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C otswolds: 330,000 0,000 ccopies opies Cotswolds: Cheltenham: 443,000 3,000 ccopies opies Cheltenham: G loucester: 446,000 6,000 copies copies Gloucester: N orth G loucestershire: 220,000 0,000 ccopies opies North Gloucestershire: S troud D istrict: 441,000 1,000 ccopies opies Stroud District:

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W elcome Welcome ttoo D ecember December The countdown to Christmas is now on! We’ve got loads of festive events in our What’s On section so if you’re looking for something to do in the lead up to the big day, make sure you check out the listings. If you’ve still got Christmas shopping to do and you are in need of some inspiration, our articles have some great gift recommendations, from garden tools to travel books. Gill Greenwell has some wonderful tips for decorating your home for the festive season in her Interior Design article, we have a tasty recipe to use up your Christmas leftovers, and Roger Jackson is back with great local sport stories. If you’re considering promoting your business or event in The Local Answer, there isn’t long left to take advantage of our fantastic discounts. You’ll need to book by Tuesday 7th December to save 50% on display advertising or 35% on event listings. You can find more details inside. The Local Answer team wish you a wonderful Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year!

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U nit H hurchill IIndustrial ndustrial EEstate, state, Unit H,, C Churchill C hurchill R oad, LLeckhampton, eckhampton, Churchill Road, C heltenham, Gloucestershire Gloucestershire G L53 7EG 7EG Cheltenham, GL53

01242 510500 510500 Telephone T elephone 01242 info@thelocalanswer.co.uk info@thelocalanswer.co.uk @thelocalanswer @ thelocalanswer

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MONDAY Cirencester 9.30am

6pm & 7.30pm C ricklade 5 .30pm & 7 pm Cricklade 5.30pm 7pm TUESDAY TUESDAY C Cricklade ricklade 9.30am 9.30am Tetbury 9.30am, Tetbury 9.30am, 5.30pm 5.30pm &7 7pm pm WEDNESDAY WEDNESDAY C Cirencester irencester 9am, 9am, 10.30am, 10.30am, 6pm 7.30pm 6pm & 7 .30pm SATURDAY S ATURDAY F Fairford airford 9 9.30am .30am

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Butter B utter turkey turkey ccurry urr y Jazz up your Christmas J azz u py our C hristmas lleftovers eftovers with w ith tthis his ttasty asty tturkey urkey ccurry! urry!

IIngredients: ngredients: 100g/3.5oz unsalted butter 1 whole garlic, peeled or use lazy garlic 40g/1.5oz fresh ginger, peeled or use lazy ginger 3 medium onions, finely diced 2 tsp salt 3 tbsp tomato puree Approximately 1kg/2lb turkey breast, diced 2 tbsp garam masala 2 tsp paprika 350ml water 150g/5oz salted cashew nuts Serve with: cooked white rice, fresh coriander and natural yoghurt (optional).

M Method: ethod: 1 Put the butter into a large pan and heat until melted. 2 Put the garlic and ginger into a food processor and whizz until it forms a paste. Or I used a pestle and mortar. 3 Add this to the hot butter and cook for 4 minutes until browned but not burnt. 4 Add the chopped onions, salt and tomato puree and cook for about 12 minutes until the onions are soft.

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5 Add the chopped turkey and cook for 10 minutes with the lid off. 6 Add the garam masala and paprika and cook for a further 10 minutes stirring occasionally. 7 Add the water, stir together then pop a lid on and cook for a further 12 minutes, remove the lid, add the cashew nuts and cook for a further 10 minutes. 8 Serve on a bed of white rice, drizzled with some yoghurt and a sprinkling of fresh coriander.

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Police and Crime Commissioner Chris Nelson’s

POLICE & CRIME PREVENTION PLAN ~ 2021-2025

It’s time to put words into action I am immensely proud to be able to present my first Police and Crime Prevention Plan and, as I do, I am reminded of all those people I met during my campaign to become the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for Gloucestershire. People who shared their views and concerns about policing and crime on doorsteps and at public meetings. This Plan reflects what I heard whilst campaigning and what I have learned whilst in office.

PRIORITIES • Creating safer communities • Ta ackling violence against women and girls • Strengthening your Constabulary • Ta argeting the causes of crime • Supporting victims and reducing re-offending • Empowering local communities Whilst much of this plan will be related to my vision for policing in Gloucestershire, it should not be forgotten that my role as PCC is wider than simply holding the Chief Constable to account for the performance of the Constabulary, though clearly this is a significant part of the job. The role of PCC includes the commissioning of support services for those who

have been a victim of crime; working with partners to help keep communities safe; and a duty to collaborate with other forces and other emergency services with a view to keeping individuals and communities safe from harm. I am committed to ensuring that this is truly a living document, and will undertake regular reviews to ensure that the priorities it contains remain fit for purpose and still address the threats, risks and concerns identified by the police, partners and - most importantly - by you who live or work in Gloucestershire. I am not afraid to say I have learned so much over the last few months and that, even in the time between drafts of this plan, my thinking has evolved. Through consultation, for example, I have heard from members of the public

You can read the Police and Crime Prevention Plan in full here: https://www.gloucestershire-pcc.gov.uk/police-and-crime-plan-priorities For a printed copy, email the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner at PCC@gloucestershire.pnn.police.uk or call 01452 754348

who want to see their Constabulary doing all it can to tackle the climate challenge. For this reason, I can say now that I will continue previous commitments to reduce the Constabulary’s carbon footprint and lead the way nationally in being an exemplar ‘green’ force. It is a huge honour and privilege to be the Police and Crime Commissioner for Gloucestershire and as your PCC, I am here to listen. I am also here as your representative to hold the Chief Constable to account and to ensure that Gloucestershire continues to be one of the safest places to live and work in the country.

C Chris hris Nelson Nelson

Police and Crime Commissioner for Gloucestershire

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Lessons Lessons from from lockdown lockdown – why is king king why self-care self-care is As we go deeper into the winter season, amid all the doom and gloom with the continued impact of the pandemic, the energy crisis, and the economic effects of Brexit, looking after ourselves has never been more important. Are you proactively focusing on your wellbeing or have you gone ‘back to normal’ and ‘business as usual’? Sadly, I’ve started to notice some old habits creeping back, many of them detrimental to our wellbeing. While travelling across the country recently, I’ve noticed some behaviours and attitudes that resemble pre-pandemic concerns. The most noticeable is people working longer hours to get stuff done and neglecting their wellbeing. The slower pace of lockdown seems like a thing of the past, with many burning the candle at both ends.

T The he sstresses tresses o off llife ife h have ave m made ade ssome ome p people eople lless ess kind k ind a and nd ttolerant olerant I’m sure you’ll have witnessed something in your own sphere that made you pause – as the stresses of life have increased again, people are certainly less kind, tolerant and understanding now than they were a year ago. Self -awareness, empathy and a focus on improved selfcare can take care of this. One simple, effective way to reduce stress is to ensure that we take care of ‘number one’. Remember, you can only be great in all areas of your life and add value to others if you look after yourself first. The Local Answer

During the lockdowns last year, a lack of self-care was probably the biggest issue many people recognised in themselves as we adapted to the situation. We lost the few things many of us had access to, but possibly took for granted. A few pints at the weekend; recreational sport and exercise; games night; lunchtime gym; commutes to decompress the day’s work before we got home; access to babysitters to facilitate the odd date night. This definitely focused minds on the importance of self-care and wellbeing, and made us even more grateful when we could get out and about again. When people first started working from home in large numbers, there was a certain romantic appeal. However, many people struggled with being ‘locked up’ and restricted because they lacked intention and a plan about their self-care and wellbeing. Through many different posi-

tive interventions, we started realising that we need to be more intentional about taking care of ourselves first (which is not being selfish!). This then better places us to take care of our families, friends, business/ career, clients and the wider community.

S Self-care elf-care h helps elps tto o rreduce educe tthe he risk risk of of burnout burnout Practising self-care helps to build awareness of how our bodies respond to particular exercise regimes or nutritional plans, and reduces the risk of burnout, as we have a better idea of when to stop, rest and recover. While you may feel like you always have to be switched on when trying to achieve a health or fitness goal, rest, recovery and mental ‘downtime’ are just as important as the activity you take part in, so make sure you factor this into your schedule. I hope you have an enjoyable and restful time over the Christmas holidays.

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H Helping elping F Families amilies ffind ind tthe he rright ight h help elp We help families find high quality nannies, domestic help and child care professionals Mothers Help • Nannies • Housekeepers, Cleaners • Maternity Nurses • Babysitters One-off, short-term or long-term support Full-time, part-time, live-in or live-out A bespoke, personal and attentive service Initial consultation to fully understand your requirements All candidates thoroughly vetted, including relevant DBS and reference checks

H Helping elping N Nannies annies ffind ind tthe he right right jjob ob Nanny jobs in Gloucestershire We have a wide range of nanny jobs in Gloucestershire available, so if you are a childcare professional in this area then please don’t hesitate to get in touch. ontact L For For m more ore iinformation nformation p please lease c contact Laura: aura:

g loucestershire@mums-the-word.co.uk gloucestershire@mums-the-word.co.uk mums-the-word.co.uk • 07775 07775 309183 309183 mums-the-word.co.uk

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

A new new arrival arrival Christmastime celebrates the birth of a baby so what better time to talk about preparations for your new arrival? Preparing for the birth of your baby – especially if it is your first – is so important, so I wanted to share a few top tips for new mums that I hope you will find useful. Remembering that all mums are different and you should always do what feels right and good for you, here is a quick list of recommended steps to take to help you get the birth experience you truly want. If there is anything you’re unsure of, be sure to talk to your GP or midwife.

R Rest est In the last four weeks, rest as much as you can. Now is not the time to be redecorating, moving furniture or rushing to complete a project. There will be many sleepless nights ahead, so now is the time to bank some shut eye! Please take your time to rest and give your body the loving attention it so deserves – you are growing a new human and deserve to be treated like a queen.

Personally, I think this is a great time to do some affirmations, to congratulate yourself on creating and growing a whole human, and allow yourself to feel proud of all you have accomplished.

Fill Fill up up Eat well and enjoy tasty, home-cooked, nutrient-dense foods to really shore up your metabolism and energy stores. If you have been struggling with sickness throughout your pregnancy, remember that just getting some food into you is important – try not to worry too much about how healthy it is. If all you can stomach is ‘beige’ food then don’t put too much pressure on yourself. If you feel up to it, take light exercise such as walking or swimming every day, which will help keep you mobile, especially if you are struggling with loose ligaments.

U Unwind nwind Why not try meditation? Learning to quiet the mind, deep breathing, soothing the vagus nerve, massaging the belly and lower back all serve to bring you into a space in preparation for the coming experience. The more relaxed, mentally, physically and emotionally you are, the better. There are lots of guided meditations online that will help you sleep and relax especially in these last months while you may feel most uncomfortable.

Be Be prepared prepared Pack your hospital bag and keep it in the car in case you go into labour when you are away The Local Answer

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from home. Include changes of clothes, notes, phone charger, nappies and have your car seat fitted well in advance of the birth. Keep the tank over half full so you are not caught out!

Make M ake a n note ote Finally, consider writing a birth plan – not with the intention of everything ‘going to plan’ of course, but rather to have your wishes made clear. When you go into labour, you may not be able to convey your thoughts properly, so it can help to have it written down. Do you want pain relief, a natural birth, would you like to breastfeed immediately, do you want your birthing partner to cut the cord, do you want the birth time noted? Preparing for your baby’s arrival is such an exciting time and impossible to plan entirely, so I’ll sum up by saying – take care of yourself, ask questions, make your wishes known and prepare for the ride of your life! Oh, and congratulations to all new mums reading this – you are amazing! Merry Christmas. Page 11

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G Green reen ffinance inance Member of the Society of Will Writers & Fully Insured

D Do oy you ou h have ave a W Will? ill? Would you like to make changes to your Will? Have you considered what will happen to your estate when you die? Are you concerned that your children may lose your home to cover the cost of Care Home fees? Have you appointed Guardians for your children? WE WE CAN CAN ALSO ALSO ARRANGE ARRANGE L LASTING ASTING P POWER OWER O OF FA ATTORNEY TTORNEY COMPETITIVE COMPETITIVE F FEES EES For an appointment in your own home or by Zoom please contact Peter Aldous: 01367 0 1367 2 250289 50289 or 07795 07795 024431 024431

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D Distributors istributors Required Required Immediately in Andoversford, Meysey Hampton, Northleach, Quenington, Stow on the Wold and Upper Rissington And to join our waiting list for: Avening • Blockley Chipping Campden • Ebrington • Lechlade Siddington • South Cerney P Please lease o only nly a apply pply ffor or tthe he a areas reas listed listed above. above. Please email d distribution@thelocalanswer.co.uk istribution@thelocalanswer.co.uk with your name, postal address, telephone number and date of birth. A member of our team will respond with more information. Please do not call the office – our staff are only returning to work part-time, so may not always be available to take your call. Each round is made up of 150-400 copies per month. The rate of pay is 6 pence/copy. Depending on propertty T The he L Loca ocal types, our current team of people ANS A NS W WER ER average between 100-150 copies/hour (equivalent to £6-£9/hour). 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 COTSWO COTSWOLDS LDS perform the duties. G GLOUCESTERSHIRE’S LOUCESTERSHIRE’S S B BIGGEST IGGEST LLOCAL OCAL M MAGAZINE AGAZIINE DECEMBER DECEMBER 2021 2021

A VERY VERY MERRY MERRY CHRISTMAS CHRISTMAS FROM FROM THE THE LOCAL LOCAL ANSWER ANSWER

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You couldn’t avoid the television and press coverage last month as the world’s leaders met in Glasgow for the COP26 summit. You shouldn’t have wanted to avoid it; the importance of ‘going green’ is obvious and nobody rejects the idea. Whilst the summit focused on how countries were going to deliver an adequate commitment and how quickly they will get there, Money Matters wondered exactly how much it was all going to cost and how we are actually going to afford to get there. We can all make a contribution, of course we can. Governments will be expected to take the lead, but how much can the Chancellor really afford to commit to the cause when he’s still trying to pay for his furlough scheme and continue to invest in British infrastructure, not least of which is the NHS?

I think the private sector should be taking the lead. A significant part of the UK’s wealth is generated through Financial Institutions. The amount of money in the City of London is well out of balance with poorer parts of the country, but that’s a different subject. Investors should be insisting that their money gets into sustainable investments. It’s beginning to happen, but it needs to become more widespread to the point of becoming the default approach for investors. The government has created Green Bonds that individuals can buy and begin to make a difference at a basic level. It needs to do more to provide opportunities for individuals to make a statement in the form of further and better green investments, as well as considering whether tax breaks could support the efforts of individuals or small businesses. There are some odd tax breaks enjoyed only by the better off in society. Remove them, Mr Chancellor, and replace them with breaks that the majority can enjoy and which might just do some good in the fight to protect the future of the environment. You don’t need Money Matters to tell you the importance of the subject, but don’t go assuming there isn’t a cost to achieving it. In the meantime, on a cheerier note, have a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year.

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WIN Lilly the Campervan Escape from it all in this TTIICKKEETTSS .95 .9 fabulous home from home £7 EA EACH Don’t miss your chance to own this handcrafted van conversion worth £30,000!

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Full specification, further details and tickets available online Cotswold camper competitions

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To register and buy your ticket visit www.Cotswold-camper-competitions.co.uk

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TO SHARE SHARE YOUR YOUR SPORTING SPORTING WANT W ANT TO STORY ON ON OUR OUR WEBSITE? WEBSITE? STORY Please Please eemail mail ffull ull ddetails etails ttoo sport@thelocalanswer.co.uk sport@thelocalanswer.co.uk

Allcock O BE h as b een lleading eading Tony T ony Allcock OBE has been from tthe he front front iin n aallll walks walks of of life life from Tony Allcock is one of this country’s most decorated sportsmen. The king of bowls, now 66, collected world titles for fun back in the 80s, 90s and early noughties, reigning supreme in all formats of the game. He was on top of the world both indoors and out, and was picking up gold medals whether playing singles, pairs, triples or fours. The one-time Cheltenham Bowling Club, Painswick Falcon, MidGlos and Cotswold player won national titles galore as well and yet ask Allcock, who these days lives in Guiting Power – he’s chairman of the parish council – what his proudest achievement was and his answer may surprise you. “It was one that I wasn’t physically involved in myself,” he told The Local Answer. “It was after I was appointed the bowls performance coach for the England team at the 2002 Commonwealth Games in Manchester. “One of the events was for the visually impaired and this was something that was new to the Games. “The pressure was on because although Sport England were supportive financially, they wanted results.” The competition was for bowlers who were completely blind and after skirting the country looking for the ideal person, Allcock came across Ruth Small, who was in her 70s and from Kent. “I thought long and hard about her,” admitted Allcock, who is also the current chairman of The Kennel Club.

Tony Allcock

“I thought about her age, but she was a very good player. “It’s incredible the way players like her play, how they visualise bowls on the green.” They are helped by a sighted person but as Allcock explained: “There weren’t really any high level coaches back then and her husband of 50 years was her partner, guide and carer.” And that’s where Allcock worked his magic. “They had a great affinity and I trained her physically and him tactically. “It was unique in those days and he became an expert tactically and I improved her technically.” So much so that Small steamrollered her opponent in the final in Manchester, much to the delight of Allcock. “It was the best gold medal I got my hands on,” he said. And to understand just why that victory meant so much to Allcock you have to scroll back some 25 years earlier to when he was starting out in his professional life. “I worked in adult education,

teaching people with learning difficulties,” he explained. And it was through his work that Allcock, who was born in Thurmaston, Leicestershire, first came to this part of the world, because he was appointed head teacher at a school for people with learning difficulties in Tewkesbury. He’d previously been an assistant head teacher in Leicestershire but Allcock said of his promotion: “I was 25 years old, it was a big accolade.” Allcock went on to become head teacher at St Rose’s School in Stroud – another specialist provider – and only gave up the role because bowls was taking him away from his job more and more. “It wasn’t a problem and it never was a problem,” said Allcock, who has been awarded an MBE and an OBE. “Gloucestershire County Council was always very good about me playing bowls but I didn’t want it to ever become a problem. “I was playing in tournaments that were on TV, it was untenable for me to be a head teacher.” Allcock had by then already announced himself to bowls fans across the globe, winning gold in the triples and team events in the world outdoor championships in Melbourne in 1980. His golden years were probably from 1984 through to 1996, but even in his latter years he still managed to win a third world indoor title in 2002 and indoor pairs titles in 1997 and 2003. Full story online.

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What W hat s O On n The The Local Local Answer Answer Event Event L Listings istings a are re ccompiled ompiled a and nd p presented resented in in good good faith faith with with the the kind kind support support o off m many any ccontributors. ontributors. W We e recommend recommend you you use use the the contact contact details details provided provided to to check check e event vent iinformation nformation u updates pdates p prior rior tto op planning lanning y your our v visit. isit. 2255 NOVEMBER NOVEMBER & 55-7 -7 D DECEMBER ECEMBER CHRISTMAS ARTISAN MARKET This special festive four day event will celebrate local makers and producers at Cheltenham’s iconic pump room. The market launches on Thursday 25th November as part of the switchon of the pump room’s Christmas lights display, complete with carol singers and choirs, live entertainment and special guests. For more details visit www.cheltenhamtrust.org.uk DECEMBER 2266 NOVEMBER NOVEMBER – 2211 D ECEMBER ENCHANTED CHRISTMAS

Set out on an adventure through the illuminated trees of the arboretum and look out for clues to reunite Father Christmas with his lost reindeer! Experience mesmerising light displays amongst amazing trees but watch out for the storm, and don’t get lost! Relaxed sessions available, with adapted trail for those who require additional needs, such as autism. Advance booking essential. www.forestryengland.uk/westonbirt Westonbirt, The National Arboretum, Tetbury, GL8 8QS.

2266 NOVEMBER NOVEMBER – 3300 D DECEMBER ECEMBER SPECTACLE OF LIGHT 2021 Discover the new Light Curve and the flickering flames of the Queens’ garden. Gaze at the sparkling water features and the mesmerising Carpet of Colour. Light beams, lanterns and much more. Sip festive warmers of spiced mulled wine and sprinkled hot chocolate as you join the magical trail around these wonderful grounds. Takeaway hot food and delicious donuts available. For more details and to book tickets please visit www.sudeleycastle.co.uk 22-5 -5 DECEMBER DECEMBER CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL Come and see our wonderful display of beautifully decorated Christmas Trees. The decorations have all been handmade by the Church Family, including the young and not so young! Refreshments available including homemade cake. Current Covid restrictions will be observed. 3pm-7.30pm. Hucclecote Methodist Church, Carisbrooke Road, Gloucester, GL3 3QP. 4 DECEMBER DECEMBER WINTER WONDERLAND WITH GROTTO A truly magical afternoon of Christmas market stalls, grotto, refreshments and lots of festive fun whilst supporting local charity Heart Heroes. There will also be the launch of the Heart Heroes minibus and a visit from the Mayor of Gloucester. 12-4.30pm. To visit Father Christmas (one ticket per child), book online: buytickets.at/heartheroes/602371 Gloucester Carpet Outlet, Unit 4, Mill Place, Bristol Road, Gloucester GL1 5SQ.

TEWKESBURY TOWN BAND’S CHRISTMAS CONCERT Tewkesbury's very own brass band once again gathers at The Roses for a magical Christmassy celebration of music and song. 7.30pm. Tickets £1315. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, Glos, GL20 5NX. 01684 295074. www.rosestheatre.org DECEMBER 6 DECEMBER DIE HARD “If this is their idea of Christmas, I gotta be here for New Year’s!” New York City policeman John McClane (Bruce Willis) is visiting his estranged wife and children in Los Angeles on Christmas Eve when her office party is interrupted by a group of terrorists (led by Alan Rickman) who take over the skyscraper and everyone in it. There’s only one person who can try to save the hostages – him. Tickets £7.50. 7.30pm. More details at www.cheltplayhouse.org.uk Cheltenham Playhouse, 47-53 Bath Road, Cheltenham, GL53 7HG. 10 10 DECEMBER DECEMBER FAIRYTALE OF NEW YORK With an international cast of singers, musicians and dancers, Fairytale of New York has all of your favourite Christmas songs including Driving home for Christmas, White Christmas and Silent Night. This magical Irishinspired Christmas show will have you singing, laughing and dancing in the aisles. 7.30pm. Tickets £24.50-26.50. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, Glos, GL20 5NX. 01684 295074. www.rosestheatre.org

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1111 DECEMBER DECEMBER CHRISTMAS MARKET Local gifts, kids’ craft, Father Christmas, refreshments. Outside in Cambray Place and inside Cambray Baptist Church, Cambray Place, Cheltenham GL50 1JS. 10am-3pm. www.cambray.org 1122 DECEMBER DECEMBER PET PORTRAIT PAINTING WORKSHOP

Come and enjoy a relaxed day of painting in a beautiful venue. Working from your photos, professional artist Hazel will show you how to create a masterpiece for yourself or as a gift for someone special. Tickets: £85 including lunch and materials. Book online at www.hrhpetportraits.com/workshops and enter code ’friend10’ to get 10% off 2 or more tickets. Workshop gift vouchers also available. 10am-3pm. Stonehouse Court Hotel, Bristol Road, Stonehouse, Stroud GL10 3RA.

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ORCHESTRA PRO ANIMA CHRISTMAS CONCERT The concert will be preceded by a 5pm reception in the Long Drawing Room where you can enjoy wine, mince pies and other festive fare by the roaring log fire. The Christmas trees and twinkling lights create a truly special atmosphere. The programme comprises beautiful music spanning over 200 years played by Orchestra Pro Anima and directed by Michael Bochmann MBE, with the outstanding French Horn player Stephen Roberts. Tickets £42, including the Reception and refreshments in the interval. Full details at www.berkeley-castle.com. Berkeley Castle, GL13 9BQ. 14 14 DECEMBER DECEMBER SANTA’S BEST EVER CHRISTMAS Dotty the Elf thinks Santa is planning a surprise Christmas party, Pompom the Penguin thinks Santa has been making Christmas crackers, and Dasher the Reindeer thinks Santa has got their biggest Christmas tree ever – do you think they’re right? Join Father Christmas and friends in this brand new, festive, interactive adventure! A family show most suitable for 2-7 year olds, where every child will receive a specially wrapped present from Santa!

To advertise call 01242 510500

10.30am. Tickets £10 (£8 conc). 01242 258002. The Bacon Theatre, Dean Close School, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham, GL51 6EP. www.bacontheatre.co.uk 17 DECEMBER DECEMBER 17 THE KATE’S HOME NURSING CHRISTMAS CAROL CONCERT Seasonal music, reading and carols with Richard Coxon (Tenor), Imogen Cox (Violinist), Katy Treharne (Soprano) and David Harrington (Pianist). Tickets £15, from Gabrielle Kubale – email gabriellekubale@hotmail.com – or at The Borzoi Bookshop, Stow-on-theWold. 6.30pm. St Lawrence’s Church, Bourton-on-the-Water. www.kateshomenursing.org FIREWORK FEST(IVE) – SPECIAL CHRISTMAS EDITION Join us for a firework display with a difference. Wrap up warm and get yourself in the Christmas spirit as we light up the skies. The event is expected to sell out quickly so do not miss your chance to be part of the action. An unmissable Christmas event for your diary that promises to be a family friendly and exciting evening out. Walls Club, Hammond Way Barnwood, Gloucester, GL4 3YL. For more details and to book tickets visit www.chaselanefireworks.co.uk/events

Page 17

1188 DECEMBER DECEMBER BY THE LIGHT OF A STAR Your Christmas starts here! The Saint Cecilia Singers will serve up traditional German Christmas music and audience carols with a warming glass of mulled wine. Finishing with a sparkling world premiere by Andrew Millington, Gloucester Cathedral’s chamber choir will send you home full of seasonal cheer. 7pm. Tickets £15/£17 students/U16s free from www.saintceciliasingers.org Gloucester Cathedral, 12 College Green, GL1 2LX. MAJESTY – A TRIBUTE TO QUEEN “Majesty – a tribute to Queen” formed in 2010 with a passion to pay tribute to the greatest Rock band in the World. Their mission was to bring to the stage all the magic and energy that Queen were renowned for during their iconic shows. 7.30pm. Tickets £25 (£22.50 conc). 01242 258002. The Bacon Theatre, Dean Close School, Hatherley Road, GL51 6EP. www.bacontheatre.co.uk 1199 DECEMBER DECEMBER CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT Carols, candlelight, mince pies and mulled wine. Cambray Baptist Church, Cambray Place, Cheltenham GL50 1JS. 6.30pm. www.cambray.org

18-24 18-24 DECEMBER DECEMBER CHRISTMAS AT TOAD HALL

Christmas time is approaching and the animals are preparing for the big event. With Mole keen to decorate the Wild Wood in readiness for Santa’s visit, Ratty looking forward to skating on the river, and Badger preparing for his traditional Christmas at home, all seems to be going well – until Toad insists everyone comes to Toad Hall where he promises a Christmas to remember! Surely nothing can go wrong? Dreamshed Theatre, in conjunction with Playhouse Arts, proudly present this enchanting show for the young and young at heart!

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Tickets £9. Various times. More details at www.cheltplayhouse.org.uk Cheltenham Playhouse, 47-53 Bath Road, Cheltenham, GL53 7HG. DECEMBER 19 19 DECEMBER FLOWERS BAND – CHRISTMAS WITH FLOWERS Join the Flowers Band and their guests the Beauregard Youth Choir as they return to the Bacon Theatre for their annual Christmas celebration of seasonal favourites, Christmas film music and carols for all, which are guaranteed to give you that festive feeling. 3pm. Tickets £14 (£10 conc). 01242 258002. The Bacon Theatre, Dean Close School, Hatherley Road, GL51 6EP. www.bacontheatre.co.uk 33-6 -6 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 2022 2022 PANTO – DICK WHITTINGTON At the Cheltenham Playhouse, Promenade Productions present their traditional family panto Dick Whittington, the story of the boy from Gloucestershire who sets out to find fame and fortune in London. Performances Thursday and Friday at 7pm, Saturday and Sunday at 12pm and 4.30pm. Tickets £16 (adults) and £12 (children) from the box office at Cheltenham Playhouse – 01242-522852 or online: www.cheltplayhouse.org.uk

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S Seasonal easonal g gifting: ifting: books cclassic lassic ttravel ravel b ooks With Christmas approaching, travel books make perfect gifftts for aspiring adventurer s. Exploring the latest bestsellers is one approach. This year ’s top reads include Monisha Rajesh’s ‘Epic Train Journeys’; ‘Winter Pasture’, Li Juan’s tale of life with Kazakh herders; and Tom Chesshyre’s ‘Park Life: Around the World in 50 Parks’. Alternatively, explore antiquarian bookseller s for inspiring classic travel reads and the intoxicating bibliosmia of wellthumbed pages imbued with adventure. Here are some of my favourites, with no apology that several tales are from decades ago. They’re all worth the effort of tracking down a copy.

On O n ffoot oot across across Europe Europe With various travel modes in mind, we starrtt on foot with John Hillaby’s 1974 walking classic, ‘Journey Through Europe’. Then there’s F. S. Smythe’s 1934

‘An Alpine Journey’, about the author ’s ski-mountaineering trip across Switzerland. You know a Swissophile? They’ll love it. From a year before Smythe’s book, and now on four legs, Aimé Félix Tschiffely’s horseback trek from Argentina to New York (‘Tschiffely’s Ride’) documents a venture contemporaneously described as ‘Impossible! Absurd!’ by the press. Saddle up for a wonderful read. New York’s Floyd Bennett Field was the start and finish for Post and Gatty’s recordbreaking 1931 airborne circumnavigation, as recounted in ‘Around the World in Eight Days’. What an adventure it was in their tiny singleengine Lockheed Model 5C Vega named ‘Winnie Mae’. Oh how aviation has changed since then. Check out airline pilot Mark Vanhoenacker ’s exquisite writing in 2015’s ‘Sk yfaring: A Journey with a Pilot’. You’ll never experience air travel the same way again. It’s an enchanting book.

More More than than just just a great great ttravel ravel b book ook I was torn between several favourites for my marine recommendation. Ultimately, eschewing gripping blue-water tales such as Rosie Swale’s ‘Children of Cape Horn’ or The Local Answer

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Captain Edward L. Beach’s ‘Around the World Submerged’, I chose Merlin Minshall’s tale of crossing Europe in ‘Sperwer ’, a Dutch sailing barge. More than just a great travel book, ‘Guilt Edged’ quickly becomes a gripping spy thriller when the Gestapo tak e an nterest in the trip… Minshall later made the fir st motorcycle crossing of the Sahara. Though impressi ve, that is a short dri ve compared with the epic London to Singapore Land Rover adventure in T im Slessor ’s ‘Fir st Overland’. It was the first travel book I read and remains a favourite. Whether you enjoy these titles or the latest travel books, look forward to some serious inspiration for 2022’s adventures. Here’s wishing you a seasonal bon voyage, wherever the pages take you! Page 23

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IIn n tthe he Garden Garden w with ith JJulia ulia S Smith mith

Great G reat g gardening ardening gifts gifts Christmas always seems to come around so quickly and this year has flown by! After spending the festive season in lockdown in 2020, we’re looking forward to marking Christmas properly this year! If you’re trying to think of last minute gifts for your family and friends who may have got the gardening bug during the last year or so, why not give them a project to get their teeth into?

C Create reate a an na affordable ffordable lliving iving ffeature eature w wall all Growing Revolution sell troughs made from recycled plastic that stack against the wall and contain a self-watering feature. They are amazing when planted with either ornamental plants or used for vegetables or fruit, like strawberries. They can also be used inside the house to make a feature green wall at a very affordable price. High quality garden tools are always well-received. Sarah

Raven does a nice range of mid-handled tools, which are ideal for sorting out crowded borders where a large fork or spade might damage some plants. If your family member or friend is more into interior gardening, perhaps a nice house plant might be welcomed? You can find lovely house plants in most garden centres and, if the recipient is not really up to caring for anything alive, you could always get a faux plant. Some look so real that unsuspecting people end up watering them!

P Prune rune y your our ffruit ruit ttrees rees Now to get back to your December garden duties. Prune apple and pear trees when you fancy spending some time outside to get away from the television and the festive chocolates. Cut this year’s whippy stems back to leave about five buds on each, and take out crossing or damaged branches. It is a good idea to apply some slow-release general fertiliser to the ground around the root area to give it a boost.

Plant P lant rhubarb rhubarb for for crumbles a crumbles and nd p pies ies December is a good time to plant new rhubarb, or to divide large clumps. Those of you who follow this The Local Answer

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column will get fed up of me singing the praises of rhubarb, but it is a wonderful thing to grow. It not only looks amazing with its huge leaves, but it will provide you with the makings of pies and crumbles, or just the joy of picking a stick and dipping the end in sugar. I’m sure this is not something that one should encourage children to do nowadays, but I loved it! Hard prune late flowering clematis such as C. viticella, texensis and tangutica species and their hybrids. Cut back to near ground level above a strong pair of buds on each stem and get rid of the tangle of growth above. Don’t prune spring-flowering clematis now or you will lose next year’s flowers. Here’s to a Happy Christmas and a healthy New Year! Page 27

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Wildlife Wildlife Matters Matters with w ith D Dorothy orothy G Glen len

Lovely Lovely llong-tailed ong-tailed tits tits There is something very comforting to me about seeing our garden birds during winter and over the festive period. Robins are one of the stars of the Christmas show, and their cheerful song keeps us company and brightens the chilliest days. At my daughter’s forest school the local robin is a regular attendee; it sits and watches the children digging and disturbing the ground in the hope of spotting something tasty for its lunch, and serenades us during story time. But although robins are one of the joys of our winter, my favourite birds at this time of year are the characterful (and impossibly sweet) long-tailed tits.

L Like ike llighter-than-air ighter-than-air p pom-poms om-poms I remember these from my childhood, drifting through the garden in cheeky gangs every now and again, like lighterthan-air pom-poms with ridiculously long tails. If someone

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saw one we’d all rush to the window to watch them pass through, bobbing about in the trees and shrubs, popping over to the bird feeder for a snack before moving on to the next stop in their journey. It still feels like a rare treat when I see them, and they’re always gone too soon.

Unusually Unusually ssocial ocial b birds irds Long-tailed tits are unusually social birds. In the spring when they breed, many nesting pairs have helpers in the form of other birds whose own nests have failed. Their nests are made largely from moss, and the birds then layer the inside with as many as 1,5002,000 feathers. Outside they disguise the nest with cobwebs and lichen. Despite the camouflage they suffer a high predation rate, To advertise call 01242 510500

but chicks raised in a nest with a helper are more likely to survive than those without.

They ttravel They ravel iin ng groups roups o off 2 20 0 iin n tthe he ccolder older m months onths In the winter we see them more regularly in our gardens, and if you are familiar with their chatter you can hear them coming. They are particularly noticeable because of their numbers; if you see one, there will almost certainly be more around, especially at this time of year. This is because they travel in groups of around 20 in the colder months, behaviour which isn’t seen in our other garden birds. roost They hunt and together, forming huddles to keep warm. The young birds that hatch in the spring stay with their parents and helpers during the winter, meaning that, rather romantically, they spend Christmas with their family. Enjoy looking out for them in your garden! Page 2

HATHERLEY ATHERLEY HW H WORKTOPS W ORKTOPS LTD LTD Your Y our Local Local Worktop Worktop and and Kitchen Kitchen Specialists Specialists C Cheltenham heltenham b based ased Q Quartz uartz & G Granite Factory ranite F actory w with ith SShowroom howroom I I I I

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Tel: T el: 01242 01242 523398 523398 / 01452 01452 2 290458 90458 email: email: info@hatherleyworktops.co.uk info@hatherleyworktops.co.uk web: web: www.hatherleyworktops.co.uk www.hatherleyworktops.co.uk U Units nits 1 18, 8, 19 19 & 20 20 Malmesbury Malmesbury Road, Road, Kingsditch Kingsditch Trading Trading E Estate, state, C Cheltenham heltenham G GL51 L51 9 9PL PL

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Deck Deck the the halls halls As I write this, I am preparing to visit my daughter in the USA. When I’m there Thanksgiving will be well underway and the shops will be full of Christmas goodies. Americans love to decorate their homes at times of celebration, and this year will be extra special for those of us who can celebrate all together as a family again. What will your decorating style be this Christmas? Here are my suggestions.

A American merican ffolksy olksy Inspired by my trip, I plan to decorate my home US style this year with lots of home-crafted decorations. I will be looking out for tablecloths and napkins in bright folksy patterned textiles, coloured candles and hand painted candlesticks. Check out Anthropologie for more festive ideas. I particularly like the frosted bottle brush trees and gingerbread house tree ornaments. Be sure to book early on a wreath making course – no American home is without a wreath on the door at Christmas.

Nostalgic N ostalgic charm charm

Image: Sophie Allport

Christmas will be so much more family focused this year and many of us will be looking back to Christmases past. Our image of a traditional Christmas originated in Victorian times. If you love the idea of a scene straight out of a Nutcracker ballet, go for a green and red scheme. Invest in the biggest tree you can; load it with much loved decorations you have collected over the years (I add to my collection every year), and pile up presents wrapped in bold festive colours under the tree.

Nordic N ordic ccool ool For a soft, romantic feel, look to Scandinavia for inspiration. Think light, natural driftwoods and faded textiles in white, cool blues and soft mauves for this simple pared-back style. Decorate with cut-out snowflakes and festoons of twinkly lights. I love the paper Christmas stars from Nordic Nest. Create a Christmas tablescape with lots of glass and soft candlelight, using silvery olivegreen foliage, eucalyptus, dried sea lavender and frosted berries. Invest in an on trend natural willow tree-skirt to complete the look.

Natural N atural country country

Image: Cox & Cox

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If you love a calm and natural style, choose soothing colours like soft green and white. Add rustic touches with garlands of To advertise call 01242 510500

foraged evergreen branches, pinecones and ivy. Accessorise with silver baubles and soft white twinkling lights. For your Christmas table, create a centrepiece with natural greenery and ivory church candles, fill little terracotta pots with seasonal white hyacinths and paperwhites. For my daughter’s winter wedding, we hung huge bunches of mistletoe from the ceiling, they looked really effective.

Contemporary C ontemporary cchic hic For a more contemporary look, add personality with pops of bright purple or neon pink for candles and table decorations. Search out unusual or humorous Christmas tree ornaments. This year I have seen exotic animals, bright iridescent sea creatures and even hipster pugs on Instagram. Whatever your Christmas style, have fun and enjoy your preparations! Page 31

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G Gadgets adgets & G Gizmos izmos w with ith L Laura aura N Nicklin icklin

Merry M err y techy techy Christmas Christmas Once again, it’s time to get the tree down from the loft, unpack the baubles and go crazy with the tinsel. Yes, the festive season is upon us, making many people question “Where did 2021 go?” If you’ve found that Christmas has come around way too fast and are in need of some inspiration for festive gifting, don’t panic; keep reading to find out which gizmos Father Christmas will be carrying down the chimney this year…

so you can narrate a tale to your kids even while you’re relaxing downstairs! As soon as the story is finished, the box will automatically fall asleep too. And as an added bonus, the Toniebox is made from softly woven sustainable fabric, making it ideal for snuggles.

Sega Star Sega Star Theatre T heatre Planetarium P lanetarium Projector P rojector

Toniebox Toniebox John Lewis: £69.95 If you’re struggling to think of gift ideas for kids, then the Toniebox might be just what you need! This magical box is packed full of entertainment for the little ones; all you need to do to get started is switch it on, pop the Tonie toy figure on top and let the box do the rest. The Toniebox narrates classic bedtime stories like The Snowman, provides educational pieces on subjects like the deep sea, and will even let you record your own stories, The Local Answer

Menkind.co.uk: £129 Fall asleep under the stars with this interactive projector from Menkind, which lights up your room with a dazzling display of the constellation. Now you can appreciate the beauty and wonder of the cosmos all from the comfort of home. The Sega Star Theatre Planetarium Projector features two slides to pick from, so you can either relax under the gaze of the constellations or admire the Milky Way, depending on your mood. This gizmo also includes a timer so it can turn itself off after a certain period, making it perfect for when you just want to drift off. You don’t have to be an astronomer to appreciate this gift!

gift. The Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera comes equipped with a built-in selfie lens and mirror to help you achieve instant small prints. Thanks to its automatic exposure, this clever contraption can calculate the brightness wherever you are and can adjust its shutter speed. Not only is it a nice gift idea, but the charming design makes it rather adorable as well, with colours including lilac purple, sky blue, blush pink, ice white and charcoal gray. This Christmas, capture all your favourite moments on camera in an instant!

IInstax nstax Mini Mini 1 11 1 IInstant nstant C Camera amera Argos: £69.99 This miniature gadget proves that you don’t have to go big if you want to buy the perfect

To advertise call 01242 510500

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IIndex ndex o off A Advertisers dvertisers HEATING EATING & PLUMBING PLUMBING EEVENTS VENTS & ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS Severn Vale Bathrooms 10 H

Cotswold Camper Competitions Cotswold Driving Experiences VRXPerience

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H HEALTH EALTH & BEAUTY BEAUTY Atlantic Home Eyecare 10 Slimming World 4

IINFORMATION NFORMATION NHS Glos Police & Crime Commissioner

HOUSE HOUSE & RUBBISH RUBBISH

LEARANCE CLEARANCE IND Plumbing & Heating 5 C Yes to Mess Marshalls Driveways 25 K ITCHENS KITCHENS R. Richards & Son 25 Hatherley Worktops LEGAL & FINANCE FINANCE 30 LEGAL Roofcure 247 24 McGills Accountants WINDOWS, WINDOWS, D DOORS OORS & RS Cladding 24 Responsible Equity C ONSERVATORIES CONSERVATORIES C CLEANING LEANING S SERVICES ERVICES Albany Windows 6 & 35 Release Mossinator 26 PUBLISHING Clearway Windows 32 PUBLISHING FFURNISHING URNISHING & A APPLIANCES PPLIANCES Garolla 26 Lois Kingscott Bella’s Interiors 30 RECRUITMENT PROFESSIONAL ROFESSIONAL SERVICES SERVICES RECRUITMENT Dream Doors 36 P Coate Water Care CHARITIES HARITIES Interior Needs 28 C Building Circles 20 S SKIP KIP H HIRE IRE & RECYCLING RECYCLING G GARDEN ARDEN S SERVICES ERVICES Stevens Recycling CHILDCARE HILDCARE A. Luddite 26 C WILL WILL WRITING WRITING Mark Clifford 26 Mum’s The Word Nanny 10 Abbey Wills Stumps-R-Us 24 Agency BUILDING B UILDING S SERVICES ERVICES

8 & 18-19 7

S SPORT PORT Shipton Golf Course

HOMES HOMES & G GARDENS ARDENS BATHROOMS B ATHROOMS

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TToo promote promote your your goods goods or or services, services, please please call call 0 01242 1242 5 510500 10500 oorr eemail mail info@thelocalanswer.co.uk info@thelocalanswer.co.uk

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

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

BOOKING BOOKING D DEADLINE EADLINE FFOR OR N NEXT EXT IISSUE SSUE – TTuesday uesday 77th th D December ecember 22021 021

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