oche, with the tournament winner being crowned The Spectre Cheltenham Master. Age Limit: 12yrs accompanied by an adult. ID required.

Free parking available. Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Prestbury, Cheltenham GL50 4SH. 01242 513014.

6pm. For full details and prices visit cheltenham.thejockeyclub.co.uk TICKLING THE IVORIES (AIR IN G) A potted ‘history’ of the comedy song, mining the archives from the 1870s to the 1970s. From Gilbert and Sullivan to Tom Lehrer, from Music Hall to Monty Python.

Michael Lunts works his way, and his fingers, through ten decades of musical wit. Bar available. £10. Proceeds to Kempley Village Hall Restoration. 7.30pm.

Kempley Village Hall, Dymock , GL18 2BP. 01989 780792. kempleyvillagehall.org.uk NATTY Hailing from North London, Natty grew up surrounded by an eclectic mix of sounds from Neil Young to Bob Marley. The success of his debut album ‘Man Like I’ captivated the well-deserved attention of the UK media and press. 8pm. For prices

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visit www.subscriptionrooms.org.uk. 01453 760900. Stroud Subscription Rooms, George Street, Stroud, GL5 1AE. 2255 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY THE COUNTERFEIT 60s Re-live the sounds of the swinging sixties as Britain’s No. 1 tribute show brings alive the magic of the sixties. The Counterfeit Sixties presents a showcase of the great bands of this unforgettable time. 7.30pm. £22. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA . 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk 27 27 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY PHOENIX DANCE – WINDRUSH: MOVEMENT OF THE PEOPLE A lively celebration of the rise of multicultural Britain, Windrush spans the spirit, history and heritage of British Caribbean culture, celebrating the 70th anniversary of the arrival of SS Empire Windrush which bought the first Caribbean migrants to the UK. The Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham, GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573. For details visit www.everymantheatre.org.uk.

2288 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY BIG GIRLS DON’T CRY Come and experience the iconic sounds of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons authentically recreated by a phenomenal cast and live band. For times and prices visit www.everymantheatre.org.uk. The Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham, GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573.

JASON MANFORD – MUDDLE CLASS ‘Muddle Class’ promises to feature a wealth of new material about Jason growing up ‘working class’ then finding, over the years, that part of him has become ‘middle class’ – causing much confusion. 7.30pm. £22. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA . 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk 2 MARCH MARCH THE MARLEY EXPERIENCE An 8 piece UK Midlands based Bob Marley tribute band with a difference, with our lead vocalist Lionart and his undeniable vocal resemblance to the late great King of Reggae Bob Marley himself. 8pm. For prices visit www.subscriptionrooms.org.uk.

01453 760900. Stroud Subscription Rooms, George Street, Stroud, GL5 1AE. 3 MARCH MARCH MOSAIC GARDEN BIRDS – YYVVETTE GREEN Produce a stained-glass mosaic bird on a stalk to brighten up your garden. Skills covered include mapping out your original design, basic glass cutting and stained glass mosaic techniques. Suitable for all levels although glass cutting skills are a bonus. 10am-5pm. For prices and details visit natureinart.org.uk. 01452 731422.

Nature In Art, Wallsworth Hall, Sandhurst, Gloucester GL2 9PA . 01452 733947.

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Leader’s L eader’s L Life ife w with ith Councillor Councillor Paul Paul JJames ames

R Robinswood obinswood H Hill il l I have fond memories of Robinswood Hill when I was growing up – from junior school trips climbing to the top, to running around it for cross country afternoons when I was at The Crypt School. It has also, literally, been a beacon for Gloucester on occasions such as the new Millennium and The Queen’s Golden and Diamond Jubilees. There is probably no better vantage point from which to look down over the city.

For a while, though, it did feel like an asset that we weren’t making the most of. As city-dwellers, we are very fortunate to have the hill and a 250 -acre country park just a couple of miles or so outside the city centre.

TThe he H Hill ill h has as b been een a awarded warded Green G reen FFlag lag sstatus tatus In recent years improvements have taken place, driven by Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust, the Friends of Robinswood Hill, Councillor Colin Organ and our committed team of rangers who look after the hill.

These range from a new wooden education shelter to some stunning wood sculptures. This year the Hill has been awarded Green Flag status – the benchmark standard for parks and green spaces.

In July 2016, we held my daughter Eirys’s 1st birthday p a r t y o n t h e h i l l a n d a n u m b e r of t h o s e w h o c a m e along were surprised at how much better the hill was than the last time they had been.

M u c h m o re i s p l a n n e d , i n c l u d i n g a n a m b i t i o u s new visitor centre, café and play area. Its events programme is improving all the time with everything from 4x4 rides to the top, to dawn chorus walks and night time nature safaris. For more information visit www.gloucestershirewildlifetrust.co.uk/whats-on.

IImportant mportant ffor or n nature ature cconservation onservation As a city and a county, we need to get more active – and what better way could there be than enjoying the countryside that is on our doorstep? It almost goes w i t h o u t s a y i n g t h a t R o b i n sw o o d H i l l i s i m p o r t a n t f o r nature conservation in our city too, providing a home for wild orchids and bluebells and a habitat for many creatures, such as badgers, foxes, two types of deer and birds including Red Kites.

On the other side of the Hill, it ’s great news that Gloucester Golf Club has been saved from its threatened closure by the Club Members taking it over and running it themselves.

So the next time you’re stuck for something to do, when you fancy some fresh air, feel like a bit of exercise and don’t want to travel too far, why not pay a trip to Robinswood Hill? Like a lot of my family, you’ll probably come away thinking it was even better than the last time you’d been there. @ @cllrpauljames cllrpauljames

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e e:: paul.james@gloucester.gov.uk paul.james@gloucester.gov.uk

Page 25

S Sport port with w ith R Roger oger JJackson ackson

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

Why Why M Marc arc R Richards ichards iiss rright ight m man an ffor or CCity ity It may be stretching it a tad to say that Marc Richards has been preparing for the job of manager of Gloucester City all of his adult life, but he’s certainly eminently qualified for a role that he took on in the final days of 2017.

You see the 36-year-old, as well as being a decent footballer who played for a number of clubs in and around Gloucestershire, has spent much of the 21st century coaching footballers at all levels of the game.

And it is that playing and coaching background that will surely stand him in good stead over the next weeks, months and hopefully years at the National League South club.

As a player he numbers Tewkesbury Town, Cheltenham Town, Gloucester City, Cinderford Town, Weston-super-Mare, Swindon Supermarine, Cirencester Town, Chippenham Town, Shortwood United and Evesham United among

H Hancock’s ancock’s a ccut ut a above! bove!

Tim Hancock was a b o u t to h a ve h i s h a i r cu t at t h e barber ’s just a well-struck square cut from where he l i ve s w h e n T h e Lo c a l A n sw e r called.

Tim Hancock “I’ve been going to the same place for the past 26 years ever since I started playing cricket for Gloucestershire,” he chuckled.

“I don’t have to tell them what I want, they just cut it.”

So any particular style?

“No,” he laughed, “I’ve had the same haircut for the past 20 years, it’s your classic number three on the back and sides with a bit more left on top.”

And while there were obviously no highlights in the Hancock barnet when he left the barber ’s in Bristol, there were certainly plenty of highlights in h i s to p - l e v e l c r i c k e t c a r e e r w h i c h spanned 15 years with his adopted

Marc Richards. Picture: Neil Phelps

his former clubs in the area.

And as a coach, he has worked alongside Tim Harris at Gloucester for the past three-and-a-half seasons and also has experience as a player/coach during a three-year spell with Manly United in Australia.

Add in his work as the current assistant director of elite sport at Hartpury College and two summers coaching in the USA in New England and California in between studying

at university and it ’s not surprising that the top brass at Gloucester saw him as the heir apparent once Harris had decided to call time on his near four years in charge.

And he’s got some impressive qualifications too, holding an MSc in coaching science as well as his UEFA A licence coaching badges.

He’s also ambitious. “The one thing I would say is that Gloucester is a big city not to have a Football League club,” he said. “If everyone gets behind the club, who’s to say that Gloucester City can’t take off?

“Let’s see how far we can go. It’s so important for the club to get back to t h e c i t y i n te r m s o f t h e atmosphere and togetherness. And Meadow Park is a great location right by the Quays.”

It certainly is and if there’s one person ideally qualified to follow Tim Harris, it has to be Marc Richards.

Full story online.

county and included those glory years in the late 90s and early and midnoughties.

T h e s e d ay s h e i s s t i l l ve r y m u c h involved with Gloucestershire as their head of talent pathway, responsible for finding the next Jack Russell, Syd Lawrence, Mark Alleyne (or Tim Hancock!) – a role that he thoroughly enjoys.

Bayliss’ life – a very big part – initially as a player and then as a top referee before taking on various prominent roles off the pitch.

“I’ve been a Gloucester boy all my life,” the 72-year-old said. “I’ve never l i ve d m o re t h a n f i ve m i l e s f ro m t h e holy ground… Kingsholm.”

A real real G Gloucester loucester boy boy

There are some pretty good job titles going around these days.

Work for a bespoke travel company and underneath your name on the business card could read ‘beach consultant ’. Or work for a fashion company and you could be ‘head of style’.

Sean Bailey, who lives in Gloucester, has a decent job title too and he must be rated pretty highly by his bosses because he is a ‘quality manager’ for a firm in Gloucester! “It’s alright unless anything goes wrong,” laughed Bailey, w h o a l s o h a p p e n s to b e c a p t a i n o f Rodway Hill Golf Club.

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

The sporting term ‘ a l l - ro u n d e r ’ is s o m et h i n g t h at i s readily associated with cricket.

T h i n k B ot h a m , F l i n to f f o r – t h e best of the three – Gloucestershire’s adopted son Mike Matt Bayliss Procter.

It’s not a word that is used so often to describe rugby people, but it ’s a ve r y a p t d e s c r i p t i o n fo r o n e M a t t Bayliss.

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TThe he legend legend that that iiss JJohn ohn B Bayliss ayliss John Bayliss is an entertainer.r He was an entertainer on the rugby pitch for Gloucester in the 60s and 70s and he’s still an entertainer today, delivering almost as many punchlines in a onehour-plus interview as he did crunching tackles back in the days when he was one of the men who put the ‘King’ into Kingsholm.

He was a centre of some repute – rough, tough and uncompromising, taking on all-comers whether he was a t t a c k i n g o r d e fe n d i n g a n d n e ve r taking a backward step.

He was renowned for his tackling – he was as hard as the terraces where the Gloucester faithful stood and watched in awe – but he could play a b i t a s w e l l a n d j u s t l i k e fe l l o w Gloucester legends Mickey Booth and Dick Smith, he was desperately unlucky not to win an England cap.

Born and bred in Gloucester, Bayliss, 75 in March, was always going to play rugby in a city that lived and breathed the sport.

“I first had an interest in rugby when my dad, Jack , took me down to Rotol to watch them play,” Bayliss said.

“My dad played for them and I’d be about three or four. He was a big guy and played in the second row. He also had a few games for Newport which is where he was from. I thought he was pretty good although you always think that your dad is good, don’t you!

Bayliss’ earliest memories of playing rugby were pretty basic.

“We’d put two coats down at each end of a pitch,” he chuckled. “I’d be about eight years old. I was always a bit of a devil in the tackle.”

It wasn’t long before Bayliss was playing proper rugby and his first game was for Fielding and Platt , the engineering firm in Gloucester.

H e e n j oye d p l ay i n g fo r t h e m b u t although the young Bayliss clearly had something about him, he was soon to discover that rugby could be an unforgiving game.

“We went up to London to play,” he recalled. “I was only 11 and was younger than everyone else. The home team were a player short so I got put on the wing to play against Fielding and Platt.

“I was supposed to be marking my cousin Trevor Lawrence, who although

Gloucester in 1961/62. John Bayliss is in the front row, third from right.

three years older was only an inch taller than me. But they put me on the wrong wing and I was up against John Burrows who was 6ft 2in!”

He survived that ‘little v large’ showdown of course and it wasn’t too long before he was getting a runout in the club’s 2nd XV. And by the age of 15 he was deemed ready to play for the 1sts.

“I’d always played in the centre,” he said. “Basically I was an inside centre and I took a lot of crash balls. But I’d also make a lot of dummy runs and get the opposition to think I was going to take the ball.

“I was very quick over 10 -15-20 yards. At outside centre you needed to run 60 yards, you needed a lot of legs.”

IImpressing mpressing rrugby ugby ffolk ol k u up p a and nd d down own tthe he ccounty ounty Bayliss’ all-action style was impressing knowledgeable rugby folk up and down the county, and he was s t i l l sw e e t 1 6 w h e n h e g o t h i s f i r s t taste of the big-time when he received a call-up to play for Gloucester United.

In those days it was much easier for Gloucester-born players to play for the club of their dreams and it saddens Bayliss to see so few players from the city wearing the Cherry and White shirt these days.

“Nowadays it’s very difficult for the 15 and 16 -year-olds in Gloucester to break through,” he said. “But those p l ay e r s a re s t i l l o u t t h e re . A l l t h e Gloucester legends – John Watkins, Steve Boyle, Mike Burton, Terry Hopson, Peter Ford – were bred in Gloucester.

“My first game for Gloucester was against Leicester at Kingsholm. I was

17 and I was a late replacement after Jeremy Taylor withdrew. The captain Peter Ford sent his usual telegram...

‘Be at Kingsholm for 2pm!’“ So how did Bayliss get on?

“I was brilliant for 40 minutes,” he l a u g h e d , “ a n d t h e n m y l e g s we n t . I t was a much faster pace than anything I’d been used to. I’d put so much into the game but in those days there were no subs so after half-time I had to start again.”

Bayliss’ obvious quality soon shone through even at this level and within a year of his Gloucester debut he was lining up for Gloucestershire against Monmouthshire.

“It was always an honour to play for Gloucestershire,” said Bayliss, who was capped more times by his county than anyone else.

“In those days it was a step up, all the internationals played in the county championship. It was almost like an England trial.”

Although he was never capped by E n g l a n d , B a y l i ss h a s a b s o l u t e l y n o re g re t s w h e n h e l o o k s b a c k o n h i s career.

“I was always in the top four England centres and was a reserve for England’s tour to South Africa in 1973,” he said. “At one stage I was thought to be the hardest tackling centre in the country.”

He also captained England Youth at Kingsholm in 1960 and has a record that most players from this area can only dream about.

“I played 58 times for Gloucestershire and in five England trials,” he said.

“I was never dropped by Gloucester.

I played 430 -odd games for them.”

Full story online.

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Page 31

Rob Cockburn

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The Local Answer

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

Create Create a w wildlife ildlife pond pond Spring heralds the arrival of new life and one arrival to expect soon is that o f f ro g s p aw n . W h e n s p aw n a r r i ve s exactly can vary by 2-3 weeks according to outside temperatures, but if we have some milder weather this month then the croaking of the male frogs, as they try to lure in the females, may be heard from our ponds.

Females lay thousands of eggs, as the odds of survival are slim. Spawn is vulnerable to colder weather and w h e n t h e t a d p o l e s h a tc h ( a ro u n d three weeks later) they are easy prey fo r o t h e r p o n d i n h a b i t a n t s s u c h a s dragonfly larvae and newts. The tadpoles initially feed on the jelly that t h ey h a t c h e d f r o m , b e f o re m o v i n g onto a meat diet when their legs of spreading invasive plants from develop. pond to pond.

Help Help ssurvival urvival rrates ates To help both the tadpoles and frogs If you are lucky enough to have you can also provide vegetation both spawn in your garden pond or find around the edge of your pond as well s o m e o u t a n d a b o u t t h e n t h e re a re a s i n t h e p o n d , a s b o t h f ro g s a n d s o m e t h i n g s y o u c a n d o to h e l p t a d p o l e s n e e d s o m e w h e r e t o t a k e survival rates. Do not move the spawn cover. If your pond has shallow edges as this can have two negative that is a plus, as it means the frogs impacts. Firstly, it can spread and toads can get in and out easily. If amphibian diseases between ponds, it doesn’t , just provide a ramp – a which can wipe out whole plank of wood works well. populations. Secondly, it runs the risk If you don’t have a wildlife pond but would like to create o n e t h e n n ow i s a good time to do it. Do n o t b e p u t o f f i f yo u h av e a s m a l l g a rd e n a s yo u a r e j u s t a s attract likely to wildlife as long as you p r ov i d e t h e r i g h t habitat. A large plastic container dug into the ground does a great job in a limited space.

C h o o s e a s p ot t h at has some sun and some shade during the day. Place some s to n e s i n t h e b o t to m The Local Answer

to create variations in the depth and fill with rainwater. Tap water contains chemicals so if you must use it then leave it for at least a week before adding plants.

Provide P rovide a access ccess into into and and o out ut o off tthe he p pond ond Plants, both in the water and around it , are required to provide cover and to add oxygen to the water. You can find suitable plants at a garden centre.

You may be tempted to add fish to your pond but if it’s wildlife you are a f t e r t h e n t h e y a r e b e s t av o i d e d .

Finally, remember to provide access into and out of the pond.

Now be patient and wait for the n e w i n h a b i t a n t s to a r r i v e . T h e common frog (our main species of f ro g ) i s u n f o r t u n a te l y n o l o n g e r common as it has suffered a population decline due to habitat loss.

Our garden ponds can really make a difference to not only the common frog, but a huge range of other w i l d l i fe. S o w h y n o t a d d a p o n d t o your garden this spring and, once the hard work is done, you can sit back and enjoy the wide range of wildlife it will attract.

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 33

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Page 34

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The Local Answer

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

G Get et pplants lants ooff ff ttoo a fflying lying sstart tart The shortest month in the year, which considering the weather and dark evenings and mornings is just as well! Once February is out of the way everything seems to speed up – b u l b s w i l l b e f l ow e r i n g , ve g e t a b l e s e e d s n e e d t o b e s ow n , yo u ’ l l b e weeding and tidying in the borders, a n d t h e l aw n w i l l n e e d c u t t i n g again. Anyway, enough of what is to come, what to do this month...

Tidy up any containers of pansies and other plants that need deadheading and pick off any mouldy leaves. This keeps them flowering a n d l o o k i n g g o o d . W i n d o w b ox e s could still need watering even after prolonged rain as they are sheltered.

Don’t drown them but keep them conditions are more favourable. The slightly moist. p l a n t s w i l l g e t o f f to a f l y i n g s t a r t P Plant lant w when hen tthe he cconditions onditions and soon catch up with the poor a are re m more ore ffavourable avourable s t r u g g l i n g s p e c i m e n s t h a t yo u If the weather is anything like it couldn’t wait to pop in the cold, wet has been for the past few weeks it ground.

Bearing this in mind, this is the i s a m i s t a k e t o t h i n k t h a t yo u c a n p l a n t t h i n g s o u t s i d e n ow u n l e s s m o n t h t o p l a n t o n i o n s e t s a n d under cloches or in a greenhouse. I shallots outside, but likewise they have found that being too eager is a can be left till later on if the weather waste of time – wait a few more is gruesome!

T h e t a n g l e d m e s s o f l a te r we e ks a n d p l a n t w h e n t h e

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flowering clematis (group 3) can be c h o p p e d o f f n ow a t a b o u t 1 5 c m from the ground – you will see the new buds already forming.

G Give ive ssome ome a attention ttention to to a apple pple a and nd p pear ear ttrees rees B e fo re t h e e n d o f w i n te r m a k e s u r e y o u g i ve s o m e a t t e n t i o n to apple and pear trees – even just cutting out all dead, damaged and diseased wood and removing any mummified fruit that is still hanging f ro m t h e b o u g h s w i l l m a k e a difference in the coming season.

Use clean, sharp secateurs.

Prune autumn fruiting raspberries now and cut all last year ’s fruited c a n e s d o w n t o t h e g ro u n d .

Alternatively, you could leave half the canes and just cut the top half that fruited off, and these ones will f r u i t i n s u m m e r a n d t h e ot h e r s i n winter. Raspberry canes need replacing every 10 years or so.They prefer sandy soil but definitely don’t like heavy soil, so if that d e s c r i b e s yo u r s i t m i g h t be better to plant them on small ridges to aid drainage.

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 35

HATHERLEY ATHERLEY HW H WORKTOPS W ORKTOPS LLTD TD

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Q Quartz uartz & Granite Granite Laminate Laminate Solid Solid Wood Wood Composite, Composite, Acrylic & Corian Corian® Acrylic Worktop Worktop rrefits efits Door D oor rreplacements eplacements FFull ull kitchens kitchens

Tel: T el: 01242 01242 523398 523398 / 01452 01452 290458 290458 email: email: info@hatherleyworktops.co.uk info@hatherleyworktops.co.uk web: web: www.hatherleyworktops.co.uk www.hatherleyworktops.co.uk U Units nits 1 18, 8, 19 19 & 2 20 0M Malmesbury almesbury Road, Road, K Kingsditch ingsditch Trading Trading E Estate, state, C Cheltenham heltenham G GL51 L51 9 9PL PL

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

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The Local Answer

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

Up-cycling Up-cycling uunloved nloved ffurniture urniture It’s early in the New Year, we are all watching the pennies and whilst it’s a q u i et t i m e i n t h e s o c i a l c a l e n d a r there has never been a better time to crack on with some of those DIY projects. My favourite types of DIY projects are those that cost very little money but have a huge impact on a r o o m ; a n d u p - c yc l i n g o l d f u r n i t u r e i n t o s o m e t h i n g n ew a n d u n i q u e i s one of the very best ways to make an impact this new year! Here are my failsafe tips to a great up-cycling project.

P Preparation reparation iiss k key ey We all know the saying ‘fail to prepare, prepare to fail’ and this is so very true when it comes to an upcycling project. Preparation is the key to a successful project , great finish and guaranteed wow factor. Always sand down furniture using wire wool or sandpaper before painting, to give it a smooth surface. This will help with the quality of the finish and will The Local Answer

make sure the new paint lasts for touch to your furniture, something that no one else will have in his or longer. her home. The most important thing P Paint aint ttypes ypes is to not worry if it goes wrong – you Chalk paints are great for painting can always paint over it so be as over dark stained or veneered creative as you dare. furniture pieces as they don’t need doesn’t oesn’t sstop top at at paint paint to be primed and give smooth, all- IItt d over coverage. However, chalk paint Chairs and cushions can easily be colours are often on the pastel side updated if the fabric isn’t to your of the colour wheel – if you want taste anymore or a room colour has s o m e t h i n g a l i t t l e b o l d e r a n d c h a n g e d . S i m p l y re m ov e t h e o l d brighter, many DIY stores colour cover and re-upholster with fresh match and mix up in wood paint for fabric to match your home. you. Always apply at least two to IItt rreally eally d doesn’t oesn’t stop stop at at three thin layers of paint and finish p paint a i n t with a layer of varnish or furniture wax to protect the new paint colour Want to add pattern but not sure and ensure the longevity of the about stencilling? Wallpapering furniture creates a fantastic and piece. unique statement. Cut the wallpaper SStencilling tencilling iiss ccool ool a again gain to size, paste the draw front , apply Up-cycling is a great way of wallpaper, brush out any air bubbles, experimenting with different colours, let it dry and then varnish to finish techniques and paint effects. for a hardwearing surface that can Stencilling adds a unique, personal be used daily.

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Page 37

WORD WORD SEARCH SEARCH T B D U E K A J P N G C R E H S U F H V A A W J

K R A A C E F M N O N I B W R W H R Y I R T Z U

A I N D A S C O M I J W F U D D C B V E H M L V

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D O G E C A K E S C B X E I R H Y W U S Q I R W

Z R N H G X Z E P E U O X W P G V O D J J C R P

B O E R E M L U H R P Q P R O R Y H Z H F O A R

H O O S S U B I R M M W T F I R M K I K M A Q G

I O V R S I L V W P E B Y R E S R G T T J U P V

M V F M X E D B M D L Q A V V D P O B A R V Q B

Wedding W edding BAND BLUE BORROWED BRIDE CAKE CAMERA CELEBRATION CEREMONY CHAPEL

DANCING DRESSES FLOWERS GIFTS GROOM HONEYMOON LOVE NEW OLD

RECEPTION RING TUXEDO USHER VEIL VOWS WEDDING

F L O W E R S H D Q V C J D O W S F B V C M K Q

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QUALITY Q UALITY KITCHEN K ITCHEN FACELIFTS F ACELIFTS

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Domestic, Commercial and Industrial Work under taken

Getting G etting rready eady ffor or tthe he d dark ark n nights ights with w ith e external xternal security security lighting lighting

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S STEVE TEVE HOLLAND HOLLAND The he ppower ower to to llight ight up up yyour our home home E ELECTRICAL LECTRICAL LTD LTD T

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All drains an d blockages G All emergency plumbing work G Pre-fixe d prices G Saniflo blockages & installations G High pressure jetting/drain repairs/relining G CCTV sur veys/homebuyers’ sur veys G Local Author ity insurance & wate r co mpany appro ve d G

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Page 42

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Custom built wardrobes, loft conversions, door hanging, decking, pergolas, patios.

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

Sustainable Sustainable e energy nergy The future of sustainable energy is looking bright : after last year ’s success of going a whole day without burning coal for energy, the U K i s i n v e s t i n g m o re t h a n ev e r i n renewable and sustainable energy.

But why are we now putting such a fo c u s o n t h e s e e n e rg y t y p e s, a n d what exactly are the benefits?

TTypes ypes o off SSustainable ustainable EEnergy nergy I n 2 0 1 2 , 1 1 . 3 % o f a l l o u r p ow e r came from renewable sources.

However, in 2017, this skyrocketed to nearly a third of all of the e l e c t r i c i t y d u r i n g s u m m e r m o n t h s.

Overall electricity generation was lower than normal – thanks to longer days and warmer nights – but was largely driven by wind farms and relatively high wind speeds.

In 2016, 11.5% of the total energy c a m e f ro m w i n d , a n d t h i s h a s substantial benefits: there’s less air pollution, it ’s more cost effective than fossil fuels, and it’s completely abundant and sustainable. This is the same with solar power, although this has had less success due to temperamental weather in the UK .

Biomass is the least green of the renewable energies, as it relies on burning waste, and therefore still releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

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A SSustainable ustainable U Utopia topia Sustainable sources produce little to no CO2 within their life cycle (which i n c l u d es t h e m a k i n g , i n st a l l i n g , l i fe t i m e a n d r e m ov i n g o f t h e i r equipment) in comparison to what is produced by burning fossil fuels. If all sources, or even a large majority, were sustainable, then we would be able to remove the most damaging unsustainable sources and reduce the rate of global warming.

This then leads to increasingly healthy air, water and land as it is

tainted with less pollution (currently linked with cancer and respiratory problems), and allows for us to live within healthy environments, even in big towns and cities (especially if this energy is used to power electric cars!). Equally, it can help to stabilise energy prices, as renewable sources are always there, meaning we are n ot s o d e p e n d e n t u p o n t h e fluctuating prices of oil or gas.

Some energy providers work with more renewable suppliers than o t h e r s, a n d m o v i n g f ro m o n e to a n o t h e r c a n b e a s i m p l e sw i t c h .

However, away from the power p l a n t , t h e re a re o p p o r t u n i t i e s to i n ve s t i n y o u r ow n s u s t a i n a b l e energy.

Having rooftop solar panels fitted allows you to generate power during the day, which can be stored and t h e n u s e d w h e n yo u g e t h o m e to heat your water and cook your food.

Avoid oil heaters and opt for electric ones instead, and have your home well insulated to avoid excess energy being used to heat the air a r o u n d y o u r h o u s e. L i t t l e c h a n g e s can lead to you being much greener, and possibly saving a few pounds!

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Page 43

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

LITTLE WHITE VAN MAN

G loucestershire’s Gloucestershire’s ffriendly, riendly, cost cost e effective ffective rremovals, emovals, c ollections collections a nd deliveries deliveries s ervice! service! and

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OOKER YOUR Y OUR ELECTRIC ELECTRIC C COOKER OR OVEN OVEN N OT W ORKING? OR NOT WORKING? EST E ST 2 2004 004 l cal TTel: el: 07955 07955 295360 295360

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DIRTY D IRTY C COOKER OOKER OR OR OVEN? OVEN? Tel: 01242 227067

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O OVEN VENE& RANGE RANGFAENCLEANING CS •LMICROWAVES EANING O OVENS VENS • EXTRACTOR XTRACTOR FANS MICROWAVES Don’t look until you’ve finished!

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HOBS HOBS • AGAS AGAS • RAYBURNS RAYBURNS

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Specialists Specialists in in bathroom bathroom safety safety

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

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

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interior needs

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Page 48

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B&H B&H W Windows indows and and Repairs Repairs

YOU HAVE YOU HAVE GOT M ISTED GOT MISTED WINDOW PANES? PANES? WINDOW

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We We can can replace replace tthe he ppanes, anes, keeping keeping your your frames frames – SSave ave ££££s ££s

FFor or a free free no no obligation obligation q uotation pplease lease ccall: all: quotation

0 80 0 0 0380083 380083 / 0 07591 7591 142052 142052 COMPETITIVE COMPETITIVE PRICES! PRICES! 0800 Over 28 28 years’ years’ Over experience experience

enquiries@bhwindowsandrepairs.co.uk enquiries@b hwindowsandrepairs.co.uk w www.gloucesterwindowrepairs.co.uk ww.glou cesterwindowrepairs.co.uk

BM BM SERVICES SERVICES W Window, indow, Door Door & Conservatory Conservatory Repairs Repairs

A sspecialist pecialist rrepair epair sservice ervice ffor or w windows, indows, d doors o o rs a and nd conservatories conservatories w with ith o over ver 4 40 0 yyears’ ears’ e experience. xperience.

Misted glass Handles Misted g lass • Locks Locks • Hinges Hinges • Handles Seals Conservatory Roof Cleaning leaning Seals • C onservatory R oof C For For ffree ree quotes quotes a and nd a rreliable, eliable, ffriendly riendly sservice: ervice: Am member ember o off Call: 07963 217998 217998 Call: 07963 E mail: b arrieminett@mail.com Email: barrieminett@mail.com W eb: w ww.bm-services-glos.co.uk Web: www.bm-services-glos.co.uk VERY V ERY C COMPETITIVE OMPETITIVE PRICES PRICES

STEVEN Domestic and Industrial Skips 110% 0% OFF OFF M MINI INI A AND ND MIDI MIDI S SKIP KIP HIRE HIRE with a code code of of with TLA260571 TLA260571 Offer ends: ends: Offer 2 8/02/18 28/02/18

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TThe he FFine ine LLine ine The full ramifications of the recent collapse of construction giant Carillion are still to become clear, but it reminded me of, amongst other things, the fine line between success and failure. This is not the platform for political comment a b o u t t h e w h y s a n d w h e re f o re s o f w h e t h e r C a r i l l i o n should have been awarded some of the recent contracts that it got – there will be plenty of column inches allocated to that in other publications. No, this is a question of how a company employing 20,000 people crosses the line from being an expanding provider of services in various parts of the public sector to a disgraced company in liquidation that has left many smaller businesses in something of a mess.

TThe he g goal oal b becomes ecomes ssize ize a att a all ll ccosts osts Overtrading is a phenomenon that has plagued growing businesses for centuries. Companies that have aggressive expansion plans can be the darlings of industry and government , with confident , plausible entrepreneurs at the helm. Some of the companies succeed and are wellmanaged, but for others, the goal becomes size at all costs and the iceberg is just around the corner. An overaggressive attitude to growth too often leads to a company being unable to obtain sufficient finance for its operations, which will eventually lead to it simply running out of money.

Sadly, before they start to see the bigger picture of the failure for which they are heading, companies that are overtrading will take short-term actions that they believe will help them through the cash flow difficulties they are facing. Actions such as slowing down the payment of bills to suppliers. Ultimately they achieve nothing more than delaying the inevitable for the company concerned, but the impact on their suppliers who have not been paid can b e c a t a s t ro p h i c . M a n y o f t h o s e s u p p l i e r s a r e s m a l l businesses that can ill afford customers such as Carillion taking 30 days to pay their bill, let alone the 90 or even 120 days that major companies seem to consider their right to take to settle their account . Sadly the eventual impact on some of these small businesses will be that they are forced to close.

TThe he w warning arning ssigns igns a are re o obvious bvious

ATTENTION! A TTENTION! Let us lighten your load!

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stevensrecycling584@gmail.com The Local Answer

The warning signs to those small businesses are obvious, but there is often nothing that they can do about it without putting their activity with that major customer at stake. In the end they may prove to have been better off without that big company ’s business, but by the time they work that out it’s too late. It’s long been good business practice not to have all your eggs in one basket and that remains true today.

Regular readers of this column will be well aware of what I think of the business practices of large businesses, all of which are bullies to small local ones. I just hope the fall out from Carillion won’t do too much damage to the county’s small business economy.

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Page 49

IIndex ndex o of fA Advertisers dvertisers FOOD FOOD & D DRINK RINK Cafe Rene Tiger’s Eye Yanto’s Pancake House

6 4 4

W WHAT’S HAT’S O ON N CCLUBS LUBS & SSPORTS PORTS Shipton Golf Course EEVENTS VENTS & A ATTRACTIONS TTRACTIONS Prinknash Bird & Deer Park

23 23

H HEALTH EALTH & B BEAUTY EAUTY Hairs ‘n’ Graces Ltd Nikki’s Mobile Hairdressing

5 5

H HOLIDAYS OLIDAYS & TTRAVEL RAVEL Norad Travel

8

P PROPERTY ROPERTY & SSTORAGE TORAGE Bovis Homes Home Reach Norton Park The Property Centre

12 11 10 52

R RETAIL ETAIL Ermin Plant Hire HitchBright Vinyl Records

32 16 5

H HOMES OMES & G GARDENS ARDENS BATHROOMS BATHROOMS Lifestyle Bathrooms Severn Vale Bathrooms B BUILDING UILDING SSERVICES ERVICES BE Rudman C&G Paving

45 44 & 51 28 28

Care Construction Davey’s Building Maintenance Elite Loft Ladders Ellis Property Solutions Glos Build Home Care Roofing & Building JHD Roofing & Building Marshalls Driveways Pave-Drive Pristine Property Care Vitalized Design CCARPENTRY ARPENTRY Matt Grimshaw Rhodes Carpentry CCLEANING LEANING SSERVICES ERVICES Oven & Range Cleaning Oven Busters Tidy Homes ELECTRICAL SSERVICES ELECTRICAL ERVICES Cleevely Electrics GRP Electrical PBT Installations Steve Holland Electrical FFURNISHING URNISHING & A PPLIANCES APPLIANCES Bella’s Interiors Dream Doors Gloucester Carpet Outlet Interior Needs Sapphire Carpets Spacemaster G ARDEN SSERVICES ERVICES GARDEN Chosen Lawnmowers

30 30 36 30 29 28 30 31 31 31 31 42 42 44 44 44 41 41 42 41 36 40 39 46 41 36 34

DW Tree Services GS Landscape Solutions Heritage Landscapes Lawn Doc Mark Clifford Landscapes Master Sheds Phoenix Gardens Redwood Tree Care Rob Cockburn Tree & Hedge Woodlands Tree & Garden H ANDYMAN SSERVICES ERVICES HANDYMAN David Stevens Maintenance LUMBING HEATING H EATING & PPLUMBING A .M Nelmes Drain Doctor Glebe Contractors KB Female Plumber Log Boy Sarsen Energy Town & Country KKITCHENS ITCHENS Hatherley Worktops & Kitchens PPAINTING AINTING & D DECORATING ECORATING Michelle Powell Decorator TTVV & A AERIALS ERIALS 1st Choice Aerials WINDOWS DOORS W INDOWS & D OORS Albany Windows B&H Windows and Repairs BM Services C&L Windows Clearway Doors & Windows

34 34 34 34 34 32 34 34 32 32 30 42 42 30 42 42 44 42

PROFESSIONAL PROFESSIONAL SSERVICES ERVICES CCARE ARE SSERVICES ERVICES Barnwood Trust Charnwood House Coate Water Care Cobalt Health Saintbridge House Samaritans IINTRODUCTION NTRODUCTION A GENCIES AGENCIES Caroline Crowther EEDUCATION DUCATION & TTRAINING RAINING Dean Close Services LLEGAL EGAL & FFINANCE INANCE The Negoti8ors M OTORING SSERVICES ERVICES MOTORING Car Helpers Julian Rogers Autoservices ERVICES RREMOVAL EMOVAL SSERVICES Little White Van Man SKIP SKIP HIRE HIRE & RECYCLING RECYCLING Stevens Recycling

18 14 15 25 15 25 23 6 23 25 15 44 49

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COMPETITION COMPETITION R RULES ULES The TLA Photography 2018 winner for the February 2018 cover is Derek Lightstone of Barnwood.

CCOMPETITION OMPETITION R RULES ULES 1 Prizes are as stated and no cash or prize alternative will be offered. 2 Employees of The Local Answer and their families or households are not eligible to enter. 3 The first correct entry drawn at random after the closing date will win the prize as stated. 4 The winner will be notified by telephone after the closing date has passed. 5 The Editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. 6 Entrants must be over 18 years, unless stated. 7 Proof of posting is

not regarded as proof of receipt of entry. 8 The Local Answer accepts no responsibility for the provision of the prize, which remains at all times the full responsibility of the prize donor(s). 9 By entering any competition you agree to have your name published in the next issue of The Local Answer should you be drawn as a winner of the prize. 10 By entering any competition you agree to have your details passed to a third party. 11 One entry per household.

BOOKING BOOKING DEADLINE DEADLINE FOR FOR N NEXT EXT ISSUE ISSUE – Friday Friday 9 9th th FFebruary ebruary 2 2018 018 Page 50

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