The Local
ANSWER
MAY 2018
200,000 DELIVERED MONTHLY IN GLOUCESTERSHIRE
for local people
COTSWOLDS NEW THIS MONTH – LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT STORIES INSIDE!
The The Lo Local c al
AN ANSWER SWER CCotswolds otswolds – 228,000 8,000 ccopies opies CCheltenham heltenham – 443,000 3,000 ccopies opies G loucestershire N orth – 220,000 0,000 ccopies opies Gloucestershire North G Gloucestershire loucestershire SSouth outh – 441,000 1,000 ccopies opies G Gloucester loucester – 446,000 6,000 ccopies opies FForest orest ooff D Dean ean – 222,000 2,000 ccopies opies
M Managing anaging D Director 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
SSport port R Roger oger JJackson ackson sport@thelocalanswer.co.uk sport@thelocalanswer.co.uk
EEntertainment ntertainment P Patrick atrick B Baines aines
May’s winning cover photo: Kerry Palmer of Lydney
Welcome Welcome ttoo May May ...... This month sees the introduction of another exciting feature – our brand new Entertainment section, headed up by our new Entertainment Editor Patrick Baines. We’ll be bringing you local articles, stories and reviews from across Gloucestershire, covering a broad range of topics including film, theatre, art , culture, literature, music and so much more! Read more inside and on our website – www.thelocalanswer.co.uk We’ve got two bank holidays to look forward to this month, so whether you spend those extra days off attending events around the county, having a go at our latest ‘Delicious Dish’ or challenging yourself to get some much needed housework or garden tasks done, we have plenty of articles to inspire you! Remember, if your favourite editorial doesn’t appear in your local printed magazine, you can read all of our articles online.
eentertainment@thelocalanswer.co.uk ntertainment@thelocalanswer.co.uk
CCustomer ustomer SServices ervices K Kevin evin V Vaughan-Spruce aughan-Spruce services@thelocalanswer.co.uk services@thelocalanswer.co.uk
Claudie Claudie FFrancis rancis 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
JJohn ohn O Overton verton lleaflets@thelocalanswer.co.uk eaflets@thelocalanswer.co.uk
AAccounts ccounts R Robert obert K Kingscott ingscott aaccounts@thelocalanswer.co.uk ccounts@thelocalanswer.co.uk
Unit Unit H, H, CChurchill hurchill IIndustrial ndustrial EEstate, state, Churchill Churchill Road, Road, GL53 LLeckhampton, eckhampton, Cheltenham, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire Gloucestershire G L53 7EG 7EG
T Telephone elephone 0 01242 1242 5 510500 10500 thelocalanswer thelocalanswer
@thelocalanswer @thelocalanswer
www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk
IInside nside tthis his month month ... ... Distributers R Distributers Required equired 4 Delicious D elicious D Dish ish 5 P arenting & G Parenting Guardianship uardianship 7 W n 13 What’s hat’s O On 13 TTLA LA EEntertainment ntertainment 1 8-19 18-19 H omes & G ardens 20 Homes Gardens 20 IIn n tthe he G arden 23 Garden 23 IInterior nterior D Design esign 25 25 Quick 27 Q uick CCrossword rossword 2 7 Word 28 W ord SSearch earch 2 8 SSudoku udoku 31 3 1 Money Matters 31 M oney M atters 3 1 32-33 TTLA LA Sport Sport 3 2-33 34 IIndex, ndex , CCompetitions, ompetitions, SSolutions olutions 3 4 Page 3
TThe he O Old ld R Rectory e ctory R Ree sstaurant taur ant ta
D Distributors istributors Required Required
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 T The he L Loc oca al l 200,000 (equivalent to £6-£9/hour). 200,000 A ANS NS W WE E R fforor local loca l people pe o p le Magazines are delivered to Distributors’ homes towards the end of each month and we expect deliveries to be completed within four days between the hours of 7am and 9pm. You must be 13+ years old, flexible, reliable and sufficiently physically fit to perform the CCOTSWO OTSWOLDS LDS duties.
M MAY AY 2 2018 018
DELIVERED D ELIVERED M MONTHLY ONTHLY IIN NG GLOUCESTERSHIRE LOUCESTERSHIRE
N NEW EW TTHIS HIS M MONTH ONTH – LLOCAL OCAL ENTERTAINMEN ENTERTAINMENT STORIES STORIES INSIDE! INSIDE!
For details email Julia – distribution@thelocalanswer.co.uk
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CCole ole ssbourne bour ne , CChe he lltete nnham h am GGL53 L53 99N N P 001242 1 2 4 2 8870120 70120
Cotswold Country Dining
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The Local Answer
D Delicious elicious Dish Dish with w ith Helen Helen Kingscott Kingscott
EEasy asy m midweek idweek ccreamy reamy p pasta asta b bake ake A simple simple recipe recipe tto om make ake llight ight work work of of your your midweek midweek m meals. eals. P Polish olish tthe he w whole hole llot ot off off as as a family, family, or or take take tthe he lleftovers eftovers to to work work for for lunch lunch the the next next d day! ay! IIngredients ngredients ((serves serves 4 4): ): 300g dried pasta (I used fusilli); 2 large leeks, sliced very finely; 1 medium/large courgette, grated; 1-3 tbsp of pesto according to your taste; 2 tbsp low fat soft cheese; 2-3 tbsp fresh breadcrumbs or grated cheese if you prefer; 25g butter; 25g plain flour; 250ml milk; 1tsp oil; 3 large skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes. M ethod: Method: 1 Melt the butter in a saucepan, stir in the flour and cook for a few minutes, stirring all the time. Using a whisk , gradually stir in the milk to make a smooth sauce. Turn the heat down low and continue to cook for about five minutes whilst still stirring.
2 Heat the oil in a non-stick frying pan and fry the chicken in batches for about 10 minutes. 3 Add the chicken and juices to the white sauce, stir and cook for another 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked. 4 Cook the pasta according to the packet instructions. 5 Put the leeks in a pan with a little water, cover and cook until they have gone very soft. Drain then add the courgette, pesto, soft cheese and chicken to the white sauce, stir well then heat until bubbling. 6 S t i r t h e p a s t a i n to t h e m i x t u re a n d t i p i n to a l a rg e oven proof dish. Sprinkle over the breadcrumbs or cheese and pop under the grill until it browns.
W WE E NEED NEED
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Can Can you you spare spare a ffew ew hhours ours a month month to to support support ppeople eople with with learning learning disabilities? disabilities? FFull ull training training & expenses expenses ppaid aid For more information call 01452 01452 617346 617346 admin@buildingcirclesglos.org.uk www.buildingcirclesglos.org.uk The Local Answer
iinfo@sarsenenergy.co.uk nfo@sarsenenergy.co.uk w www.sarsenenergy.co.uk ww.sarsenenergy.co.uk
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Parenting P arenting & G Guardianship uardianship with w ith R Roberta oberta Smart Smart
IInspiring nspiring w words ords tto o llive ive b byy We live in a world where pressures are extreme and all prevailing, and our children are feeling this more now than ever. With this in mind, this month I wanted to collate some inspiring words to remind you – and y o u r i n c re d i b l e c h i l d r e n – t h a t t h e i r purpose, their reason, the very point in their being alive, is to be wholly a n d u n e q u i vo c a l l y t h e m s e l ve s . Whether they struggle with maths or if they cannot draw like their best friend, they are certain to have a n ot h e r u n i q u e g i f t h i d d e n w i t h i n them. Their whole life is an exploration of a l l t h a t i s o n o f fe r s o t h a t t h ey m a y one day discover, within them, their very own Golden Egg, and your job as a g u a r d i a n i s to o f fe r t h e m s u p p o r t whilst they explore.
““The The pperson erson w who ho ffollows ollows tthe he crowd crowd will will usually usually go go no no further further than than the the crowd. crowd. The The person person who who walks w alks aalone lone iiss llikely ikely ttoo ffind in d himself noo oone has h imself iin n pplaces laces n as eever ver ne h Albert EEinstein instein sseen een bbefore.” efore.” Albert
resilience is the greatest gift you can offer. It is often the fear of being left o u t w h i c h p re s s u r e s t h e c h i l d t o conform, not only to the adult world around it but also to peer pressure and unwanted behaviours. An unconditionally loving home can offer a place of solace when the big wide world gets too much.
to m a k e t h e i r ow n wo r l d , s o g o camping; to solve their own problems, so teach them collaboration; and to create their own future, so feed their dreams.
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““II am am different, different, not not less.” less.” Temple Temple Grandin Grandin
If your child is wired differently, celebrate their uniqueness. If their ““We We must must n never ever be be afraid afraid to to be be a body works in an unusual way, love ssign ign ooff ccontradiction ontradiction ffor or tthe he the difference and give it a name, and world.” Mother Mother TTeresa eresa world.” if they just cannot see the world the In times gone by we praised way you do, why not try seeing it the conformity and wanted only to raise way they do? obedient little worker bees to build an ““Be Be yourself; yourself; eeveryone veryone else else is is empire and fuel economic growth; already taken.” Oscar Wilde l d e a l r e a d y t a k e n . ” O s c a r W i today we are facing problems on a worldwide scale, such as pollution, W h i l e w e a r e a t i t , y o u a re p re t t y deforestation, global warming, and awesome too you know? And it is the end of fossil fuels. Today we are never too late to discover your raising problem solvers and engineers, diamond and learn how to shine. So creatives and healers to take us write your poems and sing your songs, forward into a new world, one it is dance to your own rhythm and share hard for us to imagine yet will be their your passion as only you know how, living reality. a n d n ev e r f o r g e t t h e w o rd s o f t h e wisest bear ever to grace a story book : ““We We are are aallll bborn orn ooriginals.” riginals.”
different ifferent are make are the the things things that that make Loneliness is so painful to a child, so Our children need the opportunity to d me.” m e.” W Winnie innie TThe he PPooh ooh supporting them in developing grow their own food, so plant seeds; The Local Answer
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SSwallow wallow LLakes akes P PARK ARK
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£119,995 50/50 PAYMENT PLAN Swallow Lakes is set amongst outstanding Gloucestershire oucestershire ccountryside, ountryside, aand nd iiss ffamily amily owned, which means wned, w hich m eans nno middlemen – youu always always sspeak peak ddirectly ire to tthe he ppark ark owners. owners.
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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 APRIL/MAY ROYAL SOCIETY OF PAINTERPRINTMAKERS (RE) 200th anniversary exhibition of selected member prints, sets of which are held at the British Museum, The Queens collection and the Fitzwilliam Museum. Strictly limited quantity for sale. Simultaneously at Chapel Arts and Bankside Gallery, London. 25th April – 12th May. Coffee Shop available. Wed-Sat 10am-4pm. www.thechapelarts.com 1 MAY – END OF JUNE SELECT FESTIVAL 2018 – MIXED SCULPTURE EXHIBITION Eight artists will be displaying their work in the herbaceous borders and in The Garden Café. The sculpture has been designed to complement the nursery’s range of plants and unique setting. All works will be for sale. Free admission. Tues-Sun 10am-5pm. Closed Mondays. Miserden Nursery, Stroud GL6 7JA. 01285 821638. www.miserdennursery.co.uk 2 MAY RSC LIVE: MACBETH Returning home from battle, the victorious Macbeth meets three witches on the heath. Driven by their disturbing prophecies, he sets out on the path to murder. 7pm. £16.50 (£14.50, students £12.50). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham, GL51 6EP. www.bacontheatre.co.uk JON BODEN & THE REMNANT KINGS In spring 2018 Jon Boden, former leadsinger of Bellowhead, will head out on the second leg of his ‘Afterglow’ album tour, featuring the newly extended Remnant Kings. Including the talents of
former Bellowhead band-mates Sam Sweeney and Paul Sartin, plus Leveret’s Rob Harbron and along with Ben Nicholls and Richard Warren (King of The South Seas). 7.30pm. £22. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA. 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk 3 MAY WAYNE HEMMINGWAY With a career spanning four decades in the design industry, Wayne Hemingway has a fair few stories to tell. Insightful, thought-provoking, often hilarious and always truthful, Wayne’s rise to success was a rather unusual one, with his big break on a Camden market stall. 8pm. £17.50 (conc £15.50). 01453 760900. Stroud Subscription Rooms, George Street, GL5 1AE. www.subscriptionrooms.org.uk WEDDING FAIR Come and visit the best of the Forest of Dean Wedding Suppliers to help with your wedding arrangements. Dresses, cars, photographers and table decor. No booking needed, just turn up. Free entry. 6-9pm. Forest Hills Golf Club, Mile End Road, Coleford, GL16 7QD. 01594 810620. foresthillsgolfclub.co.uk FROM THE JAM – THE PUBLIC GETS WHAT THE PUBLIC WANTS ‘From The Jam’ is comprised of legendary former ‘The Jam’ bassist Bruce Foxton, vocalist and guitarist Russell Hastings, drummer Mike Randon, and Andy Fairclough on Hammond and piano. Over the past 11 years they have toured relentlessly, gaining a reputation for the kind of incendiary live performances that sealed the reputation of ‘The Jam’ all
those years ago. For details please visit venues.gloucester.gov.uk/Freetime/Guildhall Gloucester Guildhall, 23 Eastgate Street, GL1 1NS. 01452 503050. 4 MAY THE RAGDOLLS A musical journey through the sounds of one of the most successful bands of all time, performing classic 50s songs including ‘Still of the Night’ and ‘Why Do Fools Fall in Love’. The second part of the show is party time, where all the famous hits appear. 7.30pm. £17.50 (£15.50). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham, GL51 6EP. www.bacontheatre.co.uk FAITH: THE GEORGE MICHAEL LEGACY Wayne Dilks portrays the late superstar George Michael in this outstanding tribute show. A celebration of 35 years of hit records and will take you on a journey from George’s early years with Wham through to his successful solo career, with hits such as ‘Club Tropicana’, ‘I’m Your Man’ and ‘Careless Whisper’. 7.30pm. £25.50. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX. 01684 295074. www.rosestheatre.org 4-6 MAY ORIGINAL MOUNTAIN MARATHON RUNNING FESTIVAL The OMM Festival is coming to the Forest of Dean. 2,000 people from across the country will gather for an epic weekend with friends or family. Trail running, Mountain Biking and Orienteering. FREE camping for friends or family of OMM competitors. For full details please visit www.theomm.com/omm-festival
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To list your event in our What’s On section, email editorial@thelocalanswer.co.uk Online event listings coming soon! To keep updated send your name and business name (if applicable) to lois@thelocalanswer.co.uk stating ‘Online Event Listings’. The Local Answer
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5 MAY MAY MAKERS FAMILY FAIR An exciting range of family based local makers and small businesses. Discover a selection of clothing, art work , furniture, delicious treats and so much more! A great opportunity to get to know some locally based small businesses! 10.30am. Free entry. Stroud Subscription Rooms, George Street, Stroud, GL5 1AE. 01453 760900. www.subscriptionrooms.org.uk POLISH HERITAGE DAY The second year of the biggest Polish festival in Gloucestershire. Organised by Polish Association Gloucestershire, the event takes place in Kings Square in Gloucester. This is an important occasion for the local community to celebrate Polish culture and traditions. For more details please visit www.thecityofgloucester.co.uk. Kings Square, Gloucester, GL1 1RP. 55-6 - 6 MAY MAY ROSS BEERFEST Beers, cider, Prosecco, food, live music, camping and free parking. £5 entry. Open from noon. For more information and tickets please visit www.rossbeerfest.org. Ross Rowing Club, Ross-on-Wye, HR9 5NX. BIRDSONG WORKSHOP Join our Reserve Wardens to celebrate International Dawn Chorus Day and get help identifying the birds you can hear around the reserve with our birdsong workshop. 7-10am. £22 (including breakfast). WWT Slimbridge, Bowditch, Slimbridge, GL2 7BT. 01453 891900. www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/slimbridge 55-7 -7 MAY MAY CHRISTCHURCH ABBEYDALE FLOWER FESTIVAL Stunning floral displays celebrating life and activities at Christchurch Abbeydale, Heron Way, Gloucester, GL4 5EQ. Light lunches and refreshments available. Saturday 5th: 10.30am-4.30pm. Sunday 6th: 12.30pm4.30pm. Monday 7th: 10.30am-4.30pm. Free entry. OLYMPIGS From hobby horse races to hay bale hurdles, from wheelbarrow racing to welly wanging, this family fun sports day is guaranteed to bring out your competitive side and find your inner Mo Farrah. Join in the fun from 1.30pm on the event field and see if you can be an OlymPigs Champion! Cotswold Farm Park , Kineton, Guiting Power, Cheltenham GL54 5UG. 01451 850307. cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk 55-12 -12 MAY MAY TITANIC – THE MUSICAL An amateur production brought to you by COS Productions. Come aboard the ship of dreams in this heart-stopping and riveting ride through the final moments of Titanic’s fateful journey. Plunge into an
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unforgettable performance of glamour, chaos and heroism. For times and prices visit barntheatre.org.uk. The Barn Theatre, 5 Beeches Road, Cirencester GL7 1BN. 6 MAY MAY PDSA PETLIFE Music from the Kaiser Chiefs, Jessie J and The Vamps, funfairs, dog agility displays, military bands, delicious food and drink , retail therapy and much more. Learn more about pet well-being from our vets, as well as getting a quick MOT for your dog. For more details visit petlife.org.uk. From £30. Individual attractions will be subject to additional charges. 11am. Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Prestbury, GL50 4SH. 01242 513014. OPEN MIC NIGHT Join us in the Bar for our monthly Open Mic session 4- 6pm (sign up from 3.30). The best of Gloucestershire’s up and coming talent. 4pm. Free entry. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX. 01684 295074. www.rosestheatre.org 66-7 -7 MAY MAY KNIGHTS ON HORSEBACK & JOUSTING Knights and their impressive steeds will battle it out in the grounds of the Castle. Don’t miss their jousting tournaments and saddle stunt displays. Meet the gallant Knights and their wonderful horses – a great photo opportunity! Berkeley Castle, Berkeley, GL13 9BQ. 01453 810303. www.berkeley-castle.com 7 MAY MAY VICTORIAN MAY DAY Celebrate May Day in traditional style with classic games, activities and entertainment. Old favourites Punch and Judy will be here causing mayhem and you can try your hand at the Wheel of Fortune and Balloon Burst games to win some prizes! 10am. Included in admission. Sudeley Castle and Gardens, Winchcombe, GL54 5JD. 01242 604244. www.sudeleycastle.co.uk 88-12 -12 MAY MAY LETTICE AND LOVAGE St. John’s Players present the well-known comedy Lettice and Lovage by Peter Shaffer. Box Office: 01452 713952. Online from www.eventbrite.co.uk. £8. £7 concessions. St. John’s Hall, St. John’s Avenue, Churchdown, GL3 2DB. Car park and bar. 88-12 -12 MAY MAY GREAT EXPECTATIONS Following a terrifying encounter with an escaped convict, young Pip is given an unexpected chance to better himself by visiting the reclusive and mysterious Miss Havisham. In the decaying grandeur of her house, Pip falls in love with Estella and helped by an anonymous benefactor, he moves to the bustling city to pursue his dream of winning Estella’s heart and of
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becoming part of the educated elite. For details visit www.everymantheatre.org.uk The Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham, GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573. MAY 8-20 MAY 8-20 CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL OF PERFORMING ARTS The Festival returns with an enjoyable two weeks of performances by children and adults from Gloucestershire and all over the UK. Each day is different and includes dance, music, and drama. For full details of each day’s activities, see performing arts website cfpa.org.uk. 9am. £3. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA . 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk 10 10 MAY MAY BATSFORD FOREST SCHOOL FOR TOTS!
A chance for pre-schoolers to engage with nature and explore our newly established Forest School site! Children can enjoy bug hunting, creating mud pies in our mud kitchen, craft activities, storytime and more! Sessions led by our Forest School Leader. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Wellies and waterproof clothing/ old clothes are essential. Suitable for little ones who are walking, up to the age of 4. £3 per child. 10 -11am. Batsford Arboretum, Moreton-in-Marsh, GL56 9QB. batsarb.co.uk 11 11 MAY MAY LONDON CALLING AND SPECIAL GUESTS Celebrating the 40 year anniversary of the release of the Give ‘Em Enough Rope album, London Calling will play the whole of the album along with a best of The Clash set. With special guest support from Borrowed Time, and reggae/punk tunes. 8pm. £13.50 (£16 on the door). Stroud Subscription Rooms, George Street, GL5 1AE. 01453 760900. subscriptionrooms.org.uk 12-13 12-13 MAY MAY COTSWOLD BRICKS AND TR RA AINS WEEKEND Another LEGO® event is coming to the GWSR. We will be holding a brick exhibition at Toddington. Be enthralled by the expertise of Southern Lego Train Club’s members, who will be providing the displays. There will also be demonstrations and a chance for our smaller visitors to have a go at building their own brick structures. For times and prices please visit www.gwsr.com. The Railway Station, Toddington GL54 5DT.
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16 MAY ‘AN AMERICAN IN PARIS’ THE MUSICAL An American GI’s chance encounter with a beautiful young dancer leads Paris to become the backdrop to a sensuous, modern romance of art, friendship and love in the aftermath of war. Gorgeous music, stunning designs and show-stopping choreography. 7pm. £16.50 (£14.50, students £12.50). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham, GL51 6EP. www.bacontheatre.co.uk 16-17 MAY THE GLOUCESTERSHIRE BUSINESS SHOW This show celebrates, discusses and showcases business in Gloucestershire of all size and industry. It provides a platform through which businesses can form new collaborations, gain information, meet other businesses, speak to professional advisors and engage in action for business. Free entry. Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Prestbury, GL50 4SH. 01242 513014. cheltenham.thejockeyclub.co.uk 17 MAY JURASSIC GEOLOGY: FANTASTIC FOSSILS With fossils from the collections, come on a journey to discover what Gloucestershire would have been like millions of years ago when it was all under the sea. Price includes a glass of wine or soft drink and nibbles. 6pm. £12. The Wilson, Clarence Street, Cheltenham GL50 3JT. 01242 237431.
18 MAY MASTERWORKS CONCERT 63 For fifteen years, pianist James Lisney’s Masterworks has proved to be a highlight of Cheltenham’s classical programme. His virtuosity and integrity are internationally recognised. 7.30pm. £15. Pittville Pump Room, East Approach Drive, Cheltenham GL52 3JE. 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk THE UPBEAT BEATLES Powerhouse vocals, precision harmonies and tight musicianship. The show takes you through the Fab Four’s long and winding road from the early Cavern days through Beatlemania, America, Sergeant Pepper to Abbey Road. 7.30pm. £19 (£18). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham, GL51 6EP. bacontheatre.co.uk THE BAND OF THE GLOUCESTERSHIRE CONSTABULARY CHARITY CONCERT A special charity concert in aid of National Star. Come along to The Salvation Army in Cheltenham (GL53 7HG) to enjoy fantastic music with special guests Charlton Kings Junior School Choir. Tickets are available for £5 from fundraising@nationalstar.org. 01242 527631. www.nationalstar.org 18-20 MAY WINCHCOMBE WALKING FESTIVAL The Winchcombe Walking Festival offers walkers of all abilities the opportunity to
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join a walk in the Cotswolds with knowledgeable guides offering snippets of local information. Walks range from 1.5 to 13 miles. If you like a challenge there is the 21-mile Winchcombe Way Challenge. The festival is popular, we recommend you book early. For further information visit: www.winchcombewelcomeswalkers.com/ festival-2 18 MAY – 17 JUNE ONE MINUTE One Minute follows several connected characters through their struggles with Daisy Schults’s disappearance: the two policemen investigating the disappearance; Daisy’s mother Anne; and Marie Louise, a woman who glimpsed Daisy after she had been separated from her mother. For times and prices visit barntheatre.org.uk. The Barn Theatre, 5 Beeches Road, Cirencester GL7 1BN. 19 MAY ANIMALPHABET THE MUSICAL High-energy actors, colourful puppets, amazing characters and fantastic songs combine to create AnimAlphabet The Musical. Join Colin the Country Cockatoo, Hip-Hop Donkey and Geoff the Geordie Jazz Giraffe on a fantastic family musical adventure. 2.30pm. £10 (£8). The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham, GL51 6EP. www.bacontheatre.co.uk
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19-20 19 -20 MAY MAY SOUTHROP VILLAGE GARDENS Southrop Manor and other village gardens will be OPEN in May! Entrance £5 for one day or £7 for both. Plant stall, Teas in the Village Hall. Proceeds for Hall refurbishment. Open from 1pm until 5pm. Southrop, Lechlade, GL7 3PD. SPRING STEAM AND REAL ALE WEEKEND The 10th Spring Ale and Steam weekend on the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway. Over the last decade the events have grown ever more popular with an increased range of beer on offer and this year will be no exception! In conjunction with the North Cotswold Branch of CAMRA up to 36 beers will be available from Winchcombe and Toddington stations, with a frequent train service between the two bars. For full details including times and prices please visit www.gwsr.com. 2200 MAY MAY MAY MARKET A fun family event featuring the finest food and drink in the Forest of Dean. Lots of stalls with delicious local produce. Plus live music, activities and demonstrations. Free entry and parking. 11am-5pm. Taurus Crafts, Lydney Park Estate, Lydney GL15 6BU. www.cvt.org.uk 2255 MAY MAY ONE NIGHT OF ELVIS Lee Memphis King recreates the essence of the King with consummate ease and an almost unbelievable combination of stunningly accurate vocals and incredible passion in every performance. For details visit www.everymantheatre.org.uk The Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham, GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573. 2266 MAY MAY JOHN FINNEMORE’S FLYING VISIT John Finnemore brings his brand new live show to the stage! With the help of special guests from Souvenir Programme, John will be performing brand new sketches, some old favourites and, quite possibly, a song. 7.30pm. £27. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA . 0844 576 2210. cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk 2266 MAY MAY – 3 JUNE JUNE THE WILDLIFE ART SOCIETY EXHIBITION An opportunity to see and purchase beautiful works of art and to meet artists who are dedicated to promoting conservation of all species. 10am-5pm. Entry is FREE, with good parking, set in the beautiful grounds of Nature in Art Gallery and Museum, Main A38 Twigworth, Gloucester GL2 9PA . SatNav Postcode: GL2 9PG. ROMAN MAY HOLIDAY Enjoy seasonal craft activities. Make a mosaic, badge or paper-craft. Raid the dressing up baskets and fashion yourself as a Roman. Suitable for all ages. Some
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craft activities include an additional charge to cover the cost of materials. 10.30am. Free event (normal admission applies). Chedworth Roman Villa, Cheltenham GL54 3LJ. 01242 890256. MINI BEAST WEEK Find out more about the mini beasts at Snowshill from items in our natural history collection to bugs and beasties in the garden. Free (normal admission applies). 11am. Snowshill Manor and Garden, Snowshill, near Broadway, WR12 7JU. 01386 852410. SPRING TO LIFE Spring is here – the leaves are unfolding, birds are singing, butterflies are starting to be seen and new life is appearing across our wetlands. Join us for a whole week of spring fun with lots to learn and plenty to keep you entertained. 9.30am-5.30pm. Included with admission. WWT Slimbridge, Bowditch, GL2 7BT. 01453 891900. wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/slimbridge 227-30 7-30 MAY MAY KNIGHT’S SCHOOL Grab your swords and head to Berkeley Castle for Knight School with our skilled knights in shining armour. Two separate sessions each day for ages 5-9 years and 10 years to adults. Make sure you stick around for the dramatic and action packed Warrior Show at 3.30pm each day too! £7.50. Berkeley Castle, GL13 9BQ. 01453 810303. www.berkeley-castle.com 29 29 MAY MAY AN AUDIENCE WITH IAN WAITE & OTI MABUSE: RHYYTTHM OF THE NIGHT Ian and Oti will deliver a night of Latin and Ballroom numbers with high intensity. The Strictly Come Dancing pros will perform a dance showcase spectacular designed to dazzle and wow you. It Takes Two’ on BBC 2. 7.30pm. From £23. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA . 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk 29 29 MAY MAY – 3 JJUNE UNE HAIRSPRAY Baltimore, 1962. Tracy Turnblad is a big girl with big hair and an even bigger dream: to dance her way onto national TV, and into the heart of teen idol Link Larkin. Tracy’s audition makes her a local star and soon she is using her new-found fame to fight for integration. For details visit www.everymantheatre.org.uk The Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham, GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573. 1 JUNE JUNE ELECTRIC BICCYYCLE POLO AND GYMKHANA Longdole Polo Club, GL4 8LH. 7pm. £5 per car. Bar, BBQ and lots of fun! All proceeds go to Watershed RDA . WORDS FROM THE WILD WOODS If you go down to the woods today you’re in for a big surprise... Bring a picnic and join storyteller Michael Loader at Batsford
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Arboretum for traditional tales and spontaneous stories inspired by the animals and the trees, the woods and the forests, the flora and fauna of the land! Batsford Arboretum, Moreton-in-Marsh, GL56 9QB. www.batsarb.co.uk JUNE 9 JUNE SACRED HEARTS’ SUMMER FETE ‘Family Fiesta!’ Noon till 3. Merry go round, bouncy castle, live music, games and stalls, large selection of food and drink. Fun for all the family. Sacred Hearts Catholic Church, Moorend Road, Charlton Kings, Cheltenham GL53 9AU. 10 10 JUNE JUNE BISHOP’S CLEEVE STREET FAIR – CELEBRATING R RA AF100 From 12 noon-4pm. Parades, stalls, entertainment, funfair, Jet Age Museum display and exciting Spitfire Flypast. Folly Gardens Veterinary Practice is organising a Dog Show – entry forms from Folly’s Vets, Badham’s Chemist and George Lewis Footwear. Purchase programmes, to include a raffle ticket for fabulous prizes, from shops along Church Road, Tesco 26/5 & 2/6 and on the day. Money raised will be donated to Jet Age Museum, Air Cadets and Christmas lights. 16 16 JUNE JUNE PRESTBURY VILLAGE FAYRE & STREET PARTY Join us for fun and entertainment which includes music, BBQ, stalls, children’s games, talent show and belly dancers. Fayre opens at 12 noon until 6pm. Main events; The Burgage, Prestbury G52 3DL . Also involved: The Plough, Royal Oak , St Mary’s Church and WI Hall. For more information: www.prestburyparish.org Volunteers also required – contact Chris on 07741 472252 or email maughanshaw@gmail.com 6-7 6-7 JULY JULY MILEFEST – MUSIC FESTIVAL
Milefest 2018 is a 24 band, over two stages, festival. On Friday 6th and Saturday 7th of July in Hartpury (GL19 3BG). We are accessible and affordable for all. All money raised goes to Milestone school – we have raised more than £30,000 over 6 years. www.milefest.co.uk Registered charity number: 1173333.
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E Entertainment ntertainment w with ith P Patrick atrick B Baines aines – e entertainment@thelocalanswer.co.uk ntertainment@thelocalanswer.co.uk
TThe he p place lace to to be be for for adrenaline adrenaline ffilled illed aaction ction I f y o u h av e a n e e d f o r s p e e d and a love of rally driving, a visit to the Gloucestershire Rally S c h o o l s h o u l d b e a t t h e to p o f your to-do list. T h e R a l l y S c h o o l i s s i t u a te d j u s t a t e n - m i n u t e d r i v e f ro m Cirencester and lies adjacent to the Cotswold Water Park . E s t a b l i s h e d i n 1 9 9 4, t h e business has grown into one of the leading rally schools in the country. Andy Gwynne, owner and chief instructor of the rally school, has a wealth of experience behind the wheel. A two-time European A6 champion, he leads a team of professional drivers who are happy to impart their years of experience onto visitors. Holly Robinson, operations manager at Gloucestershire Rally School, says there’s experiences for everyone to enjoy. “We offer a fantastic range of rally experiences, ranging from a whitek n u c k l e r i d e w i t h o n e of o u r
FFilm ilm R Review eview
Gloucestershire Rally School
experienced instructors through to oneto-one coaching for serious competitive d r i v e r s . O u r m a i n a i m i s p ro v i d i n g opportunities to drivers of all abilities. Whether you’re a driver lacking in confidence wanting to brush up on your driving skills, or a budding rally driver of the future, we’ve something for you here.” You don’t even need to have passed yo u r d r i v i n g te s t to g e t b e h i n d t h e
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wheel at the Gloucestershire Rally School – they offer driving experiences for children as young as ten. “The junior rally experience is t wo h o u r s a n d p re s e n t s t h e ultimate opportunity for children to learn the basics of driving in a safe, controlled environment”, said Holly. “ T h e ve h i c l e s h ave d u e l controls, so safety is assured. We also offer a disabled driving experience. The car is semiautomatic, using a paddle gear change system on the steering wheel, and the pedals are controlled using hand operated levers,” added Holly. Despite the high-speed action of the race track , safety is taken very seriously. “At our track , if you do get it wrong, you will simply spin off, slow down, return to the track and receive a hearty round of applause from the spectators,” said Holly. Full story online.
Gaming G aming R Review eview
AQ Quiet uiet P Place lace
The The Y Year ear o off LLess ess by Cait Flanders
G Gran ran TTurismo urismo SSport port
For horror film lovers, ‘A Quiet Place’ looks like being one of the must-see films of 2018. Directed by John Krasinsky, it features him and his wife Emily Blunt as the main characters. The film is set in a post-apocalyptic world where blind monsters are intent on wiping humanity off the face of the earth. The monsters hunt based on sound, so the characters exist in a giant game of hide and seek; as long as they keep quiet, they’re safe. A t a b r i s k 9 5 m i n u te s, t h e f i l m doesn’t waste time g o i n g i n to to o m u c h d et a i l . T h e b e s t h o r ro r f i l m s a re t h e o n e s t h a t keep things simple, and that’s certainly the case here. Full review online.
A heartwarming tale about crafting a life you really want to lead by turning yo u r b a c k o n m a ss consumerism. C a i t g o e s i n to great detail exploring ways of saving m o n ey b y c u t t i n g i te m s . out the n o n - e ss e n t i a l Interestingly, when she stops spending her monthly income, she discovers she’s h a p p i e r l i v i n g a m i n i m a l i s t i c l i fe s t y l e. Her savings give her the chance to spend money on travelling and enjoying life away from fast food restaurants. A real game-changer for anyone searching for major change in their lifestyle, I’d recommend this book if there’s something you want to do but have always put on the back-burner. Full review online.
There are lots of original features in GT Sport, but the new game's gorgeous graphics are what you'll notice first . This is a game that really lends itself to a n e n o r m o u s w i d e s c r e e n television; I’ve played many driving g a m es b u t n o n e a s v i s u a l l y impressive as this one. GT Sport is a satisfying racer with plenty of depth and atmosphere, stunning visuals and sounds that are so impressive, you forget you are playing a games console. Arcade mode is where the real fun is, the challenges and tasks are a total joy. Full review online.
AAbove bove iiss a sselection election from from local local eentertainment ntertainment sstories tories aavailable vailable online online ... ...
ART • EEVENTS VENTS • EEXPERIENCES XPERIENCES • FFILM ILM • G AMING ART GAMING LLIFESTYLE IFESTYLE • LLITERATURE ITERATURE • M USIC • TTHEATRE HEATRE • TV TV MUSIC
Excitement Excitement bbuilding uilding aahead head ooff LLechlade echlade FFestival estival From humble beginnings the Lechlade Festival has become one of the most successful annual events to be held in Gloucestershire. Back in 2009 the Cotswold Water Park Society took over the management of Riverside Park and identified the area as the perfect event venue. It was then that local re s i d e n t J e n n i e R a i n s f o r d m e t w i t h event manager Fiona Marsh. The pair presented the Water Park Society with a proposal to hold a music festival on the land, promoting local talent and offering a great family day out. “We always laugh when we reminisce about the first festival we organised back in 2011,” said Jennie. “We got by on a wing and a prayer really. We were slightly nervous about how many people would attend and h ow t h e a c t s wo u l d p e r f o r m . Thankfully it was a great success and that inspired us to continue to grow the festival year-on-year,” added Jennie.
Lechlade Festival. Picture: Deborah J Coleman
In recent years festival goers have enjoyed performances from Status Quo, The Proclaimers and the Hoosiers. In 2018 the four-time Brit award nominees Scouting For Girls are the headline act in what promises to be another memorable three days at Riverside Park . The 2018 Festival runs
from 25th-27th May and Jennie is quietly confident of setting a new attendance record. Continued Jennie: “It felt like a bit of a seminal moment when Scouting for Girls contacted us and asked to perform. They ’ve had number one albums and singles and were really keen to perform at our festival. That g o e s t o s h o w h ow m u c h p ro g re ss we’ve made when you have a band of that stature wanting to perform here. It was a big confidence boost to all the team here.” J e n n i e s ay s h e r m a i n a i m w h e n booking artists is to ensure there’s a variety of performers for all ages to enjoy. She said: “We’re very much a festival that is focused on providing quality entertainment for the whole family. A lot of people rock up on the Friday morning and pitch their tents for the whole weekend, so we need to ensure there’s plenty on to keep them happy. Full story online.
Ab busy usy ssummer ummer at at B Bibury ibury TTrout rout FFarm arm There can be few fish farms anywhere on planet earth that are as pretty as the one nestled away in the village of Bibury. The farm, which opened in 1902, supplies some of the biggest fisheries in the UK with brown and rainbow t r o u t . K a te M a r r i o t t , w h o t o o k ove r ownership of the farm in 2001, is a n t i c i p a t i n g a n o t h e r b u sy s u m m e r season. “We’re open all year round but as soon as Easter comes things start g e t t i n g a w h o l e l o t b u s i e r fo r u s , which is great,” said Kate. The farm has a number of ponds and tanks which hold fish ranging from newborn fry to those weighing u p to f i ve o r s i x p o u n d s . K a te continued: “Our main income comes from selling our trout to fisheries and reservoirs. Angling is such a popular s p o r t i n t h e U K , fo r t u n a te l y fo r u s there will always be a demand for both brown and rainbow trout.
Rainbow trout
“We supply to fisheries all over the country. Sometimes we’ll be sending out a relatively small amount – maybe 50 fish – and on other occasions we’ll be supplying a ma jor fishery with thousands of trout. We take enormous
care to ensure the fish we produce are of the very highest quality. The fe e d b a c k w e g e t f r o m f i s h e r i e s i s always positive, which shows we must be doing something right. “We’re proud of the incredibly high survival rate of our fish. Animals are always at their most vulnerable in t h e i r yo u t h , s o g e t t i n g t h ro u g h t h e f i r s t s t a g e s o f t h e i r l i ve s i s o f h i g h importance. We separate the fish into sizes; one tank contains newborn fish, and we work all the way up to the biggest trout which weigh the same as a couple of bags of sugar. “I’ve been here a very long time now and I still enjoy hearing the children screaming in delight when the fish leap for food. We’ve assembled a great team who are all dedicated to nurturing the fish as well a s p rov i d i n g t h e b e s t p o s s i b l e experience for our visitors.” Full story online.
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IIn nT The he Garden Garden with w ith JJulia ulia Smith Smith
A ccarpet arpet o off g green reen A f t e r s u c h a l o n g , we t w i n t e r a n d several appearances from the ‘Beast from the East’, spring has come very late this year. I reckon it is about 3 weeks later than usual, judging by t h e b l o ss o m o n t h e o r n a m e n t a l cherries in the garden near my home. However, now everything is rushing to catch up and as the soil warms, plants shoot up – where once was brown earth is suddenly a carpet of young green leaves.
CChoose hoose ‘‘White White LLady’ ady’ iiff y you ou ffancy ancy w white hite fflowers lowers Sow some runner beans as the soil warms up, making a wigwam of bamboo canes for the beans to twine up. The cultivar ‘White Lady ’ is very pretty if you fancy white flowers for a change. I make a hole before I sow the beans and empty my compost from the kitchen in t h e r e fo r a fe w d a y s : p e e l i n g s , teabags, etc. I then sow my beans
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on the top on a layer of soil at the usual depth, and this helps keep the moisture in which the beans so love. Lo o k o u t f o r t h e b r i g h t r e d l i l y beetles on your lilies and fritillaries. You can either just pick and squash or use an insecticide like Provado ultimate bug killer, which i s sy s t e m i c a n d w i l l k i l l the larvae when they s t a r t to m u n c h o n t h e plant . The larvae are disgusting looking as they cover themselves with their sticky black poo, so gloves might be the order of the day! You should be able to start hardening off tender herbaceous plants, such as geraniums or cosmos, w h i c h y o u m a y h av e b o u g h t i n t h e te m p t i n g i n d o o r d i s p l ay s i n t h e garden centres and n u r s e r i e s . I f yo u s t i c k them straight outside it can really knock them
back , so it is best practice to spend a week or so of taking them outside during the day, and popping them b a c k i n to t h e g r e e n h o u s e o r conservatory at night , gradually leaving them for longer and longer u n t i l t h ey a r e o u t a l l n i g h t . R e m e m b e r t o k e e p a n ey e o n t h e weather forecast in case of late frosts. You could make a cold frame out of old windows, Perspex offcuts, etc. and place in a warm, sheltered spot . Raise the lid in the day to circulate the air and cover o ve r a t n i g h t i f y o u h a v e n o greenhouse.
Give G ive sshiny-leaved hiny-leaved h houseplants ouseplants a sspring pring cclean lean Give shiny-leaved houseplants a spring clean by sitting them in the shower tray and gently showering with warm water to clean the dust off the leaves. As the weather warms up they can be sited outside, which benefits them after a winter inside. Don’t site them in full sunshine though, as it can scorch the leaves.
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Bank Bank h holiday oliday w weekend eekend h ome cchallenge hallenge home Spring is finally in the air, flowers are beginning to bloom, it’s time to open those windows and breathe new life into your home and rooms. With two b a n k h o l i d ay s i n M a y t h e re h a s never been a better opportunity to d o a l i t t l e wo r k o n t h e h o u s e to make the most of those extended weekends. There’s no need to worry if you don’t have the time, energy or have too many plans, as the smallest u p d a t e s c a n h a ve t h e b i g g e s t impact. Whether you have an hour, a day o r t h e w h o l e we e k e n d , h e re a re three challenges you could tackle over the bank holiday weekends to easily update your home.
Only O nly have have o one ne h hour? our? Make time to do those jobs you’ve been meaning to do; touching up paintwork , clearing out those cu p b o a rd s and re -a r ra n g i n g c l u t t e re d b o o k s h e l v e s . T h e s e a re a l l t h e j o b s we n ev e r g e t ro u n d to d o i n g , b u t c a n o f t e n m a k e
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the biggest impact to a room. If you want more of a transformation, update s of t f u r n i s h i n g s a n d a r t wo r k to b r i n g a different colour into a ro o m w i t h o u t a f u l l makeover. A n ot h e r way to instantly update yo u r h o m e i s to t a k e t h i n g s f ro m o t h e r r o o m s a n d b r i n g n ew l i fe t o t h e m a g a i n s t a different coloured wall, o r st y l e d i n a n ot h e r place. There is no cheaper way to update a room than by re-arranging the rooms in your home.
O Only nly h have ave o one ne d day? ay? One day of decoration can make a huge difference without all the upheaval of a full room makeover. Feature walls are a great way to make a big change in a room without having to take all the furniture out . They are fantastically versatile – so whatever your skill set, you’ll have no excuse not to give it a go! If you’re not confident in creating a masterpiece feature, why not simply paint a wall in a complimentary colour to the room? For those who are a little braver, try wallpapering your feature wall with a wonderful print. And remember, it doesn’t have to be a wall – chimney breasts painted in a different colour can also add a huge impact to a room. For a bigger effect , create a gallery wall on your featured colour (once the paint is dry!) made up of family photos, postcards and even homemade art.
Have tthe Have he w whole hole w weekend eekend tto o sspare? pare? If you have the whole weekend to dedicate to revamping your home, seize the moment and take on that room you’ve always wanted to make over. To make the most of your time and to ensure completion of the ro o m , b e s u re to m a k e a p l a n i n advance. Have fun creating a mood board, p l a n n i n g l ay o u t s a n d t r y i n g o u t colour combinations and testers b e f o r e t h e we e k e n d o f t h e w o r k . B e f o r e t h e we e k e n d a r r i v e s , m a k e sure you agree the paint colour or wallpaper pattern rather than wasting a day getting tester pots. G e t yo u r to o l s a n d D I Y m a te r i a l s ready to start work and make sure you have decided the room layout . Once the walls are painted and the ro o m h a s b e e n c h a n g e d a r o u n d , remember to breathe new life into a ro o m b y r e s t y l i n g w i t h n e w accessories and soft furnishings. M o s t o f a l l , e n j oy yo u r b a n k holiday home makeovers!
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Q QUALITY UALITY KITCHENS KITCHENS
QUALITY QUALITY BATHROOMS BATHROOMS
We are here to help you choose the perfect kitchen/bathroom that’s right for you and your lifestyle SSunnybank u n n y b a n k SStables, t a b l e s , LLondon ondon R oad, C Road, Charlton harlton K Kings, ings, G loucestershire, G L 5 4 44HG HG Gloucestershire, GL54
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w w w. c o t s w o l d k i t c h e n s a n d b a t h r o o m s . c o . u k eenquiries@cotswoldkitchensandbathrooms.com www.cotswoldkitchensandbathrooms.co.uk nquiries@cotswoldkitchensandbathrooms.com PUBLIC, PUBLIC, C COMMERCIAL OMMERCIAL A AND N D TTRADE R A D E SSUPPLIERS U P P L I E R S - Call/Visit/Email C a l l / V i s i t / E m a i l tthe h e SShowroom h o w r o o m ffor or m more o r e iinformation nformation
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QUALITY Q UALITY KITCHEN K ITCHEN FACELIFTS F ACELIFTS
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01452 0 1452 3 348 48 5 524 24
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1 18 8H High igh S Street, treet, Stonehouse, Stonehouse, G Gloucestershire loucestershire GL10 GL10 2NA 2NA
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Specialists Specialists in in bathroom bathroom safety safety
With time you may find your bathroom becomes more difficult to use safely. It is possible to change your bath for a shower quite easily, as there are products available designed to fit the space taken up by a bath. Alternatively, you may decide you would like a wet room with a completely flat surface. Here are some photographs of a recent project where the customer replaced their old bath and shower with a tiled wet room, suitable for a wheelchair user with a young family.
Save S ave 20% 2 0% VAT* V AT*
*If you need to make changes to your bathroom due to disability or a medical condition, we are able to supply your bathroom VAT free, saving you 20%. Please ask for details.
• Change your bath for a large shower • Redesign your layout to make best use of space • Increase storage with built in units • Warm your feet and keep the floor dry with underfloor heating • Add grab rails and fold away shower seat • Tiles, wallboards, mirrors and accessories supplied • Experienced polite installers • Free design service and advice • 30+ years of experience in the bathroom industry
07496 0 0572 572 281 81 or Contact Rex on 07496 01453 884 4167 0 1453 8 84 167 for a free home visit to discuss your needs
w www.lifestylebathrooms.net ww.lifestylebathrooms.net e
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G GDPR: DPR: aare re yyou ou rready? eady? The latest in a long line of legislation introduced courtesy of the UK’s fading love affair with the European Union hits the statute books this month. The Data Protection Act has been in force since 1998, the same year that Andorran opened its doors, Google was launched and Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal won the league and cup double. A good year then! Andorran and Arsene are still going strong and Google is part of our daily lives, but the rulemakers have decided that the Data Protection Act is no longer fit for purpose. It is to be replaced by the General Data Protection Regulation or GDPR for short.
IIntended ntended tto op protect rotect o our ur p personal ersonal d data ata It is intended, of course, to protect our personal data and we all hope that it helps to eliminate some of the m a j o r d a t a l o s s e s s u f fe r e d i n t h e w e l l - d o c u m e n te d cases involving some very public names, most recently, of course, Facebook and Cambridge Analytica. I fear, however, that it is the proverbial sledgehammer and nut scenario. The effect of compliance on small businesses will be horrendous and well out of proportion with the benefits it will bring. No small business is immune from the possibility of data loss, but it’s hard to imagine how it could ever be on the same scale as those widely-publicised events. We will all update our systems to comply, as best we can, with GDPR. Actually it’s been quite an interesting exercise to review our policies and procedures for storage of information, both online and on paper, for, don’t be fooled, GDPR applies equally to hard copy as to electronic data.
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THE SOLUTION FOR YOUR NEW BATHROOM ... Your local family business
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The perceived wisdom is to hold data for no longer than you are obliged to, which is a culture change for many professional firms, including mine, who see data retention as part of the ability to deliver client service. Just a fortnight ago, a client asked for his tax returns going back to 2001, which I was able to provide, because historically we have kept everything. He was delighted to find I could help him; it was a good job he didn’t wait until next month to ask , when I might well have destroyed it if I follow this perceived wisdom. If you’re running a business don’t ignore GDPR. You will need to adapt some of your business practices and update others, otherwise you risk an enquiry from the Information Commissioner ’s Office and some potentially hefty fines. You have been warned!
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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
FFairford airford B Bowling owling CClub lub a are re o on naw winning inning rroll! oll! Fairford Bowling Club got quite lucky when Mr and Mrs Crookes walked through their doors at East End. That was 10 years ago and while husband David has been secretary since 2010, his wife Julia is captain of the ladies’ Stroud Valley Triples League team. “It ’s not difficult to get jobs in an organisation like a bowls club,” laughed David, “it’s getting people to take them on that’s the difficult part.” Mr and Mrs Crookes moved down to Gloucestershire from Yorkshire back in 1993. Now retired, 64-year-old David used to work for an energy company and like his good lady had played a bit of crown green bowls when he was living up north. So when they walked through the doors of Fairford Bowling Club, they weren’t exactly going into the unknown. And they were welcomed with open arms. “We’ve got about 120 to 130 outdoor members,” said David. “We’ve got one green which can be set up as six, seven or eight rinks. And we’ve got a two-rink indoor facility as
Promotion Promotion iiss tthe he a aim im Charlie Garratt is hoping to hit the ground running when the new cricket season gets under way. That is something that Bourton Vale failed to do last season, a season w h i c h s aw t h e m finish in mid-table in the Gloucesters h i re D i v i s i o n o f the West of England League. “We lost our Charlie Garratt first four games,” said Bourton skipper Garratt . “Then we went on a really good run, winning something like seven games before falling away at the end.” And the 26 -year-old is certainly hoping for better this time around. “I took on the captaincy at the start of last season and I wouldn’t have
David and Julia Crookes
well. We’ve got about 150 indoor members.” And it’s not all about the bowls at the go-ahead club. “The club’s social activities are organised by our social committee and include Sunday lunches, live entertainment nights and quizzes,” said David. “And we have two very popular bowling tours organised each year by Pauline and Ed Tuckey.” Founded in 1914, the club moved to their current location in the 1930s. These days they field teams in a variety of competitions and they taken it on if our aim wasn’t to win promotion,” he said.
Let’s Let’s g get et g going… oing… Alex Binnie has an old head on young shoulders. A t t h e a g e o f j u s t 2 1, t h e wicketkeeper/batsman has taken on the captaincy of Cirencester, taking over from Gareth Williams who is not far short of 30 years older than him. But far from being daunted by the challenge, Binnie is relishing the opportunity of pitting his wits against t h e o p p o s i t i o n c a pt a i n s i n t h e Gloucestershire Division of the West of England Premier League. ”It’s a job I’ve always wanted to do,” said the former Deer Park School pupil. “I’ve been playing for the club since I was 11. ”I’m excited for it all to get going, it’s always a long winter.”
enjoy a fair degree of success too. “We’ve got two men’s teams in the South Cotswold League,” said David, “they play in divisions one and two. And we’ve got two teams in the Gloucestershire County League and our top team are playing in Division Two after two successive promotions.” The women’s outdoor team are pretty active as well because, as well as playing in the Stroud Valley Triples League, they also compete in the Corinium League. “We’ve attracted some strong bowlers, we’re doing pretty well at the moment,” added David. And a quick look at the club’s roll of honour certainly backs up what David is saying because in Tim Bloomer they boast the current men’s county singles champion. “He’s a home-grown bowler and has been playing for only about seven years,” said David. “He’s our standout bowler and the man of the moment. “And we’ve also got Tom Luce who reached the county under-25 singles final last year.” Full story online.
A fitting fitting ffinale inale Like a very good book or film, there is always an excellent ending to the race season at Cheltenham. That ’s because the finishing line is reached with the ever-popular Hunter C h a s e Ev e n i n g m e e t i n g , w h i c h t h i s year takes place on Friday 4th May (first race 4.55pm). It ’s the meeting where the top point-to-pointers get the chance to s h i n e o n t h e b i g g est j u m p s st a g e i n the world and Ian Renton, the main man at Cheltenham Racecourse, is, as you’d expect , very much looking forward to it. “It ’s a lovely way to end the season,” he said. “It ’s a great opportunity for the leading amateur j o c k ey s to g e t t h e m s e l ve s i n to t h e winner’s enclosure.” For full versions of all these stories and more, visit www.thelocalanswer.co.uk
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I’ve never I’ve never regarded regarded being being a ttennis ennis coach as as work, work, k ssays ays JJames ames Hilltout Hilltout coach J a m e s H i l l to u t i s o n e o f t h o s e incredibly lucky people who just loves his job. In some ways that ’s not surprising because the 53-year-old is a full-time professional tennis coach, and if you like tennis it tends to follow that you’ll enjoy working in the sport. “It ’s a real passion,” said Hilltout , who coaches at Moreton and Bourton Vale tennis clubs. “I’ve never regarded it as work , it’s my hobby.” And it ’s a hobby he’s been playing for the best part of half a century, because he first started hitting tennis balls at the tender age of five. And again it ’s not really surprising that he got hooked almost as soon as he reached school age because his mum Barbara was a professional tennis player back in the day. “I was very lucky,” said Hilltout. “My mum was a very good player and u s e d t o p l ay w i t h t h e l i k e s o f Fr e d Perry back in the 50s.
““II g guess uess I w was as a always lways g going oing tto op play lay ttennis” ennis” “I grew up in Cheltenham and she was head coach at East Glos so I guess I was always going to play tennis.” And that ’s exactly how it panned out. He left what was then Whitefriars School after sitting his O-levels at the st a r t of t h e 8 0 s a n d , a l t h o u g h h e probably didn’t know it at the time, the most important exam he took was French. That’s because at the age of 16 he headed off to Avignon, a city in southeastern France’s Provence region, where his sister Jeannette was living, a n d t o o k h i s f i r s t s t e p s a s a te n n i s coach. “That was my main occupation,” s a i d H i l l to u t , w h o w o u l d s p e n d t h e next decade coaching in Germany, B e l g i u m a n d H o l l a n d a s we l l a s France. He also played a bit in Belgium and Holland but aside from the tennis he has great memories of his time the other side of the English Channel. “The 80s were a good time to be in that part of the world,” said Hilltout ,
“it was a wonderful time. I saw the Berlin Wall come down and that ’s one of the great moments in history. “I remember walking through the corridor from West Germany to East Germany before the wall c a m e d o w n a n d t h e re being Russians everywhere. That was a real eye-opener.” And while he was learning a lot about life, the young Hilltout was also learning plenty about h i m s e l f i n t h e wo r l d o f tennis as well. So why did he become a coach at such a young age? “I just wasn’t good enough to be a player,” he s a i d . “ I p l a ye d t o a g o o d county and regional s t a n d a rd i n E n g l a n d b u t t h e b e s t p l a ye r s w e r e much better than me. That ’s when I decided I wanted to coach.” That coaching journey brought him back to this country at the start of the 9 0 s a n d h e p re t t y m u c h c a m e f u l l circle because he landed a job at East Glos, the place where his mum, who t h e s e d a y s l i v e s i n t h e D o rd o g n e i n France, used to work . “I also worked at county and regional level and for the LTA which involved taking under-16 squads over to France to play,” said Hilltout, “that was very good.” A n d a ro u n d t h i s t i m e h e a l s o b e c a m e i n v o l ve d f i r s t w i t h M o re to n Tennis Club and then Bourton Vale Tennis Club, two clubs he is still very much involved with today. Moreton have about 100 members w h o p l a y o n t w o f l o o d l i t a s t ro t u r f courts, while there are 50 to 60 members and two floodlit hard courts at Bourton. Hilltout took over as coach from Ann Furkins when she retired and he said: “I think what we’re trying to do is
James Hilltout with his son Eric
provide a facility so that everyone can play. “The clubs are for the community and offer the chance for children to get involved in sport.” Hilltout, who is married to Aina – a former opera singer from Norway – and lives in Brockhampton, near Cheltenham, reckons he spends 40 to 50 hours every week coaching “as long as it’s not snowing!”
“Arthur “Arthur H Hanson anson iiss a v very ery good good p prospect” rospect” And there’s one youngster, in particular, who has caught his eye at Bourton Vale. “ A r t h u r H a n s o n i s a ve r y g o o d prospect,” he said. “He’s playing a lot of county tennis and is number two or three in the county for the under-9s. I’ve got a lot of hopes for him, he’s going very well.” And if there’s one person who can help young Arthur develop his game, then it surely has to be James Hilltout.
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10 27 30 31 21 20 20 35 24
Happy Home Cleaning 24 FURNISHING & APPLIANCES Bella’s Interiors 5 Chiselworks 22 Dream Doors 29 Gloucester Carpet Outlet 26 GARDEN SERVICES Mark Clifford Landscapes 20 HEATING & PLUMBING Sarsen Energy 5 Seasoned Hardwood Logs 20 KITCHENS Cots Kitchen Solutions 27
Hatherley Worktops WINDOWS & DOORS Albany Windows
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PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CARE SERVICES Aura Care Living 9 Glos County Council Fostering 6 Hunters Care Centre 4 The Orders of St John 2 & 11 SKIP HIRE & RECYCLING Stevens Recycling 34 To advertise telephone:
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