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MARCH 2018

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GLOUCESTERSHIRE NORTH DON’T FORGET TO SPOIL YOUR MUM ON SUNDAY 11th MARCH!

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AN ANSWER SWER G loucestershire N orth – 220,000 0,000 ccopies opies Gloucestershire North G loucestershire SSouth outh – 441,000 1,000 ccopies opies Gloucestershire G loucester – 446,000 6,000 ccopies opies Gloucester CCheltenham heltenham – 443,000 3,000 ccopies opies CCotswolds otswolds – 228,000 8,000 ccopies opies FForest orest ooff D ean – 222,000 2,000 ccopies opies Dean

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

W Welcome elcome ttoo M March arch ......

After a long winter, spring is finally beginning and for many of us it can’t come soon enough. We’ve been long overdue some pleasant weather so why not take advantage of this by going on a walk? You may spot a brown hare on your travels; Caroline Shelley tells us all about them in ‘Wildlife Matters’.

With the new season also comes the traditional spring clean. Jade Wilce provides plenty of ideas for reviving a tired kitchen in this month’s ‘Interior Design’ article.

Remember to show your mum how much you love her this Mother ’s Day. There are some great events featured in the What’s On section and you might also fancy giving this month’s Delicious Dish a go; it should provide a welcome treat for most mums! There are also plenty of Easter-themed events going on at the end of the month, so make sure you put them in your diary!

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

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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

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March’s winning cover photo: Daphne Davis of Cirencester

D Delicious elicious D Dish ish 5 W Word ord SSearch earch 6 Quick Q uick CCrossword rossword 8 EEducation ducation 9 ealth Medical Medical H Health 1 11 1 Holidays Holidays & TTravel ravel 1 13 3 Wildlife W ildlife M Matters atters 1 15 5 What’s What’s O On n 16 16 Distributers Distributers R Required equired 21 21 Sudoku Sudoku 21 21 TLA TLA SSport port 22-23 22-23 Homes H omes & G Gardens ardens 24 24 Gadgets G adgets & G Gizmos izmos 29 29 IIn n tthe he G Garden arden 31 31 IInterior nterior D esign 3 3 Design 33 SSave ave the the Planet Planet 37 3 7 Money M oney M Matters atters 41 41 IIndex, ndex , CCompetitions, ompetitions, SSolutions olutions 42 42

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G Gloucestershire’s loucestershire’s VW VW AUDI AUDI Group Group Specialist Specialist SServicing ervicing FFrom rom £ £95.00 95.00 M MOT OT £ £39.95 39.95 C Cambelts ambelts FFrom rom £ £249.00 249.00 A Air ir C Conditioning onditioning rregas egas £ £45.00 45.00 FFree ree Courtesy Courtesy Cars Cars – Collection Collection & Delivery Delivery

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

Sausage Sausage aand nd aapple pple ttraybake raybake P Pork ork aand nd aapple pple aare re a m match atch m made ade iin nh heaven, eaven, sso o tthis his ttraybake raybake iiss tthe perfect dish he p erfect d ish ffor or llittle ittle aangels ngels tto o ccook ook ffor or m mum um tthis his M Mother’s other’s Day! Day! IIngredients ngredients (serves (serves 4): 4 ) : 8 p o r k s a u s a g es ; 1 t b s p vegetable oil; 2 apples (we used Pink Ladies); 2 large parsnips; 2 large carrots; 200g shallots; mixed herbs; lazy garlic, drizzle of honey; sage.

Method: Method: 1 Preheat the oven to 200°C (fan 180°C/gas mark 6).

2 Place the sausages in a large roasting tin with the vegetable oil and roast for 10 minutes.

3 Whilst the sausages start to cook , chop the apples, p a r s n i p s , c a r ro t s a n d s h a l l o t s i n to r o u g h c h u n k s – we’re going for a rustic looking dish, so don’t worry about being too precise!

4 After the 10 minutes, add the vegetables to the tin (leave the apples for later) with the mixed herbs and lazy garlic.

KKeep eep up up ttoo ddate ate on on social social media! media!

5 Mix everything together and spread it evenly on the tray, then drizzle a small amount of honey over each sausage. Roast for a further 30 minutes.

6 Add the apples to the tray for a final 10 minutes, as well as a sprinkling of sage (either fresh or dried).

7 Whilst your traybake is cooking, you can prepare some of your favourite seasonal vegetables to accompany the main dish.

8 Serve the traybake on a heat-proof mat in the middle of the table, surrounded by bowls of your chosen vegetables and a pot of gravy.

Tip: Tip: Little angels will need some assistance from an adult when it comes to chopping the vegetables and transferring hot trays to and from the oven!

FERRUM LX X

Ironing, Pressing & Minor Repairs • within 24hrs g professionally folded • Suits Jackets/Trousers press • Minor Repairs including Buttons and Hems

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Waa nt to W t o hear h e a r mo m o re fro f ro m fr ca l Answe A n swer er ?

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Catering – iit’s t’s a Catering tall o rder! tall order!

JJan an with with colleagues colleagues M Marie-Louise arie-Louise Wynn Wynn (left) (left) a and nd LLainey ainey G Gilkes. ilkes.

Tall Order Catering was set up in 2015 by owner Jan van der Lely – 20 years after he first entered the food industry as a trainee pastry chef at Corse Lawn House Hotel.

From the outset Jan knew he had fo u n d h i s n i c h e – b a k i n g h a d provided him with an opportunity to shine in creating delicious food that made people smile. Job satisfaction!

D a f fo d i l i n C h e l te n h a m , a s we l l a s mastering the variety of skills necessary for preparation and management of event catering – in particular weddings.

After tasting success wherever he went – helping to develop brands and enhance customer experiences – Jan decided the time was right to take the plunge, and Tall Order Catering was launched.

Jan has delivered great culinary satisfaction to many clients in the last two years, while simultaneously d e ve l o p i n g a s u p e r b s e t o f m e n u s and a team to match.

For larger event bookings Tall Order Catering prepare ‘tasters’ from some of their menus in advance, to help clients confirm they ’ve s e l e c te d t h e r i g h t d i s h e s f o r t h e i r g u e s t s . F ro m a b a r b e c u e o r h o g roast to canapés, a tailored buffet or s u m pt u o u s d i n n e r – J a n a n d h i s team have it covered.

‘‘You You n name ame iit, t, w we e ccan an deliver d eliver iit’ t’

Soon Jan was preparing and cooking starters, mains and desserts – learning all aspects of the day to day operations and m a n a g e m e n t o f a p ro fe s s i o n a l kitchen.

Over the next couple of decades he a c h i ev e d fo r m a l c a t e r i n g i n d u s t r y qualifications and gained knowledge working with top chefs at a variety o f e s t a b l i s h m e n t s, i n c l u d i n g T h e

When asked about the company’s name, Jan explained: “I treat every job as a ‘tall order ’ to put pressure on myself and the team to deliver the very best . Whether it ’s fine dining for a small group in a client’s home, or catering for hundreds of guests at a wedding, we constantly push ourselves to make certain every customer is totally happy.”

Jan also takes great pride in the flexibility of services and variety of dietary requirements he caters for – he says: “You name it , we can deliver it!”

So, whether you’re planning a wedding breakfast , anniversary party, birthday bash, life celebration o r a ny ot h e r t y p e of f u n c t i o n o r event – including corporate gatherings – Jan would love to hear f ro m yo u . M o r e i n fo r m a t i o n , i n c l u d i n g s a m p l e m e n u s, i s a l s o available on the Tall Order Catering website.

w www.tallordercateringltd.co.uk ww.tallordercateringltd.co.uk bbookings@tallordercateringltd.co.uk ookings@tallordercateringltd.co.uk

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Quick Crossword 2

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ACROSS 1 Penetrated 4 Net 7 Modern tune (3,4) 8 Uncanny 9 Spotted 12 Kerb 15 Tidiness 17 Obliterated 18 Provide with personnel 21 Took (revenge) 22 Traffic jam 23 Worthy novel

DOWN 1 Restricts movement (4,4) 2 Perches 3 Globule 4 Wise 5 Bomber attack (3,4) 6 Rim 10 Less moist 11 Short break 13 Plague 14 West Indies island 16 Menservants 18 Male heirs 19 Tripped over 20 Dusting powder

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© Lovatts Puzzles

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

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01242

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Education Education w with ith G Gemma emma D Drew rew

Benefits Benefits ooff llearning earning a llanguage anguage It ’s a well-known fact that schools encourage their students to learn a language at either GCSE or A level. It’s not necessarily for everyone, but doing so has its benefits.

Learning a language gives you an i n s i g h t i n to a d i f fe re n t c u l t u re a n d provides a broader experience of life.

One great memory I have of being at school is going on a trip to Málaga as part of my Spanish AS level. Speaking the language with the Spanish family we were living with and having them a c t u a l l y u n d e r s t a n d w h a t w e we r e saying was a great feeling.

H How ow m many any llanguages anguages d o you you do rrecognise? ecognise?

It It m makes akes ttravelling ravelling so so much much m more ore rrewarding ewarding Being able to speak the language of the locals when on holiday, even if its only a few phrases, makes travelling so much more rewarding. Some of my best memories of holidays abroad h a ve b e e n t r y i n g – a n d s o m e t i m e s failing – to speak with the locals. I’ve never not been met with a positive response. In fact , you’ll often find m o s t p e o p l e w i l l t a k e t h e t i m e to teach you more words and phrases.

On a more professional note, a qualification in a language is great to have on your CV. The skills used when learning a language, including listening, reading, speaking, writing and gaining an understanding of the

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grammar rules, are very valuable and display to future employers that you have an array of communication skills.

The variety of skills also helps to keep learning interesting. Sticking at learning a language, whether that be working towards a qualification or just a s s o m e t h i n g to d o i n y o u r s p a re time, shows that you have an i m p r e s s i ve l e v e l o f d e d i c a t i o n a n d motivation as you continue to develop your knowledge.

A boost in self-confidence and creativity as well as improved memory are just a few more benefits of learning a language. Research has

s h ow n t h a t b e i n g b i l i n g u a l c a n d e l ay t h e r i s k o f Alzheimer ’s and dementia for an average of four and a half years.

Problem-solving, logical thinking and experimentation with different words and phrases all lead to a higher level of creativity.

A great great cconversation onversation starter starter Successfully learning a new skill leads to an increase in confidence, especially if you continue to improve it . It can also lead to you meeting new people as you look for a chance to increase your speaking skills. If anything, being able to say you’re bilingual is a great conversation starter and certainly makes you a more interesting person!

For students currently choosing their GCSEs, I would definitely recommend taking a language. Even if you barely remember any of it in your adult life, you’ll most likely always have a basic grasp of another language, which is great.

Even though I’ve left school now, I’m still learning Spanish. I try to do a little b i t e v e r y d ay a n d m y a i m i s t o become fluent . Taking Spanish at G C S E a n d A S l e v e l h a s p ro v i d e d m e with a great foundation!

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Page 9

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

Start Start m making aking n noise! oise!

Most people are aware of cervical cancer and have heard of ‘smear tests’, particularly after some recent c a s e s o f yo u n g e r wo m e n s a d l y losing their battle with cervical cancer. There have been numerous awareness campaigns to make sure women attend their routine cervical screening tests. However, a quieter female cancer that is not so commonly talked about , but is t a k i n g t h e l i v e s o f fo u r t i m e s a s many women every day, is ovarian cancer.

Women Women lleave eave it it too too late late tto o rrecognise ecognise ssymptoms ymptoms and and g get et cchecked hecked o out ut Cancer M a rc h is Ovarian Awareness month and this is something that, as a young mother o f t w o g i r l s , I f e e l p a s s i o n a te l y about. 11 women in the UK die from ovarian cancer every day, which is mainly because women are leaving it too late to recognise the sy m p t o m s a n d g e t t h e m s e l ve s

checked out , meaning that the cancer has already spread. One shocking statistic is that a woman in the UK has a 1 in 50 chance of being diagnosed with ovarian cancer in her lifetime.

I f a wo m a n i s d i a g n o s e d a t t h e earliest stage of ovarian cancer then her chance of surviving for 5 years or more is over 90%, so early diagnosis is vital.

Symptoms of this type of cancer include: • Pelvic or abdominal pain • Increased abdominal size or persistent bloating • Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly • Needing to urinate more urgently or more often • Irregular periods or bleeding after menopause • Changes in bowel habits • Pain during sex Remember, most of these symptoms can also be a s i g n o f o t h e r i l l n e ss e s that are not cancer, so the recommended advice is to visit your GP if you have symptoms that are unusual for you a n d t h at h a p p e n o n m o s t d a y s fo r l o n g e r than 3 weeks, particu l a r l y i f y o u h av e a strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer.

Unfortunately, a common misconception is that the cervical screening programme will detect ovarian cancer. At this current

t i m e t h e re i s n o s c r e e n i n g t e s t fo r ovarian cancer, so accurate and quick diagnosis from health professionals is vital. You can help your GP: • Keep a diary of all your s y m p to m s a n d w h e n t h e y are occurring • You know your body b e s t , s o i f y o u fe e l s o m et h i n g i s s e r i o u s l y wrong then see your GP as soon as possible • Tell your surgery you a re wo r r i e d a b o u t cancer and need to be seen within a week • Tell your GP you are concerned about ovarian cancer • Check your family history and tell your GP

It’s It’s m more ore iimportant mportant tthan han ever ever tto o ttalk alk about about it it Research spend on ovarian cancer in the UK has dropped by a third in five years. This means that it is more i m p o r t a n t t h a n ev e r to t a l k a b o u t ovarian cancer and raise awareness a n d m u c h n e e d e d f u n d s fo r research. For more information about ovarian cancer or how to join the ‘Start Making Noise’ Campaign please visit the following websites: www.targetovariancancer.org.uk www.cancerresearchuk.org www.nhs.uk/conditions/ovarian-cancer

W Wee w would ould llike ike ttoo aapologise pologise ffor or tthe he ttwo wo errors errors in in last last month’s month’s ‘‘Medical Medical H Health’ ealth’ aarticle. rticle. U Underneath nderneath ‘Lifestyle ‘Lifestyle Changes’ Changes’ tthe he hheart eart rrate ate bbullet ullet point point should should have have read: read: ““Keep Keep your your blood blood pressure pressure nnoo hhigher igher tthan han 1140 40 oover ver 90 90 Hg’.

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

IInvestigate nvestigate Ironbridge Ironbridge In the last two issues, we planned s o m e Po r t u g u e s e s u n s h i n e a n d long-haul travel to British Columbia.

This month we’re closer to home with a little gem just up the road in Shropshire…

Birthplace B irthplace o off tthe he iindustrial ndustrial rrevolution evolution What comes to mind when you think ‘UNESCO world heritage site’?

Maybe Brazil’s Iguazu Falls or Norway’s Geirangerfjord, but surely not the picturesque, wooded Severn Valley near Telford. But it should, because Ironbridge Gorge was rated among the world’s favourite UNESCO sites!

When planning a January getaway, we found cosy, beautifully appointed, ‘Flat on the Square’ overlooking the world’s first w ro u g h t i r o n b r i d g e – a l b e i t currently swathed in scaffolding b e fo re during re f u r b i s h m e n t reopening later this year. Despite this, the still usable bridge was rather romantic as we strolled across to eat , Mediterranean-style,

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at stylish, reasonably priced Darcy’s. modern ‘Silicon Valley’!

It ’s just five minutes from the flat Do visit the fascinating Blists Hill and the food, including delicious Victorian Town – complete with Basque cod, was amazing. delicious 1900 -style fish and chips.

A 12-month passport ticket gives M Many any g good ood rrestaurants estaurants unlimited access to many local We also loved the quirky La Casita museums ranging from Blists Hill tapas restaurant across the road and Coalport China Museum, to from our flat . There are numerous Coalbrookdale’s Museum of Iron and good, varied local restaurants, contemporary Enginuity. Your including a well-reviewed chip shop ‘passport ’ quickly pays for itself for budget eating and the pricier, before you save more with also well-rated, additional visits. It ’s a bargain, Restaurant Severn across especially with Ironbridge so close the square. to Gloucestershire.

So what does one do in Bears B ears o on n tthe he SSquare quare Ironbridge? You could use t h e to w n a s a b a s e f o r In summary, we loved Ironbridge’s exploring Shropshire, but romantic, scenic, s o m et i m es not before discovering its ‘steampunk’ ambience with many local delights. excellent activities, accommodation Walking the River and dining. And if industrial history Severn’s banks is great isn’t ‘you’, bookshops, gift and for orientation, perhaps antique stores abound – don’t miss stopping at the Gorge Bears on the Square directly under Museum. This riverside your flat! m u s e u m i s o n e of For couples or families, there’s a several reflecting the lot to love about Ironbridge Gorge area’s key role in Britain’s and its museums. With luck , Industrial Revolution. It Abraham Darby’s iron bridge will be really was an eighteenth- uncovered in all its restored glory century equivalent to the when you visit!

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

Mad Mad M March arch H Hares ares March has arrived and in doing so heralds the official arrival of spring, a n d n o t a m o m e n t to o s o o n . T h e clock change will mean gradually l i g h te r e v e n i n g s a n d a l l a ro u n d winter will start to release its grip as the spring flowers drag t h e m s e l v e s f ro m t h e i r s l u m b e r to brighten our countryside, gardens a n d to w n s . A s we l l a s p l a n t s , animals will become easier to spot as ‘spring-fever’ takes hold and one such example is the brown hare.

IIdentifiable dentifiable b by y ttheir heir llonger onger e ears ars a and nd llegs egs

Unlike rabbits, hares do not live in g r o u p s u n d e rg ro u n d b u t t a k e s h e l te r i n d i t c h e s o r i n s h a l l ow depressions called ‘forms’ and live solitary lives. A young hare is called a leveret and they are born with a full coat of hair and open eyes.

From a young age the leveret will be left alone for prolonged periods of time so, if you should ever find a young hare, do not assume it has been abandoned. Watch for the mother from a distance as it is u n l i k e l y s h e w i l l re t u r n to t h e leveret if she is aware of your presence.

Brought to Britain by the Romans, h a r e s a re c l a ss i f i e d i n t o t h e s a m e family as rabbits but are identifiable by their longer ears, which have black tips, and their longer back l e g s. T h es e l o n g e r b a c k l e g s make them excellent runners and they can reach speeds of up to 45 miles per hour. Their habitat tends to be grassland and at woodland edges.

Brown hares were once a common sight but their population has decreased dramatically over the last century. March, however, is a g o o d t i m e to s p o t h a r e s a s t h e y

© Simon Stirrup

become very active as the breeding season commences. The expression ‘mad as a March hare’ suddenly m a k e s s e n s e a s yo u s e e t h e m leaping and bounding around the fields and, if you are lucky, frantically ‘boxing’ each other.

I t w o u l d b e l o g i c a l t o a ss u m e t h a t w h e n yo u s e e t w o h a re s going head to head that you are s e e i n g a d i s p u te fo r te r r i to r y between two males but this is n o t t h e c a s e. W h a t i s a c t u a l l y h a p p e n i n g i s a s t h e fe m a l e s (known as jills) come into season, the males (known as jacks) are in hot pursuit and it is their overenthusiastic endeavours that result i n t h e f e m a l e s fe n d i n g t h e m o f f with a box round the ears.

LLoss oss o off h hedgerows edgerows a and nd hunting h hunting have ave influenced influenced ttheir heir d dramatic ramatic d decline ecline

© Daphne Davis

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The dramatic decline in the brown h a re p o p u l a t i o n i s p a r t l y d u e to changes in farming practices. Hares require a year round food supply as they do not hibernate, and modern farming practises make this c h a l l e n g i n g . T h e l o ss o f o u r hedgerows has also played its part as they provide important shelter.

Finally, hunting has taken its toll on hare numbers. There are however s o m e o rg a n i s a t i o n s, s u c h a s T h e Hare Preservation Trust , working h a rd to p r o t e c t t h e h a r e a n d p r eve n t i t b e i n g l o s t f ro m o u r landscapes completely.

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

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

THROUGHOUT MARCH RIC JAMES, PAINTINGS, PRINTS AND SCULPTURE Local Artist Ric brings us a range of his work showcasing his years of experience across differing media. Many of the works capture his interest in New York’s art scene. Coffee Shop available. Wednesday – Saturday.

10am-4pm. www.thechapelarts.com 1 MARCH JOE BROWN Joe Brown MBE has a history that spans music halls, rock ‘n’ roll, theatre, films, TV, radio and even circus. He commands a stage like no other. His musical skills are legend, his repartee renowned. Indeed, Joe Brown – up close and personal – what could be more entertaining! 7.30pm. £31.50. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA. 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk THE ROCKET MAN A tribute to Sir Elton John. Join us on a musical journey, charting the rise to fame of one of the biggest selling artists of all time. For times and prices visit www.everymantheatre.org.uk. The Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham, GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573.

1-31 MARCH DAFFODIL & EARLY MAGNOLIA MONTH March is the perfect time to see our host of golden daffodils in all their spring glory!

Wander through swathes of yellow and enjoy the spring sunshine from beneath our glorious tree canopy. We’ll soon be seeing pops of pink appear around the Arboretum too as our early flowering

magnolias start to blossom. 9am-5pm.

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

1 MARCH – 15 APRIL LAMBING AT COTSWOLD FARM PARK With the first bleats of new arrivals and the anticipation of many more in the air, lambing is our favourite time of year! We hope you’ll come and share it with us.

Farm park opening hours: 10.30am-5pm.

Cotswold Farm Park, Kineton, Guiting Power, Cheltenham GL54 5UG. 01451 850307 2 MARCH THE MARLEY EXPERIENCE An eight piece 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. THE ELO EXPERIENCE The world’s foremost tribute to The Electric Light Orchestra. A sensational string section, a stunning light show and large screen projection to further enhance the experience. 7.30pm. £25. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA. 0844 576 2210. cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk 3 MARCH THE MAGIC OF MOTOWN Music fans are invited to the biggest party of the year! Prepare yourself for 40 backto-back classic Motown hits, glittering costume changes, dazzling dance moves and outstanding musicianship in this explosive concert experience. 7.30pm.

£28.50. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA. 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk 4 MARCH SECRETS OF SILK WOOD GUIDED WALK Take in the stunning sights of the ancient Silk Wood. Our volunteers will guide you round the ancient woodland and reveal some of the arboteum’s hidden gems.

Guided walks set off from outside the Welcome Building. Please wear suitable clothing and footwear for outdoor walking.

Dogs on leads are welcome. 11am. Free after admission. Westonbirt Arboretum, Tetbury GL8 8QS. 0300 067 4890.

BOLSHOI LIVE: THE FLAMES OF PARIS In the era of the French Revolution, Jeanne and her brother Jérôme leave Marseille for Paris in support of the revolutionary effort that is taking over the capital. While fighting for freedom, they both encounter love along the way. With powerful virtuosity and some of the most stunning pas de deux, the Bolshoi Ballet displays an exuberance almost too enormous for the Moscow stage. 3pm. £15. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX. www.rosestheatre.org 7 MARCH THE MAGNIFICENT MUSIC HALL With a show packed full of talent, we invite you on a journey down memory lane to the glorious and glamourous heyday of the great ‘British Music Hall’ – a truly golden era. 7pm. £16 (£14, students £12.50). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham, GL51 6EP. www.bacontheatre.co.uk

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DON’T FORGET DON’T FORGET TO TO SPOIL SPOIL YOUR YOUR MUM MUM ON ON SUNDAY SUNDAY 11th 11th MARCH! MARCH!

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7 MARCH MARCH MACBETH All the drama, intrigue and madness of Macbeth in 80 high-octane minutes; more than 20 characters brilliantly and boldly brought to life by just two actors. 7.30pm. £14.50 -£19.50. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX. www.rosestheatre.org.

THE BANFF MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL 2018 Experience an extraordinary collection of short films from the world’s most prestigious mountain film festival. Follow the expeditions of some of today’s most incredible adventurers, see amazing footage of adrenaline packed action sports and be inspired by thought-provoking pieces shot from the far flung corners of the globe. 7.30pm. £14. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA . 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk MOTHER’S DAY FLOWERS Would you like to handmake your mum a bouquet of flowers in time for Mother’s Day? If so, Josephine’s Fabulous Flowers will be here to help you do just that. £50pp including afternoon tea. 11am-1pm.

Tudor Farmhouse Hotel, High Street, Clearwell, GL16 8JS. 01594 833046.

7-13 MARCH MARCH 7-13 FROM TUNDRA TO TAIGA : LIFE IN ARCTIC RUSSIA The exhibition of Stu McKenzie’s photography aims to offer a rare glimpse into the traditional way of life of the Nenets people of the Russian Arctic and to tell the story of their daily fight, not only with the polar conditions but also with encroaching modernity. Montpellier Gardens, Cheltenham GL50 1UZ. www.gardensgallery.co.uk 8 MARCH MARCH THE MEDIEVAL FOREST WITH TIM PORTER The romances of Robin Hood give us one version of the Forest, but the reality is even more intriguing. This talk is a tour through the medieval greenwood – its landscapes, inhabitants and savage laws. £6.75 per adult, £5.75 for season ticket holders. Corinium Museum, Park Street, Cirencester, GL7 2BX. coriniummuseum.org BBC NATIONAL ORCHESTRA OF WALES

Possibly the highlight of our 17-18 series is the visit of one of the great polymaths of the modern international classical scene – pianist, composer, writer and painter, Stephen Hough. 7.30pm. Prices vary.

Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square,

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GL50 1QA . 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk 9 MARCH MARCH GARDEN DESIGN FUNDAMENTALS We will look at some of the fundamental principles of garden design, examples in real gardens and how to apply them in your own garden. An opportunity to go home full of ideas to start thinking about different design elements in your own garden. 10.30am. £30. For details please visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hidcote Hidcote Manor Garden, Hidcote Bartrim, Chipping Campden GL55 6LR. 01386 438333.

ONLY FOOLS AND BOYCIE An intimate evening with ‘Only Fools and Horses’ actor John Challis. In this one-off show the national treasure will reveal secrets from the set with stories and anecdotes from his dazzling career. Mr Challis will also meet fans after the show to sign autographs and copies of his autobiography and novel. £17. 01452 503050. Guildhall Theatre, Gloucester Guildhall, 23 Eastgate Street, GL1 1NS. ABBA SENSATION A stunning stage show, which combines costume changes, lighting effects and a faithful reproduction of the ABBA sound.

The band love audience participation, so you can sing along, clap or even get up and dance. 7.45pm. £13. The Kings Theatre, Kings Barton Street, Gloucester GL1 1QX. 01452 300130 THE WESTENDERS: THE WORLD’S GREATEST MUSICALS Enjoy a night in the West End... in Tewkesbury! This company of six are all past members of the London production of ‘Les Miserables’. Over the last decade they have established themselves as one of the country’s leading musical theatre groups.

7.30pm. £17.50 -£25. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, GL20 5NX. www.rosestheatre.org 1100 MARCH MARCH WINDOW INTO THE WILSON WORKSHOP: CONSERVATION A unique workshop to gain insight into some of the behind-the-scenes museum processes. Meet and discuss with our conservator about her role and the methods used on our museum pieces, then try your hand at some scaled-down conservation processes in a mock-up.

Materials supplied. Booking essential.

10am. £20. The Wilson, Clarence Street, Cheltenham GL50 3JT. 01242 237431.

LUCCYY PORTER: CHOOSE YOUR BATTLES In these combative times, it’s easy to be irritated, offended or downright enraged by other people. How do we know which causes are worth fighting for? Lucy uses her hilarious experiences to help you decide. £14 (£12). 7.30pm. Over 16s.

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

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110-11 0 -11 MARCH MARCH MOTHERING SUNDAY FAMILY EVENT We’ll be celebrating family ties with our special family event. Head to the Learning Centre in the Old Arboretum to discover folklore links between trees and family, and have a go at making spring flower crafts for someone special. Free after admission. 11am. Westonbirt Arboretum, Tetbury GL8 8QS. 0300 067 4890.

1111 MARCH MARCH MOTHER’S DAY LUNCH Treat your mum with a special three course lunch in our Bar and Brasserie along with tea/coffee and a special gift for Mum! £28 per adult. £14 per child under 12 (under 5s eat free). Mercure Gloucester Bowden Hall Hotel, Bondend Road, Gloucester GL4 8ED. 0844 815 9077.

MOTHERING SUNDAY AT BATSFORD We’ll be spoiling Mums rotten with free entry to the arboretum when accompanied by a paying child (includes grown-up ‘children’!). If you’re planning on making a day of it, why not stay for lunch or afternoon tea in the Garden Terrace Café?

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

OPEN GARDENS – MOTHER’S DAY AT MILL DENE GARDENS Enjoy a relaxing afternoon in this 2.5 acre country garden with a difference. A mill pond, grotto, herb garden and fruit trees are just a handful of the delights here, along with tea and cake. 11am-4pm.

Tickets £5 (available on the gate). Mill Dene Garden, Moreton-in-Marsh, GL56 9HU. MOTHERING SUNDAY CONCERT This special concert includes works from Lassus to Britten. Dame Sarah Connolly joins the girls in a joint performance of Schubert’s Zögernd leise. A complimentary glass of pink fizz will be served at the end. 4pm. Adults £16, under 12s free.

Tickets available from the Cathedral shop (01452 768928). Gloucester Cathedral, 12 College Green, Gloucester GL1 2LX. MOTHER’S DAY AFTERNOON TEA Take a seat in our Swan Café and enjoy a Caribbean flamingo backdrop and views of the reserve as you celebrate Mother’s Day. Please book in advance online. 2pm or 3.30pm. Adults £17.95, children £9.95. Full details at wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/ slimbridge WWT Slimbridge, Bowditch, Gloucester GL2 7BT. 01453 891900.

THE OLBG FESTIVAL PREVIEW As the pressure is mounting ahead of The Festival™, The OLBG Festival Preview gives the opportunity to hear the thoughts and opinions of some of the leading industry figures – John Francome, Ruby Walsh, Fergal O’Brien and Cornelius Lysaght.

6.30pm. £6 (free for Annual Members).

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

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13 MARCH JONATHAN PIE: BACK TO THE STUDIO The frustrated news reporter is back and he’s angrier than ever. Pie attempts to host a night of serious discussions on current affairs whilst simultaneously attempting to smash the system from within. 7.30pm. £24.50. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA. 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk THE SLEEPING BEAUTY When the wicked Carabosse casts a deadly spell on Princess Aurora, the Lilac Fairy changes the spell to instead consign the entire palace to a deep sleep. A century later Prince Désiré revives the Princess with a kiss, the palace awakes, and a parade of fairy-tale characters attend a most joyous wedding. 7.30pm. £17.50£25. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX. rosestheatre.org 14 MARCH SKERRYVORE SKERRYVORE have been on a meteoric journey that has taken them from the remote Isle of Tiree on to International tours that have included performances in Central Park NYC. They create a unique fusion of folk, trad, rock and Americana.

8pm. £18. 01453 760900. Stroud Subscription Rooms, George Street, Stroud, GL5 1AE. www.subscriptionrooms.org.uk

15 MARCH SUGGS – A LIFE IN THE REALM OF MADNESS Vertigo on the roof of Buckingham Palace.

Nearly blowing the closing ceremony of the Olympics. Watching his underpants fall to earth on Bowie’s driveway. Things have gone a smidge surreal since the Madness frontman was a twelve year old in shorts on the tough streets of North London.

7.30pm. £30.50. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA. 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk WOMEN IN PRINT: BRIDGET RILEY, JOAN WILLIAMS, JANET FISHER AND MORE Come and learn how The Wilson acquired these artworks, how the artists made them and how we continue to look after them today so that generations can continue to enjoy them tomorrow. 6pm. £12 (£10 conc). The Wilson, Clarence Street, Cheltenham GL50 3JT. 01242 237431.

16 MARCH KATHERINE RYAN – GLITTER ROOM What does Canada’s first woman to have a worldwide Netflix special have in common with Britain’s first woman to have a worldwide Netflix special? They are both single mothers with too many pets. And they are both Katherine Ryan. 8pm. £21.50. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA. 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk

FLIGHT OF THE SWANS – THE POWER OF A GOOD STORY A key challenge to save a species is to stimulate and coordinate the activities of the species experts, often spread over many countries. A bigger problem is to engage others – hunters, farmers and authorities – who also have a part to play.

Flight of the Swans was WWT’s novel approach to achieve this. Event organised by the Forest of Dean Group of the GWT. 7.30pm. £2 (children free). Catholic Church Hall, Cinder Hill, Coleford, GL16 8HN. MALICE THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS: A WHODUNNIT IN WONDERLAND Six months after Alice first tumbled down the rabbit hole, all hell has broken loose in Wonderland. Join us for an interactive sleuthing evening in the Cathedral nave and help to solve the mystery of Malice through the Looking Glass. 7.30pm. £23.

Tickets available from the Cathedral shop (01452 768928). Gloucester Cathedral, 12 College Green, Gloucester GL1 2LX. SUPERSTARS OF WRESTLING Come and experience the excitement and atmosphere first hand as top names in British wrestling battle it out in an evening of high impact wrestling action, suitable for all the family. 7pm. £10-£13.

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

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Upcoming Upcoming EEvents vents att B a Bowden owden H Hall all H Hotel otel

Mother’s Day S Sunday unday 1 11th 1th M March arch £28 per adult £14 per child under 12 (under 5 eat free) Treat your mum this Mother’s Day with a special three course lunch in our Bar & Brasserie at Bowden, along with tea and coffee and a special gift for mum!

Absolutely Fabulous Friday F riday 1 13th 3th A April pril 3 course dinner and dancing £35 per person ffyy and Eddie as they take you Come and join Patsy, Saff down memory lane, the only problem is they are not invited, but Patsy has a plan! What could possibly go wrong? Anyone for champagne?

M Mercure ercure B Bowden owden H Hall all H Hotel otel • Bondend Bondend Lane Lane • Upton Upton St St Leonards Leonards • Gloucester Gloucester • GL4 GL4 8ED 8ED www.mercuregloucester.co.uk ww.mercuregloucester.co.uk e events@mercuregloucester.co.uk vents@mercuregloucester.co.uk 0 01452 1452 255 255 012 012 w 16 MARCH – 15 APRIL THE SECRET GARDEN: A MUSICAL After losing both parents to cholera in India, young Mary Lennox is sent to England to live with her hermit uncle, Archibald Craven.

Everything changes when Mary decides to revive the beauty of her Aunt Lily’s overgrown secret garden. For times and prices visit barntheatre.org.uk. The Barn Theatre, 5 Beeches Road, Cirencester GL7 1BN. 17 MARCH BREWERY TAP – IRISH NIGHT Our monthly Brewery Tap celebrates St Patrick’s Day with an Irish themed night – Irish music and Irish themed food and cocktails! Come and enjoy great beer and food with us. 6-11.30pm. Hillside Brewery, Holly Bush Farm, Ross Road, near Longhope, GL17 0NG, 01452 830222.

THERE WAS AN OLD LADY WHO SWALLOWED A FLY A charming new musical with all your favourite sing-along songs, with a uniquely entertaining mixture of live action, puppetry and animation. 2.30pm. £12 (£11 conc, £42 family). 01453 760900. Stroud Subscription Rooms, George Street, Stroud, GL5 1AE. www.subscriptionrooms.org.uk ROVING CROWS ST. PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATION Roving Crows push the boundaries of the Celtic Folk genre and play with genuine

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passion, energy and soul. A vibrant mix of Celtic-inspired fiddle alongside original and intelligent lyrics backed by pounding, tribal and electronica infused dance grooves. 8pm. £15.50 (£14.50 conc). 01453 760900.

Stroud Subscription Rooms, George Street, GL5 1AE. www.subscriptionrooms.org.uk 17 & 24 MARCH CANTORES CHAMBER CHOIR Cantores Chamber Choir presents a concert of music on the theme of Light on March 17th in Cirencester Parish Church at 7.30pm, and 24th March in St Peter’s Church Leckhampton, Cheltenham at 7.30pm. The main work is ‘Lux Aeterna’ by the American composer Morten Lauridsen, with other pieces by Brahms, Byrd, Gretchaninov, Rutter, Tallis and Wood.

Tickets £15 (concessions available) via our website: www.cantores.net, Andrew Gummer (01242 573193) and on the door.

18 MARCH CHELTENHAM HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY – SPRING SHOW Hundreds of dazzling spring flowers, including daffodils, tulips, alpines, orchids and cactus. There will be stalls selling crafts and plants. Local nurseries come along and not only sell you quality plants but give you good advice as to what to plant where and how to look after the plants. Refreshments available. With lots

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of plants for sale at competitive prices this is a must for all gardeners! 12.30pm. £2 (u16s free). Pittville Pump Room, East Approach Drive, Cheltenham GL52 3JE. 0844 576 2210. cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk 20 MARCH – 15 APRIL THE HARRIS DYNASTY EXHIBITION The first ever ‘Harris Dynasty’ exhibition, showcasing 50 years of unique studio glass designs by the late Michael Harris and his two sons, Timothy and Jonathan, both independent glassmakers, worldrenowned for their own unique and individual styles. 10am-5pm. Nature in Art, Wallsworth Hall, Sandhurst, Gloucester GL2 9PA. 01452 731422.

22 MARCH NT LIVE: JULIUS CAESAR Caesar returns in triumph to Rome and the people pour out of their homes to celebrate. Alarmed by the autocrat’s popularity, the educated elite conspire to bring him down. After his assassination, civil war erupts on the streets of the capital. Ben Whishaw and Michelle Fairley play Brutus and Cassius, David Calder plays Caesar and David Morrissey is Mark Antony. Broadcast live from The Bridge Theatre, London. 7pm. £16.50 (£14.50, students £12.50). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham, GL51 6EP. www.bacontheatre.co.uk

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22 MARCH AN ILLUSTRATED TALK BY STEPHEN DUNLEAVY Fat Kangeroos to Jumbo’s Blues, working with David Attenborough to tell stories from the past. Dunleavy’s credits include David Attenborough’s ‘Life in the Undergrowth’, ‘Saving Planet Earth’ and ‘Natural World’. £8 (includes buffet supper).

Tickets must be booked in advance. 7pm.

Nature in Art, Wallsworth Hall, Sandhurst, Gloucester GL2 9PA. 01452 731422.

24 MARCH BACH – B MINOR MASS The Cheltenham Bach Choir and the Musical and Amicable Society Baroque Orchestra perform JS Bach’s magnificent Mass in B minor in Cheltenham Town Hall at 7.30pm. www.cheltbachchoir.com.

Tickets £10-22 from the Town Hall box office, website, or call 0844 5762210.

BAKE BACK IN TIME Join our historic cook as she makes a variety of dishes from Mrs Beeton’s 1880 Shilling Cookery. Visitors are able to try the dishes themselves. Tea is also served in the basement. Free with normal admission. Drop-in any time from 11-3pm.

Holst Birthplace Museum, 4 Clarence Road, Cheltenham GL52 2AY. 01242 524846.

WILD WESTONBIRT If you’re aged 14-18 and want to learn more about bush craft and survival, Wild Westonbirt is for you! You’ll participate in a range of traditional forest and survival skills, including practical conservation, den building, fire lighting and wildlife watching.

Free. To book call 0300 067 4854 or email karen.price@forestry.gsi.gov.uk. Warm waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes are advised. 10am-4pm. Westonbirt Arboretum, Tetbury GL8 8QS. 0300 067 4890.

DESIGNING & PLANTING A WILDLIFE GARDEN Come and learn how to use the key elements of colour, shape and texture to create planting that is both a beautiful addition to your garden and a natural habitat for its native wildlife. 10am. £95pp.

Full details at wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/ slimbridge. WWT Slimbridge, Bowditch, Gloucester GL2 7BT. 01453 891900.

25-26 MARCH COMMUNITY WEEKEND To celebrate English National Tourism week the team at the Dean Heritage Centre invite you to discover the history of the Forest of Dean from the Ice Age to the present day. 10am-4pm. Dean Heritage Centre, Camp Mill, Soudley, Forest of Dean, GL14 2UB. 27 MARCH – 22 APRIL ICE BOUND EXHIBITION Darren Rees received the Artist in Residency honour from the Friends of The Scott Polar Research Institute, travelling to

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the Antarctic Peninsula. This display presents some of his sketches and paintings executed in situ, plus some studio pieces completed on his return. 10am-5pm.

Nature in Art, Wallsworth Hall, Sandhurst, Gloucester GL2 9PA. 01452 731422.

29 MARCH CIRQUE DU HILARIOUS: MAGICAL MISCHIEF TOUR Back by popular demand, Clive Webb and Danny Adams plan to amaze and delight you with their Magical Mischief Tour – a completely unique, fast paced, cirque style variety and comedy show, interspersed with magic, illusions, international circus acts and stunning professional dancers.

7pm. £14 (£12, family £48). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham, GL51 6EP. www.bacontheatre.co.uk 30 MARCH – 2 APRIL OPENING TO BROADWAY After 58 years public train services will again run to Broadway Station! Thanks to the tireless work of our volunteers over many years we are delighted to open a further stretch of our line so you will be able to travel over 14 miles from the historic village of Broadway all the way to our Cheltenham Racecourse Station. Times and prices vary. For full details please visit www.gwsr.com. 01242 604134.

EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA This Easter’s activities are set to delight visitors of all ages with the opportunity to experience fantastic dragon puppetry, get face-to-face with a baby dragon and take part in the colourful Chinese Dragon Parade. For full details please visit www.berkeley-castle.com. Berkeley Castle, Berkeley GL13 9BQ. 01453 810303.

30 MARCH – 14 APRIL FAMILY EASTER TRAIL A brand-new trail for the Easter holidays featuring specially-created characters by author and illustrator Hannah Shaw. Collect the clues around the Garden and use them to work out where to find your chocolate prize! £1 (plus normal admission). 10.30am.

Painswick Rococo Garden, Gloucester Road, Stroud GL6 6TH. 01452 813204.

30 MARCH – 15 APRIL THE BIG BATSFORD BUNNY HUNT! The Easter Bunny’s helpers have escaped and they’re hopping around the Arboretum – find them to win a prize! £2.50 per child (plus Arboretum entrance fee). All children must be accompanied by an adult. No booking required – just turn up and enjoy!

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

EGGSPERIENCE EASTER Do you know what happened on the very first Easter Day? Come to the Cathedral this Easter and you can follow a trail around this amazing building and find out the answer for yourself. The ‘Eggsperience’

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Easter Trail can be collected from a Cathedral Welcomer or downloaded from our website. Free. Mon-Sat 10.30am-4pm.

Sun 12noon-2pm. Gloucester Cathedral, 12 College Green, GL1 2LX. 01452 528095.

DUSTY’S GIANT EASTER DUCK HUNT Help Dusty find our cheeky GIANT yellow ducks hiding around our stunning grounds this Easter! You’ll need to use all your special detective skills to track down these cheeky ducks and claim your prize!

Full details at wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/ slimbridge WWT Slimbridge, Bowditch, Gloucester GL2 7BT. 01453 891900.

31 MARCH EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA Join us for a day of Easter-themed, familyfriendly activities and crafts. 11am-2pm.

Free entry. Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust, Crickley Hill, Birdlip, GL4 8JY. 01452 863170.

HEDGEROW EASTER BASKETS Come and learn how to make a simple basket out of hedgerow material to hold all your Easter eggs or just to enjoy for the rest of the year. 10am-5pm. £45 members/£55 non-members. Nature in Art, Wallsworth Hall, Sandhurst, Gloucester GL2 9PA. 01452 731422.

1 APRIL EASTER ANTIQUES & VINTAGE FAIR A great day out for avid collectors, casual browsers and families looking for an alternative day out. An opportunity to find alternative gifts, affordable retro home decor, and the missing piece to a collection. 10am-4pm. Free entry. Taurus Crafts, The Old Park, Forest of Dean, Lydney GL15 6BU. 01594 844841.

2 APRIL THE EASTER EGGSPRESS This ‘eggsellent’ event will be taking place at Winchcombe Station. You will have the chance to meet the Easter Bunny and take part in lots of fun Easter activities and win prizes. For full details please visit www.gwsr.com. 01242 604134.

4-8 APRIL CHEPSTOW WALKING FESTIVAL Grab your walking boots for 5 days of walking fun! 35 walks varying in length between 2-15 miles led by experienced walk leaders. For full programme and how to book visit www.walksinchepstow.co.uk 13 APRIL AN EVENING OF BURLESQUE & CABARET A dazzling evening of vintage inspired burlesque and cabaret. With sublime showgirls and ridiculous comedy, it’ll be naughty… and very nice! Over 18s only.

This show employs and embraces adult themes and partial nudity. 8pm. Gloucester Guildhall, 23 Eastgate Street, GL1 1NS. £15 plus booking fee. Call the box office on 01452 503050 or visit www.seetickets.com and search ‘Hundred Watt Club’.

The Local Answer

Vinyl Records

WANTED LOCAL BUYER PAYS CASH FOR

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YOUR YOUR U UNWANTED NWANTED R RECORDS ECORDS

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.

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

S Shipton hipton G Golf olf C Course ourse Shipton Golf Course, Nr Frogmill, Shipton, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL54 4HT

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www.shiptongolf.co.uk

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Greet • Gretton Each round is made up of 150 -400 copies per month. The rate of pay is 6 pence/copy. Depending on property types, our current team of people average between 100 -150 copies/hour (equivalent to £6-£9/hour).

T h e Loc Loca al l Magazines are delivered to The AN A NSW S W ER E R fforor llocal Distributors’ homes oca l ppeople e o p le towards the end of each month and we expect deliveries to be completed within four days between the hours of 7am and 9pm.

You must be 13+ years old, flexible, reliable and sufficiently physically fit to GLOUC GLOUCESTERS ESTERSHIRE HIRE NORTH NORTH perform the duties.

MARCH MARCH 2 2018 018

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Page 21

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 iitt was was a sspecial pecial 1 12 2m months onths aatt P Puckrup uckrup H Hall all By his own admission, last year was a bit of a whirl for Phil Schiaffino.

And that was particularly so on Saturday 15th July when he landed on the golf course at Puckrup Hall in a helicopter.

Now Puckrup Hall is a pretty decent set-up, but it’s not every day that a chopper lands a chip and a putt from the greens and fairways of a club that celebrated their 25th anniversary in 2017.

So what was the occasion?

“It was Captains’ Day,” said Schiaffino with a laugh, “and a ride in a helicopter was one of the raffle prizes on offer. Myself and ladies’ captain Ros Fenney were both

I lloved oved p playing laying football football John Finnigan is one of those really r e f re s h i n g b l o k e s w h o j u s t l ove d playing football.

N ow C h e l t e n h a m Town’s commercial manager, he still k i c ks a b a l l a r o u n d for the club’s veteran team today w h e n h e g et s t h e chance.

John Finnigan.

“I loved training Picture: and playing,” said Lincolnshire Echo the now nearly 42year-old, who was a professional fo o t b a l l e r fo r t h e b e s t p a r t o f t wo decades. And the ex-Cheltenham midfielder and captain enjoyed plenty of success too as he was a key part of three promotion-winning teams – two of them with Cheltenham.

SSmiths’ miths’ g good ood m move ove It’s said that a change is as good as a rest and that ’s certainly proving to be the case for Smiths Athletic Football Club.

This season the club are playing their home games at Tewkesbury School for t h e f i r s t t i m e a f te r a g o o d n u m b e r o f seasons at Dowty Staverton. Prior to

Phil Schiaffino and Ros Fenney at Puckrup Hall on Captains’ Day

raising money for Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice.”

That was just one of many events that Schiaffino was involved in that they’d played at the Newlands for years.

And whether it’s coincidence or not , there has certainly been a big upturn in their fortunes this season following their move because after struggling in Northern Senior League Division Two l a s t t i m e o u t , t h e y h a ve e n j oye d a m u c h b e t te r c a m p a i g n t h i s t i m e around.

Midfielder Oliver Babbage said: “Yes, the move has definitely worked for us.

The facilities are very good there.”

He’s He’s tthe he rreal eal d deal eal It ’s now three-and-a-half years since James Simpson-Daniel was forced to retire too soon from rugby because of a serious ankle injury.

And while these days he is no longer r u n n i n g r i n g s ro u n d o p p o n e n t s a t Kingsholm – the place that became his second home for 13 years – in some ways not much has changed in his life.

That ’s because he’s now working in the world of big business in London and although physical ly he is no longer putting his body on the line for the team, anyone who has James Simpson-Daniel

during his 12 months in office.

And while he very much enjoyed the role, he admitted it was hard work too. “It took a lot out of me,” he admitted. “It was very time consuming although I knew what I was letting myself into. I will definitely do it again, although not until I’ve retired.”

Born in Halesowen in the West Midlands 52 years ago on 1st March, Schiaffino first started swinging a club in his early 20s, but it wasn’t until Puckrup Hall opened that he started playing seriously.

“It’s quite a flat course,” he said. “I fell in love with the course and the club.”

Full story online. worked in finance knows just how competitive an environment it is.

“Yes, there are similarities,” said S i m p s o n - D a n i e l , n ow 3 5 . “ I f y o u d o well, you are rewarded. If you’re underperforming you’re out the door.

“It was the same in rugby, if you didn’t perform you weren’t in the team.”

O One ne o off tthe he g good o od g guys uys Talk to Jack Petelo for half-an-hour and you come off the phone feeling pretty good about life.

That ’s because the soon-to-be 39 year-old, who lives in Bishop’s Cleeve, is one of life’s warm, engaging characters.

The current player/coach at Old Richians has a ready laugh and is one of those easy-to-interview types who has a story to tell and is happy to tell it.

Born in Samoa, he is the cousin of Gloucester legend Tarry Fanolua who these days heads up the coaching setup at Old Richians.

Like 43-year-old Fanolua, Petelo learned his rugby in the country of his birth and he certainly has fond memories of those early days.

“We used to roll up a T-shirt and use that as a ball,” he laughed.

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

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JJonjo onjo iiss o one ne o off tthe he aall-time ll-time g greats reats I n s p o r t , t h e re a r e a h a n d f u l o f superstars where reference to them by a single name is all that is required to kick-start a conversation.

Think Ali, Cruyff or even Freddie – the one-time England cricketer Freddie Flintoff.

In the world of jump racing there’s Jonjo O’Neill… except that you don’t need the ‘O’Neill’ of course. Jonjo is known simply as ‘Jonjo’ and a quick look at his record over the past five decades or so as a jockey and a trainer tells you everything you need to know about the greatness of the man.

Even though the 65-year-old has been at or near the top of the tree for the best part of half a century, the hunger to produce winners from his Jackdaws Castle home in the heart of the Cotswolds is still driving him forward. And there’s no better place than the winner’s enclosure during the Cheltenham Festival, which gets under starter’s orders on Tuesday 13th March.

“The Festival is massive,” Jonjo said.

“It’s there all year round in the back of

Jonjo O’Neill is a legend in the world of jump racing

your mind, when you’re buying a young horse or working out where the more experienced horses might run.

Everyone wants to have a runner there.

“Living so close as we do, there’s a bit of extra pressure, not that we let it get to us or we try not to. We all love the place but it’s a lot more fun with a winner or two.

“It ’s just got bigger and bigger and now there are more opportunites with the extra races, it’s opening up a bit for owners who mightn’t have felt they could get there before. It’s not just the prizemoney – though that helps! – it’s the atmosphere; you can barely move for the people and most of them want you to tip them a winner!”

Full story online.

Trainer Trainer KKim im B Bailey ailey iiss sstill till proving proving ttoo bbee a bbig ig hhitter itter When he spoke to The Local Answer, Kim Bailey was 37 not out. And if that sounds more like a cricket comment than racing talk it certainly isn’t i n a p p ro p r i a t e fo r s o m e o n e w h o i s a big fan of all things bat and ball.

“Yes, I’m a member of Lord’s and I u s e d to p l a y a l o t o f c r i c k e t w h e n I was younger,” said Bailey.

And while he’s made his name as one of the leading National Hunt trainers for three decades now, he’s clearly a bit of an all-rounder when it comes to sport .

“I played for the MCC when I was about 19,” he said. “I used to be an off-spinner and I’d bat at six. I was one of those who tried to knock it out of the ground!”

B u t w h i l e h i s c r i c k e t p l ay i n g d ay s are long gone – “Sadly, I’m too old now,” he chuckled – he’s still full on when it comes to the racing game,

particularly at this time of the year with the Cheltenham Festival just around the corner.

That ’s in terms of time, as well as geography, for Bailey, who set up base in glorious Gloucestershire – and s p e c i f i c a l l y A n d ov e r s fo rd – i n S e p t e m b e r 2 0 0 6 . “ I l o ve i t ro u n d here,” he said. “I love Cheltenham and I love living in Gloucestershire.”

And like everyone else involved in jump racing he’s counting down the d ay s a n d h o u r s to t h e s t a r t o f t h e Cheltenham Festival on Tuesday 13th March – the start of four days of racing w h e n j u st o n e w i n n e r c at a p u l t s a trainer’s season to another level.

T h e a f o r e m e n t i o n e d ‘ 3 7 ’ re f e r s t o t h e n u m b e r o f w i n n e r s B a i l ey h a d trained – at the time of writing – this season. He’s averaged just a smidgen shy of 40 over the past seven seasons – a figure that in cricket terms would

Kim Bailey

certainly be good enough to earn him a place in England’s current Test team!

And the numbers have certainly added up for a trainer who was rubbing shoulders with the very best in the 90s when saddling winners in the Grand National, Gold Cup and Champion Hurdle.

So what would he consider to be a successful Cheltenham Festival?

“Just one winner, in any race,” said Bailey. “That ’s the golden moment .

Ask Paul Nicholls the same question and he’ll give you the same answer.

Every race is an Oscar.”

Full story online.

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

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The Local Answer

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

Ready, Ready, Players?

Players?

GAME G AME

With the impending release of Steven Spielberg’s latest blockbuster ‘Ready Player One’, many devoted gamers are going to be able to relive the nostalgia of their favourite g a m e s . Fr o m t h e ‘ 8 0 s h e yd ay o f Pacman and Street Fighter, to more modern gaming franchises like Tomb Raider and Sonic The Hedgehog , these games have proven they have lasting impact on our culture. For those looking to experience more of w h a t t h e g a m i n g i n d u s t r y h a s to offer, take a look at some of these g a d g e t s t h a t c a n b r i n g t h e f u n to your living room.

built-in games, you can always use the cartridge slot for any Mega Drive G a m e s y o u m i g h t s t i l l ow n . E n j oy t h e m u l t i p l ay e r a c t i o n a s y o u compete in Boss Battles, or even b a t t l e a g a i n s t yo u r f r i e n d s fo r t h e ultimate gaming championship. At £69.99, the Sega Mega Drive Classic a l l ow s y o u t o e n j o y a m o re o l d school style of gaming.

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SSega ega Mega Mega D Drive rive CClassic lassic with w ith 8 81 1g games ames If you’re seriously into your retro gaming devices, then you’ll a p p re c i a te t h e S e g a M e g a D r i v e Classic. This 2-player console comes f u l l y p a c k e d w i t h u p to 8 1 c l a ss i c built-in games, including the Phantasy Star series, Mortal Kombat, Sonic The Hedgehog and Golden Axe. And if you don’t find yourself completely spoilt for choice from the The Local Answer

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The Nintendo Switch has seen a dramatic change in recent fortune for Japanese v i d e o g a m e d ev e l o p e r s, with games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, S u p e r M a r i o O d y s s ey a n d Overcooked bringing fastpaced lasting fun that ’s s u i t a b l e fo r a l l a g e s . I f you’re looking for the latest in innovative gaming, then this is a must for all old and

new gamers alike. Available from GAME at £279.99

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The Local Answer

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

IIt’s t’s ttime ime tto op prune! rune!

I t i s m y h o p e t h a t by t h e t i m e you’re reading this, spring will have s p r u n g a n d we m a y h a ve s l i g h t l y better weather than the first two months of the year – finger ’s crossed!

March is the time to prune your bush-roses (hybrid teas and floribundas) if you haven’t done so already. Cut off all the spindly twigs and anything dead, damaged or diseased. Cut to an outward facing bud, leaving about 2.5cm of last year’s growth on weaker stems and a bit more on stronger stems.

Encourage Encourage n new ew sshoots hoots to to e emerge merge Shrub roses don’t need such drastic pruning , and with these if they are looking a bit congested, cut out about one third of the thickest , oldest branches at the base with a pruning saw, thus encouraging new shoots to emerge. Take about 10cm off the to p o f t h e re m a i n i n g s te m s to finish, and feed with a handful of rose fertiliser.

Winter flowering heathers look b e t te r fo r a n a n n u a l p r u n i n g to keep the plants compact and bushy.

The books recommend using secateurs but if there is a large area of heathers it is easier to use shears. Don’t cut into the old wood but just prune off nearly all of the previous season’s growth.

N ow i s a g o o d t i m e to t r i m ornamental grasses. Evergreen grasses like Festuca glauca or Pampas Grass are pruned annually in early spring. The small ones like the Festuca just need their tips trimmed to remove dead bits, whilst the large Pampas can be cut

hard back to the base, and dead material raked out to let light and air into the plant centre. You will need strong gloves for this as the leaves are razor sharp!

Deciduous grasses like M i s c a n t h u s a n d St i p a c a n b e cu t down to about 10cm now to get rid of the old brown stems and allow the new green growth to take over.

Trim winter-flowering heathers with shears as they stop flowering to keep them compact .

Cacti Cacti a are re p popular opular a and nd demand demand little little a attention ttention C a c t i a s h o u s e p l a n t s a re becoming very popular as they suit a contemporary home and demand little attention, but can need a bit of TLC by the end of the winter.

Don’t just leave them to get dusty and forgotten on a windowsill, but p u t t h e m i n s o m e f re s h s o i l ( y o u can get cactus compost from the garden centre) and put in a slightly larger pot. Watch your hands on the spines – you can use some card to make a handle to wrap around the plant . Finally, water very sparingly just around the edge, making sure not to wet the plant .

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Page 32

PAINTING P AINTING & DECORATING D ECORATING

Kitchens G Doors G Timber Flo Stairs G Roofing G Bespoke Joine G Decking G Fencing

0 01242 1242 6604423/07792 04423/07792 088822 088822 mattgrimshawcarpentry@live.co.uk mattgrimshawcarpentry@live.co.uk www.mattgrimshawcarpentry.co.uk w ww.mattgrimshawcarpentry.co.uk

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

10% DISCOUNT ON KITCHEN FITTING WHEN QUOTING TL A

The Local Answer

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

How How tto o rrevive evive yyour our kkitchen itchen The kitchen seems like the biggest project in any home, but it really doesn’t have to be; with planning and preparation key, you can give your kitchen a facelift without the extraordinary bill.

o r a l te r n a t i ve l y p a i n t t h e d o o r s another colour to make the kitchen d i f fe re n t . fe e l completely R e m e m b e r to s a n d a n d p r i m e s o the upgrade is of the best quality.

Paint Paint tthe he w walls alls

K i tc h e n h a n d l e s a r e o n e o f t h e most used things in our home and c a n s t a r t t o l o o k wo r n a n d o l d .

Replace the hardware on your k i tc h e n c u p b o a r d s to s o m e t h i n g Update pdate tthe he ssplashback plashback sleek and modern in chrome, or U upgrade to on-trend brass or Remove those tired old tiles behind the sink or cooker and replace with copper. something bright and new. Try U Update pdate tthe he ffloor loor laying the tiles in a contemporary This may seem like a huge project, pattern, like herringbone, for a real but it doesn’t have to be; there are on-trend look and feel, and so many ways to update your remember the grout too. This year flooring now. Go for a complete it ’s all about coloured grout; grey overhaul and update the floor to a looks fantastic against bright whites patterned tile to give your kitchen and lights.

One of the easiest ways to update any room is to give the walls a lick of paint . With many brands now offering durable paint for kitchen walls the world is your oyster. Go light for a fresh look to brighten up the room or go dark for a dramatic contemporary feel in your kitchen space.

R Revamp evamp tthe he u units nits T h e i n s i d e o f m o s t k i tc h e n cupboards are fine, but it ’s the doors that need the facelift . You could completely replace the doors The Local Answer

Replace R eplace tthe he h hardware ardware

space a real dramatic upgrade.

Alternatively, replace tiles with wood flooring for a warmer look and feel.

If those options sound a little too much, paint over existing wooden floors with floor paint to make the ro o m f e e l l i g h t a n d b r i g h t . T h e r e are so many different colours to c h o o s e n ow f o r f l o o r p a i n t – yo u might find picking a colour a little tricky!

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QUALITY Q UALITY KITCHEN K ITCHEN FACELIFTS F ACELIFTS

F For or a b beautiful eautiful new new k kitchen itchen ... ... jjust ust change c hange the the d doors oors

SHOWROOM NOW OPEN!

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Installed by local skilled tradesmen G Save £1000s with a makeover G Trusted reputation G

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1 18 8H High igh Street, Street, Stonehouse, Stonehouse, Gloucestershire Gloucestershire GL10 GL10 2NA 2NA

Transforming T ransforming K Kitchens itchens a across cross G Gloucestershire loucestershire

L R: LR Bill Owen (Director, Dream Doors), ) Theresa Wa W tt (Mayoress of Stonehouse), ) Charlene Herbert, t Simon Herbert (Owner), Jane Arther (Showroom Assistant) and Troy Tappenden (Managing Director, Dream Doors)

M ake yyour our d ream kkitchen itchen a rreality eality – Make dream vvisit isit Dream Dream D oors’ n ew sshowroom howroom Doors’ new Get ready for Dream Doors to inspire you to transform your kitchen. They’re the largest retail franchised kitchen door replacement company in the UK and their success is only increasing. The company are proud to have opened their newest showroom in Stonehouse to serve Gloucestershire, meaning they now have over 80 outlets across the UK – an impressive figure!

S i m o n H e r b e r t , ow n e r o f t h e Gloucestershire franchise, is ready to p ro v i d e a s o l u t i o n f o r t i r e d k i t c h e n s across the county. He’s certainly made a good start and received a warm reception at the official opening with Mayoress of Stonehouse Theresa Watt saying she was “delighted to welcome a new business.”

A very motivated individual, Simon had no difficulty expressing his passion for the company he works for – “they’re a m a z i n g , a n d s t i l l g r ow i n g ” . H e s a i d : “Customers across Gloucestershire will receive the personal approach that comes with a family-run showroom, w h i l s t a l s o b e i n g s e c u re i n t h e knowledge that Dream Doors is a trusted national brand.”

It hasn’t all been easy, though. “It was a challenge. We operated from home for six months, so we’re thrilled that we’ve now got this base,” said S i m o n . “ W h e n we f i r s t s t a r te d , t h e room was in a very poor state – damp and dreary. The team have been great – we all pulled together and put a lot of work in to making the premises fit for purpose, so we’re really excited about showing it off to the public.”

You’ll Y ou’ll b be e sspoilt poilt ffor or cchoice hoice T h e f i n i s h e d s h o w ro o m i s , i n d e e d , something to be proud of – the pristine, we l l - l i t a n d m o d e r n e n v i ro n m e n t i s ideal for housing the variety of made to measure kitchen designs that cater for different tastes. The displays range from traditional to ultra-modern designs, with plenty of colours and materials to choose from, so you’ll be spoilt for choice.

It ’s a good thing Simon rose to the challenge, because Dream Doors’ latest d i s p l ay i n i t i a t i v e i s s u re to p rov i d e a n enhanced c u s to m e r experience.

“Creating this new facility helps to endorse the great products and fantastic

service we’ve been providing in Gloucestershire. With no need for appointments, people can now relax as t h e y v i s i t to v i e w a n d fe e l w h a t we have to offer, making it easier for them to decide on their new kitchen,” he said.

The team at Dream Doors know how important it is to have a kitchen that re f l e c t s yo u r p e r s o n a l s t y l e a n d a re dedicated to providing a space you’ll be proud of. And if you’re after a client e n d o r s e m e n t , S i m o n s ay s n u m e ro u s c u s to m e r s p rov i d e s at i sf i e d confirmation of the high quality service he and the team deliver – including Roger and Hazel who recently described Dream Doors’ work as “fantastic from start to finish”.

If Simon and his team can transform their outlet , they can certainly transform a kitchen. They displayed v i s i o n a n d p u t a h u g e e f fo r t i n to making a great quality showroom, so imagine the same level of expertise and commitment going into your kitchen! You may not have to imagine fo r l o n g t h o u g h – by p a y i n g t h e m a visit now, your dream kitchen could become a reality very soon.

Come Come aand nd vvisit isit oour ur n new ew sshowroom howroom iin nS Stonehouse! tonehouse!

Page 36

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The Local Answer

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

Recycling: Recycling: bbehind ehind tthe he sscenes cenes For many people, recycling is a day to day activity that they don’t put much thought into. Simply rinse the can, jar or bottle, put it in a box that g o e s a t t h e e n d o f t h e d r i ve a n d have somebody else take it away for you. However, behind the scenes a lot more goes into it than many people think . Here’s what really happens to your recycling , and some tips to make the most of what you can.

TThe he p process rocess Dry recyclables are taken to one of m a n y M R F ( M a t e r i a l s R e c yc l i n g Facilities) where they are sorted into individual items: mostly paper, plastic and glass. From here, the items are sent off to their relevant plant to be recycled; food tins are m e l t e d d ow n to m a k e c a r components and parts of large electrical items, and drinks cans are melted and reformed into new cans which can be in shops again in six weeks.

G l a ss b o t t l e s a re c r u s h e d a n d r e m o d e l e d i n to n e w i te m s ,

although some crushed glass is also u s e d to h e l p m a k e ro a d s . P l a s t i c bottles are shredded and made i n to a m u l t i t u d e o f p l a s t i c items, including your recycling bins, and paper is pulped and re fo r m e d , b a c k o n the newsstand in as little as two weeks.

What’s tthe What’s he point? p oint?

R e c yc l i n g household waste, as well as p r eve n t i n g u s f ro m u s i n g m o r e v i r g i n m a t e r i a l s, a l s o stops a large amount of waste b e i n g p u t i n to l a n d f i l l , a l t h o u g h currently, only around 17% of our household waste is being recycled.

When waste goes into landfill, it breaks down far more slowly and releases chemicals into the soil a ro u n d i t , m a k i n g i t u n u s a b l e f o r a ny t h i n g ot h e r t h a n d u m p i n g waste. There’s also a chance that these chemicals can reach the water system and contaminate water for both us and animals.

L a n d f i l l s i te s r e q u i r e h u g e amounts of space for everything to be gotten rid of, causing deforestation and the destruction of g re e n l a n d , a n d a s l a n d f i l l s i te s expel large amounts of greenhouse gases, this means that there are also less trees and plants to absorb the CO2. Recycling means that less energy is required to create new products, which helps decrease the amount of CO2 a product creates during its manufacture.

H How ow ccan an I rrecycle ecycle better? better?

Make sure you know the recycling rules in your area: different councils will have slightly varying rules, and recycled items are collected on d i f f e re n t d a y s d e p e n d i n g o n yo u r location. Making the effort to know what you can recycle curbside and what needs to go to your nearest p l a n t w i l l s ave yo u t h e h a s s l e o f having things left on your drive at the end of the day. Try to buy recycled products to reduce the a m o u n t o f v i rg i n m a te r i a l s b e i n g used, and don’t forget that you can also recycle garden waste and food waste!

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from CLASSIC to CONTEMPORARY, MODERN to MOBILITY ...

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in without even realising it has been altered to meet your mobility needs. We provide unobtrusive mobility solutions from a simple grab rail, high raise comfort WC pan, slipresistant flooring, easy to use taps and much more, and it’s all fitted by our own in-house work force – no sub-contractors!

Your Y our ssafety afety a and nd comfort comfort in in mind mind At Severn Vale Bathrooms we never use tiles, but instead opt for easy clean UPVC panels.

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and designs to choose from.

The benefits of panels are that there is no grout to discolour, they reduce condensation and, above all, they are low maintenance.

So, if your bathing needs are changing and your bathroom needs a revamp, visit our extensive showroom and see what we can offer, or alternatively call for a free quotation.

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with with Roger Roger D Downes ownes o of fA Andorran ndorran

Trust Trust iin nB Business usiness It says it on my cufflinks – ‘Trust me…. I’m an accountant’ and, of course, you can! But there are many big businesses out there that have got themselves into deep water socially, financially or politically, who are desperate to rebuild the trust they once commanded from the great British public.

Oxfam is the latest such case. Let’s not dwell on the wellpublicised cause of their latest difficulties, but instead consider that they have to rebuild public trust . There are many charities doing excellent work in numerous different fields and surely they are all set to benefit because no-one will want to support Oxfam if that’s what they’re going to do with our money. Right? In the short term, yes, of course that’s right and so it should be. But it set me wondering just how easy or difficult the rebuilding of trust can be.

It was little more than two years ago that Volkswagen was found to have cheated emissions testing by fitting software which meant that completely false readings were generated when cars were tested. Deliberate and sy s te m a t i c m a n i p u l a t i o n o f t h e s y s te m . A f te r a n i n i t i a l downturn in sales, the company was reporting an increase in profits just over six months later. Does anyone think back to the scandal when considering which new car to buy? I doubt if it even comes into people’s thoughts for a split second.

Many M any ccases ases of of social social change change

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aawdfireplaces.co.uk wdfireplaces.co.uk mail@awdfireplaces.co.uk U Unit nit JJ,, TThe he B Bramery ramery B Business usiness P Park, ark, A Alstone lstone LLane, ane, C Cheltenham heltenham GL51 GL51 8HE 8HE

The Local Answer

Money Money M Matters atters

Many of the things that were deemed to be acceptable years ago have been shown to be socially unacceptable in more modern times. Think back to drink driving, which for years was deemed to be part of a night out, but quickly, and thankfully, turned those who did so into social outcasts.

The well-publicised goings on in the entertainment industry are another classic example of social change.

T h e s a m e h a s b e e n h a p p e n i n g i n t h e f i n a n c i a l wo r l d , firstly with money-laundering and more recently with tax avoidance. You can’t open a bank account now without a degree in form-filling and knowing the inside-leg measurement of the person who gave you the money you are trying to put into the bank for safekeeping. Tax avoidance used to be the domain of the ‘lucky few’ who had sufficient to make it worthwhile, but that’s no longer the case. Successive Chancellors have cracked down on i n d i v i d u a l s w h o h av e ‘ i n v e s te d ’ i n s c h e m e s, p a r t i c u l a r l y those offshore, that avoided them paying UK tax .

We all moan when big companies appear not to pay their ‘fair share’ of corporation tax in the UK . They are villified in the press for their actions. But which search engine do we go to in order to look anything up online? The one after which the activity is now known – ‘I’ll g***le it’. And where do we buy our coffee or do our online shopping? Yes, those h o u s e h o l d n a m e s w h o h av e s t r u c t u re d t h e i r b u s i n e ss e s such that they aren’t seen to be making meaningful contributions to the UK Treasury.

We’re an interesting bunch, the great British public, when it comes to trust in business.

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Index of Advertisers FOOD & DRINK Tall Order Catering

7

WHAT’S ON CLUBS & SPORTS Sherdons Golf Centre Shipton Golf Course EVENTS & ATTRACTIONS AJP Amusements Bowden Hall

2 21 18 19

PROPERTY & STORAGE Bovis Homes Norton Park Park Home Life

10 14 12

RETAIL Universal Uniform Vinyl Records

18 21

HOMES & GARDENS BATHROOMS Severn Vale Bathrooms 21 & 38-39 Lifestyle Bathrooms 40

BUILDING SERVICES C&G Paving 24 Flatpak-Jak 32 GlosBuild 25 Home Care Roofing & Building 24 JHD Roofing & Buiding 26 Marshalls Driveways 24 Pave-Drive 27 28 R. Richards & Sons RND Renovations 27 26 S.J. Lewis & Sons CARPENTRY Matt Grimshaw 32 CLEANING SERVICES Cotswold Carpet Cleaning 41 Oven Busters 41 FURNISHING & APPLIANCES AW Fireplaces 41 Dream Doors 34-35 Gloucester Carpet Outlet 43

Just Doors & Handles 30 Rapport Interiors 32 30 Sasha Interiors Spacemaster 28 GARDEN SERVICES Acorn Gardening Services 30 Cheltenham Town Landscaping 26 Grass Scape 27 HANDYMAN SERVICES 30 Handy Hero for Hire HEATING & PLUMBING Drain Doctor 27 KB Female Plumber 32 PAINTING & DECORATING Brian Mitten 32 TV & AERIAL 1st Choice Aerials 5 WINDOWS & DOORS Albany Windows 44 Clearway Doors & Windows 36

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES COMPUTER SERVICES Abbey Group EDUCATION St Edward’s School IRONING Ferrum LX MOTOR SERVICES Car Helpers V Hub SKIP HIRE & RECYCLING Stevens Recycling

4 8 5 4 4 42

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COMPETITION WINNERS The TLA Photography 2018 winner for the March 2018 cover is Daphne Davis of Cirencester.

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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.

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ATTENTION A TTENTION! Let us lighten your load!

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