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MARCH 2018

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

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AN ANSWER SWER G loucestershire SSouth outh – 441,000 1,000 ccopies opies Gloucestershire G loucester – 446,000 6,000 ccopies opies Gloucester G loucestershire N orth – 220,000 0,000 ccopies opies Gloucestershire North FForest orest ooff D ean – 222,000 2,000 ccopies opies Dean CCotswolds otswolds – 228,000 8,000 ccopies opies CCheltenham heltenham – 43,000 43,000 ccopies opies

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

Production Production Kevin evin V Vaughan-Spruce aughan-Spruce K

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 spend some time in your garden? According to Julia Smith, it’s time to prune, so put on your gardening gloves, soak up the sunshine and follow Julia’s ‘In the Garden’ advice to get yours looking in tip-top condition!

Alternatively, you could go for a walk in the countryside and who knows, 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!

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services@thelocalanswer.co.uk services@thelocalanswer.co.uk

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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’ss winning cover photo: Daphne Davis of Cirencester

Delicious D Delicious Dish ish 5 Quick Q uick CCrossword rossword 6 Parenting P arenting & G Gardianship ardianship 8 EEducation ducation 11 11 Wildlife W ildlife M Matters atters 13 13 What’s What’ss O On n 14 14 Homes Homes & G Gardens ardens 20 20 SSudoku udoku 22 2 2 IIn n tthe he G Garden arden 23 2 3 IInterior nterior D Design esign 2 27 7 W Word ord SSearch earch 3 30 0 TTLA LA Sport Sport 3 32-33 2-33 IIndex, ndex , CCompetitions, ompetitions, SSolutions olutions 34 34

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Page 3

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.

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!

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We W e also also offer: o ff er : •C Cosmetic osmetic D Dentistry entis •T Teeth eeth Whitening Whitening •T Teeth eeth Straightening Straighten • IImplants mplants • FFacial acial Aesthetics Aesthetics ((Anti-Wrinkle Anti-Wrinkle Treatment) Tre • LLip ip Enhancements Enhancemen •E Emergency mergency Appointments App

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Page 5

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Call C all M Mark ark H Hawkes: awkes: 01453 01453 222181 222181

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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 FFor or enquiries enquiries pplease lease ccall: all: H ead C hef Head Chef 0 7841 6 20883 07841 620883 SSales/Administration ales/Administration 0 7725 7 40690 07725 740690

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

How How to to g get et iitt rright ight w when hen iitt goes wrong aallll g oes w rong You are a rock – I hope you know that. You are the foundation of your family’s world, their North Star, their firm footing. So if ‘the worst’ should happen and you feel like everything is falling away like a Californian m u d - s l i d e h ow c a n yo u m a i n t a i n some sense of confidence that you are still doing OK? I often hear from parents that are dealing with the fallout from a marriage breakup, health-scare or even a natural disaster (the 2007 Gloucestershire flooding is a thing of l e g e n d ) a n d m y j o b i s t o re m i n d t h e m o f a l l t h ey a re d o i n g r i g h t , even when it feels like everything is wrong.

Allow lless Allow ess iimportant mportant iissues ssues tto o ffall all a away way F i r s t l y t h e re i s p r i o r i t i s i n g – t h a t m o s t s u b t l e a r t o f a l l ow i n g s o m e less important issues to fall away whilst bringing the pressing and most urgent to the fore. For the psychologists amongst you, you may l i n k t h i s to t h e b a s i c l e v e l o f Maslow ’s Hierarchy of Needs –

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shelter, food, access to physical maintenance and functions. Sometimes it is a l l y o u c a n d o to g e t a meal in front of the kids, keep the place warm and dry, and manage at least one conversation without bursting into tears – as a n yo n e w h o h a s l o s t a partner will attest to.

I s a y t h i s n o t to b e morose but to realise that beneath the veneer of respectability we put on for the public every day, we are all fighting our personal little battles with money, mental health, social situations or family nightmares – and n o t o n e o f u s i s i m m u n e f ro m a sudden and shocking change to our ‘normal.’

If this is you right now, I want you to know that you are not alone, you are certainly not weak and yes, you do deserve to be loved and supported through this transition. I urge you to reach out to someone – family if you have them, friends if you don’t , and if neither of these

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appear available to you The Samaritans offer a space for you to be heard without judgement , and there is certainly no shame in utilising this incredible service.

TThere’s here’s m more ore support support out out tthere here tthan han y you ou rrealise ealise D o t a l k t o yo u r G P – j u s t t o k e e p them in the loop – even if you do not actually want medicinal intervention, and keep the kids’ schools informed of any changes at home.

Not only will you get a chance to share your truth, but you might just f i n d o u t t h e re i s m o re s u p p o r t o u t there than you ever realised.

Try to get outside every day and, if you can manage it, keep a diary of good things to help you remember that the whole world is not failing, just one little piece of it isn’t going according to plan at the moment.

Children are resilient but they do need a safe place to process – and yo u a re u s u a l l y i t , s o i f t h ey a re d r i v i n g yo u m a d , ye t a g a i n , remember you are the safest space in their lives and they love you and trust you to be there no matter how horrible they feel.

A n d i n c a s e n o o n e h a s t o l d yo u to d a y – y o u a re d o i n g a n a m a z i n g job!

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TThe he u nique vision vision of of unique TThe he A corn SSchool chool Acorn

T he Acor n School

‘‘Creating Creating freethinking freethinking young young people people of of insight insight and and integrity integrity who who aare re rready eady ttoo ttake ake their their place place in in the the world’ world’ The Acor n School is an independent, co-educational school in Nailsworth, Gloucestershire, which provides an invigorating, quality education for pupils throughout their school life.

The diverse curriculum integrates creative and physical activities with academic studies, forming a unique, threefold education designed to support and engage students throughout the various stages of their development.

New New K Kindergarten indergarten opening opening later later this this academic academic y year ear We are excited to be expanding to include a kindergarten, for children aged 3 to 6, and therefore offering a holistic education to children, throughout their school life.

w place Our kindergarten will the emphasis on a balanced curriculum that weaves free creative play with a daily and weekly rhythm of craft activities, to nurture your child’s growing awareness of the world.

Regular nature walks, cooking and painting allow for a holistic and caring

experience that will provide a wholesome, firm foundation on which to build in their later formal, academic learning.

A warm welcome awaits you and your child.

FFor or m more ore information information or or to to enrol enrol your your child, child, please please contact contact the the school school office. office.

T The he A Acorn corn S School, chool, Church Church Street, Street, Nailsworth, Nailsworth, Gloucestershire Gloucestershire GL6 GL6 0 0BP BP T Tel. el. 01453 01453 836 836 508 508 • www.theacornschool.com www.theacornschool.com • info@theacornschool.com info@theacornschool.com

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 11

SSwallow wallow LLakes akes P PARK ARK

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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

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

Wee re W recommend ecommend yyou ou uuse se tthe he ccontact ontact ddetails etails pprovided rovided to to check check event event information information uupdates pdates pprior rior ttoo pplanning lanning yyour our vvisit. isit.

THROUGHOUT THROUGHOUT MARCH 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’ss art scene. Coffee Shop available. Wednesday – Saturday.

10am-4pm. www.thechapelarts.com 11-31 -31 MARCH 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 magnolias start to blossom. 9am-5pm. Arboretum entrance fee applies. Batsford Arboretum, Moretonin-Marsh, GL56 9QB. 01386 701441.

1 MARCH MARCH – 15 15 A APRIL PRIL 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 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. 3 MARCH 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 MOSAIC GARDEN BIRDS – YYVVETTE GREEN In this workshop you will produce a stained-glass mosaic bird on a stalk to brighten up your garden. Skills covered will include basic glass cutting and stained glass mosaic techniques. Suitable for all levels (glass cutting skills are a bonus). £45 members, £55 non-members. 10am5pm. Full details at natureinart.org.uk.

01452 731422. Nature In Art, Wallsworth Hall, Sandhurst, GL2 9PA . 01452 733947.

4 MARCH MARCH SECRETS OF SILK WOOD GUIDED WALK Take in the stunning seasonal sights of the ancient Silk Wood. Our volunteers will guide you round the ancient woodland, and reveal some of the hidden gems of

the arboretum. Guided walks set off from the Welcome Building. Please wear suitable clothing and footwear for outdoor walking. Dogs on leads 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… 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 66-10 -10 MARCH MARCH PRESSURE Scottish meteorologist Group Captain James Stagg advises General Eisenhower on when to give the order to send thousands of waiting troops across the Channel in Operation Overlord. The future of Britain, Europe and our relationship with the United States is at stake as well as the lives of millions. For times and prices visit www.everymantheatre.org.uk.

The Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham, GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573.

7 MARCH MARCH THE MAGNIFICENT MUSIC HALL With a show packed full of talent, we invite you on a journey down memory lane to the 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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7 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. 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 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 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 9 MARCH GARDEN DESIGN FUNDAMENTALS We will take a look at some of the fundamental principles of garden design,

examples in real gardens and how to apply them in your garden at home.

10.30am. £30. For more 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 10-11 MARCH MOTHERING SUNDAY FAMILY EVENT This Mother’s Day we’ll be celebrating family ties with our special family event.

Head to the Learning Centre 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.

11 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?

No need to book, just turn up and enjoy!

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 of music for upper voices 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 of the concert. 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. This year we’ll be offering a specially designed afternoon tea, exclusive to Mother’s Day 2018. 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™, Preview gives the opportunity to hear the thoughts and opinions of some of the leading industry figures. The panel for 2018 will be hosted by Jeremy Kyle with guests John Francome, Ruby Walsh, Fergal O’Brien and Cornelius Lysaght. 6.30pm. £6 (Annual Members free). Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Prestbury, GL50 4SH. 01242 513014.

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Page 15

1144 MARCH 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 16 16 MARCH MARCH 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 (includes refreshments). Free for children (7+ years). 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. Tickets £23 (includes welcome drink and cheese platters) 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 1166 MARCH MARCH – 15 15 A APRIL PRIL 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.

Page 16

1177 MARCH 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 They push the boundaries of the Celtic Folk genre and play with genuine passion, energy and soul. A vibrant mix of Celticinspired 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 1177 & 2244 MARCH 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.

1188 MARCH 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. Refreshments available.

12.30pm. £2 (u16s free). Pittville Pump Room, East Approach Drive, Cheltenham GL52 3JE. 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk APRIL 2200 MARCH MARCH – 15 15 A PRIL 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.

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22 22 MARCH 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. 7pm. £16.50 (£14.50, students £12.50). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham, GL51 6EP. www.bacontheatre.co.uk AN ILLUSTRATED TALK BY STEPHEN DUNLEAVVYY 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.

JOO YEON SIR AND IRINA ANDRIEVSKY A welcoming return by this exciting duo, Korean-born British violinist Joo Yeon Sir and her regular partner Irina Andrievsky.

7.30pm. Prices vary. Pittville Pump Room, East Approach Drive, GL52 3JE. 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk 23 MARCH MARCH 23 EASTER HANGING DECORATIONS With Easter just around the corner, come along and make a beautiful hanging decoration! Available sessions: 10.30am1pm or 2-4.30pm. £10. Nature in Art, Wallsworth Hall, Sandhurst, Gloucester GL2 9PA . 01452 731422.

2244 MARCH MARCH BACH – B MINOR MASS The Cheltenham Bach Choir and the Musical and Amicable Society Baroque Orchestra perform JS Bach’ss 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 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 den building and wildlife watching. Free.

To book your place 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.

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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, 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 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 DOCTOR AND THE MEDICS Celebrating their 35th Anniversary this year, they have always been recognised as a great live act, never more so than with the current line-up that delivers a unique and sensationally flamboyant show.

8pm. £12 (£14 on the door). 01453 760900.

Stroud Subscription Rooms, George Street, GL5 1AE. www.subscriptionrooms.org.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 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. Full details at www.berkeley-castle.com. Berkeley Castle, Berkeley GL13 9BQ. 01453 810303.

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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 clues around the Garden and use them to work out where to find your chocolate prize! £1 (plus normal admission). 10.30am5pm. 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.

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, 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. Full details at www.gwsr.com.

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. Sublime showgirls and ridiculous comedy! Over 18s only. This show employs and embraces adult themes and partial nudity. 8pm. Gloucester Guildhall, 23 Eastgate Street, GL1 1NS. Tickets £15 plus booking fee. Call the box office on 01452 503050 or visit www.seetickets.com and search ‘Hundred Watt Club’.

15 APRIL KEYBOARD EXTRAVAGANZA – CHELTENHAM MUSIC FESTIVAL SOCIETY Andrew Millington, who held posts at Exeter, Guildford and Gloucester Cathedrals, with David Davies, formerly Exeter and Guildford Cathedrals, switch from Piano to Organ… and vice-versa. Programme to include music by Gustav Holst. 3pm in St. Andrew’s Church, Montpellier. Tickets are £15 including afternoon tea and prosecco.

Email treasurer@cmfsoc.org.uk or telephone 07895 407177.

28 APRIL THE PEACEMAKERS Cheltenham Choral Society is 80 years old!

Come to our anniversary concert “The Peacemakers” by Karl Jenkins at Pittville Pump Rooms at 7.30pm. Plus recital by our President Dame Felicity Lott. Box Office 0844 576221.

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Mix & Match this Easter at The Bird & Deer Park Ginger, Heather & Basil – the newly released, hand tame fallow deer – are ready to welcome you.

The naughty Pygmy Goats also love being hand fed and can be found next to the Castle Folly on the hill. The friendly birds meet and greet upon arrival, with the peacocks displaying their beautiful trains and the ducks waddling around trying to catch your attention.

The Reindeer are fed at 11am daily and can be viewed from the visitor centre’s charming balconies overlooking the park whilst enjoying a relaxing cup of coffee, or why not have a browse in the shop!

T The he Bird Bird and and Deer Deer Park, Park, Prinknash, Prinknash, Cranham, Cranham, Gloucester Gloucester GL4 GL 4 8

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We have special offer tickets exclusively available every day during the Easter holidays – PLUS 20% off other entrance tickets!

Mix & Match a ‘Granny or Gramps Gets in Free’ ticket with a 20% discounted Adult entrance ticket for a total saving of £9.90!

Alternatively, Mix & Match a ‘Granny or Gramps Gets in Free’ ticket with a ‘Marvellous Mum’ tickeet for a saving of £8.20, you’ll also receive a free bag of bird food and a hot drink!

All special offers have been extended throughout this holiday period and a 20% discount will also be applied to other online purchases of entrance tickets.

Gypsy Caravan Party bookings are currently being offered at an exceptional 20% discount for a very limited time only – book your party now!

We’re offering fantastic value on tickets so make re you visit www.thebirdpark.com to pick up a eat offer this Easter! hese special offers are applicable for advance nline ticket purchases and are valid for use ring this Easter holiday period only (31st arch to 15th April 2018).

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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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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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01452 0 1452 3 348 48 5 524 24

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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 loucestershiree

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 y. The team have been great and dreary.

– 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!

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.

• Wet rooms

• Shower rooms

Before Before

• Bathrooms

• Cloakrooms

• Tiles

• Wall boards

A After fter

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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07496 0 057281 57281 or 0 014 14 453 53 8 884167 84167 Contact Rex on 07496 for a free home visit to discuss your needs

rex@lifestylebathrooms.net

www.lifestylebathrooms.net www.lifestylebathrooms.net

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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from CLASSIC to CONTEMPORARY, MODERN to MOBILITY ...

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01452 330852 MON-FRI 8AM-4PM SATURDAY 9AM-1PM

Located behind Bristol Street Ford 18 Capitol Park, Pearce Way, Bristol Road, Gloucester GL2 5YD LARGE FREE CUSTOMER PARKING

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For some of us the bathroom no longer holds the charm it once did. Gone are the days of soaking in the bath, and practicality has become foremost in our minds …

“We got in the bath, but how on earth are we getting out?”

We specialise in taking baths out and replacing them with low level shower cubicles. Our bathrooms are designed with your safety and comfort in mind.

Our goal is to design your bathroom so that you can walk

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 frree quotation.

Zero rate VAT available subject to status, along with our regular promotion.

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WANT W ANT TTO O SSHARE HARE Y YOUR OUR SSPORTING PORTING SSTORY TORY O ON NO OUR UR W WEBSITE? EBSITE? Please Please e email mail ffull ull d details etails tto o ssport@thelocalanswer.co.uk port@thelocalanswer.co.uk

A ffootball ootball tteam eam w with ith p plenty lenty tto o sshout hout a about bout Given their name, it ’s easy to say that Cam’s footballers have the bulldog spirit.

But it’ss also fair comment as well because Cam Bulldogs are a football club that refuse to stand still despite a number of obstacles in their way.

Chief among them is their facilities, which are not deemed good enough for the County League.

That is a source of real frustration for chairman Russ Workman as he watches the first team mount a n o t h e r a ss a u l t o n t h e N o r t h e r n Senior League Division One title.

They won it in 2015/16, were runners-up last season and are well in the frame to win it again this year.

Ordinarily that would be good enough to earn them promotion, but Workman is enough of a realist to know that even if they do finish on top of the Northern Senior League pile, they will be plying their trade at the same level again next season.

“We need barriers round the pitch,

Ap proper roper ‘‘Stroudie’ Stroudie’ Alan Taylor has rubbed shoulders with some pretty decent footballers over the years.

He was a good goalkeeper back in the day, and through his days playing for Gloucestershire was good enough to share a pitch with one-time England i n te r n a t i o n a l s Mike Summerbee and Larry Lloyd, as well a s E r n i e H u n t , w h o we n t d o w n i n football folklore for his ‘donkey kick’ goal for Coventry City against Wolves in October 1970.

Taylor played his club football for Brimscombe and certainly won his fair s h a re o f m e d a l s, winning the Gloucestershire Northern Senior A m a te u r C u p a s we l l a s several S t ro u d Charities cups.

Born in Thrupp, Taylor describes Alan Taylor himself as a

Cam Bulldogs are flying in Northern Senior League Division One

dugouts, two changing rooms for the officials,” he said. None of those are present at their current Cam Sports Ground home, which is also home to the village’s cricket and tennis clubs.

The club do have options – moving to Norman Hill in Cam or to Everside Lane, which is home to Cam Everside Youth Football Club – but as is so o f te n t h e c a s e w i t h o p t i o n s o f t h i s nature there are always issues to overcome.

“It’ss paramount that we get things sorted,” said Workman, who is in his

second season as chairman. “We need to get things sorted yesterday.

“If we win the title again this season and we can’t get promoted, what will the players do? They want to play at the highest level possible.

“As it happens I think we’ve got a good bunch of players who will stay and give it another go. Most of them are from the Cam area and a lot of them came through from Cam Eversides, which is the youth team in the village.”

Full story online.

“ S t ro u d i e ” , a l t h o u g h t h e s e d ay s h e lives in Brockworth.

B Back ack iin n tthe he m middle iddle

He’s H e’s tthe he rreal eal deal… deal…

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.

A n d w h i l e t h e s e d ay s h e i s n o longer running rings round opponents at 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 a n d a l t h o u g h p hy s i c a l l y h e i s n o longer putting his body on the line for the team, anyone who has 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 yo u d o well, you are rewarded. If you’re under-performing you’re out the door.”

Clive Wilkes has taken up the whistle again… and there’s not been a VAR in sight!

But before anyone gets too carried away, the one-time top Gloucestershire referee, sadly, has n o t b e e n a b l e to roll back the years and take charge of m a tc h e s i n t h e Premier League.

Instead, if you Clive Wilkes want to see the now 63-year-old running a game of football as it should be run, you need to g e t y o u r s e l f d o w n to t h e l e i s u r e centre in Newent.

Strictly speaking , it ’s walking football, and not football, that Wilkes has been officiating games in and he said of the growing sport : “There’s more to it than meets the eye.”

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

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TTrainer rainer TTom om G George eorge iiss p primed rimed ffor or tthe he CCheltenham heltenham FFestival estival Tom George is heading to the Cheltenham Festival in pretty good spirits.

The trainer based in the beautiful Slad Valley, just outside Stroud, has enjoyed a stellar couple of years and it would come as no surprise to see him celebrating in the winner ’s enclosure at Prestbury Park some time over March 13th, 14th, 15th or 16th.

“Last season was good,” the experienced trainer said. “We broke through the £1 million prizemoney barrier and finished eighth in the trainers’ table.”

And he’s built on that success this season. When he spoke to The Local Answer, he’d already won about £600,000 and was sitting in sixth spot in the trainers’ table.

As he said, albeit with a considerable amount of understatement: “We’ve kept it going.”

H av i n g g o o d h o r s e s i s o n e o f t h e keys to success, of course, and George has certainly got quite a few of those.

“Yes, we’ve got some quality horses,” he said. “We’re more quality over quantity.”

So who are the stable stars?

“God’s Own, The Worlds End, Double Shuffle, Summerville Boy,” he said. “ S u m m e r v i l l e B oy i s t h e n ew k i d o n the block .”

That fab four are all entered for the Cheltenham showpiece, of course, when George’s supporters will be h o p i n g t h a t h e c a n i m p r ov e o n a record that shows he has enjoyed only one winner at the festival.

Tom George with son Noel

The fibre sand gallop at Tom George’ss stable in Slad

That came way back in 2002 when Galileo won the Sun Alliance Novices’ Hurdle and it is a record that does scant justice to George’s standing in the racing game.

Not that George, who is in his 23rd year as a trainer, is too worried.

“We’ve hit the goalpost a few times but just not found the back of the net,” he mused. “The ball just hasn’t fallen for us on the day. We’ve had a lot of w i n n e r s a t C h e l te n h a m a t o t h e r meetings.”

TThese hese d days ays tthere’s here’s a special special ffeel eel a round D own FFarm arm around Down He certainly has but like everyone e l s e i n vo l v e d w i t h a h o r s e t h a t i s running at the festival, he’d love nothing more than to experience the t h r i l l o f s e e i n g h i s c h a rg e c ro s s t h e finishing line first.

“I do enjoy the festival, but it is tough,” he admitted. “It ’s pretty fullo n . B e c a u s e w e l i ve s o c l o s e t o t h e course we do a lot of entertaining that week . Owners come for breakfast and see their horses before the races, it’s our shop window.”

It ’s a special time of year for everyone involved in jumps racing and these days there’s certainly a special feel around Down Farm, from where George operates, because of all the recent success.

“What ’s happening now with the performances of the horses isn’t just the result of the last six weeks’ work ,” said George. “It’s the last six years and even longer than that.

“We started off with just three horses and built it up from there. It’s hard work and there have been lots of highs and lows but we’re doing okay at the moment.”

George is quick to stress that’s it’s no one-man operation and in addition to the strong team that he has assembled he has the close support of his immediate family.

His wife Sophie is very much handson as is his oldest son, 18-year-old Noel.

Noel’s brother Archie, 16, who is still a t s c h o o l , a l s o l i k e s t h e h o r s e s, although, says his dad with a chuckle, “He likes going to the races but he doesn’t like getting up at six in the morning!”

I f yo u g e t t h e i m p re ss i o n t h a t George quite likes his job, then you’d probably be right.

“I’m living in my childhood home and I wouldn’t swap it for anywhere else in the world,” he said.

“It’s a great area. It’s probably not as rural as it used to be but we’re still in an unspoilt valley.”

S o h ow l o n g d o e s G e o rg e p l a n t o continue as a trainer?

“I’m 50 so hopefully there’s a few more years in me yet ,” he laughed, “but I’ll keep going for the time being until one of the boys wants to take over.”

That’s a while off yet, of course, but more immediately, what would be a good Cheltenham Festival for him?

“For all the horses to run well and come home in one piece,” he said.

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

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T C K L Q T Y S G J M A C M B T Y F R X T B N R

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